NORTH DAKOTA ( KXNET ) — Pet owners are becoming more aware of the importance of proper care, and studies have found that vet visits have increased by 15%.

Despite all efforts to do the most for our pets, there are minor habits that could do more harm than good.

Animal wellness expert and CEO of Pet Sprint , Angelo Sorbello, shares five lesser-known habits that might be shortening a dog’s life, and how to make simple changes for a healthier future.

The first habit that should change is smoking around your dog. It’s not a surprise that secondhand smoke is just as bad for pets as it is for humans. Smokers should be aware it can trigger respiratory issues, allergies, and even cancer.

“Most tobacco smoke is invisible and odorless, so you might not realize how far it spreads,” explained Sorbello. “It contains over 5,000 chemicals, many of which are toxic to both people and pets, and can accumulate on surfaces, clothing, and even your pet’s fur.”

Smokers should go outside to smoke or in well-ventilated areas away from pets.

The second habit might be a little tougher — it’s the exposure to toxins. This can range from household cleaners and pesticides to certain plants.

“Research shows that both humans and dogs carry the same toxic chemicals in their bodies. While these can take decades to manifest health problems in people, their impact on pets can be seen within just a few years,” Sorbello shared. “So toxins damaging to the owner are also damaging for the dog.”

The third habit Sorbello revealed was not socializing your dog. It’s so important to socialize dogs, and the lack of it leads to anxiety, fear, and aggressive behavior — all of which can shorten their life.

“Start exposing your puppy to new people, environments, and other animals early,” Sorbello said. “Puppies socializing between six and eight weeks respond to human beings much better as adults than puppies that socialize after that time.”

The fourth habit includes overlooking mental stimulation. Personalities change with age, and owners don’t always engage like they used to. Reduced activity leads to dogs becoming less trainable and excitable. Mental stimulation lengthens their lifespan.

“Boredom can cause severe anxiety, destructive behavior, and even cognitive decline. Regularly engaging dogs with puzzle toys, training sessions, and new experiences keeps their mind sharp and prevents many behavioral issues,” Sorbello explained.

The final habit is when owners allow their pets to jump excessively. This includes jumping off furniture or from high places. While it seems harmless, it can cause long-term damage to their joints, especially in breeds prone to hip dysplasia.

“Train your dog to avoid high jumps and also use pet ramps or stairs whenever possible to avoid unnecessary stress on its bones,” Sorbello concluded. “Stay alert to small changes in your dog’s behavior, like increased sleepiness or reluctance to exercise. These might indicate underlying health issues, and timely intervention can go a long way in preserving good health. And, always consult your vet if you notice even the smallest change. A few adjustments to dog-parenting can add happy and healthy years to dogs’ lives.”

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