Olive Oil for Dogs — 8 Reasons to Add It to Your Dog’s Diet

The post Olive Oil for Dogs — 8 Reasons to Add It to Your Dog’s Diet by Julia Szabo 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.

Can dogs eat olive oil? And is olive oil good for dogs? Olive oil, that staple of every kitchen, happens to make an excellent, healthful addition to every dog’s food bowl — among other benefits. We’ve touted the benefits of coconut oil for dogs before, which is another mainstay in my pantry, but let’s not forget the oil that comes from olives, which has its own fantastic advantages. In fact, why not mix things up? Rotate the oils you sweeten your dog’s food bowl with! I like to switch among olive, coconut and (for the omega-3 factor so key to senior dog vitality) fish oil by Nordic Naturals. Here are eight reasons to heart olive oil for dogs. Bone appetit!

1. Olive oil for dogs tastes doggone good

Can dogs have olive oil and is olive oil good for dogs? Photography by Jaromir Chalabala / Shutterstock.

Few things perk up a boring bowl of dry kibble better than a spoonful of what dog-loving celebrity chef Rachael Ray affectionately calls EVOO (extra-virgin olive oil) — especially if your kibble might be, ahem, the tiniest bit stale. Add a dash of cinnamon and turmeric, and you’ve spiced your dog’s meal in grand style!

2. Olive oil helps your dog lose weight

Whether the portly pepperpot is canine or human, if there are some unwanted pounds that need shedding, olive oil for dogs helps grease the weight-loss engine. The monounsaturated fats in olive oil actually encourage pound-melting by breaking down the fat inside fat cells, getting rid of belly fat and reducing insulin sensitivity.

3. Olive oil for dogs promotes optimal canine health

Rich in monounsaturated fats, olive oil for dogs prevents and lessens the effects of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. It contains oleic acid, in addition to some compounds (squalene and terpenoids) that are believed to be effective in preventing cancer, which kills a staggering 50 percent of dogs over age 10.

4. Olive oil for dogs defends the immune system

With high levels of antioxidants — including polyphenols, vitamin E, chlorophyll and carotenoids — olive oil for dogs is effective at arming the body’s immune system so it can efficiently fight off disease. That’s especially important as we (humans as well as canines) transition from one season to another.

5. Olive oil could extend your dog’s life

Dogs don’t live nearly as long as we want them to, but nothing looks sadder than a young dog going gray before his time. Olive oil for dogs prevents free radical cell oxidation (see above), which can lead to premature aging, so it works to help keep your dog looking as vibrantly youthful as he did in his salad days.

6. Olive oil for dogs is a brain food

Olive oil helps prevent the cognitive decline associated with aging in all species, so olive oil for dogs can benefit senior dogs. Serve olive oil to senior dogs at least once daily, to keep their minds beautiful and cloud-free. This is especially important if your dog is a super-smartie, such as a Border Collie, Poodle or Mensa mutt.

7. Olive oil provides an energy boost to your dog

Circulation improves and breathing comes more easily with a daily dose of olive oil — it helps increase blood flow and, in humans, lessens the effects of asthma. So, by extension, olive oil for dogs can be a dogsend for brachycephalic breeds such as the Bulldog, who sometimes struggle to breathe.

8. Olive oil for dogs is a beauty treatment, too

There’s more to olive oil than mere substance — it’s a style statement, too! Long used to beautify human hair and skin, olive oil for dogs can do the same. Condition your dog’s coat from the inside out with a daily serving, which helps to impart moisture and gleam to even the driest, dullest fur.

Tell us: What do you think of olive oil for dogs? Do you add it to your dog’s diet or beauty routine? Did we convince you to start? Let us know in the comments!

Thumbnail: Photography ©chendongshan | Thinkstock.

This piece was originally published in 2015.

Plus, what is the healthiest olive oil for humans? What health benefits does olive oil for humans have? Find out here >>

Learn more about homemade remedies for dogs on Dogster.com:

• Homemade Dog Shampoo — 3 Simple Recipes
• Kennel Cough Treatment — 4 At-Home Remedies for Kennel Cough
• 5 Home Remedies for Fleas on Dogs

The post Olive Oil for Dogs — 8 Reasons to Add It to Your Dog’s Diet by Julia Szabo 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.

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Dogs and Fireworks — Stop Your Dog from Getting Scared

The post Dogs and Fireworks — Stop Your Dog from Getting Scared by Melissa L. 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.

My wedding anniversary falls on July 4th weekend. My husband and I used to celebrate with a short trip, but not anymore. Not since our pet cam showed my dog, Tampa Bay, shivering and hiding in the closet with my other dog, Justice, standing guard in front of it, constantly barking because of the random fireworks being set off. In our home, dogs and fireworks don’t mix.

Tampa Bay and Justice don’t show much enthusiasm for fireworks on the 4th of July. Photography by Melissa L. Kauffman.

My dogs find the noise and the lights terrifying — and they’re not alone. Some dogs — not all — are noise sensitive. Their anxiety can be for short periods or long after the loud noise. Signs include panting, shaking, yawning, seeking comfort from you, hiding, peeing or pooping or even harming themselves. If your dog’s discomfort is minor, there are things you can do at home to help them. If your dog has a more severe reaction, speak to your veterinarian. No dog should have to live in terror on Memorial Day, the 4th of July … or any day when fireworks are present.

An article by Stanley Coren, Ph.D., F.R.S.C. in Psychology Today, discusses the results of a 2015 noise-sensitivity study done in Oslo, Norway, by Linn Mari Storengen and Frode Lingaas from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Biosciences in the Norwegian University of Life Sciences. The study found that a bit more than one out of every five dogs was reported to be fearful of noises (loud noises, heavy traffic, thunderstorms and, of course, fireworks). Interestingly, the study of 5,257 dogs (from 17 different breed clubs) found female dogs to be more fearful of noises than males, plus some dog breeds to be more fearful. Of the 17 breeds in the study, those that seemed most afraid were Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers, Shiba Inus and Norwegian Buhunds. The study also found that neutered dogs were more likely to be fearful when compared to intact dogs and older dogs were more likely to be fearful than younger dogs. The author concludes that this study suggests that noise-related anxiety behavior may be the result of physiology and heredity.

So what can you do for your dog when the Memorial Day, the 4th of July or another firework-related summer holiday approaches?  Here’s what I do. First, I tackle the noise by turning the television up loud and closing all windows and doors. Next, I close all the blinds and curtains so they can’t see the flashes. And last, I give them a chewable natural calming aid. But that’s just me. We reached out to the Dogster Facebook community and asked for their best tips, and we got plenty of them. See if one of these could help you when it comes to dealing with dogs and fireworks:

If your dog doesn’t mind noise from the TV, try turning up the volume or putting on a loud movie. Justice is ready to do just that!  Photography by Melissa L. Kauffman.

Drown fireworks out

Go to the basement, and turn on TV, do the laundry so the washer and dryer are running. — Keith Colpitts

Turn the TV louder and run a fan. — Meeghan Duprey

Radio will be turned up on a mellow or classical station. — Gail Bernier

Just before sunset on the 4th, I’ll put on my Apocalypse Now DVD and turn it up as loud as I can stand it. My girl always falls asleep to the sounds of the screaming, helicopters and gunfire within the first half hour and doesn’t even notice when the fireworks start. — Lisa Marie

Take a chill pill (*Discuss these with your veterinarian.)

I use Rescue Remedy. It’s a safe and all-natural liquid made from Bach flowers. If  you can’t find it locally, it’s on Amazon.com. I just put a few drops in food or on a treat. It has helped my shy dog immensely. She hates thunderstorms, too. And this stuff calms her down without using Acepromazine from the vet. — Ruthan Blomquist

My vet told me I could use Benadryl on my dogs, but I don’t want people to use it without first talking to their vets. — Rebecca Lord

I put a couple of drops of lavender oil on the outside of Lulu’s collar. I also rub a couple of drops in my hand and let her smell it. It helps calm her during storms and through fireworks. She’s had terrible anxiety since her buddy passed. This helps. — Vicki Toby Collins

My dog takes Sileo for thunderstorm anxiety. According to its website, it also helps for fireworks. — Kelly Conklin (Ed note: Sileo is a canine noise aversion drug by Zoetis. See your veterinarian to discuss.)

Wrap your pup up

I wrap him in his favorite blanket. — Dave Costello

The Thundershirt has helped my one dog in the past. — Barbara Hudson

We turn on the TV and fans. We also don’t leave them home alone. It’s an important time for us to make them feel safe. We’ve found that snug shirts or an Ace bandage help, similar to swaddling. — Angie Stozyk

Some dogs find comfort in being wrapped up or swaddled, like in a Thundershirt or laying in your bed under the covers like Tampa Bay here. Photography by Melissa L. Kauffman.

Give your dog a safe space away from the fireworks

I let her hang out in the bathroom. — Meeghan Duprey

I put the dog in the basement in a kennel with the door closed, or she runs around the house trying to find a safe spot. — Gail Bernier

My dog jumps into my bed and sleeps. My bed and my pillow are the best solution for any scary stuff. Better if I’m in it with him. — Elena Prokhonova

We go to the basement. — Keith Colpitts

As my Akita got older, he became more and more frightened of fireworks and always looked for a place to hide. One night before the 4th, we were out in the yard and a neighbor set off a firework. He took off; he just wanted to get in the car. I let him in the back seat and he was happy. From that point on, whenever the fireworks started, we went and sat in the car together with the engine on and the AC running, so it buffered the sound. He was content to sleep, while I read a book or listened to the radio. This also became our go-to place when storms got really bad as well. — Heather Gembarosky

We go camping at a campground that doesn’t do fireworks. Everybody’s happy! — Tracy Marie

Close all windows. Go into the bathroom, close the door and run the shower or bath, and turn on the exhaust fan if there is one. This is what we do when they test the fire alarms in the building. — Eleanor R. Nespica

Fireworks for the 4th of July. Photography by Melissa L. Kauffman.

Stay calm and carry on

If you have a puppy, and it’s their first 4th of July, act as if nothing is wrong. Do not pet and reassure them with every boom. Have them sit and give a treat. The bigger deal the human makes of it, the bigger deal the dog will, too. Stay calm. What fireworks? — Barbara Ernest

Stay home with your dog

If your dog is gun-shy, pay attention; don’t leave them home alone. — Ron Green

Distract your pup

We have fans on, the AC on, plus music and TV. Animal-friendly, relaxing essential oils are in the diffuser and we get out some really delicious treats and interactive toys and chewing things to distract. Start it all before they hear the first firework. — Stephanie Butler

Get the message out

I typically post something on Facebook about personal fireworks and how they can harm dogs (and some military vets). Hopefully my friends will think twice before buying certain ones or any. — Gail Bernier

Try putting your dog in the bathroom with the fan and water running. Justice likes the bathroom as long as there are comfy rugs, water and treats. Photography by Melissa L. Kauffman.

Hopefully these tips from other dog lovers will keep you well-armed. We’ll leave you with a few more helpful takeaways for dealing with dogs and fireworks:

1. Don’t punish your dog for any fear-related behavior. Also, don’t reinforce the fear by being overly comforting.
2. Dogs can learn to be afraid of fireworks from other dogs or people who are afraid, so keep calm and don’t react to the fireworks.
3. If your dog has an extreme fear response (pooping, peeing, vomiting or harming himself), see a veterinarian immediately for help.
4. Safest bet — don’t take your dog outside when there are fireworks at play. If you do, put him on a leash attached to a harness he cannot get out of. Never tether your dog — it puts him in a position where he can’t get away from another person or dog, plus you aren’t actively watching him.
5. Prepare for the unthinkable — an escaped dog. Update his collar and ID, get him micro-chipped if he isn’t and, if he is, update the information. Also update all of his shots in case he bites some helpful stranger out of fear.
6. Check out more tips for dogs who hate fireworks from The Whole Dog Journal >>
7. Look into supplements from Healthy Solutions for Pets that might help your dog deal with anxiety >> 

Top photograph: IrisImages/Getty Images

This article was originally published in 2017. 

Read Next: 6 Things to Remember When You Have a Fearful Dog

The post Dogs and Fireworks — Stop Your Dog from Getting Scared by Melissa L. 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.

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Disaster Relief for Our Furry Friends

The post Disaster Relief for Our Furry Friends by Bridget Shirvell 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.

In Australia, where bushfires have decimated millions of acres of forests and the animals that considered them home, a 6-year-old Border Collie-Australian Koolie mix named Bear is saving lives — koala lives.

Bear was trained by the International Fund for Animal Welfare to sniff out koalas by the scent of their fur, so his disaster relief teammates can locate injured or burned koalas, which are difficult to spot in trees. The team, partnering with local wildlife experts, is rehabilitating the koalas and placing them back into safe areas.

“It’s a truly selfless group,” says Rodger Correa, U.S. communications director for IFAW. “They will go out under any conditions and stay as long as it takes — sometimes many months.”

Disaster relief teams around the world put their lives at risk to save animals, and not always wildlife. Often, it’s domestic dogs and cats who get left behind when a natural disaster strikes, and people are forced to evacuate immediately without returning home to fetch their pets.

When Hurricane Florence hit North and South Carolina in 2018, The Humane Society of the United States deployed a rescue team that traipsed through the floods, locating lost animals and placing them in shelters so their owners could find them. And last year, when wildfires spread through Northern California, volunteers from RedRover (redrover.org), a Sacramento-based nonprofit, cleaned cages, fed and walked dogs and set up emergency pop-up shelters for displaced animals.

For these organizations, much of the work is done after the storm. But with good planning and preparation from municipalities, shelters and individual pet owners, communities can better protect their pets before a disaster. Here are three ways that these organizations are working on building disaster resilience for animals around the world.

Staff members from the HSUS rescue team and the San Diego Humane Society work to rescue 12 animals from a flooded home in South Carolina after Hurricane Florence. Photo: Meredith Lee, HSUS

Forming widespread disaster relief networks

These three organizations don’t enter a disaster situation unless they are invited by another organization that has jurisdiction over the animals — whether it’s a government agency, a shelter, another animal rescue league or a veterinarian — to ensure good and effective relations while in action.

“We let them know we come in free of charge, we are responsible for the housing for our volunteers, and we are going to be working under you guys,” says Beth Gammie, director of field services at RedRover, which deploys more than 4,000 trained volunteers throughout the U.S. and Canada.
Building relationships with other response teams and agencies around the world increases the chance that the animal rescue group will be asked to step in and quickens the response time by eliminating initial paperwork and other legal issues when disaster strikes. IFAW’s worldwide Animal Rescue Networks connect thousands of animal welfare and animal control professionals, veterinarians and volunteers in strategic locations around the world so they can respond rapidly.

RedRover Director of Field Services and a RedRover Responder volunteer care for puppies displaced by Hurricane Michael in 2018. Photo: Courtesy RedRover

Educating communities

The Humane Society meets with shelters around the country and helps them form plans for handling a disaster that originates internally and one that starts in the community.
“We want people to be able to handle their own response as much as possible,” says Diane Robinson, Humane Society’s disaster services manager, who used a dryer fire as an example of an internal disaster that would require evacuation of all the animals.

Educating local agencies about best evacuation and sheltering practices helps people manage a stressful situation more effectively when it arises. Disaster teams also handle cruelty cases like puppy mills and hoarding, and advise agencies on the best ways to manage the influx of oftentimes undernourished animals into the shelter.

RedRover Responders care for a dog rescued from a puppy mill in North Carolina. Photo: Courtesy RedRover

Promoting animal inclusion in disaster relief

“Animal issues are people issues,” says Diane, who explains that people are always going to want to take their animals with them, and if they can’t, they will stay or go back to get them. “That’s putting more work and risk on the responders,” she says.

Over the past decade, much progress has been made in emergency management agencies including animals in their disaster preparedness planning, but there’s still more to be done. For domestic violence cases, many safe havens don’t allow pets, which prevents people from leaving a dangerous situation at home. RedRover workers renovate domestic violence shelters to become pet friendly, along with offering a grant for animal shelters and rescue groups to build onsite housing for pets of domestic violence victims.

“You have to have a plan,” says Beth, whose pop-up shelters help make pet emergency planning more achievable. “You have to have a way to take all your animals with you.”

Read Next: Helping Feed Pets in Need

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Letting Your Puppy Sleep in Your Bed? Here’s How to Do It Safely

The post Letting Your Puppy Sleep in Your Bed? Here’s How to Do It Safely by Jill Breitner 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 recently had one the best night’s sleep of my life with Indy, an 8-week-old Australian Shepherd puppy. He is a client’s dog and future service animal. He slept draped across my neck and snuggled under my arm. We stayed that way all night long, with only the occasional whimper from Indy when he slipped away from our shared warmth and had to sleepily find his way back. So, why did I let a puppy sleep in my bed, when conventional methods recommend crate training from an early age?

Because puppies sleep in a pile with their siblings right up until you take them home. They get a sense of security from sleeping on top of each other. This is how it is in the womb: warm, quiet and peaceful. Taking them away from their mother and littermates is traumatic. Even when you see a happy, goofy puppy playfully engaging with their new family, keep in mind that they are away from the only home they have ever known, in a completely new environment. When it’s time to sleep, the puppy of course looks for a warm body to snuggle with, and if they are locked in a crate all alone, with no warm littermates and no mother’s heartbeat, it feels cold and quiet and scary.

Sleeping puppies. Photography by Shutterstock.

And the timing of this is typically during a critical period of a puppy’s life: the ages of 8 to 11 weeks, when fear can have damaging and long-lasting effects, including separation anxiety, barking to get attention, sensitivity to noises and confinement and house training issues.

As a service dog trainer, I temperament test puppies and keep them with me until they go to their new guardians for bonding, then they return to me at around 4 months old to begin learning specific tasks. I sleep with puppies at the beginning of their first stay with me while also teaching them to love their crate or ex-pen during waking hours, eventually transferring them to a crate or dog bed right next to mine.

I realize that for some of you, sleeping with a puppy for the first two to three weeks after you bring them home may be completely out of your comfort zone. That is okay and understandable. There are still ways to help your new puppy adjust without locking them in a crate. You can take the top off the crate, putting cushy blankets in so you can reach the puppy when they awaken in the night, touching them quietly while soothing them back to sleep. You can make a bed for you and your puppy on the floor, snuggling together before moving back to your bed when it’s time.

Remember, they aren’t really awake, just looking for warmth, comfort, and security. If they really do need to relieve themselves, they won’t settle back down but will become fully awake, which rarely happens.

Puppy in bed. Photography by Shutterstock.

The point I’m making is that you don’t have to have sleepless nights with yelping pups while you are teaching them to hold it through the night. You can keep the puppy close, creating a safe and secure environment that will result in a happy puppy and well-balanced dog.

I can hear the questions rolling around in your minds. What if I have a 2-pound Maltese pup? I don’t want to roll over and smother her. Of course, you don’t. With tiny pups, opt for the crate next to your bed. And keep in mind, this is just for the first two to three weeks. When your pup knows their new home and that they are loved and feel safe, you can make the transfer to whatever sleeping situation you would like, a crate, a dog bed, whatever works for you.

And don’t worry that you will spoil your dog with the overnight attention. You are making them feel secure, and that is important. My motto is: “You can have a spoiled-rotten, disciplined dog.” Why else do we have them, after all?

Top photograph: FluxFactory/Getty Images

Read Next: Why Are Some Older Dogs Afraid of Young Puppies?

 

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My Dog Sleeps All Day — Is It Normal?

The post My Dog Sleeps All Day — Is It Normal? by Jessica Pineda 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.

Have you ever watched your dog napping — yet again — and thought, “my dog sleeps all day”? You’re not alone. One (of the many!) awesome things about dogs is that they get to sleep as much as they want. Who can blame them either? We would love unlimited opportunities to sleep in!

Thankfully, your dog isn’t actively trying to make you jealous with his sleep habits. In fact, it’s completely normal for dogs to spend most of the day sleeping away. Here are some things to know when you’re thinking “my dog sleeps all day.”

Thinking your dog sleeps all day? And is it something to worry about? Photography ©damedeeso | Thinkstock.

Dogs Naturally Sleep More Than We Do

Think your dog sleeps all day? Well, compared to humans, it’s easy to think that! According to Dr. Evan Antin, a veterinarian at Conejo Valley Veterinary Hospital in Thousand Oaks, California, dogs generally sleep about 12 to 14 hours a day. Dr. Antin points out that how much a dog sleeps depends a lot on this age, breed and activity level.

“Some breeds tend to be sleepier breeds. Your French and English Bulldogs, they like to lounge, sleep and take it easy,” Dr. Antin says. “For dogs that are more active, such as working dogs, they’ll sleep less since they’re busier.”

Related: Why Do Dogs Dig in Their Beds?

Age plays a big part in how much a dog sleeps, too. For example, a puppy tends to sleep up to 16 to 18 hours a day, since growing up takes up a lot of energy. Older dogs spend almost the same amount of time asleep as puppies, which can be due to a number of factors. Senior dogs are often less active, or it may hurt for them to move due to joint pain or arthritis.

Does It Seem Like Your Dog Sleeps All Day? The Upside (or Downside) of Dog Domesticity  

Another reason your dog sleeps all day or at least most of it? The lifestyle we provide dogs doesn’t give them much else to do.

Let Dr. Antin explain.

“Our domesticated pet dogs may sleep more than they need to simply because they have less stimulation and less stressors in their environments that would otherwise give them reasons to be active,” he says. “That is, they don’t need to hunt, find and/or create dens, escape and hide from predators, find mates, etc.”

He compared that to our dogs’ wild cousins. “Wolves and coyotes, etc., have to hunt, find mates, etc., in the wild in order to survive and pass on their genes. When pets live under the care of humans, all of their needs to ‘survive’ are handed to them — that is, food, water and shelter. They’re typically also neutered, so the drive to reproduce is also absent.”

While it might be nice to have free room and board, it can also lead to dogs sleeping more — just for a lack of something to do. And, let’s be honest, that’s preferable to them tearing up the walls (if your dog is doing that, here are some boredom busters). However, it might be worth asking yourself if a dog sleeping out of boredom is healthy for him or not.

Other Reasons a Dog Sleeps All Day

Health issues may also be behind why a dog sleeps all day. “Hormonal imbalances and diseases, like hypothyroidism, can make a dog sleep more,” Dr. Antin explains. “Any other underlying metabolic disease or illness that is taxing on a dog’s body can cause decreased energy, too.”

And cancer or any illness that affects a dog’s body can mean your dog sleeps all day — or at least a lot of it, he adds.

Is Your Dog Sleeping Too Much? How to Know

When our dogs spend so much time asleep, it’s hard to tell if it’s due to medical issues. If you can’t rule out normal factors like age, Dr. Antin says to look for other signs. For example, if your dog isn’t as active as he used to be, plus he’s not eating as much but is gaining weight, that might be hypothyroidism or another metabolic issue.

Basically, if you think your dog sleeps all day, look for other signs that something might be wrong. Then, head to your veterinarian for a checkup.

Can a Dog Not Get Enough Sleep?

On the flipside of thinking, “my dog sleeps all day…” you might be thinking “my dog doesn’t sleep enough.” Sometimes a dog might not get enough sleep. “I have patients with respiratory issues like sleep apnea, or who are too overweight to breathe well, that aren’t getting enough sleep, ” Dr. Antin says. “That can lead to chronic fatigue and low energy levels.” However, Dr. Antin says, those cases are really rare.

Related: The Struggle of Sleeping with Dogs in the Bed

Another case where a dog might not be sleeping as much is with older, senile dogs. Their schedules might get turned around, and they may sleep less at night due to them wandering around confused. It may not be too much of an issue though — Dr. Antin points out that they tend to make up for it during the day.

At the end of the day, dogs have some sleeping habits in common with humans! Photography ©Fly_dragonfly | Thinkstock.

But Dogs Sleep Like Us — Kind Of

While it’s easy to be jealous of your dog’s sleeping habits (I know I am sometimes), it turns out that how our dogs sleep is a lot like how we do. According to Live Science, dogs go through “stages of wakefulness, rapid-eye-movement (REM) sleep and non-rapid-eye-movement sleep.” During the REM stage, your dog is most likely dreaming and you might see him reacting to it. He’ll twitch, move his feet or even yip out loud. Watching your dog dream can be both adorable and hilarious — either way, when it happens, you’ll be glad that you’re awake to see it.

Thumbnail: Photography ©Lindsay_Helms | Thinkstock.

This piece was originally published in 2017. 

Want to sleep like a dog? Studies show that music can help you sleep >>

The post My Dog Sleeps All Day — Is It Normal? by Jessica Pineda 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.

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These Are the Experts Every Dog Owner Needs

The post These Are the Experts Every Dog Owner Needs by Bryn Nowell 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.

Here’s whom you should have on your support team and how you can find them.

Veterinary team: The relationship you build with your veterinary team should be comprised of trust and information. If you don’t believe your current veterinarian is a good fit for you and your pup, it’s OK to look elsewhere. Check out the listings on aaha.org; these providers have sought advanced accreditation.

Related: These Vets Make House Calls

Specialists: Sometimes a specific health issue warrants a need to work with a specialist. A listing of specialists can be found here: avma.org/education/veterinary-specialists.

Trainers and behaviorists: Not all trainers are created equal. The Association of Professional Dog Trainers provides a list of trainers who use Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive Training. See apdt.com, or find a Victoria Stilwell positive dog trainer at positively.com.

Service providers: Service providers can step in to give you a break and help you with your dog and his issues. For example, do you have a senior dog who can’t go to the groomer anymore? Call a mobile pet groomer that specializes in seniors.

There’s a strong chance your town or region has a Facebook page where you can post and ask about local groomers, doggie day cares, pet sitters, dog walkers, dog massage therapists, low-cost veterinary clinics, etc. Folks are vocal about what’s worked and what hasn’t worked for them. Referrals may also give you and the referrer a discount for services.

Strength in numbers: Facebook groups for rescue dogs, specific breeds or specific subjects like training can be found using a simple search on Facebook. Review group rules before joining to know the purpose and content of each group. Maddie’s Pet Forum is an online community for shelters, rescues, volunteers, fosters and adopters to share expertise, resources and information. See maddiesfund.org.

More reading: livehappy.com is curated by the Director of the Resilience & Positive Psychology program at the University of Pennsylvania, where Carin Zinter attended. New York Times bestseller Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance, by Angela Duckworth, shares information about a blend of passion and persistence. Magazines like Dogster and its online offering dogster.com continually update resources and tools for pet parents.

The post These Are the Experts Every Dog Owner Needs by Bryn Nowell 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.

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Why Do Dogs Dig in Their Beds?

The post Why Do Dogs Dig in Their Beds? 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.

Recently, I found a thick throw rug at a thrift store. I thought it looked like a warm bit of bedding that my dog could use for her nesting. I draped it over her two other blankets and carefully tucked it to conform to the shape of her bed. Next time I went to visit her, she’d removed the new cover, dragged it halfway across the room, and left it there. I found her curled up, sleeping on her older quilts.

I don’t know about you, but I have any number of pre-sleep rituals. Many of them have become so habitual that they now border on instinct. For instance, no matter the temperature, I have sheets and blankets that have to be in a certain layer order. If I happen to be away from home, I always wake up earlier than I do when I’m in my own bed. Comfort makes a difference to my sleeping ability and quality. Do our dogs observe similar bedtime rituals? Let’s answer some questions about dog nesting behavior, including:

• Why do dogs circle before lying down?
• Why do dogs scratch the floor?
• Why do dogs dig in bed?

Sleep preparation is more involved than a dog lying down. (Photography via Wikimedia Commons)

Why do dogs walk in circles before lying down?

Sometimes, her turning radius is as tight as her 3-by 2-foot dog bed in winter, and others, as broad as a spot against the fence outside in the summertime. Regardless what time of year, it never ceases to fascinate me when I watch my dog circumnavigate her chosen sleeping spot. What motivates her to spin about before coming to rest? Like my own idiosyncratic pre-sleep rituals, walking in circles establishes a dog’s comfort in a few different ways.

Long before dogs could nestle in our beds or had proper dog beds of their own, circling was a means of establishing both safety and comfort. In nature, circling a chosen spot is one method dogs employ to ensure the exclusivity of their sleeping place. Trampling about on high grasses or leaves creates sufficient disturbance to drive out any creatures that may be hiding there, such as the odd snake, rodent, or insect.

Circling is also a security measure. A dog’s paw pads have a couple of little-known or heralded features. They are one of the few surface areas on a dog’s body that have sweat glands. More germane to the matter at hand, dog paws also feature scent glands. Taking a few turns around a favored sleeping area — be it a spot of earth or a proper bed — effectively marks it with a dog’s scent. If you’ve ever seen an old Western film where a group of pioneers “circles the wagons,” dog circling may perform a similar defensive function. Doing so allows a dog to survey his spot before settling in.

Why do dogs scratch the floor?

This question has a number of variants; one of the most popular and confounding to owners of indoor dogs is, “Why do dogs scratch the carpet?” It’s a question that’s perplexed humans forever. The dog is inside, after all! The surface she is scratching at, whether it’s carpet, tile, or hardwood, is not a malleable material. We get frustrated because the carpet gets torn or mangled and those other surfaces may need polishing or buffing, or worse yet, retain claw marks.

Cat owners buy their pets cat trees and scratching posts, but few such provisions exist for our puppies and dogs. Some breeds or types of dogs, terriers and hounds among them, are accustomed to digging and burrowing, whether for prey, security, or scent discovery. If your dog is the burrowing sort, but spends the vast majority of her time alone and indoors, she is being denied part of her fundamental identity. Giving her more outdoor time, in the yard or at the dog park, may help her fulfill a basic need.

Marking and comfort are two reasons that dogs dig and scratch their beds. (Photography via Pixabay)

Dogs who scratch at carpet may do so as part of sleep preparation. Dogs do not care about the aesthetic integrity of your home furnishings. As with turning or circling, scratching serves a number of practical purposes, at least one of which is sleep related. It may be part of the instinctive bedtime ritual, associated with her favored resting spot. Circling several times imbues a place with the dog’s scent. Scratching may serve a similar function, physically marking and claiming a spot. Dogs are just as much creatures of habit as we are. I’ve seen my own dogs rehearse the entire pattern: scratch, circle, and rest.

Why do dogs dig at their beds?

Digging, like scratching, is another pre-sleep habit that dog owners notice. This is another habit or behavior that cat owners are accustomed to, even if they’re just as clueless as to the rationale behind it. The feline equivalent of digging in bed is kneading. Just as dogs scratch and dig to establish a comfort zone, heedless of the effect it will have on your couch, bed, or carpet, cats knead at their resting spots, even if it means puncturing your leg in the process.

As much as the amateur horticulturists among us tut and cluck about it, a dog digging up the garden is understandable. After all, the earth is pliable, and a dog can dig until she’s satisfied. Surely, dogs can differentiate between the ground outside and your favorite comforter, your bed, or the floor of her own crate. The material makeup of the dog’s bed is of less consequence than the action.

Circling, scratching and digging are all common dog nesting behaviors. (Photography via Shutterstock)

Where sleep is concerned, digging into bed can be habitual and instinctive, or related to temperature. In nature, digging at beds serves as a method of extreme temperature control. Because dogs have limited sweat glands, when it is very hot outside, dogs may dig nests, exposing a greater surface area of their bodies to cool earth. In cold weather, curling up in a self-fashioned pit helps to concentrate available body heat.

Does your dog circle, scratch or dig on his bed or near his bed?

After doing the research for this essay, I realized why my own dog ditched her new blanket in favor of her ratty and well-worn nesting materials. It’s precisely because the old ones are ratty and well-worn. I’ve seen her circle over them and trample them underfoot countless times. I’ve seen her scratch at them with her claws and dig into them repeatedly.

Effectively, she’s marked these things enough to have established them as her bedding. My disappointment at my dog dragging the new, warm blanket is not her problem. It is a foreign element that intruded itself upon her comfort zone. Only after she’s rent that new one with her mouth, torn at it with her claws, and endowed it with her own peculiar smells will it be fit for use.

Read Next: Here’s Why Your Dog Always Wants to Sleep With You

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Have a Fearful Dog? These Training Tips Will Help

The post Have a Fearful Dog? These Training Tips Will Help by Amber Carlton 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.

My dog Mayzie was rescued by Second Chance Animal Rescue in Colorado. At the time, she was approximately two years old and had spent her entire life at the end of a rope in someone’s backyard. She had little food and water and only the frame of a drawer for shelter. To our knowledge, she had never lived in a house until she went to live with her foster mom. When we adopted her two months later, we knew her history and that she was a “sensitive” dog. But beyond that, we really had no idea what we were getting into. Truth be told, I’m not sure we could ever have been prepared for the enormous project we were undertaking. Mayzie was a truly fearful dog. She was quite literally afraid of everything.

A list of “Items That Terrified Mayzie” included: hardwood floors, stairs, the oven, the dishwasher, the BBQ grill, the umbrella on our patio set, the wind, ceiling fans, walks, getting in the car, getting out of the car … Well, you get the idea.

Today, though, with a lot of hard work, patience and cheese therapy, Mayzie is a happy, funny, confident dog. Sure, there are things that still scare her, but she now has the tools she needs to deal with most things that come her way.

But, oh, I remember how challenging those first few days, weeks and years were. And I realize now that while there are many resources out there on how to help a fearful dog, they generally don’t prepare the human for the unique challenges and rewards that come along with it.

So if you’re just starting your journey or have been at it for a while, here are some tips to help your fearful dog.

Parenting a scared dog is a challenging but rewarding experience. Photography ©Image Source | Photodisc via Getty Images.

1. A fearful dog’s journey isn’t a straight line — don’t expect it to be

Humans seem to be hardwired to want to get someplace by the shortest, most direct path. When it comes to working with a fearful dog, however, it’s best to accept that you’re going to be taking the scenic route. You should prepare for setbacks and breakdowns, and you may have to take an alternate route every once in awhile.

The fact is, setbacks are going to happen and they’re perfectly normal when it comes to a fearful dog. But that doesn’t mean you’ve failed. Even in the worst case scenario, you’re likely not going to go back to the place you started. If you stay the course, you’ll be gaining ground and moving forward toward your goal. So when detours happen, acknowledge them but don’t let yourself be discouraged by them.

2. Learn to enjoy the perspective

After adopting Mayzie, I became hypervigilant about everything around us. What were the potential triggers on our walks? What might cause her to fly into a panic in the house? Frankly, it was stressful because it seemed that Mayzie’s many boogeymen were always lurking just around the corner.

But then I slowly began to realize something: I was seeing things in a way I never had before. Maybe the flowers in one of my neighbor’s gardens had begun to bloom. Or maybe another put up a new fence. And, wow, I never noticed that beautiful weeping willow down the street before. Once I began looking at the world through Mayzie’s eyes, I not only helped her, I received the gift of appreciating the world around me in a whole new way.

3. Revel in small victories when it comes to scared dogs

One morning on our walk, Mayzie stopped dead in her tracks and backed up several steps, her body low to the ground. I immediately became extra alert. What threat had I missed? Then I saw it. After a hard rain the night before, a large dahlia bloom had dropped onto the sidewalk and into our path. Any other dog wouldn’t have even noticed. Not Mayzie. This was new and different, and in the past it might have sent her into a panic to get away. I stood still, studying her for clues on the best course of action.

Not sure how to tell when your dog is scared? These are some signs of a scared dog >>

As I watched, she slowly crept her front legs forward, her neck outstretched, while somehow keeping her back legs poised for flight. Closer and closer she inched until she was finally nose-to-bud with the flower. As soon as she sniffed it, all tension released from her body. “Duh, mom, it’s a flower! And you were so scared,” she seemed to say as she trotted happily away. To anyone else, it might have seemed inconsequential. But to me it was another example of how far this fearful dog had come. I smiled all the way home.

4. There will be tough days and you might want to give up

About two weeks after we adopted Mayzie, we had a really, really bad day. Everything that could go wrong, did. I was at my wit’s end and felt completely in over my head. As my husband and I climbed into bed, I broke into sobs and blurted out, “I don’t know if we can do this! Maybe we should give her back to the rescue.” I shocked even myself by saying that. I was raised to believe that an animal, like a child, is a lifetime commitment, but I was tired and frustrated and simply didn’t know what to do.

My husband looked me in the eye and said, “She’s ours now and we’re not giving up on her. You’ll feel better after you’ve slept.” And you know what? He was right. I woke with a better outlook and renewed determination to help my dog. That wasn’t our last bad day, by any means, but I was better prepared for them in the future.

5. Just remember — a fearful dog does get better

Five years ago, I never would have believed where Mayzie is today. Never. I couldn’t have conceived of a reality where she would love to go for walks or that I could flip on the ceiling fan without a second thought. Yet here we are. Some days/weeks/months, it felt like we were making no progress at all. But looking back on it, I realize that things were getting better even if it was hard to see at the time.

One of the best pieces of advice I got was to start a journal to keep track of progress. I started a blog. You might prefer a notebook. But whatever you do, write it down. It’s so helpful on the difficult days to read about how far you’ve come, how much progress you’ve made and how it really has gotten better.

6. Parenting a fearful dog is one of most rewarding things you’ll ever do

I can’t even begin to count all the hours and money I’ve invested in helping Mayzie become the dog she is today: happy, healthy and with a full, rich life. Is she “normal” (whatever that means)? Well, no, I guess not and probably never will be. She was too far behind the eight ball to ever catch up completely. But every minute and every dollar I’ve spent have been worth it. All the work we’ve done together has created a trust and a bond that is rare and unbreakable. It’s been an amazing, challenging, crazy roller-coaster of a ride, and I’d do it all over again in a heartbeat.

Your turn: Do you have a fearful dog? What has been your biggest challenge or reward? Tell us in the comments!

Thumbnail: Photography ©hidako | Thinkstock.

Originally published in 2014. 

Read Next: How to Help a Nervous Dog Overcome His Fears

The post Have a Fearful Dog? These Training Tips Will Help by Amber Carlton 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.

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Recipe: Puppy Puddin’ Parfait

The post Recipe: Puppy Puddin’ Parfait by Samantha Meyers 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.

The word “chia” might make you think of the word “pet,” but did you know that chia seeds don’t only grow adorable plant pets, but are also a great healthy choice for your real-life pup as well?

Packed with healthy omega-3s, chia seeds are a great choice for your dog’s skin, coat and overall well-being. In this recipe, we’ve paired the seeds with another healthy, immune-boosting ingredient: coconut milk. It’s so tasty and healthy you’ll want to share!

Related: 5 People Foods That Are Good For Dogs

Ingredients:

• Just under 1⁄2 cup chia seeds
• 1 can UNSWEETENED coconut milk —you can also use low-sodium chicken or beef broth, or even water.
• Dog-friendly fruit, such as raspberries

Directions:

1. Pour coconut milk in a bowl. It can firm up, so mix until it is smooth and liquidy.
2. Add chia seeds and stir.
3. Leave out for 20 to 30 minutes and stir occasionally.
4. Chia seeds should absorb liquid and turn into a thick pudding. Add seeds or liquid as needed to reach desired consistency.
5. Top with fruit and serve.
6. Keep pudding chilled — it can be kept for up to a week in the fridge.

As always, check with your vet before giving to your dogs! For human enjoyment, top with a little bit of honey for added sweetness.

Read Next: As the Temps Heat Up, Cool Your Pup Down With These Frozen Dog Treat Recipes

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Easy Ways to Deal With Matted Dog Hair

The post Easy Ways to Deal With Matted Dog Hair by Wendy Newell 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.

Matted dog hair is the worst! It’s ugly, dirty, sometimes painful, and once matted dog hair starts it can snowball out of control and become a health issue.

I used to babysit a brother-sister Blue Picardy Spaniel team. These regal dogs have luscious, wavy feathering on their legs, underside and tail. This breed is also a ball of energy! Add that glorious feathered coat after a long hike with running and romping through streams, and you have yourself some serious matted dog hair!

The kicker — the siblings’ folks were adamant that their fur could not be cut. I’d try to help by brushing them after our outdoor adventures, but I felt bad for the groomer when I’d drop them off and have to remind the staff, “No cutting!” Like magic, those two pups would come back with silky, mat-free feathers. How did those groomers deal with all that matted dog hair? Patience, the right tools, skill and help from vigilant dog parents.

Dog with crazy-messy hair blowing in the wind. Photography ©cynoclub | Getty Images.

What You Must Know About Dealing With Matted Dog Hair

Here are some grooming tips for dealing with matted dog hair:

1. First, train your dog to enjoy grooming so he’ll stand still long enough to get the mats out! Start brushing your pup when he is young, even if he doesn’t need it. Hand out praise and high-value treats so he can associate grooming with happy things.
2. Pay close attention to areas that mat easily: behind the ears and legs, in the armpits, on the undercarriage and where his collar or halter rubs.
3. Keep matted dog hair from forming. A detangler cream or spray helps prevent fur from getting clumped up and can be used before your pup jumps into a river or lake to make the post-swim brushout easier. Use only products specifically made for dogs.
4. If your pup’s coat has gotten severely matted or hasn’t been cared for in a while, take a trip to the veterinarian. An uncared-for coat and extremely matted dog hair can cause skin irritation or infection that needs to be treated by a medical professional.
5. To learn the best way to brush out your pup and kind of brush to use, talk to your groomer. Your groomer will be happy to share, as the better you are at daily grooming the easier her job is.
6. Don’t ignore the paws. Hair that grows in between the pads can get matted. Keep that hair short. If you need a touch-up between professional grooming, then buy some dog clippers. They’re easier than scissors on your dog’s sensitive paw pads.
7. Clippers are also useful to keep a pup’s rear end neat and clean. Between sitting and pooping, that area can get messy fast. A clean area around the anus is worth a little embarrassment between you and your dog.
8. A good diet helps him have a healthy coat that’s less likely to mean matted dog hair. Look for omega-3 or fish oil in your pup’s food and supplements. Of course, consult a vet to learn the best amount to be giving your dog.

How do pro groomers deal with matted dog hair? Photography by Laures/Thinkstock.

Professional Groomers on Dealing With Matted Dog Hair

1. Deana Mazurkiewicz IGMS, NCMG, IFMS President, Intellectual Groomers Association and Master Stylist at Pawsh By Deana in Zephyrhills, Florida. facebook.com/intgroome

1. Never bathe your dog if he has mats or tangled hair. Water acts as a sponge and only makes them tighter.
2. Use corn starch to help loosen matted dog hair. Rub some into the mat to help loosen, then brush out.
3. Don’t assume that conditioner will remove or loosen mats. They must be brushed and combed out thoroughly before the bath.
4. NEVER try to cut out matted dog hair. The mats may be tighter than you think or have the skin caught up in them, and you can easily cut your pet.

2. Windmere Kennels, St. Charles, Michigan; facebook.com/Windmerekennels

1. Brush! Dogs like Poodles and Goldendoodles that are considered non-shedding don’t shed the dead hair on their own, they need help by brushing a minimum of twice a week with a good slicker brush.
2. Regular visits to a professional groomer is a must to stave off matted dog hair! Every six to eight weeks is recommended.
3. Mats begin at the base and not at the top of the hair. While your dog might look to be mat free, get your fingers down into the nape of the hair to feel for any tangles and snarls. Catching a potential mat before it happens makes removing it much easier.
4. Do research on your breed’s specific needs for proper grooming. Depending on your breed, the coat or hair will require different practices to keep it healthy and vibrant.

3. Vanessa Hoyt, Groomer Girls Pet Salon, Lawrenceville Georgia. Facebook.com/groomergirlspetsalon

1. Always work on small sections, from the ends of the hair working your way up to the skin.
2. Always use a good conditioner. Dematting can cause major breakage even if done correctly.
3. Always use cooler warm water as a quick rinse as the last thing you do in the tub. This will help seal the hair shafts. Warmer water leaves them open, making the hair prone to breakage and damage. Broken and damaged hair tangles quicker.
4. Always use a finishing conditioning spray.

Top photograph: ©Tierfotoagentur | Alamy Stock Photo.

Originally published on March 27, 2018.

Read more about dog grooming on Dogster.com:

• Wondering How to Clean Your Dog’s Ears? A How-To (and How Often!) Guide
• How Often to Brush a Dog’s Teeth and Other Tips on Brushing Your Dog’s Teeth
• Wondering How Often to Bathe a Dog? It Depends on These Factors

The post Easy Ways to Deal With Matted Dog Hair by Wendy Newell 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.

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What Are Ancient Grains and Should Your Dog Be Eating Them?

The post What Are Ancient Grains and Should Your Dog Be Eating Them? by Beth Ann Clyde 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.

From CBD oil to turmeric, people have made a habit of applying their favorite health trends to dogs.

Add ancient grains like quinoa and emmer to the list. The grains, which have been less modified like mass-produced ones like corn and rice, have been called superfoods for humans. But there’s little evidence that they’re better than traditional dog food.

“It’s completely anecdotal,” says Dr. Angie Kraus from I and love and you. “We don’t even have enough research about how we formulate dog food now.”

Still, Dr. Kraus has seen some pups do well on it. She discussed why the trend has taken shape and what pet parents should know about ancient grains.

Why are Ancient Grains Trending?

Since the Food and Drug Administration issued a warning about grain-free food (another human-to-dog diet friend) last year, stating the diet might be giving dogs a potentially fatal heart problem called dilated cardiomyopathy, Dr. Kraus has noticed an uptick in clients asking about ancient grains.

“After that happened, people started to think about other ways we could incorporate carbohydrates in dog food,” she says.

Grain-free foods contain higher quantities of legumes, like peas and lentils.

“When we started using all these legumes, there weren’t really enough trials to show that having this amount of carbohydrate made from legumes was healthy, and that is why we are seeing the pendulum swing the other way where maybe grains aren’t so bad.”

What Dogs Should Try Ancient Grains?

Unlike with cats, which are genetically close to one another, there’s no one-size-fits-all diet for dogs. Dr. Kraus says her pup patients who have had digestive issues and trouble keeping weight on have benefited from an ancient grains diet.

“I think people get these really high-protein diets, and not all dogs can digest them … a lot of dogs also just struggle to digest legumes,” Dr. Kraus says. “It can happen to any breed of dog.”

Before making any changes to your dog’s diet though, speak with your vet.

What Should You Look For?

Dog parents should check for the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) label on any food they try. That means the food meets industry health standards. Other than that, she says it’s important to monitor your pet — if the dog isn’t gaining weight, doesn’t like the food or is having issues like diarrhea and vomiting, call a vet. But if the dog likes it, keep going.

“If you have an AAFCO-balanced food and the dog is doing well, that’s the most important thing,” Dr. Kraus says.

Top photograph: Fertnig/Getty Images

Read Next: The Ultimate Guide to Clean Eating for Dogs

The post What Are Ancient Grains and Should Your Dog Be Eating Them? by Beth Ann Clyde 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.

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Where Can I Get Free Puppies?

The post Where Can I Get Free Puppies? 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.

One of the 20th-century’s greatest literary voices — I can’t remember off the top of my head whether it was Flannery O’Connor or Stevie Nicks — once wrote that there’s nothing cheaper than free. This may be true in theory, but puppies are not theoretical. They are living, breathing creatures who will depend on you for everything, from food and shelter to love and exercise. If you’ve come here today asking, “Where can I get free puppies?” and are looking for definite answers about getting free puppies, you’re out of luck. You will get some vague ones, along with some useful alternatives, to be sure.

Are free puppies truly free? Photography ©LivingImages | E+ / Getty Images.

Free puppies — some facts upfront

Why would we deny you certainties when it comes to free puppies? The simple fact is that, while it is possible to locate and bring home free puppies that cost you nothing upfront — there are always costs associated with pet ownership. Whether the friend you seek is a cute puppy, lizard, fish, or dwarf hamster, any pet you adopt has needs and providing for them always incurs costs, both financial and otherwise. For puppy ownership, you can expect to lay out money on:

1. Vaccinations
2. Spay or neuter operations
3. Food
4. Bedding
5. Toys and other accessories
6. License/registration

There are other costs, some of which are not strictly financial in nature, tied to adopting a new puppy. These include investing the time, effort, and patience required for:

1. Training
2. Housetraining
3. Regular exercise
4. Grooming and bathing

The myth of free puppies

First, we should investigate what motivates people to go in search of free puppies. Is it the initial investment that drives people to inquire about free puppies or cheap puppies or low-cost puppy adoptions? Is it the assumption that getting a dog involves a major one-time price tag that can potentially run into hundreds, even thousands of dollars?

The popular or highly visible dog breeds that we see participating in televised dog shows, commercials, television, or movies drive these notions. This is reinforced by the strange notion that purebred dogs are somehow superior to mixed breeds, mutts, dogs with previous owners, shelter or rescue dogs, or the idea that adopting a puppy is a better or more authentic experience than an adult or senior dog. None of these assumptions are quantifiably or objectively true.

The real financial costs of free puppies

Even if you do acquire free puppies, raising live creatures involves substantive investments. Caring and feeding any dog requires money. There are also significant costs in terms of your time, energy, and patience. From a strictly financial perspective, an article by the American Kennel Club details the efforts of two veterinary students from the University of Pennsylvania, Kelly Giffear and Brittany Scott, to determine the real costs of dog ownership.

This study differentiates between costs of owning a dog based on size and lifespan, ranging from small dogs right through to giant breeds. Expense were further broken down by dogs’ most basic needs, from food and essential veterinary services to bedding and toys. They determined that the average cost of dog ownership in the first year alone comes out to $3,085. This amount, it goes without saying, puts the lie to the very notion of a free puppy.

Related: How to Stop Toy Guarding in Puppies

On average, Giffear and Scott estimated that the lifetime expenses associated with raising a dog come out to $23,410. Other sites have attempted to calculate the cost of dog ownership, such as this one from 2011, which has a much higher total, factoring in dog health insurance costs. As far as my own research can find, Giffear and Scott’s findings are the most current systematic and rational attempts to truly price out the real costs of dog ownership, both in the first year and over the life of the dog.

Yes, you can technically get free puppies

Technically, of course, if you are not insistent on a particular breed or mix, you can find free dogs of all ages and sizes. “Where can I get free puppies?” you ask?

Keep an eye out for adoption-fee free events at your local shelters. This is the most responsible way to go about getting free puppies.

You can also ask your friends, coworkers and general acquaintances to keep their ears to the ground for you. Someone’s dog is bound to have puppies eventually, and those puppies will need new homes once they are weaned, around the age of 8 to 12 weeks.

You might also thumb through a daily or weekly newspaper published in your area. Whether that’s a paper with a wide regional circulation, or a local alt-weekly, these publications typically contain at least one page of classifieds. Among them, you’re very likely to find a section dedicated to, or featuring, dogs in need of adoption. Some ads are literally labeled, “Puppies free to good home.”

Craigslist is another potential venue to locate free, cheap or low-cost puppies. However, you need to be especially careful when researching free puppies on the internet, on something like Craigslist.  If you choose this route, read the listing in full and ask as many relevant questions as possible. Why are they giving the dog away? Is he vaccinated, spayed or neutered?

Valuable alternatives to free puppies

Are you a first-time or prospective dog owner? There are options and alternatives to free puppies that can acclimate you or your children to the experience of living with a dog without incurring the obligations associated with adopting a baby puppy. For example:

• Fostering a dog: You can work with a local shelter or rescue and take a puppy or dog into your home on a limited basis. This can give you a taste of dog or puppy ownership without the lifetime commitment.
• Visit or volunteer at a dog shelter or rescue: There are many nonprofit, no-kill shelters nationwide that are always looking for dependable and devoted volunteers. The fact that there are rescue organizations dedicated to specific breeds means that you can get exposure to the minutiae of a dog breed without leaping headlong into ownership.

Engaging in time-limited activities with reputable organizations like these in your area can prepare you for the responsibility and investment involved in the long-haul of puppy or dog ownership.

And, bottom line, there are truly no free puppies!

Top photograph: ©Photology1971 | Getty Images.

Originally published in 2015. 

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