Canine health problems can range from minor issue to serious, life-threatening ailments. Some are hereditary, others are environmental. Many canine health problems can be prevented or their effects mitigated by proper care or specific preventive measures.

One of the most reliable ways to keep your dog protected from serious health problems is through proper vaccination. Vaccinating your dog ensures your pet's immune system can work at its best, protecting your dog from serious diseases. Your vet can recommend a specific schedule, but your dog should receive vaccinations against parvo, distemper, adenovirus, and rabies, at a minimum. Other typical vaccinations include Bordetella, Lyme disease, Leptospirosis, and par influenza. Your veterinarian can help determine which vaccinations your dog should receive and when, based on specifics related to the dog's environment.

Fleas and heartworm are other easily prevented canine health problems. Taking preventive measures to treat your dog against both of these problems can nearly eliminate the problem. In the event that preventive measures do not work and your dog becomes infested with fleas or afflicted with heartworm, prompt attention can help diminish the adverse effects.

Some canine health problem can be inherited, such as hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and eye disorders like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Many of these problems can be avoided by responsible screening on the part of reputable breeders. If you rescued your dog through a shelter or rescue group and do not have information about the dog's genetic history, have her checked by your vet. While you cannot change the conditions your dog may have inherited, knowing what to anticipate and being prepared to treat the dog can help improve her outcome.

Many canine health problems, such as obesity and the ailments it can lead to (like diabetes and arthritis, among others) can be prevented through proper nutrition and exercise. Canine nutrition is one of the basics of your dog's health and well-being, so feeding him the right food and in the right quantities is critical. Quite simply, healthier food means a healthier dog. Dog food comes in three main forms: hard dry food, canned wet food, or semi-moist food. The type you select for your dog depends on his breed, age, activity level and general health.

Proper exercise can also help keep your dog in good health. Some breeds require a considerable amount of daily exercise; for others a walk around the block a few times a day will suffice.