Are Plant-Based Diets Good for Dogs?

The post Are Plant-Based Diets Good for Dogs? by Beth Ann Mayer 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.

Plant-based diets are trending in the U.S. The U.S. News and World Report ranked the Mediterranean diet (a nutrition plan that involves eating a ton of plant-based foods) the best overall diet in 2020. And a 2018 Nielsen report revealed that nearly 40 percent of Americans are eating more plant-based food.

When people start gravitating towards certain foods, they often start asking their veterinarians if they should be switching their pets’ diets, too. Plant-based diets are no exception.

“‘Should I buy plant-based food for my dog?’ is a question I get regularly,” says Dr. Stacy Choczynski Johnson, DVM, a vet expert at Pumpkin Pet Insurance. “A lot of human counterparts to our pets are choosing vegetarian diets, and so they are choosing the same for their pets.”

Some also feel that plant-based means “higher quality.” Ryan Bethencourt, CEO of Wild Earth, co-founded the plant-based dog food brand in 2017 after seeing dog food recalls.

“I was like, ‘Why is the food system for our pets so unsafe?’” Bethencourt recalls. “I thought, ‘What if we replaced the meat in dog food with plant-based protein?’ That set me off on a path to try to find high protein but still have plant-based food.”

Wild Earth uses yeast, which is 40 percent protein, to ensure dogs get protein in their diet. Bethencourt also believes in his product so much he ate some of it in 2019.

It tastes good — but are plant-based diets healthy for pups? Dr. Choczynski gave her take on the pros and cons of plant-based dog food.

Are plant-based dog foods good for dogs?

Some vegetarians and vegans choose the diets for ethical reasons, and they want their dogs to follow suit.

“They want to make sure that they feel morally appropriate about what they are feeding their dogs,” Dr.Choczynski says.

Dogs, like people, also go on plant-based diets for health reasons, including liver failure.

“Our livers are responsible for filtering out toxins,” explains Dr. Choczynski. “One of the things it’s responsible for filtering is ammonia.”

But if the liver breaks down, it can’t filter the ammonia. As a dog’s body breaks down meat-based proteins, it produces ammonia.

“Ammonia will float through the bloodstream…and can cause hepatic encephalopathy, which can cause seizures,” Dr. Choczynski says. “We will switch over to a soy-based diet…with the goal of lowering their blood ammonia.”

Anecdotally, dogs on plant-based diets may experience better joint health, more energy, and fewer skin and coat issues, according to a survey of Wild Earth customers.

What are drawbacks of feeding dogs plant-based food?

Dogs are omnivores, meaning they typically eat meat and vegetables. Though Dr. Choczynski says it’s possible to replace meat protein with a plant-based one, not all dogs’ bodies will take to it. She says some dogs on plant-based diets have experienced urinary crystals.

Dogs on plant-based diets may also become taurine deficient, as the amino acid is usually found in animal protein. Dr. Choczynski warns taurine deficient dogs may have heart disease or failure.

Signs your dog isn’t taking to a plant-based diet include constipation, poor coat, poor vision and weight loss. Dr. Choczynski suggests consulting with your vet before giving your dog plant-based food and if any issues arise.

What to look for when choosing dog food

You want to ensure your dog’s food, whether it’s plant-based or not, is well-balanced with all the nutrients they need to live their best lives. Dr. Choczynski advises pet parents to look for the American Feed Control Officer (AAFCO) label, which means it meets regulators’ standards as a healthy dog food.

Featured Image: Getty Images

Read Next: How to Read Dog Food Labels

 

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Why Do Dogs Howl?

The post Why Do Dogs Howl? 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.

No matter where you live, you almost certainly have had the experience of being out on the stoop or porch late at night and hearing the unmistakable sound of dogs howling in the distance. So, why do dogs howl?

Researchers believe that dog howling is bound up in dog genetics. The ancient dog breeds are recognized for how closely their DNA matches that of the wolves from which they descended. When answering the question, “Why do dogs howl,” we have to examine the following questions, too — Is dog howling an atavistic expression of a shared wild ancestry? A lingering vestige of wolf times and pack activity? Communication seems to be at the heart of things, so let’s seek to answer the query, “Why do dogs howl” — and find out what they might be saying.

1. Dog howling is a community organizing and homing beacon

In the wild, wolves and feral dogs howl to bring scouts back to the pack after a hunt. Dogs who remain behind howl to provide the location of their base. Dog howling acts as a vocal homing beacon or a kind of auditory lighthouse that guides other pack members back.

Pet dog howling can be a similar expression, particularly if you’ve been out of the house all day. Dogs howl to beckon their loved ones back home.

2. Dog howling is boundary demarcation and defense mechanism

Howling signals to other dogs that the area they are entering has been claimed and occupied. It is a warning to outsiders that encroachment risks the threat of violence. Howling dogs announce their presence and alert their community to changing circumstances. In this context, dog howling functions as a defense mechanism, warding off potential predators and ensuring the safety of the dogs in the pack.

In a domestic setting, some dogs bark, others howl when a stranger comes to the door or a new car pulls up in the driveway.

3. Dogs howl to attract attention or express anxiety

A howling dog may simply want attention. Some dog owners know that dogs can be as emotionally manipulative as any human. The sound of a dog howling attracts the attention of his owner. Maybe you dash across the house to see what’s wrong, only to find yourself greeted by a dog who wants to be played with. Go through this routine enough times and the dog will learn that howling is an effective way to bring you running.

Of course, there are two sides to this coin. If your dog knows that you leave for extended periods of time, he may howl as an expression of separation anxiety. Dogs that don’t have toys or sufficient things to entertain them in your absence get sad, lonely and depressed. So, the sad answer to, “Why do dogs howl?” could be that your dog is howling in protest of being left alone. Imagine if someone put you in a crate all day or left you in some other space for an extended period of time. You’d howl, too!

4. Dogs howl in response to stimuli and bonding exercises

Dog howling can be a response to environmental triggers. Common provocations include ambulance, police or fire-engine sirens. The sound of these noises were the only times that my dog ever howled. The distant sound of approaching sirens always prompted her to sit up and join in the wailing. The reason remains uncertain, since she never howled at the sound of other dogs howling. Perhaps the pitch of sirens awoke some otherwise-dormant genetic memory.

Much of our research confirms that dog howling occurs when certain sounds are perceived. The prompts and triggers can be anything: music on a stereo at a party, popular television theme songs, or the sound of musical instruments. People who enjoy dogs howling even seem to encourage their dogs by howling themselves! It would seem that one reason dogs howl is the experience of community or of bonding. Why do dogs howl at sirens? Why do dogs howl when you howl? Perhaps it’s to join in and be a part of the action.

5. Dogs howl to alert you to injury or discovery

Another answer to, “Why do dogs howl?” could be that dogs howl to express injury. People weep when they get hurt; dogs howl in similar situations. Dogs howl to vocalize pain. Some dogs are also trained to howl when they make discoveries. Hunting dog breeds howl to signal the pursuit or apprehension of prey. If a dog has treed, cornered or caught something, he may howl to alert his owners to the location of the prize.

Does your dog like to howl, or “sing”?

Some dog breeds certainly tend to howl more than others. Breeds known for howling include Alaskan Malamutes, American Eskimo Dogs, Beagles, Coonhounds (Black and Tan, Bluetick, Redtick, English, Redbone and Treeing Walker), Dachshunds, Foxhounds (American and English), Hounds (Bloodhound, Basset), Huskies (Alaskan and Siberian), Native American Indian Dogs and Tamaskan Dogs, among others.

Some final thoughts on the question, “Why do dogs howl?”

One thing to consider is that dog howling, like any other form of vocal expression, has no fixed meaning. The answer to, “Why do dogs howl?” is a shifting signifier whose interpretation is situation-dependent. I enjoy going to karaoke; is it so difficult to imagine that a dog might not howl out of necessity, but out of joy?

Tell us: Is your dog a howler? When and how do your dogs get the urge to sing? Why do you think your dogs howl? Share your experiences with dog howling in the comments! Let us know the breed or mix, if you can.

Thumbnail: Photography ©srugina | Thinkstock. 

This piece was originally published in 2015.

Learn more about dog howling and barking with Dogster.com:

• Dogs That Don’t Bark: 5 Quiet Dog Breeds
• Why Do Dogs Bark? Reasons Dogs Bark and How to Stop Excessive Dog Barking
• Barking Dogs: 6 Dogs Who Were Bred to Bark
• Is Your Dog Barking and Annoying Your Neighbors? Here’s What to Do

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Dognapping: How to Protect Your Dog and Get Him Back If He’s Stolen

The post Dognapping: How to Protect Your Dog and Get Him Back If He’s Stolen by Sassafras Lowrey 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 a dog parent, one of my worst nightmares is dognapping. As a result, I’m pretty obsessive about the safety of my own dogs, and I always worry about dog theft when I see dogs tied to bike racks and lampposts outside of coffee shops, grocery stores and other spots around New York City.

So, what is dognapping? Why does it happen and are certain breeds or types of dogs targeted? How do you prevent it in the first place? What do you do if it happens to you?

Dognapping — the stats

Dognappings have increased 31% in recent years. Photography by Pedro Vidal / Shutterstock.

An estimated two million pets are stolen every year in the United States. The American Kennel Club, which tracks instances of dog theft from their National Pet Theft Database, found a 31% increase in dognappings in recent years, with newly stolen dogs reported daily from communities across the country.

Why do dognappings happen?

Dognappings happen for many reasons and dogs may change hands multiple times after being stolen, which makes them even harder to locate. Thieves often steal dogs hoping to make money off of them. This might be someone looking to collect a reward, or something even more sinister.

Intact dogs (canines that aren’t spayed or neutered) may be sold to puppy mills or backyard breeders, small dogs or dogs of popular, expensive breeds might be taken and resold, or dogs may be sold to dog fighting rings either as fighters or bait dogs.

According to Pet FBI, some of the top small dogs targeted for cash include purebred Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians, Maltese and Chihuahuas, while Pit Bulls, Boston Terriers, German Shepherd Dogs and Boxers fall victim to theft for dogfighting rings. In NYC, there has been a rise of dognappings of small dogs in return for cash.

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How do you keep your dog safe from dognappers?

1. Never leave your dog unattended in public places or in your yard

Unattended dogs are easy targets for dognappers. If you are running errands that aren’t dog friendly, leave your dog at home.

2. Be proactive about dognapping

Hopefully your dog never goes missing, but you’ll need to prove he belongs to you if he does. Microchip your dog, and ensure that your contact information is up to date with your microchip company. Thieves could remove a collar and tags, but microchips are permanent forms of identification for your dog. Some dog guardians even use the advanced technology of Dog DNA tests to prove the identity of their dogs.

3. Hire professionals when it comes to pet-care providers 

In recent years, there have been several high-profile cases of dogs going missing while in the care of dog sitters — and never being seen again. Only hire responsible, insured and trusted pet-care providers and always check references before hiring a walker, daycare or sitter.

4. Use caution with overly curious strangers   

Be very guarded with your dog’s information. Sometimes, dognappers will try to determine how much a dog is worth, and if they’re spayed or neutered before taking them. Deflect detailed questions from strangers — particularly about how much your dog cost.

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What to do if someone steals your dog:

1. Get help

Immediately call the police and your local animal control department. File a police report.

2. Talk to everyone

Try to find any witnesses who might have seen the dognapping occur. This will help you and the police get information about who has or had your dog. Distribute current, clear photos of your dog right away.

3. Research and use every available resource

Search out local lost and found groups online and on Facebook.

Other helpful sites include:

• akcreunite.org
• aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/aspca-mobile-app
• homeagain.com
• petfbi.org

4. Contact the media

Social media sites like Facebook are instrumental in spreading the word about lost or stolen dogs. Don’t forget to contact your local media — newspapers, TV and radio — to try to increase coverage of your dog’s disappearance.

5. Protect yourself, too

People whose dogs are missing are vulnerable to being taken advantage of even further. I can’t even imagine how desperate I would be if something happened to one of my dogs — I would want to do everything and anything in my power to get them back.

The Better Business Bureau warns pet owners to watch out for scam artists who demand reward money before they return the missing dog.

For example, someone calling to say they are a long-haul truck driver who found your dog out of state and requesting money to get your dog back to your state, or someone saying they need money for airline tickets and a crate to ship your lost dog back.

Thumbnail: Photography ©gaikphotos | Thinkstock.

Read more about dog safety on Dogster.com:

• 7 Storm Preparedness Tips for Dog Owners
• 6 Household Cleaning Products That Are Not Safe for Dogs
• When Should You Call an Emergency Vet and How Do You Find One?

Sassafras Lowrey is an award-winning author. Her novels have been honored by organizations ranging from the Lambda Literary Foundation to the American Library Association. Sassafras is a Certified Trick Dog Trainer, and assists with dog agility classes. Sassafras lives and writes in Brooklyn with her partner, a senior Chihuahua mix, a rescued Shepherd mix and a Newfoundland puppy, along with two bossy cats and a semi-feral kitten. Learn more at sassafraslowrey.com.

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How to Keep the Peace Between Your Toddler and Dog

The post How to Keep the Peace Between Your Toddler and Dog by Beth Ann Mayer 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.

Before your baby was born, you played newborn crying videos on YouTube so your dog could get used to the sound. You had someone drop off the receiving blanket before you came home from the hospital. And when the time came to introduce the two, you remained calm and collected. It went swimmingly, and the dog quickly accepted your tiny human.

Related: How to Prepare Your Dog for the New Baby: Tips From a Trainer

Then your tiny human morphed into a toddler, started crawling and walking and pulling on the dog’s fur. Suddenly, what seemed to be a budding friendship has turned into something of a circus.

Parents often focus so much on the first time a dog meets his human sibling but get blindsided by how the relationship changes as the baby gets more mobile.

“The dogs and toddlers need to learn what the other likes, how they want to be treated so they can not only tolerate each other but really like each other,” says Marina Selinger, a certified trainer for Tractive.

Marina shares ways to keep the peace between toddlers and dogs.

Dogs and toddlers can be best friends. Photo: LightFieldStudios/Getty Images

Problem: Noisy Toddlers

Your pup has likely gotten used to the sound of a baby crying, but toddlers start to make new noises as they find their voices. These sounds can include high-pitch screeches and squeaks the dog may find upsetting.

Solution: Positive Reinforcement. Have the dog associate the loud noise with something good. “If there is a loud noise, the dog gets a treat,” suggests Marina.

Problem: Your Kid Grabs at the Dog’s Fur

Your dog may have naturally taken to your newborn, but babies need to learn how to interact with dogs. They often start by pulling on their tails and fur — they’re not trying to hurt the dog, but they don’t know any better.

Solution: “With toddlers, it’s best to show to tell,” Marina says. Place your hand on top of the child’s and show them how to pet the dog gently. If you notice your kid grabbing the dog’s face or pulling his fur or tail, try redirecting them to something else or telling them, “No. That will hurt.”

Parents often focus so much on the first time a dog meets his human sibling but get blindsided by how the relationship changes as the baby gets more mobile. Here are tips for keeping the peace between dogs and toddlers. Photo: warrengoldswain/Getty Images

Problem: Your Dog Thinks the Kids’s Toys are Their Toys

Dog toys and child toys are similar — they’re often stuffed or textured and make noises. But you don’t want the dog chewing up the lovey your kid relies on for comfort.

Solution: Train your dog to only go after toys at your command. Marina tells her dogs to “get it” if she is OK with them picking up a toy. “Leave it” also works if a child drops a toy, and the dog is going after it (this also works if the toddler drops food on the floor). Marina says it’s best to try to teach these commands before the baby is even born. “Some of these things take a long time,” she says. But if you didn’t, don’t be so hard on yourself — you had a ton of things to do to get ready for baby. Consistently work with your dog on the command, and consider hiring a trainer to help.

Problem: The Toddler or Dog Needs Space

Your dog and toddler love going everywhere together — almost. A dog may be sensitive about having anyone invade their “space,” such as a crate or bed. And as cute as it is to see your pup and baby snuggled up and napping together, it’s not particularly safe for either if the dog climbs into the crib.

Solution: Help the two learn that they each have a safe space. “Teach the baby to leave the dog alone if he’s in his bed,” Marina says. If the toddler is high-tailing it towards the pup’s bed, try redirecting with a toy. Or, explain, “The dog shouldn’t go in your bed because it’s yours. We’re going to stay away from the dog’s bed because it’s his special space.” You can also redirect the dog with treats. “Give a dog a treat to go somewhere else than the baby’s room if he’s headed there,” Marina suggests. “That way, he knows you like it better when he [goes to this room] instead of [baby’s].”Or, block the spaces with a baby gate to prevent either from entering.

Remember: Keep an Eye Out

Dogs and young children can be impulsive. As cute as they are and as much as they may love each other, sometimes, things get out of hand. It’s important there’s always an adult in the room to prevent (or quickly stop) and scuffles.

“You cannot trust both of them 100 percent,” Marina says.

Featured photo: Antonio_Diaz/Getty Images

Read Next: This Program Wants Kids To Read To Their Dogs

The post How to Keep the Peace Between Your Toddler and Dog by Beth Ann Mayer 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 Does My Dog Chase the Trash Truck?

The post Why Does My Dog Chase the Trash Truck? by Sassafras Lowrey 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.

Is your dog afraid of the trash truck? You aren’t alone! Many dogs have big feelings about the weekly trash truck. Even calm dogs can be frazzled by the size and loud banging and clanging of trash trucks coming down the street. Some dogs are afraid and want to get away from the truck, while other dogs try to lunge at the truck out of a (dog logic) attempt to keep it away from them. 

Why are dogs afraid of loud sounds? 

Dogs don’t care about the trash truck  because it’s there to collect trash or recycling; most dogs fear a trash truck because of the size and sound. Many dogs who have issues with the trash truck may have similar responses to other large vehicles like busses and construction equipment. However, dog guardians often notice their dog’s issues with large vehicles with the trash truck first because of its weekly schedule and proximity to the house. Also, trash trucks may seem more unpredictable or concerning to dogs because of the frequency they start and stop. As a result, these trucks spend more time near your home and near your dog as opposed to just quickly driving past. For dogs who are uncomfortable or fearful about the trash truck, the truck’s sights and sounds will generally elicit a fight or flight response, which may translate into various fear-based unwanted behaviors. These include barking, lunging, attempting to chase after the truck, trying to hide behind you, wanting to run away from the truck or towards the truck. 

Why are dogs afraid of loud sounds? Many dogs who have issues with the trash truck may have similar responses to other large vehicles like busses and construction equipment. Photo: Getty Images

Don’t punish your dog

It can feel scary, stressful or overwhelming to have a dog that is having a big reaction about something that to you seems very normal. Remember that although you understand what the trash truck is and why it’s on your street, it’s an upsetting situation for your dog.

You don’t ever want to punish your dog for how they are responding to the truck. If your dog is barking, lunging, or trying to escape the trash truck, they are having a very natural reaction. Even if your dog seems brave/bold and wanting to take on the trash truck, punishing your dog won’t do anything to change the underlying fear/discomfort and may only exacerbate the behavior. What your dog is telling you by his or her response to the truck is that it’s too close, and remaining calm is too hard. This is useful information for you as you work to support your dog with addressing their trash truck fears.

How to change your dog’s emotional response to loud, scary things like the trash truck

The key to helping your dog not react to the trash truck driving down your street every week involves counter conditioning or helping to shift your dog’s emotional response to the stimulus, in this case, the trash truck. Achieving this is a slow process that requires, first and foremost, meeting your dog where they are at, being realistic about comfort levels, and allowing there to be enough distance between your dog and the truck. 

The training goal will be to work at your dog’s pace to make positive associations with the truck. Start at a distance where your dog isn’t upset or reacting to the sights/sounds of the truck, even if that means when you begin training, your dog needs to be multiple blocks away. To start working on your dog’s trash truck fears/reactions, always strive to stay at a distance your dog is comfortable and continue to praise and treat your dog for the calm behavior, and anytime they look at the truck. When your dog is reacting, they are over the threshold and cannot learn/focus because they will be too overwhelmed, so it’s essential to stay at a distance where your dog is comfortable. We want this to be an enjoyable and upbeat experience for our dog. Very quickly, your dog will start to make the connection that looking at the truck at a safe distance makes yummy treats appear. As your dog gains confidence, you can begin to decrease the distance between your dog and the truck. 

Related: Treat Your Dog to … Different Types of Dog Treats

For example, when you start, maybe your dog needs to be three blocks away to handle the sight/sounds of the trash truck to be able to take treats calmly, and the next week your dog might be able to be comfortable being two and a half blocks away and still be able to look at the truck and eat treats. By not pushing your dog to get closer to the truck than they are comfortable with, you’ll support your dog by continuing to make positive associations with the truck and reinforcing that the presence of the truck means praise and yummy treats will appear. Continue this slow pace weekly until, eventually, you can walk your dog past the truck without incident. 

Remember, this is a prolonged process and may take months of consistent work. If at any point your dog gets scared/spooked by the truck and reacts, it just means they were a little bit over the threshold, and we need to slow down and increase the distance between our dog and the truck. For the rest of that training session, and in the next session, start at a further distance where you know your dog will be successful and comfortable with being able to see the truck and then look to you for treats! The convenient thing about trash trucks is they appear consistently on the same day and generally at the same time so you can plan your walks and training sessions to help. 

Featured Image: primeimages/Getty Images

Read Next: Why Do Dogs Groan When They Lie Down?

The post Why Does My Dog Chase the Trash Truck? by Sassafras Lowrey 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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Get to Know the Olde English Bulldogge

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Proud parent of an Olde English Bulldogge who’s looking to learn more or thinking about getting an Olde English Bulldogge? Learn the facts about this dog breed here:

Quick Facts About the Olde English Bulldogge

An Olde English Bulldogge.

• Weight: 65 – 130 pounds | male
  60 – 120 pounds | female
• Height: 19 – 25 inches | male
  18 – 24 inches | female

Olde English Bulldogges are sturdy, muscular and big-boned — yet, somewhat nimble and athletic. Their powerful, bulky heads have broad muzzles and furrowed brows. Their ears can be perky or hanging. They have thick, powerful necks and stocky legs — creating a somewhat “cobby” body. Old English Bulldogges have short, coarse coats that can come in white with patches of red, gray and brindle; or solid colors of fawn, red, black or black & white.

Traits

• Loyal
• Athletic
• Docile
• Protective
• Bold

Who Gets Along With Olde English Bulldogges?

• Families
• Active, sporty types
• Experienced dog handlers

What They Are Like to Live With?

Olde English Bulldogges may look “ready-to-rumble,” but in reality they are sweet and gentle dogs with eager-to-please attitudes. They are very responsive to commands and exceedingly loyal to their families. Olde English Bulldogges will bend over backwards to please.

Tough and athletic, Olde English Bulldogges have an impressive strength and stamina. However, they may prefer long walks instead of cross-country runs. Always game for playtime in the backyard or chew-toy games on the carpet, Olde English Bulldogges are friendly and outgoing — even with strangers. But these dogs will raise a ruckus if they sense a true threat.

Things You Should Know

Olde English Bulldogges can live as long as 12 years. One of the healthier Bulldog breeds, some may still be prone to hip dysplasia and other common health problems. Also, Olde English Bulldogges are prone to bloat. Feed them smaller meals throughout the day to prevent this from occurring.

Olde English Bulldogge History

During the last few centuries, the Bulldog has gone through many transformations, becoming heavier and less athletic. In 1971, Pennsylvania native David Leavitt set out to create an English Bulldog in the traditional sense — less intense, more nimble and healthier. Crossing the Bulldog, American Pit Bull Terrier, Bullmastiff and the American Bulldog, Mr. Leavitt managed to create today’s Olde English Bulldogge.

Featured Image: mhong84/Getty Images

Read Next: American Bulldog

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How to Make Your Dog’s Vet Visit Less Scary

The post How to Make Your Dog’s Vet Visit Less Scary by Sassafras Lowrey 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.

Even though I’m a dog trainer, my dog, like many dogs, doesn’t especially like going to the vet. When she was a puppy, I worked hard to make the vet a fun place for her, but she’s sensitive, and after she had knee surgery, we had to work hard to get her back to feeling confident and comfortable at the vet. Then the pandemic hit. Our vet clinics, like most across the country, have transitioned to curbside drop-offs. This makes utilizing our usual fear-free protocols almost impossible. Luckily, there are things we can do to make our dog’s vet visits less scary. 

Plan ahead when taking your dog to the vet

Whenever possible, plan ahead, keep your dog updated on vaccines and wellness visits. This will help you stay ahead of any potential issues. Having a regular vet clinic that knows you and knows your dog also makes it much more likely that they’ll be able to squeeze you in for an appointment in the case of an emergency. 

Help make your dog’s vet visit less scary through positive associations

Whenever possible (and this used to be possible but has become less probable depending on the level of lockdown your community is experiencing), make casual trips to the vet clinic when you don’t have an appointment. Most vet clinics are very amenable to these informal hello visits and welcome people to come and train their dogs at the clinics. While at the office, give your dog a treat, allow the receptionists or techs to give your dog treats, and go. Making the vet clinic fun and a regular place to visit reduces the stress associated with being in the clinic.

Use technology to your advantage

Practice skills that your dog will need in the vet clinic at home, like rewarding your dog for calmly standing for exams and make sure you talk directly to your vet clinic about the training you are doing and how the clinic can be supportive.

Laura Monaco Torelli, who recently hosted the workshop “Husbandry at Home for Real-World Applications,” suggests dog guardians send videos of their training sessions to your vet in advance. This way, they know how you are working with your dog to prepare for visits. The vet clinic staff using the same cues and techniques will help your dog feel more confident and comfortable during the visit. Using technology to your advantage can help your dog get better and faster vet care. 

Also, most clinics will be happy for you to email videos in advance of your visit if there are concerns or symptoms that you are struggling to describe or something that your vet should see but would be hard to replicate at a clinic. 

Advocate for your dog

You are your dog’s best advocate to make sure their physical and emotional needs are met and that they are safe and comfortable, and that includes when going to the vet. Although your vet might be an expert on your dog’s health, you are the expert on your dog’s emotional well-being. Instead of just handing off your dog to the technician at the curb, you can take charge of the appointment and explain to the vet technician exactly how your dog needs to be handled/treated during the visit. Are there things that make your dog nervous or uncomfortable? Things that help your dog to feel more relaxed? It’s always appropriate to communicate any of those things to your vet and staff of the clinic. 

Have an info sheet for your dog

One of the most frustrating things (though understandable) about the pandemic is knowing that my dog must go into vet appointments alone and that she can’t express clearly to our vet what is going on, what hurts or how they are feeling. Something that I have found especially useful with vet visits during the pandemic is to help my pets “talk” to the vet by handing the technician who comes outside to get my pet a personalized info sheet. 

At the top of the info sheet, I put a picture of my dog, my dog’s name, followed by basic information like age, the type of food we feed, and any supplements and medication, including monthly flea/tick and heartworm preventatives. 

The technician will likely ask you for this information, but having it “attached” to your dog as they are seen can help prevent errors or miscommunication. I also include any data I want to make sure they remember, like that my dog has had both of her knees surgically reconstructed and that she’s nervous about being at the clinic. 

 Avoid writing an essay; instead, use bullet points to highlight any concerns you have so your vet can see them immediately. This also gives you a chance to compose your thoughts ahead of time to make sure you don’t forget anything when you talk to the vet, especially since you won’t be in the exam room with your dog. 

Staying calm will make your dog’s vet visit less scary

Our dogs are incredibly responsive to us, often feeding off our emotions. If we are upset or concerned about having to pass our dog off to vet staff at the curb, our dogs may feed on that anxiety. Try to remain calm and confident. Not only will this help your dog to have a better vet experience, but it will also help the visits to be less stressful for both of you. 

Featured Image: MartinPrescott/Getty Images

Read Next: These Vets Make House Calls

The post How to Make Your Dog’s Vet Visit Less Scary by Sassafras Lowrey 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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Bad Dog Breath — 8 Home Remedies

The post Bad Dog Breath — 8 Home Remedies by dogedit 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 share my life with a pack of super-affectionate dogs who love bestowing kisses — and, not wanting to hurt anyone’s feelings by refusing a sloppy smooch, I’m motivated to keep their mouths healthy and halitosis-free. Over the years, I’ve picked up a few home remedies for bad dog breath that really work.

There are simple home remedies for that bad dog breath! Photography ©alexei_tm | Thinkstock.

1. Brush your dog’s teeth regularly.

Bad dog breath isn’t normal. In fact, bad dog breath is actually a sign of an unhealthy mouth. Left untreated, sick teeth and gums quickly lead to life-threatening health problems. So please, brush your dog’s teeth regularly— at least once a week.

If you have a dog with a small, pushed-in face or a brachycephalic dog, such as a Shih Tzu, you really need to be brushing those teeth every single day, because the conformation of their little mouths leaves them extra-vulnerable to decay. Ply your pets with treats to help them associate tooth torture with tasty treats, and use toothpaste made just for dogs. Pick a paste with a flavor you actually like — vanilla-flavored Triple-Pet toothpaste with tea tree oil is a great choice.

2. Dental chews help keep bad dog breath at bay — just know which ones to choose.

Dispensing a delicious dental chew lets your dog help you do some of the work to stave off bad dog breath. Not all dog dental chews are created equal, however: Look for one that contains breath-freshening chlorophyll, cinnamon and clove. (Don’t freak out when you notice your dog’s poop is a bit on the greenish side — that’s just the chlorophyll doing its green thing.)

3. Speaking of chlorophyll, wheatgrass is another good home remedy

I clip off some of the fresh wheatgrass I give my cats and add it to the dogs’ food. That raw source of chlorophyll is an excellent remedy for bad dog breath.

Your dog’s bad breath can also be solved with what you put in his water, too. Photography ©Chalabala | Thinkstock.

4. Dogs can also drink bad dog breath away.

Chewing isn’t the only way pets can polish up their own teeth. Dogs can also drink their way to fresh-smelling breath with Healthy Mouth Dental Water, an all-natural cocktail made of enzymes, chlorophyll and other ingredients designed to blast away bad dog breath. Simply replace your pup’s regular drinking water with Healthy Mouth-spiked wet stuff, and you’ll notice a difference within days, as the active ingredients work to kill bad bacteria in the mouth.

Yikes! Dealing with bad breath yourself? Check out these bad breath remedies >>

5. Probiotics are another line of defense against bad dog breath.

Speaking of bad bacteria, you’ll want to be sure that your dog’s mouth is populated with beneficial bacteria that way outnumber the harmful, halitosis-causing kind. That’s where probiotics come in. Use a probiotic made especially for dogs, and you’ll notice a big difference — not just in keeping that bad dog breath at bay, but in your dog’s overall well-being.

(Helpful hint: Probiotics are also great for keeping human breath smelling sweet — take them every single day and you’ll swiftly see results. Oragenics, maker of EvoraPet, is a great brand for both pets and people.)

6. Coconut oil can help with bad dog breath.

Ah, coconut oil. It doesn’t just boost digestive, immune system and metabolic functions — it also helps to combat bad dog breath. Put a lovin’ teaspoonful over your dog’s food every single day, and you’ll soon sniff sweeter breath— plus dogs love the taste; for them, coconut oil is a sweet treat. Some dog lovers even brush their pets’ teeth with coconut oil, making the chore an offer even ornery canines can’t refuse!

7. Neem is another good home remedy for bad dog breath.

Like coconut oil, neem (an extract of the neem tree) is one of those brilliant botanicals that have many positive effects on dog (and human) health. Besides being great for the skin and coat, neem is also excellent for promoting oral health in hounds and humans. My dogs take Supercritical Neem Leaf Extract by Organix-South; I add one little black capsule to their food twice weekly and take one every day myself.

8. Cinnamon is another common household item that will freshen up dog breath.

I add a sprinkle of breath-sweetening cinnamon to my dogs’ meals at every feeding.

Thumbnail: Photography © vadimguzhva | Thinkstock. 

This piece was originally published in 2015.

Read Next: When Do Dogs Stop Teething? What to Know About Puppy Teething and Dog Teeth

 

The post Bad Dog Breath — 8 Home Remedies by dogedit 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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Join the National Park Service’s Park — or Rather — B.A.R.K. Rangers

The post Join the National Park Service’s Park — or Rather — B.A.R.K. Rangers 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.

Chances are, as a child, teen or adult, you wondered what it would be like to be a Park Ranger at one of America’s National Parks: enjoying the great outdoors, preserving history and sharing your knowledge with visitors. But it just may be that your dog has been daydreaming of being a “bark ranger.”

Well, that canine dream might come true the next time you visit a National Park. The National Park Service (NPS) offers many opportunities for pets and their human companions to enjoy the scenery, trails and environments of our nation’s most beautiful and historic places with its more than 420 national parks. The “B.A.R.K. Ranger” program offered at many of the parks enables dogs to have some family fun without being overstimulated or unsafe.

National Park Service Ranger Daniel Willner hosts a Grand Canyon National Park B.A.R.K. Ranger hike. Photo: Dr. Stephenie Slahor

What is the B.A.R.K. Ranger program

“B.A.R.K.” is actually an acronym for the four principles involved in the NPS’s Healthy People, Healthy Parks initiative:

• B is for bagging your pet’s waste and disposing of it in a public garbage receptacle, never leaving it on a trail, pathway or in the woods or wild lands.
• A is for always keeping your pet on a leash no longer than 6 feet so that you have control of your pet.
• R stands for respecting the park’s wildlife.
• K is for knowing which areas of  the park are dog-friendly sites where your pet is welcome or where your pet can hike with you.

How does the B.A.R.K. Ranger program works?

Grand Canyon National Park is just one National Park where the free B.A.R.K. Ranger program is offered. Park Ranger Daniel Willner organizes a pets-and-humans walk along one of the canyon’s rim trails that is open to pets.

Not all of the parks have a B.A.R.K. Ranger program. “When creating a B.A.R.K. Ranger program, some considerations, among others, include the location, safety, logistics, permits (if necessary), the purpose of the program and the takeaways you would like the participant to experience,” he says.

Once a park sets up the program, it is time to get the word out to the guests at the lodges, the campers and the day-use visitors.

Ranger Willner explains, “There are many different ways to advertise a B.A.R.K. Ranger program; however, the platforms that I have found to be most successful have been posting fliers in the various contact stations and campgrounds, including the program in the Ranger Talks schedule (of lectures and presentations), as well as the park website.”

Check all of these platforms to see if the park you are visiting currently has the program.

Rangers pose with a Catoctin Mountain Park B.A.R.K. Ranger. This Western Maryland national park has 25 miles of hiking trails. Photo: NPS.gov

Join in the fun

To participate, all candidates for the honor of being a B.A.R.K. Ranger need to have two of the important characteristics of the human park rangers: being friendly and being sociable. The pet parents who would accompany the pets on the two-hour interpretive walk are asked to bring along water and snacks for themselves and their dog, waste bags, sunscreen and the B.A.R.K. Ranger booklet given to participants.

Once the pet parents and dog complete a B.A.R.K. Ranger program, the activity card or booklet can be taken to a park ranger to validate. The dog then earns the right to wear the coveted B.A.R.K. Ranger dog tag, bandana or both. Some National Parks provide them free of charge and others have a minimal cost.

Find a B.A.R.K. Ranger Program

Here’s a list of some of the current sites but, as in many things, it is subject to change depending on having staff to conduct the program, budget, time and other factors. Check with that park near your home or at your vacation destination to get the latest information about bringing your pet.

Start with nps.gov/subjects/pets/visit.html to see a map of parks. The ones marked in red prohibit pets, but the ones in green will have the “welcome” mat out. Just be sure your pet is on a leash and that the mat has no “deposits!” By the way, cats are also included as pets for the purposes of the map. B.A.R.K. Ranger programs:

• Yosemite National Park, California
• Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
• North Cascades National Park, Washington
• Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
• Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky
• Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
• Acadia National Park, Maine (considered one of
  the most dog-friendly)

Remember, too, that the National Park system has many other sites for history, culture, lakes, canals, islands, terrain, etc.

Here are some that offer special considerations for pets:

• The Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site, North Carolina
• Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, Florida Fort Matanzas, Florida
• Friendship Hill National Historic Site, Pennsylvania
• Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, Iowa
• Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan
• Montezuma Castle National Monument, Arizona

And, related to the love of canines is Denali National Park, Alaska, the only National Park with working sled dogs. The kennels are open to park visitors. Demonstrations and tours are more frequent in summer, but the kennels are open all year

Fur family fun

Says Ranger Willner, “I find that the most rewarding aspect of creating and delivering B.A.R.K. Ranger programs is seeing the visitors and their our-legged family members be able to respectfully enjoy the resource together. Pets have a significant effect on our natural spaces, as they are ‘visitors’ to these wild lands and, as visitors, there are house rules that they need to follow that, in the grand scheme, will benefit them as well as the park.”

With pets an important part of family activities, always review the safest ways to enjoy our National Parks when our canines are along for the fun. The B.A.R.K. Ranger program gives dogs and their humans a renewed knowledge of how to be good role models for responsible and safe visits at our National Parks. And, besides, it’s a fun activity!

Read Next: Hiking With Dogs: A Guide to Safely Taking a Hike With Your Dog

The post Join the National Park Service’s Park — or Rather — B.A.R.K. Rangers 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.

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Can Coconut Oil Help a Dog’s Itchy Skin?

The post Can Coconut Oil Help a Dog’s Itchy Skin? by Marybeth Bittel 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.

These days, most people have heard about the natural goodness of coconut oil. But up until a few years ago, I never realized I could use coconut oil for dogs, particularly that I could use coconut oil for a dog’s itchy skin. Sure, I knew plenty about the health advantages of products such as safflower and olive oils. But then coconut oil entered my life in a hugely helpful way, thanks to our rescue pup Maizy.

Coconut oil for a dog’s itchy skin? Here’s how it works. Photography ©R.Tsubin | Getty Images.

Using coconut oil for a dog’s itchy skin — one success story

Due to her hound heritage, Maizy is what I like to call a serial sniffer. She dissects the dog parks every spring, following the scents of squirrels, rabbits, other canines, and who knows what else. Often, she gets so enthralled with this activity that she barely responds to her own name.

One day, Maizy’s investigations led her straight into an overgrown thicket of weeds and wildflowers … and that led to an angry-looking rash along her ears and neck. The medication used to treat her skin left it overly dry, and I guess overly itchy as well. Because she scratched, and scratched, and scratched. After several sleep-deprived weeks of this prickly, pervasive problem — and after trying a series of medicated ointments and shampoos, to no avail — we finally visited a holistic vet.

Related: The Benefits of Cinnamon For Dogs

His suggestion for using coconut oil for a dog’s itchy skin surprised me. Treat this issue from the inside out, he said. That meant easing up on carbs and grains to minimize the yeast on Maizy’s skin. It also meant feeding her a serving of pure, virgin coconut oil every single day, and rubbing some onto her skin and fur. We tried this for a few weeks, and WOW. Not only did Maizy lose that yeasty, bag-o-Fritos “doggie” smell, her skin cleared up and her coat looked glossier than ever. Of course, the moment our other rescue pup, Grant, smelled the coconut oil, he wanted in on the action. So now they both reap coconut oil’s tasty benefits on a regular basis.

Why coconut oil for dogs? And why coconut oil for a dog’s itchy skin?

So, what are the benefits of coconut oil for dogs, and coconut oil for a dog’s itchy skin? According to integrative pet care expert Dr. Karen Becker, natural virgin coconut oil has antiviral, antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antiprotozoal properties. That means it can reduce yeast and fungus on contact, both inside and out; and it’s also very healing for irritated skin, hot spots, abrasions and cracked paws. The “virgin” variety typically starts with fresh coconut meat, so it’s not subjected to chemical processes such as bleaching or filtering. This makes it safe for dogs, cats, and humans to ingest in appropriate amounts.

My vet cited Dr. Becker’s work, explaining that coconut oil is rich in a medium-chain fatty acid (MCFA) called lauric acid. This substance is most commonly found in the milk of mother mammals, and one of its primary functions is to boost the immune system. That’s why coconut oil is so effective at helping to clear up bacterial and viral infections. Like pumpkin, it can also soothe digestion and upset stomachs. And just as the vet predicted, it’s given both my dogs super-soft fur.

Now that we know that coconut oil could work to help a dog’s itchy skin, how do we give it to our dogs? Photography by Africa Studio / Shutterstock.

How to use coconut oil for a dog’s itchy skin — and other ailments

It’s always smart to start small when feeding your pup anything new — especially coconut oil, which my own dogs would gobble up without proper supervision. At my house, we began with about 1/4 teaspoon and increased gradually to 1/2 teaspoon per dog, once or twice per day.

You can also:

1. Drizzle a bit over your pup’s food, because coconut oil liquefies easily at room temperature.
2. Mold a small blob around pills or tablets your pet might be otherwise tempted to refuse.
3. Rub a little between your palms, run it over your pet’s fur, and brush lightly. Work the rest into your own hands for serious skin-softening benefits.

Nutty Nuggets. Photography by Marybeth Bittel.

Nutty Nuggets* — a treat featuring coconut oil for dogs

And here’s an easy recipe for a no-bake treat that’s a huge hit with Grant and Maizy because, naturally, it contains … coconut oil. You can refrigerate these yummy bites or freeze them and thaw as needed. They’re even safe for pet parents to sample. Ummm … not like I would know anything about that.

INGREDIENTS

• 1/3 cup coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons crunchy peanut butter
• 3 tablespoons organic pumpkin or applesauce
• 2 to 2 3/4 cups oat, spelt, or quinoa flour
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon natural vanilla extract
• Dash of cinnamon
• Powdered peanut butter (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Place coconut oil, peanut butter, pumpkin/applesauce, honey, vanilla and cinnamon into a large bowl. Stir until well-combined.
2. Begin adding flour about 1/4 cup at a time, stirring well after each addition. Keep adding until dough mixture is well-combined and pliable. If the mixture becomes too stiff to work with, add a little more pumpkin or applesauce.
3. Spoon up the mixture in portions that are roughly the size of mini-meatballs. Shape these into a round or oblong pieces by rolling between your palms.
4. If desired, finish by rolling each piece in dry, powdered peanut butter to coat.
5. Arrange finished treats on a plate or pan lined with wax paper.
6. Refrigerate for at least one full hour before serving.

*A word of caution: Always check with your vet before feeding your pooch anything new. This is especially true if your dog already struggles with health issues such as kidney problems or pancreatitis. While natural and healthy, these Nutty Nuggets are high in fat and should be given as very occasional treats. They aren’t meant to replace your pet’s regular diet.

Plus, have you heard about using coconut oil for memory loss? Find out how coconut oil may help Alzheimer’s patients stay active longer >>

Thumbnail: Photography Placebo365/ Getty Images.

This piece was originally published in 2015. 

The post Can Coconut Oil Help a Dog’s Itchy Skin? by Marybeth Bittel 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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Dog Pooping Blood? Here’s What to Do Next

The post Dog Pooping Blood? Here’s 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.

Yikes! When you see something red in your dog’s stool, the first thing you think of is your dog pooping blood. But don’t panic. First, determine if the red you’re seeing is truly blood and read on for how to handle blood in dog stool.

Think your dog is pooping blood? First, determine is anything red that you’re seeing is, in fact, blood. Photography by By Monika Wisniewska / Shutterstock.

Notice something red in your dog’s stool? First, determine if your dog is pooping blood — or something else

Almost nothing is more alarming than seeing something red in your dog’s poop. Depending on what that red color actually is, red poop can be serious or nothing to worry about. So, if your dog’s poop looks red, is your dog pooping blood — or could it be something else?

“It can be caused by red coloring, like food coloring,” says Tracey Jensen, DVM, Dipl. ABVP, medical director at Wellington Veterinary Hospital in Wellington, Colorado. “It could be something that [your dog] ate that is simply innocently passing through. I once saw a dog that ate strawberry Chapstick, which came through.” If your dog eats red Crayons, they may also color the poop red. In general, food dyes that come from nontoxic sources will pass out in the stool and leave no lasting effects.

With a dog pooping blood, here’s what to know

A more troubling — but unfortunately, also more common — reason a dog’s poop might be colored red is blood. “Blood in the feces can be caused by infections, including various parasite infections or bacterial infections, inflammatory conditions and we do see colon cancer in dogs,” Dr. Jensen explains. “Sometimes, an anal gland condition can cause a coating of blood on the feces.”

What to do about your blood in stool

If you see red in your dog’s stool — and you didn’t recently notice your dog eating a pile of red Crayons — call your veterinarian to make an appointment to have him checked out. If possible, bring a fresh sample of your dog’s stool for the vet to test.

Even if your dog is acting fine, at least contact your vet to have a conversation about your dog pooping blood. “Red always warrants a call,” Dr. Jensen explains. “There are many causes of blood in the feces, some of which are very serious. Contacting your veterinary care team can help you work through some questions to help determine if it’s an emergency.”

Blood in dog stool — could it be HGE or parvo?

If it’s after hours and you see large amounts of bright-red, bloody diarrhea, especially if the diarrhea is accompanied by vomiting and/or lethargy (your dog is just lying around, clearly not feeling good), don’t wait until morning to contact a vet. Bright-red and bloody diarrhea may occur with an extremely serious condition called hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE). Without treatment, dogs experiencing HGE can become extremely sick and even die.

Additionally, young puppies with bloody diarrhea could potentially be suffering from canine parvovirus, a serious — sometimes fatal — viral disease. Seeing adult dogs with large volumes of bloody diarrhea, or puppies with bloody diarrhea, warrants a trip to an emergency clinic to be on the safe side.

The exact color / consistency can help determine the reasons behind a dog pooping blood

The appearance of the poop, as well as the color of the blood, are clues that will help your veterinarian determine where exactly the blood might be coming from, which can help diagnose the root cause of your dog pooping blood. “If the feces are normal in shape and consistency, with a red coating on the outside that’s determined to be blood, then we know that it’s coming from lower down in the intestinal tract,” Dr. Jensen says. “If it’s diarrhea or soft feces with the red mixed within, then it tells us the blood is probably coming from a little bit higher up the intestinal tract.”

Sometimes, blood in dog stool is not bright red but very dark, black and tarry looking. “When we see the black, tarry stools, that is digested blood,” Dr. Jensen explains. “When we see red blood that is coating the feces or mixed within it, that blood has not been digested, so we know it’s actually entering the intestinal tract closer to the point of exit. When we see black, that tells us it’s spent more time in the intestinal tract and is very likely is coming from areas close to or within the stomach.”

How do you treat a dog pooping blood?

Treatment for a dog pooping blood is highly dependent on the cause of the bleeding. Once your vet is able to narrow down where the blood is coming from, he or she will be able to run some tests to determine the cause and select an appropriate treatment.

The takeaway here? If you notice your dog pooping blood, don’t panic, but do have your dog examined by a veterinarian as quickly as possible. This is not something to wait out, since your dog might require quick and life-saving treatment.

Tell us: Has your dog ever pooped anything red before? Was your dog pooping blood or something else?

Thumbnail: Photography ©NUKUL2533 | iStock / Getty Images Plus.

This piece was originally published in 2018.

Read Next: Is Your Dog Eating Poop? How I Got Mine to Stop

The post Dog Pooping Blood? Here’s 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.

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Do Dogs Need Coats in the Winter? 7 Dog Coats Myths and Facts

The post Do Dogs Need Coats in the Winter? 7 Dog Coats Myths and Facts by dogedit 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’s chill is making its presence known in many areas, and as we dig to the back of our closets and coat racks for parkas and seasonal outerwear, we wonder — do dogs need coats in the winter, too? Canine couture is popular, so whether your dog roams in a sweater, hoodie or goes au naturel when mother nature bites at the thermometer, we’ve got the facts — and the fictions — on dog coats and sweaters.

Do dogs need coats or sweaters to ward off winter chills? Photography by Liliya Kulianionak/Shutterstock.

1. Fiction: All dogs need to wear dog coats to protect them from the cold.

Fact: The first thing that people might wonder when thinking, “Do dogs need coats?” is — “Do ALL dogs need coats?” Not all dogs need a coat or sweater to keep them warm when venturing outside, but shorter-haired breeds, senior dogs, puppies and dogs with medical conditions do benefit from the additional warmth. Seek pet apparel that adequately covers the neck and belly, and also allows for neck-to-tail protection. One of my favorite winter finds is the Quinzee from Ruffwear, which I chose based on the above features and the cuteness factor, too.

2. Fiction: All dogs can become accustomed to wearing a coat.

Fact: Some dogs are uncomfortable wearing apparel and should never be forced to do so. While many dogs benefit from the additional layering in colder temperatures, try letting your dog wear the coat in the house for minutes at a time. If he or she is not responsive — or does the famous “freeze in place” pose — scratch the idea and move on.

3. Fiction: Larger dogs do not need to wear winter coats or sweaters.

Fact: When thinking, “Do dogs need coats?” some might automatically rule out bigger breeds. Some dogs were bred with a thicker or a more dense coat, including the Idiatrod-savvy Siberian Husky. But other bigger breeds might benefit from a coat, so assess each individual dog. Greyhounds are more sensitive to the colder weather, for example, so this particular breed could use the extra layering.

4. Fiction: If it looks like a sweater and acts like a sweater, it will keep my dog warm.

Fact: This is so not true. I like to get waterproof dog clothes for my Dexter, a Cocker Spaniel, so his thicker hair can stay dry on our winter snow-covered-sidewalk jaunts. In addition, waterproof apparel keeps him dry from dew-coated bushes and grass at the park. Much like my own winter coat does for me, a polar-fleece lining gives dogs comfort while protecting against colder temperatures.

5. Fiction: A dog’s coat should be snug to keep him or her as warm as possible.

Fact: Another question that goes along with, “Do dogs need coats” — “How should dogs wear coats?” Remember the kid from A Christmas Story, whose mom bundled him up and then he could not move? Consider your dog’s mobility. Just as you need to move in a coat, so does your dog. Snug but not tight is a good rule.

Make sure there are no additional hanging zippers, snaps or parts that can rub or irritate a dog. Dexter will wear apparel as long as it doesn’t interfere with his “man parts.” Pay attention to where any Velcro straps or fasteners lay against a dog’s coat. Being able to try clothing on at the store helps a great deal.

6. Fiction: A dog’s pads are resilient and will protect him or her from nature’s elements.

Fact: Chemicals can be absorbed through a dog’s sensitive pads. In turn, those chemicals (such as what’s found in antifreeze) can be licked by dogs and cause severe problems. I use Musher’s Secret on my dog’s feet and have given this product as a stocking stuffer to dog-loving friends and family in the past.

Some people opt for dog booties, which is a smart idea in the winter months. Wash dog pads off thoroughly after a walk, perhaps using some warm water and a washcloth to melt any ice balls that may have formed on the bottom of their feet.

7. Fiction: Coats and hoodies must look heavy to adequately protect dogs.

Fact: Technology has evolved in the human-outerwear market, and the same holds true with our canine counterparts. Thin is the new thick in outerwear. Check labels and do research before making an investment. Heavier does not mean better; in fact, if a coat is too warm, dogs can overheat, so use caution.

Check out these 11 types of dog coats right here >>

How to measure your dog for a coat

Something else you might wonder when thinking, “Do dogs need coats?” is — “How do you measure your dog for a coat?” If you order a personalized jacket or sweater, keep in mind that many stores will not allow coats to be returned. So, measure your dog adequately before making any parka purchases.

Here’s how: With the dog standing up, run a tape measure from the base of the dog’s neck (where the collar would sit) and to the base of the tail. The majority of dog clothes use this measurement. Knowing your dog’s chest measurement will ensure a good fit, too.

Featured Image: miodrag ignjatovic/Getty Images. This post was originally published in 2012.

Read Next: Caring for Your Dog During Extreme Winter Weather

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