The Golden Retriever Lifetime Study

The post The Golden Retriever Lifetime Study by Arden Moore appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

A legion of Golden Retrievers answering to such names as Isaac, Shannon, Churchill and Brewer may finally help veterinarians and researchers unlock why this popular breed is prone to cancer and how their findings can boost health in all dogs.

We’re talking about a very ambitious and comprehensive $34 million study designed to identify the genetic, environmental, nutritional and lifestyle risk factors for cancer and other diseases by carefully tracking 3,000-plus Golden Retrievers during their entire lifetimes.

Officially it is known as the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study sponsored by the Morris Animal Foundation and ranks as possibly the most comprehensive canine health study ever conducted. But to its participants, who include veterinarians, researchers and pet parents, it represents a rare golden opportunity to reduce cancer and other health issues in Golden Retrievers and all dogs.

“The data and findings from this study will inform the veterinary health care for many decades to come,” says Missy Simpson, DVM, PhD, a veterinary epidemiologist in Colorado and lead author for this study. “Unfortunately, cancer is overrepresented in Golden Retrievers with estimates that 60 percent will be affected by some type of cancer.”

A look at the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study participants

Michael Lappin, DVM, veterinarian and owner of The Animal House in Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts, has been active with Golden Retriever clubs for nearly four decades. He jumped at the opportunity to participate in this study. His clinic has 17 Golden Retrievers enrolled in the study — including his own dog, Isaac — a total that is believed to be the highest by any single clinic in the study.

“We have a lot of Golden Retrievers in our practice,” Dr. Lappin says. “Isaac is known as Hero #64 in the study. He is a very happy dog and healthy so far. Goldens are generally easygoing with a stable demeanor, but the biggest problem is the high rate of cancer in this breed. This study could be a real game changer.”

How You Can Help: If you would like to learn more or donate to this study, contact the Morris Animal Foundation, a nonprofit group based in Denver, Colorado, at morrisanimalfoundation.org.

Each August, Dr. Lappin invites all his clients and the Golden Retrievers to a fun picnic. People bring covered dishes and share all things Golden. The event is hosted on a spacious property with a pond belonging to Heather Donnelly. Her home includes five Goldens, including Shannon, a 5-year-old in the MAF study.

“I love the Goldens and want them all to live well into their teens,” Heather says. “We have to track everything that happens with our dogs for this study. What they are fed, where they sleep, how they are exercised, identify the household environment, whether our dogs swim in a pool, ocean or pond, what medications they get, what supplements they take — you name it. We must complete a thorough survey every year and note any changes in our dogs’ health and behavior, and samples of their blood, urine, poop, hair and nails are sent to the study researchers.”

A look at the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study

Recruitment for the study launched in 2012, and the study immediately drew support and participation by veterinarians and their clients with Golden Retrievers. As of the summer, the average age of the Golden Retriever in the study is 6.4 years old. Of the 142 study participants who have died since 2012, 49% died due to cancer, Dr. Simpson reports. It is hoped that the study continues for at least seven more years — or until all the study dogs have passed away.

More facts about the study:

• California has the most dogs enrolled at 278, with Colorado ranking first in terms of per capita at 255 dogs.
• Medical conditions reported at enrollment consisted of skin, digestive and urinary dysfunction — all were deemed to be minor.
• A large percentage of the dogs in the study have medical records verifying that they received preventive care, such as vaccines, parasiticides, and flea and heartworm preventives.

“My hope is that we can follow these dogs as long as we possibly can,” she says. “This breed is prone to four cancers: lymphoma, hemangiosarcoma, osteosarcoma and high-grade mast cell tumors. We are also looking at associations with spaying and neutering dogs less than 6 months of age with the increased risk for being overweight and obesity. The Morris Animal Foundation is not advocating not to spay or neuter your pet, but that the timing of the spay and neuter is important, and owners should discuss when to do so with their veterinarians.”

Looking Forward

The MAF is continuously publishing findings in veterinary journals and on its website. Interested people can also sign up for email updates.

“We are still in the data-collecting phase, so there are no huge splashy results just yet,” Dr. Simpson says. “But we expect to publish some data on cancer and primary outcomes in open-access journals so everyone has an opportunity to see the results. And, our study is spurring other smaller studies from other groups.”

Read Next: Your Dog Has Canine Cancer — Here’s What to do Next

The post The Golden Retriever Lifetime Study by Arden Moore appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Via Dogster https://www.dogster.com

Dug Up at Dogster: December 2019 Dog Events and Premieres

The post Dug Up at Dogster: December 2019 Dog Events and Premieres by Melissa Kauffman appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Don’t let winter get you down — get up and out into these great December 2019 Dog Events and premieres. Don’t see your dog event or premiere in our December 2019 Dog Events list? Then email your dog event to dogstermag@belvoir.com.

December, 2019 through January 2, 2020: SPCA Holiday Windows

Macy’s partners with the SF SPCA to find forever homes for pets. Prospective adoptive puppies and kittens are unveiled in the windows of the Macy’s Union Square store. (Tomas Ovalle/AP Images for Macy’s)

Santa — along with all of us holiday shoppers — need to jingle on over to the 33rd Annual Holiday Windows, where we can check out the SF SPCA’s adoption center at Macy’s Union Square in San Francisco. Those sweet pups in the window are looking for that furever home, and every year SF SPCA finds hundreds of pets new homes with this wonderful program. Feel like volunteering? You can sign up for two-hour greeter shifts at the Windows in late October at the Holiday Windows website.

December, 2019 through January 2, 2020: Blue Buffalo Home 4 The Holidays

It’s back — the three-month pet-adoption campaign started by Helen Woodward Animal Center, beginning October 1, 2019, and running to January 2, 2020.

Join in this annual, three-month pet-adoption campaign dedicated to placing orphaned pets into happy, loving homes, started by Helen Woodward Animal Center, working along with thousands of partner animal organizations. It has become the largest pet adoption campaign on record, saving over 15 million pets since its inception in 1999. The 2019 pet adoption drive begins October 1, 2019, and runs through January 2, 2020. For more information, visit home4theholidays.org.

December 1, 2019: Pet Photos with Santa

All pets — cats, dogs, birds, rabbits, exotics, etc. — are invited to attend the Pet Photos With Santa event at the Paumanok Veterinary Hospital in Patchogue, NY. Photo sessions go from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Donation is $50, which benefits Partners in Restorative Animal Assisted Therapy (PRAAT), Friends of Fire Island National Seashore (FFINS) and Pets Over Paralysis (POP). Call 631-475-1312 to make an appointment. Keep pet leashed, caged or in a carrier. For more information, click here.

December 4 — December 7, 2019: Eric Ginsburg’s Fridge Art Fair Farewell Victory Tour

See artist Eric Ginsburg and his Fridge Art Fair when they return to Miami, FL, this December.

Eric Ginsburg’s Fridge Art Fair returns to Miami, FL, this December in conjunction with Art Basel Miami Beach and Miami Art Week, heading to the art-centric Downtown Miami and its landmark Eurostar’s Langford Hotel. Renowned artist Eric Ginsburg and Fridge Art Fair founder returns as the Fair’s Director and Lead Visionary curator after a year sabbatical from Fridge Art Fair to explore the concept and illusion of living as legendary director and artist John Waters pet Siberian Husky, named “ Aqua Net” in Baltimore. Maryland. Special guest curator is Victor Pedelty. Welcome to what might be your final chance to fit into the fridge! Shake hands with Oatmeal-The-Panda, Hug Sir Pug-A-Lot, High-Five Popsicle the French Bulldog, and celebrate Charm City home of Babe Ruth, The Star-Spangled Banner, Ginsburg’s Master John Waters, David Hasselhoff, Jada Pinkett Smith and Kathie Lee Gilford. More at fridgeartfair.com.

December 7: Foster’s Future 2^nd Annual Holiday Brunch

Foster’s Future hosts its 2nd Annual Holiday Brunch 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Our House Restaurant in Farmingdale, NJ. Cost is $30 per person and includes brunch buffet, coffee, tea and soda. Check out the gift baskets, door prizes and more. Get tickets through PayPal or by mailing a check to Foster’s Future at P.O. Box 123, Hazlet, NJ 07730. Include the name(s) of those who will be attending. Foster’s Future is a nonprofit (501c3) program that provides funds and services to pets in need. Its goal is to reduce the number of pets placed in shelters and/or euthanized due to a lack of services.

December 8, 2019: Yappy Hour at Pup Plaza

Drink wine for a good cause at Pup Plaza’s Yappy Hour on December 8th in San Jose.

If you are in San Jose, CA, get on over to Pup Plaza for Yappy Hour from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. You’ll love the beautiful custom label for the wine being sold with Mutt Lynch Winery in Sonoma — fundraising for the Silicon Valley Pet Project (https://ift.tt/2KZ1dps). The wine will be featured at the Yappy Hour event, where Mutt Lynch will be pouring various selections from its winery. Cost for event is $10 advance and $12 at the door. The Silicon Valley Pet Project opened Pup Plaza in San Jose for community engagement, outreach and education, with the ultimate goal of reducing pet homelessness, saving lives and helping the community become part of the solution.  To date, the organization has rescued and re-homed more than 1,100 from the San Jose Shelter since its inception in 2014. Reservations and information: info@svpetproject.org

December 13, 2019: Premiere of Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon

Check out the second Shaun the Sheep movie Farmageddon premiering in theaters on December 13th.

Bitzer the dog is back with Shaun the Sheep and the rest of the flock in the sequel to 2015’s animated Shaun the Sheep movie. They’ve added an alien who resembles a cute floppy-eared dog (IMO). The alien just happens to crash land near Mossy Bottom Farm, and, of course, Shaun the Sheep and gang help the alien get home while staying out of the clutches of a sinister organization. Stars Justin Fletcher, John Sparkes, Kate Harbour (to name a few) and directed by Will Becher and Richard Phelan. See release dates across the globe at shaunthesheep.com.

December 17, 2019: Premiere of Well Groomed

Don’t miss the documentary Well Groomed’s premiere on HBO Sports on December 17th.

If the mocumentary Best in Show has taught us anything, it’s that we are obsessed with the world of the dog competitive professional. HBO Sports is bringing us a true dog documentary that gives us a look into the world of creative and competitive dog grooming. The film by writer and director Rebecca Stern chronicles an entire year following a group of professional groomers and dog lovers who transform their beloved dogs into works of art, getting to know them and their dogs in and outside the competition ring. Debuts in December on HBO, plus also to be available on HBO On Demand, HBO NOW and HBO GO. Air time 9 p.m. ET/PT. More at HBO.com.

Thumbnail photo indigo-stock/Getty Images.

Read more news at Dogster.com:

• Holiday Safety for Dogs: 9 Tips
• Dogs and Holiday Guests: How to Prepare Your Pup
• This Company Will Help You Throw a Party for Your Dog

The post Dug Up at Dogster: December 2019 Dog Events and Premieres by Melissa Kauffman appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Via Dogster https://www.dogster.com

This Company Will Help Your Throw a Party for Your Dog

The post This Company Will Help Your Throw a Party for Your Dog by Melissa Kauffman appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

I love hosting parties but sometimes find it more frantic than fun. That’s where Puppy Parties NYC steps in — and what makes it even more pawesome is that this service specializes in full-service party planning for dogs and their owners. Wouldn’t we all love that job?!

I asked founder and owner Hayley Mehalco how the business started. “I have a background in event planning and threw a 2nd birthday party for my dog, Bailey,” Hayley says. “Everyone loved the party, so I knew other dog parents would, too!”

Puppy Parties NYC specializes in birthdays and “bark-mitzvahs” to large-scale fundraisers and events. And what about for the holidays? “We throw an annual Ugly Sweater Pawty,” Hayley says. “Last year the event included photos with Santa, doggie eggnog, a costume contest and paw print ornament making.”

What are Hayley’s tips for someone planning their own dog party? “My advice to someone planning their own party is to give yourself enough time to organize it, and just have fun!” she says.

It’s not all just a good time, either. Giving back is important to Hayley, so a portion of proceeds from public events the company organizes are donated to dog charities and rescues. That’s not all. If you aren’t in NYC, that’s OK, too. You can buy a Barkday Box for your dog and have it shipped to your home. It includes a dog-friendly cake, balloon dog treat, party hat, bandanna, festive banner and tennis ball toy. Too cute!

What’s next for Puppy Parties NYC? “My ultimate dream would be to expand beyond NYC,” Hayley says. “In terms of events, we would love to plan an elaborate dog wedding!”

To contact or follow Puppy Parties NYC, go to puppypartiesNYC.com or follow on social @puppypartiesnyc.

Read Next: Let’s Talk: It’s Your Dog’s Birthday Party — How Big Do You Go?

The post This Company Will Help Your Throw a Party for Your Dog by Melissa Kauffman appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Via Dogster https://www.dogster.com

Your Dog Ate a Sock. Is It Dangerous? What to Do Next

The post Your Dog Ate a Sock. Is It Dangerous? What to Do Next by Jackie Brown appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Dogs are notorious for eating things they shouldn’t, and many of those things are not necessarily food. Dogs can chew and gulp down almost anything. So, if your dog ate a sock, you’re not alone — it’s a commonly swallowed item.

“Dogs seem to love cloth,” says Kelly Diehl, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM, scientific communications advisor for the Morris Animal Foundation, a nonprofit foundation that funds animal health research. “I’ve pulled out a lot of socks and underwear. Amongst us gastroenterologists, people kick around the idea that sometimes dogs eat inappropriate materials because they have some kind of GI problem, whether that’s a food allergy or intolerance. I also think there’s a behavioral component to it, which we can’t really explain, but some dogs just seem to be sock eaters.”

If Your Dog Ate a Sock, Here’s What Happens to That Sock

What are your next steps to take if your dog ate a sock? Photography ©Barna Tanko | Thinkstock.

Whether your dog ate a sock or some other item he has no business swallowing, several things might happen. If the dog is big and the item is small like a sock, the dog might simply vomit it back up — either right away or a day or two later. If that doesn’t happen, it’s possible that the dog might pass the sock and eventually poop it out. This could take several days, and you will want to take a close look every time your dog poops to check for the sock.

In some cases, if your dog ate a sock, the item might even become stuck in the stomach. “When the stomach empties, food will go first and indigestible objects go last,” Dr. Diehl explains. “Items can stay in a dog’s stomach and cause periodic problems. They got them down but they can’t throw them up, and they’re too big to go into the intestine, so they bounce around and cause some discomfort. These dogs usually become chronic vomiters.”

What If You’re Not Sure If Your Dog Ate a Sock?

Not sure if your dog ate a sock, or swallowed something else? Because some types of items are difficult to see on an x-ray, and because dogs sometimes swallow things without their owners realizing it, your veterinarian might elect to take a look at the stomach with an endoscope. “Sometimes, I go down there with a scope because I think they have bowel disease or chronic inflammation, and I say, ‘Oh! Look, there’s a ball down here!’” Dr. Diehl says.

One outcome you really hope to avoid is an intestinal obstruction, where the sock lodges somewhere in the intestines, causing a blockage. An obstruction is serious and it requires surgery to remove the item. The tricky thing about intestinal obstructions is you might not realize your dog has one if you didn’t actually witness him swallowing a sock or something he shouldn’t.

What to Do If Your Dog Swallowed a Sock

If you’re lucky enough to know that your dog ate a sock or other item, one option is to bring him directly to the veterinarian to see if the item can be removed from the stomach with an endoscope. This is an especially good option if your dog is small and the item is large.

“One thing about socks in the stomach is they’re really easy to pull out with an endoscope,” Dr. Diehl explains. “It’s going to cost you some, but it’s less expensive than a surgery. Once they get in the intestine, it’s a problem because you can’t get a scope down that far and then they can swell from the gastric and intestinal juices and they can get stuck.” Your regular vet might be able to remove a sock with an endoscope, but if not, he or she can refer you to a specialist who does endoscopy.

According to Dr. Diehl, if a dog ate a sock, many dogs, especially large dogs, will either throw up socks or pass them in their stool. If your dog is not acting sick and isn’t throwing up, one option is to wait and see if it comes out on its own. If you don’t see the object come out in a few days, or if your dog starts acting sick, it’s time to see the vet.

Did Your Dog Swallow a Sock … Or Another Object?  

Not sure if your dog ate a sock — or something else? Photography ©CreativaImages | Thinkstock.

If you’re not sure whether your dog ate a sock or another inappropriate item, but you notice telltale signs of an obstruction, go to the vet to have him checked out. “If your dog starts vomiting profusely, especially if he’s not eating or drinking, and he just keeps vomiting and vomiting, that’s often a classic sign of obstruction and that’s definitely a medical emergency,” Dr. Diehl explains. “Additionally, if your dog isn’t typically a barfer, but starts vomiting several times a week, it could be because something is stuck in the stomach.

If your dog swallows a sharp object, a battery or a very large object, see the vet immediately, as these types of objects may cause serious problems. And if your dog swallows underwear, take him in to try to remove it with an endoscope before it gets to the intestine, where the elastic band can cause problems.

“Really be careful about leaving socks and underwear out,” Dr. Diehl cautions. “It’s almost like a habit with some dogs. It’s much more common in young dogs because they’re often sampling stuff and eating things they shouldn’t. A lot of dogs will grow out of that habit, but some dogs persist.”

Thumbnail: Photography ©dosecreative | Thinkstock.

This piece was originally published in 2017. 

Read more about dog health on Dogster.com:

• Dog Tear Stains: How to Naturally Remove Them and Keep Them From Coming Back
• What Causes Dog Tremors — And Is It a Tremor or Something Else?
• Why Is My Dog Groaning When He Lies Down? 

The post Your Dog Ate a Sock. Is It Dangerous? What to Do Next by Jackie Brown appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Via Dogster https://www.dogster.com

9 Cold-Weather Tips for Dogs and Dog Owners

The post 9 Cold-Weather Tips for Dogs and Dog Owners by Melissa Kauffman appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Winter weather came rather quickly this year, especially in some parts of the country. Temperatures plummeted into the 30s (degrees Fahrenheit) in the South. Snow has already covered parts of the Midwest. I pulled out my dog’s sweatshirts and winter coats from their storage box as I donned my own scarf, hat and coat. Yep, my pups wear coats — they’re senior dogs with very short coats — meeting two of the criteria for doggie coat wearers. You might be surprised at some of the changes you need to make in dog care as weather gets colder. That’s why we’ve put together these quick 8 tips to keep your dog safe and chill during this winter season.

Dog cold tip 1: How cold is too cold for dogs?

It’s too cold for most dogs when the temperature goes below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. © Melissa L. Kauffman

Don’t leave your dog outside alone especially when it drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, because the temperature is too cold for dogs. Sure, your dog has fur, but that doesn’t mean he can’t get dog frostbite (in the paws, ear or tails) or dog hypothermia — and the dog is more in danger of it being too cold for dogs if he’s very young, very old, has a medical issue or has a thin coat. Exceptions are some dog breeds like the Alaskan Malamute that are made for cold weather, although they can still get it if exposed to the cold for too long. In fact, in some areas of the country it is now illegal to keep your dog outside for long amounts of time in extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold.

And, never chain your dog outside. Chaining your dog outside contributes to a whole lot of health and behavioral issues. For information on why chaining your dog outside is harmful or help on how to get a dog you know unchained, check out Unchain Your Dog.

Dog cold tip 2: Dog coats and dog winter clothes for dogs

The Stumptown Jacket by Ruffwear (ruffwear.com) won the 2019 Dogster Editor’s Choice Award for must-have products. Photo courtesy Ruffwear.

Yes, there are dog coats and dog winter clothing for dogs, and some dogs should wear them! No, not all dogs need dog coats, but puppies, seniors or dogs with health issues should definitely have a dog coat or other winter clothes for dogs. Both of my thin-coated mixed breed dogs appreciate a dog coat, especially when it hits the 30s. Dogs breeds with thin fur coats or fur that is kept shorn could use a dog coat; examples are the Chihuahua, Whippet, Greyhound, Italian Greyhound, Miniature Pinscher, Boxer, Doberman Pinscher and Weimaraner. Dogs breeds like Dachshunds and Pembroke Welsh Corgis are so low to the ground that their bellies touch the snow and ice, so belly-protecting dog coats help them.

Dog cold tip 3: Don’t let dog nails get too long during winter

You may have to trim your dog’s nails more often during cold-weather months. “Since dogs spend more time indoors, their paws encounter less friction and their nails get longer,” says Andis Educator and world-class groomer Kendra Otto. “Overgrown nails can contribute to major health issues like sore feet, legs and hips –– and overall discomfort.

Keep ice and snow from being embedded in the paws. Kendra says you can take preventive measures by trimming the hair between your pup’s paws. “Follow the natural bone structure of the foot,” says Kendra. “For clipping paws, I like to use a trimmer that is smaller in diameter, like the Andis EasyClip Mini Clipper/Trimmer. It’s compact and perfect for light-duty clipping around the paws.”

Dog cold tip 4: Protect your dogs paws from winter ice and snow

The Blaze Cross Dog Shoes by Kurgo (kurgo.com) won the 2019 Dogster Editor’s Choice Award for must-have products. Photo courtesy Kurgo.

There are many dog paw-protection products that can help protect your dog’s paws during winter: dog snow boots, dog paw wax and dog-safe ice-melt products like Natural Alternative’s Ice Met.  There are several companies that make great dog winter boots, protecting the paws from ice, snow and the salt put on roads and streets to melt the ice. Paw waxes also are good for dog paw protection, as they form a barrier between your dog’s paws and snow and ice, plus soothe irritated, cracked pads on the paws. Dog safe ice-melting  products are better than rock salt, which can irritate or burn your dog’s paws and can cause serious health issues if ingested.

Dog cold tip 5: Bathe your dog regularly during cold weather

Yes, it’s cold outside and your dog can’t run out into the yard to shake, shake, shake out the water from his bath. Just spend spend a little more time drying your dog with the towel or hair dryer, or, better yet, take him to a professional groomer.

“A common cool-weather misconception is that dogs don’t need grooming, but as groomers — we know that’s a myth,” says Kendra. “Winter’s stinginess with sunshine stimulates hair growth, making a canine’s coat thicker. She says it’s OK to keep a dog’s coat a bit longer than usual, because it will add protection, but pet parents should keep their dogs on a regular grooming rotation, as it decreases the chances of their doggie needing a shave down. Kendra likes to send pet parents home with Andis’ Soft-Tooth Slicker Brush. “It simultaneously removes undercoat to prevent matting and stimulates hair growth for healthier hair,” she says.

Dog cold tip 6: Use flea-and-tick protection during cold weather

Yes, fleas and ticks can survive through the winter so keep up the winter flea and tick protection for your dog. Ticks and fleas like to hunker down to keep warm, and they could hunker down on your dog, carpet, under your home, in the shed or on outside dog beds. So, keep vigilant with your dog’s flea and tick medications and cleaning even though its colder outside. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), some ticks like the Blacklegged Tick search for a host any time winter temperatures are above freezing.

Dog cold tip 7: Keep your dog leashed and away from frozen bodies of water

Avoid frozen bodies of water and leash your dog around frozen bodies of water. For non-moving water like ponds and lakes, ice must build up to at least 4 inches and be clear (not cloudy, dark or light covered) to be safe to walk on. When it’s a moving body of water, like a river or stream, do not walk on it, as just a small crack can break it. Hypothermia happens just seconds after you’ve fallen in, and there have been plenty of incidences where humans have died trying to rescue their dogs that have fallen in. Keeping your dog on a leash, particularly around frozen bodies of water, can keep you and your dog safe.

Dog cold tip 8: Protect your dog from winter poisons

Rock salt can irritate and burn dogs’ paws. Other winter toxins and irritations include Antifreeze and Poinsettias. © Melissa L. Kauffman

Protect your dog from winter-time poisons. As we mentioned earlier, rock salts can cause irritation or burning of dog’s paws, and if your dog licks too much from his paws it can cause vomiting, diarrhea and a host of other nasty issues, not to mention burning his tongue and gastrointestinal tract on the way down. Antifreeze is well-known for being toxic to dogs, because of the ingredient ethylene glycol. It can cause vomiting, loss of appetite and even seizures. And what about the popular holiday plant — poinsettia?  Although poinsettias are not as toxic as once thought, they still cause vomiting and irritation to the mouth and stomach. For more poisons, check the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control site.

Dog cold tip 9: Exercise your dog during the winter

And last but not least, keep your dog moving during the winter. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, in 2018 an estimated 56% of dogs in the United States were overweight or obese. The APOP recommends that dogs need at least 30-minutes of physical activity a day with suggested activities being walking, swimming, playing chase, ball retrieving and using remote controlled toys. Unfortunately, during the winter, we pet owners tend to get out with our dogs less due to the cold. If you can’t get outside, play with your dog inside to keep him moving so he doesn’t gain weight over the winter. Obesity affects your dog’s life span and quality of life.

So yes, maybe there are some dangers for your dogs with winter, but manage  or navigate them with these tips. There are many fun things to do too, especially for those dogs who were made for winter like the Siberian Husky, Saint Bernard and Chesapeake Bay Retriever. So … let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.

 

The post 9 Cold-Weather Tips for Dogs and Dog Owners by Melissa Kauffman appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Via Dogster https://www.dogster.com

Can Dogs Eat Nuts? Find Out Which Nuts Are Safe — And Which Aren’t

The post Can Dogs Eat Nuts? Find Out Which Nuts Are Safe — And Which Aren’t by Melvin Peña appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

As humans, we seem to have an inherent desire to share the things that give us pleasure, especially foods. With a world of information available at our fingertips, it only makes sense to inquire what human foods are safe for dogs to eat before we offer them to our pets. Dogster has looked into various food groups and asked if dogs can eat fruits, vegetables and dairy products. Now, we turn our attention to popular snack nuts. So, can dogs eat nuts? Can dogs eat almonds? What about peanuts, pistachios, cashews and other nuts?

Can dogs eat nuts? First, a general word on dogs and nuts

Can dogs eat nuts? Photography by Anna Hoychuk / Shutterstock.

Can dogs eat nuts? Well, the answer to, “Can dogs eat nuts?” isn’t so straightforward.

Can dogs eat nuts in their shells? Although some nuts may not contain native toxins that adversely affect dogs, the shells of all nuts present the risk of tearing tissue as they move through a dog’s digestive tract. Can dogs eat nuts out of their shells then? The meat of many nuts contains high quantities of fats that can cause upset stomachs. Many store-bought, commercially-available nuts are also packaged with salt and other chemicals, which can dehydrate or even poison dogs.

Can dogs eat nuts covered in chocolate or other candy coatings? These types of nuts are even more dangerous. Chocolate is toxic to dogs.

And can dogs eat nuts that are raw? On the whole, even raw nuts seem to be unwise food choices for dogs, even if they are given in moderation as treats. Old nuts that have mold on them present a whole load of other problems and should be kept away from dogs. Mold toxins can cause seizures, neurological distress and liver problems for dogs. In fact, moldy foods of any kind or variety — no matter where they sit on any version of the food pyramid — should be disposed of properly.

So, can dogs eat nuts of any kind? With all these cautions and provisos out of the way, let’s look more closely at the question: Can dogs eat nuts? And can dogs eat nuts like almonds, peanuts, pistachios, etc.?

Can dogs eat almonds?

Can dogs eat almonds and if so, are almonds good for dogs? As with most of the nuts we’re looking at here, almonds are not … technically toxic for dogs. However, as with most of these nuts, almonds are high in fat, making them difficult for dogs to digest in large quantities. Fatty foods can be dangerous for dogs because they exceed the capability of their pancreas to break them down and process them. Too much fat in a dog’s diet can lead to pancreatitis.

Can dogs eat peanuts?

Peanuts are one of the most common nuts that come to mind when thinking, “Can dogs eat nuts?” If they are raw or roasted, removed from their shells, and unsalted, dogs can safely eat a few peanuts. Dogs don’t tend to experience peanut allergies as frequently or as violently as humans do, but those food allergies do exist. Peanuts do contain more fat than is usually good for dogs, so a few peanuts should be okay, but proceed with caution. This is especially true if your pet tags along to dog day at your local baseball park, where peanuts may litter the bleachers.

Can dogs eat peanut butter?

Whether dogs can eat peanuts and whether they can eat peanut butter seem to be different questions altogether. Creamy peanut butter, with as low of a sodium content as possible and in limited quantities tends to be a safe and entertaining treat for dogs. If amusing YouTube videos are any evidence, dogs really seem to enjoy a spoonful of peanut butter. Here at Dogster, though, we wouldn’t recommend feeding a dog anything simply for entertainment. Also, make sure any peanut butter you’re feeding your dogs does not contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.

Can dogs eat pistachios?

Removed from their shells, pistachios can be okay for dogs, but are not recommended. Pistachios are not toxic to dogs, but have too high a fat content for dogs in large quantities. Do not give dogs pistachios that are still inside the shell, which, like other nuts in the shell, can cause digestive blockages that can be dangerous in their own right.

Can dogs eat cashews?

Cashews are high in fat, and it doesn’t take many for a dog to reach the limit of their recommended fat intake. Too many can lead to weight gain and pancreatitis.

Can dogs eat walnuts?

As with most of the nuts when wondering, “Can dogs eat nuts?” walnuts are too high in fat for dogs. That aside, walnuts also tend to be larger than nuts such as peanuts or pistachios. Dogs don’t chew their food as thoroughly as humans do, so larger nuts, like walnuts, are more difficult to digest. Unprocessed, larger nuts can obstruct a dog’s bowel movements.

Can dogs eat pecans?

No, and for all of the same reasons as walnuts. Not only are they too high in fat, but too large and difficult to digest. Another frequent problem for dogs and nuts is stomach upset if they eat too many.

Can dogs eat sunflower seeds?

If they are unsalted and removed from their sharp shells, yes, sunflower seeds are okay for dogs in small amounts. Another one to watch out for on the ground or in the bleachers at ballgames.

Can dogs eat macadamia nuts?

This is the most toxic nut when thinking, “Can dogs eat nuts?” Macadamia nuts are the grapes and raisins of the nut kingdom. They are highly toxic to dogs, even in limited quantities, but no one is yet certain why. Of course, unless you live in Hawaii, Australia, or certain countries in Africa or South America, a dog’s risk of accidental ingestion is probably small. A few macadamia nuts can cause real short-term neurological problems for dogs — tremors, dizziness and even temporary paralysis. Your dog is better off without macadamia nuts.

A few parting thoughts to the question, Can dogs eat nuts?

It is important to remember that, voracious eaters as dogs can be, they are generally much smaller than people. This means that dogs will often have trouble processing and digesting things that present humans with relatively few issues. Based on our research, it seems the best course of action when it comes to dogs is to keep them away from nuts.

Thumbnail: Photography by dogboxstudio / Shutterstock.

This piece was originally published in 2014.

Plus, are nuts truly healthy for YOU? Come find out >>

About the author

Melvin Peña is a writer, editor, and social media manager who spends most of his time in Durham, North Carolina. His interests include his dog, Baby (of course!), art, hiking, urban farming and karaoke.

Learn more about what dogs can eat on Dogster.com:

• Can Dogs Eat Apples, Grapes and Strawberries?
• Can Dogs Eat Tomatoes, Carrots, Celery and Other Vegetables?
• Honey for Dogs — Can Dogs Eat It and Should They? It’s Complicated

The post Can Dogs Eat Nuts? Find Out Which Nuts Are Safe — And Which Aren’t by Melvin Peña appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Via Dogster https://www.dogster.com

10 Types of Service Dogs and What They Do

The post 10 Types of Service Dogs and What They Do by Heather Marcoux appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Many dog people would say their canine companions are their best friends, but for a growing number of individuals with specific physical, neurological or mental health needs, different types of service dogs are also invaluable partners in day-to-day life. Legally, most of these types of service dogs are welcome in places where pet dogs are not. Unfortunately, the practice of non-disabled people passing off pet dogs as different types of service dogs has eroded the rights of real assistance dog handlers, especially those with invisible disabilities.

“Don’t make assumptions,” says Toni Eames, president of the International Association of Assistance Dog Partners. “If you see a person who can walk and talk, and they’re sighted, and they’re hearing, the dog may be alerting to diabetes or seizures.”

According to Eames, those tasks may be done by a breed who doesn’t fit the popular image of a service dog as a retriever or a German Shepherd Dog. As the list of jobs for service dogs grows, so does the diversity of service dog breeds helping disabled people.

Let’s take a look at 10 types of service dogs, from the well-known to the newly developed:

1. Guide dogs

A guide dog helps his handler cross the street. Photography by Lars Christensen / Shutterstock.

Assistance dogs who lead visually impaired and blind people around obstacles are one of the most commonly known types of service dogs. Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Lab/Golden hybrids are often dog breeds chosen as guide dogs, although other breeds, such as Poodles, can also be well suited to be this type of service dog.

According to the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, guide dogs have been helping visually impaired people for centuries, and their use may date back to Roman times. Many laws and pieces of legislation regarding service animals were original written with an emphasis on guide dogs. While people often expect guide dogs and other assistance dogs to wear vests, the Americans With Disabilities Act does not require a vest, although they’ll often be wearing a special harness with a handle on it.

2. Hearing dogs

For people with hearing impairments, service dogs assist by alerting to noises such as alarms, doorbells or crying babies. When the dog hears the sound, they’ll touch their human and lead toward the noise.

Labradors and Golden Retrievers are dog breeds that are often selected as hearing dogs, but many other breeds, including Cocker Spaniels and Miniature Poodles, have been successfully trained to alert as a hearing dog. According to Assistance Dogs International, small-to-medium mixed breeds acquired from animal shelters are often trained as hearing dogs, with Terrier mixes, Poodles, Cockers, Lhasa Apsos, Shih Tzus and even Chihuahuas being selected for personality and temperament.

3. Mobility assistance dogs

Mobility Assistance Dogs can retrieve objects and help handlers get around. Photography by dogboxstudio / Shutterstock.

These types of service dogs can perform a wide range of tasks for people with a wide range of mobility issues. According to Service Dogs of America, mobility assistance dogs can bring objects to people, press buttons on automatic doors, serve as a brace for people who are ambulatory or even help pull a wheelchair up a ramp. These dogs help people increase their independence and confidence.

People with spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, and arthritis are among those who benefit from a mobility assistance dog. While the dogs must be large enough to support their human partner, many different can be mobility assistance dogs.

4. Diabetic alert dogs

Also known as DADs, these service dogs can provide independence and security by alerting to chemical changes in blood sugar. The scent changes associated with hyperglycemic or hypoglycemic events in diabetics are imperceptible to humans, but not to dogs. These service dogs alert their people to blood sugar highs and lows before the levels become dangerous.

When a diabetic alert dog alerts, his human knows to test his blood. Then he or she can inject insulin or ingest a dose of glucose before his blood level gets dangerous. Many of these dogs are trained to alert others in the household or set off an alarm system if their human needs medical help.

5. Seizure alert dogs

Seizure alert dogs are one of the controversial types of service dog. They react with a specific type of behavior right before her human has a seizure. The ability to alert to seizures seems to be a natural ability for a small number of dogs, although some neurology experts say there is no reliable evidence to suggest that dogs can reliably predict seizures.

On the other hand, many patients, families and trainers insist their dogs do accurately predict and alert to oncoming seizures, and stories about pet dogs who alert without training have received a lot of media attention. Some epilepsy organizations, like the BC Epilepsy Society, state that it’s not possible for dogs to be trained to alert to seizures, but some dog training agencies (including UK-based Support Dogs and 4 Paws For Ability in the U.S.) say it is possible to train a dog to alert.

6. Seizure response dogs

Not to be confused with seizure alert dogs, seizure response dogs provide help to a person experiencing an epileptic seizure. These dogs bark for help or to press an alarm system during a person’s seizure. They can also get a person out of an unsafe place. And may bring medicine or a phone to a person who is coming out of a seizure.

7. Psychiatric service dogs

PTSD Service Dogs often work with military veterans. Photography by sam100 / Shutterstock.

These types of service dogs assist people who are suffering from issues like depression, anxiety and most often post-traumatic stress disorder. PTSD can afflict people after they’ve served in combat, worked as a first responder, or experienced abuse, natural disasters, terrorism and other life-altering events, such as car crashes.

The human handlers in this category can feel hyper vigilant about their safety, and service dogs can make them feel safer by doing things like entering the home before the human, and turning on the lights with a foot pedal. These dogs can also help PTSD sufferers who feel overwhelmed in public places by creating a physical barrier between the handler and others, giving the handler more personal space. Many PTSD sufferers find that having a service dog to care for forces the human to also take care of themselves, by getting out into the world and getting exercise with their dog.

8. Autism support dogs

Dogs can provide a social bridge for kids with autism. Photography by lassedesignen / Shutterstock.

For kids on the autism spectrum, these dogs provide a sense of predictability as the children navigate social settings. The dogs can be a big help for kids who have trouble connecting with classmates. The canine acts as an icebreaker in social situations. They improve the child’s quality of life by reducing isolation and comforting the child in stressful times. These dogs are also trained to keep children from running away and can track children if they do run off.

9. FASD service dogs

An emerging category of service dog, these dogs support children who were exposed to alcohol prenatally, and have been diagnosed with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs). These children may have physical and mental difficulties, as well as behavioral problems and learning disabilities. According 4 Paws for Ability, FASD dogs are trained similarly to autism service dogs. They can also be trained to interrupt a repetitive behavior.

10. Allergy detection dogs

Allergy service dogs are trained to sniff out peanuts. Photography by dogboxstudio / Shutterstock.

With the rise in food allergies has come another type of medical service dog. Allergy detection dogs are trained to sniff out and alert to the odor of things such as peanuts or gluten. Often partnered with children, allergy detection dogs can be trained to alert to allergy-inducing smells at school. Allergy detection dogs provide kids with a greater sense of independence and giving their parents a greater sense of security. While it’s clear that some dogs can be successfully trained to alert for allergies, this category of service dog attracted negative attention when some parents said they paid for dogs that couldn’t care less about a deadly peanut.

Other kinds of working dogs, including therapy dogs and emotional support dogs, are not classified as types of service dogs as they’re not trained to perform a specific task to help their handlers. In most jurisdictions, these kinds of dogs are not afforded the same privileges as service dogs.

Thumbnail: Photography by Chuck Wagner / Shutterstock.

This piece was originally published in 2015. 

About the author

Heather Marcoux is a freelance writer in Alberta, Canada. Her beloved Ghost Cat was once her only animal, but the addition of a second cat, Specter, and the dog duo of GhostBuster and Marshmallow make her fur family complete. Sixteen paws is definitely enough. Heather is also a wife, a bad cook, and a former TV journalist. Some of her friends have hidden her feed because of an excess of cat pictures. If you don’t mind cat pictures, you can follow her on Twitter.

Read more about service dogs and types of service dogs:

• Lulu the Therapy Dog Comforts Mourners at a New York Funeral Home
• “Lucky Dog” Star Brandon McMillan Also Trains Service Dogs for Disabled Veterans
• A Seizure Assistance Dog Named Flame Is a Comic Book Hero

The post 10 Types of Service Dogs and What They Do by Heather Marcoux appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Via Dogster https://www.dogster.com

Homemade Dog Shampoo — 3 Simple Recipes

The post Homemade Dog Shampoo — 3 Simple Recipes by Melvin Peña appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Dog grooming is a huge business, and many dog parents are excited that their puppy pals should look and smell their best when they go out in public. Of course, not every dog is going to strike a pose on the show stage, and it can be fun to craft your own homemade dog shampoo for DIY dog grooming. These homemade dog shampoo recipes you can make in the comfort of your home with your family and friends. There is a homemade dog shampoo recipe to fit any need, any budget, and whatever time you have available.

The ingredients for homemade dog shampoo are easy to acquire, most being ready-at-hand in the home, and most recipes are for single use, meaning there’s no need for storage containers. You can try a new homemade dog shampoo each time you wash your dog. Exactly how to give a dog a bath is a different matter. As anyone who has tried can tell you, convincing your dog to submit to a bath can be a challenging proposition. Thankfully, making homemade dog shampoo is only as complicated as you want it to be.

How to make homemade dog shampoo: Common ingredients

Making homemade dog shampoo is easy. Photography by Steve Bruckmann / Shutterstock.

Things as simple as vinegar and baking soda show up as components in many a homemade dog shampoo recipe. Other ingredients for homemade dog shampoo that can be picked up in grocery stores or drug stores include castile soap, which is olive-oil based, and glycerine, a sugar-based alcohol compound. In many cases, your standard baby shampoo or nontoxic dish soap is often incorporated into a homemade dog shampoo recipe to bind ingredients together. The recipes for homemade dog shampoo that we’ll focus on here are very simple and require minimal preparation.

1. Homemade dog shampoo to combat fleas

There are several recipes out there for homemade dog shampoo for fighting fleas, one of which is not only very simple to concoct, but is also ideal if you dog has sensitive skin!

This homemade dog shampoo for fleas requires:

• 1 quart of water
• 1 cup of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup of baby shampoo or nontoxic dish soap (many sites recommend Dawn by name)*

For a lower-volume homemade dog shampoo to fight fleas or for a smaller dog or puppy, try:

• 1/2 cup of water
• 1/4 cup of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup of baby shampoo or nontoxic dish soap*

Apply either solution with a spray bottle or a thoroughly cleaned-out condiment bottle to minimize waste. Work the homemade dog shampoo into your dog’s fur, particularly along hard-to-reach areas down the spine, the base of the tail, the chest and under the forearms, and let it soak in for at least five minutes before rinsing. Comb or brush your dog during that time to remove dead fleas.

*Dawn and baby shampoo should not be used too frequently on dogs as it may dry out a dog’s skin and should not be used on dogs with a dry skin condition. Instead, you may want to try a liquid castile soap, like Dr. Bonner’s.

2. Homemade dry shampoo for dogs

If you bathe a dog too frequently, more than once a month or so, you run the risk of drying out your dog’s skin. Between baths, a dog’s natural hair and skin chemistry reassert themselves, and you should give them time to do so. One potential solution between traditional baths is a homemade dry shampoo for dogs. These DIY dry dog shampoos tend to involve baking soda, another item found in most homes and easy enough to get at any grocery store.

Massaging a dry shampoo into your dog’s skin will give the dog the sensation of being petted and caressed without the resistance you might face in the traditional wet bath scenarios.

Several homemade dry shampoos for dogs also include baking soda. These tend to involve:

• 1 cup of baking soda
• 1 cup of corn starch
• A few drops of an essential oil* — lemon and lavender seem to be the most popular.

Not all essential oils are good for dogs, so only use one that is veterinary recommended as dog-safe and in a dog-safe quantity.

Sprinkle the mixture on your dog and massage it into the dog’s skin with your hands or with a comb or brush. It is best not to use too much baking soda at a time — a cup for a mid-sized dog, half a cup for a very small dog or puppy— and not to apply this method too frequently, since the residue from the powder can accumulate, no matter how much a dog shakes himself afterward. A dry homemade shampoo for dogs is a good stopgap, but nothing beats the fun of having your dog shake water all over you or your bathroom from time to time.

Another way to keep your dog stink-free between baths? Homemade doggy deodorant >>

3. A homemade dog shampoo if your dog has dry skin

You can easily make a DIY dog shampoo for dogs with dry skin, too. Photography © MargaritaKeller | Thinkstock.

If you bathe your dog more frequently, or if your dog tends to have sensitive, itchy or dry skin, you might want to try a homemade dog shampoo that will bring some degree of relief. Adding ingredients such as aloe vera gel or glycerine can help relieve itchy and dry skin. Glycerine is a sugar-based, water-soluble alcohol compound, much less frequently found around the house than vinegar or baking soda, but can easily be found in drug stores, pharmacies and online.

A typical recipe for homemade dog shampoo for dogs with sensitive skin involves:

• 1 quart of water
• 1 cup of liquid castile soap, like Dr. Bonner’s
• 1 cup of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1/3 cup of glycerine
• 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel

This homemade dog shampoo recipe’s addition of glycerine and aloe vera provide soothing elements for dogs with sensitive or dry skin.

Plus, discover some helpful information on hypoallergenic dog shampoo >>

What are your favorite homemade dog shampoo recipes?

Have you ever created your own homemade dog shampoo? Are you a do-it-yourself aficionado? Do you prefer more sophisticated recipes? Do you enjoy the process of creating homemade dog shampoo as much as the results?

If you like putting things to boil, enjoy using specialty ingredients for fragrance and shine, or find that some methods work better for particular breeds of dog, let us know! Please, share your favorite homemade dog shampoo recipe in the comments!

Thumbnail: Photography by toons17 / Shutterstock.

This piece was originally published in 2013. 

Read more on shampooing and bathing your dog right here:

• How to Safely Shampoo a Dog Who Has a Skin Condition
• Dog Shampoo Can Be More Hazardous Than You Think
• 5 Common Mistakes That Make Dogs Hate Baths

The post Homemade Dog Shampoo — 3 Simple Recipes by Melvin Peña appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Via Dogster https://www.dogster.com

10 Easy Ways to Improve Your Dog’s Diet

The post 10 Easy Ways to Improve Your Dog’s Diet by Martha M. Everett appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

 

It’s probably the most common New Year’s resolution: Lose weight. Turns out, that’s one of the best resolutions we can make for our dogs, too. While most human resolutions fail by February, resolving to improve your dog’s diet is one you can — and should — keep.

“If we want more time with our pets, it’s so critical to keep them trim,” says Deborah Linder, DVM, research assistant professor at Tufts University’s Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine in North Grafton, Massachusetts.

Studies show that keeping your dog lean can increase life span by as much as two years and delay the onset of chronic disease. A pound or two extra on a human isn’t much, but that can be a big percent of a dog’s body weight.

Here are 10 simple things you can do to improve your dog’s diet in 2020 and beyond.

Be Balanced

A complete and balanced diet should make up 90% of what your dog eats every day. Commercial pet foods are formulated to provide the more than 30 essential nutrients dogs need.

If you feed a homemade diet, make sure it meets your dog’s daily requirements for vitamins, proteins, minerals, fats and other nutrients.

“Pet owners need to recognize that they are the only source of nutrition for their animals,” says Martha Cline, DVM, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist at Red Bank Veterinary Hospital in Tinton Falls, New Jersey. “We don’t eat a balanced diet every single day, but we have the ability to do that for our pets.”

Don’t Be A Drive-By Feeder

Measure your dog’s food at mealtime rather than filling the empty bowl every time you pass, says Joe Bartges, DVM, Phd, a nutrition professor at the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine in Athens. Portion control is key in preventing obesity, the No. 1 health threat for dogs.

Feeding suggestions on packages are guidelines. “The bag is a place to start, but it may have to be adjusted based on the individual pet,” Dr. Cline notes.

Follow The 10% Rule

No more than 10% of your dog’s total daily calories should come from treats, table foods, chews and supplements.

Make a list of the calories in those extras to create a treat-allowance menu. “That’s your freebie time,” says Dr. Linder, a veterinary nutrition specialist and diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition (ACVN).

Count Calories

Ask your veterinarian how many calories your dog should eat daily. In general, dogs need about 20 to 30 calories per pound.

“Sometimes people don’t realize how many calories they’re actually offering,” Dr. Cline says.

Counting calories doesn’t have to mean feeding less. For example, one rawhide chew can have as many as 100 calories, but two cups of fresh green beans — a great source of vitamins and fiber — have only about 60 calories.

Try saving a portion of your dog’s kibble and feeding it as treats throughout the day as a way to provide a complete and balanced diet without adding calories.

This image is just one example of the body weight chart that your vet may show you to help you understand where your dog falls in weight. The scale can vary — one to five, one to seven, etc. — depending on who created the chart. It usually shows both the side and view from above.

Get Your Dog’s Numbers

Ask your veterinarian for your dog’s body condition score. The BCS is a rating based on a visual assessment of shape. Scale numbers vary, but some work on a scale of 1 to 9 with a score of 4 to 5 being ideal.

“When you look at them from above, you want to make sure that they have a waist after their ribs,” Dr. Cline says. “When you look at them from the side, you want to make sure they have an abdominal tuck.”

Periodically feel your dog’s ribs just behind the front legs. “It’s so hard to just look at a dog, especially a Husky or one that’s really fluffy; they can be deceiving,” Dr. Linder says. The ribs should have no more padding than the bones on the back of your hand.

Weigh Your Dog

Weigh your pet every few months, recommends Dr. Bartges, a diplomate of the ACVN. Subtle changes are difficult to see, and weight gain can creep up.

To shed pounds (and keep them off ), you have to commit to regular exercise. “We’re not going to burn off a Snickers bar just by walking to the mailbox, and our dogs aren’t either,” Dr. Linder says.

Read Labels

Before buying anything your dog will ingest, check the label. Note the target life stage, ingredients, nutritional information and calories.

That includes supplements. Fish oil, for example, has about 40 calories per teaspoon. While supplements usually do not list calories on the label, there are clues. “If you look at a label and you see protein and fat listed, there are going to be calories,” Dr. Cline advises. When in doubt, call the company.

Think Like A Dog

Imagine someone gives you beets, and if you don’t eat them, he hands you cake. You might hold out the next time you get beets. That’s the same conditioned response a dog develops when we offer a treat if he doesn’t eat his food.

“The owner is training that pet not to eat that food anymore because the pet is going to know that if I just wait, I’m going to get something of higher value,” Dr. Cline says.

Often the higher-value food is a table scrap. And that can be a vicious circle. “If you give a lot of table foods, it might fill them up, and then they’re not hungry to eat their regular diet,” Dr. Cline warns.

Think in dog scale. “Most dogs don’t need to eat anywhere near the amount of calories that we eat,” Dr. Cline says.

Dr. Linder agrees. “That piece of chicken may be 20 calories, which is nothing to us, but that could be 10% of a Chihuahua’s daily needs,” she says.

Always Provide Clean, Fresh Water

Keep an eye on how much your dog drinks (too much or too little can signal a medical issue). To encourage water intake, freeze your dog’s favorite toy or treat in water and let him lick the frozen cube. Homemade broth also is a good source of hydration (though commercial broths can be high in sodium).

Change Things Up

Rotating complete-and-balanced pet foods keeps mealtimes interesting for your dog. Dr. Barges suggests feeding dry and wet foods of varying flavors from different pet-food companies. Part of his thinking: Variety can dilute any issues that might develop with one company’s food.

Helpful Tools + Resources

The World Small Animal Veterinary Association offers body condition score and calorie-needs charts: wsava.org/Guidelines/Global-Nutrition-Guidelines.

Tufts University’s Cummings Veterinary Medical Center provides information on dog food and nutrition: vetnutrition.tufts.edu

HOLIDAY TIP: Bountiful food is a gift of the holidays. But many are poisonous to dogs, including chocolate, macadamia nuts, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, caffeine, alcohol and the sugar substitute xylitol.

Keep these foods out of your dog’s reach, and know the phone numbers for your veterinarian, a local animal emergency clinic and the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435)

The post 10 Easy Ways to Improve Your Dog’s Diet by Martha M. Everett appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Via Dogster https://www.dogster.com