First published in 2019. Rewritten in October 2026 to reflect current evidence and KetoPet's approach today.
There is no single secret to a long, happy life for a dog. But a handful of everyday habits make a real difference, both to how long dogs live and to how much they enjoy their days. Here are ten we think matter most.
1. Feed less carbohydrate and more protein
Dogs do well on meat-based meals with far less carbohydrate than most dry foods contain. For most dogs, that means a low-carbohydrate diet: high in protein, moderate in fat. For dogs with seizures or cancer, your veterinarian may suggest a stricter ketogenic diet.
If your dog has diabetes or is on insulin, do not change their diet without your veterinarian. Cutting carbohydrate can drop blood sugar dangerously.
2. Know what's in the bowl
Most dog food labels don't list carbohydrate at all, so it's easy to miss how much is there. Net carbohydrate is total carbohydrate minus fiber. Our free guide shows how to work it out from the label.
3. Keep your dog lean
A healthy weight is one of the best-supported ways to help a dog live longer. In a lifetime study of Labrador Retrievers, dogs kept lean lived longer, and showed signs of chronic disease such as arthritis later, than littermates who were fed more (Kealy and colleagues, Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 2002). Treats count too. Lean means a healthy weight, not thin.
4. Ask your veterinarian for blood glucose checks
If you change your dog's diet, ask your veterinarian for a blood glucose reading before you start, then again at about two and four weeks to see it coming down. There's no need for home testing.
5. Get their heart rate up
Walks are good, but most dogs also benefit from running, fetch and chase games. Hide-and-seek is a fun way to get them moving hard. Build up gradually, avoid hot weather, and check with your veterinarian first if your dog is older, has joint or heart problems, or is a flat-faced breed.
6. Consider longer gaps between meals, carefully
Some healthy adult dogs may benefit from longer breaks between meals, but the evidence is early and it isn't safe for every dog. Read Intermittent Fasting for Dogs: What We Know before trying it, and talk to your veterinarian first.
7. Keep their mind busy
Dogs need to think as well as run. Hide toys or treats, or hide yourself, and let them use their nose to search. Puzzle feeders and short training sessions work well too, at any age.
8. Spend time together
Dogs are social animals. Company, affection and a calm, steady routine all help them feel safe and content.
9. Keep up regular veterinarian visits
A checkup at least once a year, and more often as your dog gets older, helps catch problems early, when there are more options.
10. Notice small changes
You know your dog better than anyone. Changes in eating, drinking, weight, energy or breathing, or a new lump, are worth mentioning to your veterinarian early rather than waiting.
We'll keep updating this list as new research comes out.
Our free guide, What's Really in the Bowl, explains what goes into dog food and how to choose well, and our meal calculator can help you plan your dog's meals. If you have questions, the KetoPet community on Facebook is a good place to ask.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice.