If you own a dog in Long Island or Brooklyn (or even the heart of New York City), you might sometimes wonder whether you’re giving your pet the best possible lifestyle. After all, aren’t dogs healthiest and happiest when they’re running free in grassy meadows out in the countryside?

Not necessarily. Most dogs come from a long line of domesticated animals that have been bred to live with humans. At Dan’s Pet Care, we’re convinced that every environment has its pros and cons for dog owners – but you can keep your dog healthy whether you live in the city or the country. Read on to learn about some advantages and disadvantages of city and country lifestyles when it comes to your dog’s health.

Opportunities for exercise

Exercise is extremely important for keeping your dog healthy. Of course, obesity is prevalent among both dogs and cats today, and regular exercise is a great way to beat this trend. Five other top reasons to give your dog plenty of exercises include:

• Better stamina/endurance

• A better sense of balance

• Healthier bones and muscles

• Reduced cardiovascular risks

• Mental stimulation

Providing exercise for country dogs

For dog owners in the country, there are usually plenty of exercise opportunities to be found. However, even rural dog owners have to think carefully about keeping their dog safe when they roam. They’ve got plenty of outdoor dangers to worry about, from barbed wire fences to wild animals and parasites.

Providing exercise for city dogs

For city dwellers, finding ways to give your dog exercise requires a little more creativity. But leash walking, visiting dog parks and dog-friendly outdoor spaces, and training classes can provide the movement and stimulation your dog needs. Dan’s Pet Care can provide GPS-verified walks throughout the day to keep your dog in peak condition.

If you don’t have much space for walking and running, keep in mind that you can also provide your dog with exercise in alternative ways. Activities like playing with puzzle toys, blowing bubbles for your dog to chase, or setting up an indoor obstacle course can keep your dog moving even in an apartment.

Socialization opportunities

Socialization is an important key to your dog’s health. No matter where you live, your dog needs to learn to interact positively with other animals and strange people. But is it easier to socialize your dog in the city, or in the country?

Socialization for country dogs

Country dogs often wander freely around their owners’ home, and they’ll likely encounter people and animals while doing so. However, depending on how rural the setting is, country dogs may have fewer opportunities to meet other pets and people in a structured setting. If you own a dog in the country, it’s a good idea to take them to public settings regularly. Otherwise, your dog may be overwhelmed during vet visits or trips.

Socialization for city dogs

One study found that city dogs tend to be more anxious than country dogs around strange dogs and people. For both pets and people, it’s possible to be isolated even in a big city. However, you can take steps to keep your pet from becoming a hermit. Besides classes, doggy daycare and dog parks, one of the easiest ways to socialize a city dog is simply by taking them with you on errands or walks. 

Other considerations

 Some of the other pros and cons to consider include:

Medical care

Country dogs in areas without enough vets may suffer from a lack of medical care. If your dog needs specialized care, you may need to travel further to provide it.

Pollution

Unfortunately, both outdoor and indoor pollutants can harm your dog’s health. In the city, your dog may be exposed to industrial fumes, smoke particles, and other chemicals. However, country dogs may also be affected by agricultural pesticides.

No matter where you live, you can help limit your dog’s exposure to pollution by cutting down on household chemicals and scented products that your dog will inhale.

Contagious illnesses

City dogs live in close quarters with other dogs, and diseases can easily spread when they socialize. City dogs are over 30% more likely to be bitten by another dog. Fighting or even playing with other urban pets can spread canine diseases, including:

• Rabies

• Parvovirus

• Distemper

• Leptospirosis

• Canine influenza

• Parasite-borne illnesses

The good news is that many of these infections can be prevented through vaccination and other proactive treatments. Whether you live in the city or country, it’s vital to keep your dog up-to-date on vaccines and parasite preventatives.

Want to keep your dog healthy in Long Island or Brooklyn?

Dan’s Pet Care is committed to helping New York dogs thrive. Our thoroughly trained and licensed specialists can help you overcome the unique challenges posed by your living situation, whatever they may be. Call us today at (516) 551-1613 to start enjoying our full range of pet care services.