Dog Overweight? What Weight Management Dog Food Should You Choose?

The post Dog Overweight? What Weight Management Dog Food Should You Choose? by Dr. Ernie Ward 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.

If you’re looking for dog food for weight loss, selecting the right diet is essential to achieving a healthy body condition. If you’re thinking of simply feeding less, that may help, but there are more effective, and safer, choices for overweight dogs. The goal is to find tasty weight management dog foods (and treats) that will reduce calories while meeting your pet’s nutritional needs. By looking for a few key dog food elements and ingredients, and following science-based formulations and approaches, you can find the best weight management dog food for your best friend.

How to tell if your dog is overweight

According to my organization’s surveys, The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, approximately 56% of all US adult dogs are overweight or have obesity. That equals over 50 million dogs at risk for weight-related conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, kidney disease, skin issues and many forms of cancer. In addition, studies prove that dogs kept at a healthy body condition live up to 2.5 years longer than overweight dogs.

The danger of excess weight isn’t a number on a scale, it’s the harmful hormones and compounds produced by too much body fat (adipose tissue). That’s why it’s important to identify the signs of unhealthy weight and body condition score (BCS) at home.

The first step is to weigh your dog regularly. Identical to our own “battle of the bulge,” your dog’s body stores excess food energy as body fat. When an otherwise healthy adult dog gains weight, chances are most of that is fat. If you can safely pick up and weigh your dog once a month, you can get a good idea of how your dog’s weight is trending. Spotting body weight trends early is essential in avoiding excessive weight gain. Too often, I see pet parents completely unaware that their dog’s weight was creeping up. In addition, if you regularly weigh your dog, you’re more likely to spot inexplicable weight loss early, a common finding in dogs with cancer.

To gauge if your dog is within a healthy weight range, you can consult the breed weight charts on the petobesityprevention.org website or refer to American Kennel Club (AKC) and other breed standards. Don’t be alarmed if your healthy weight dog doesn’t fit neatly within these values. They’re only averages and may vary between organizations. Mixed breeds (including “Oodles and Oos”) can be tricky, so get your vet team involved to help.

Body Condition Score (BCS) for overweight dogs

Your vet will use a body condition score (BCS) and perhaps a muscle condition score (MCS) to determine if your pooch is at a healthy body composition. While the BCS is a subjective assessment of body fat percentage, it has proven to be a helpful tool for tracking progress over time.

At home, you can also perform a modified BCS by comparing your dog’s appearance to the charts and performing a few simple tests.

1. You should be able to easily feel – and count – your dog’s ribs when you lightly run your fingers across the side. If you can’t easily feel those smooth bones, that’s a sign your doggo is probably carrying extra weight.

2. When you look down on your pet from above, you should see an “hourglass figure” or an indentation near the midsection. If your pet looks like a blimp from above, he’s probably overweight or has obesity.

3. When you observe your dog from the side as he stands, you should see a slight tuck or upward slope of the tummy. If the abdomen hangs low and drags near the ground, that indicates the most dangerous and biologically active form of body fat, abdominal adiposity, is present. Time to get professional help.

Creating a weight loss program for your dog

When most dog owners think “weight loss for dogs,” they think “feed less and exercise more.” If only it were that simple.

The most important thing to do if your dog needs to lose weight is to make sure he’s healthy and a disease or drug isn’t to blame. Your vet will perform basic blood and urine tests and review any current conditions or medications. Hypothyroidism is common in many overweight dogs and needs to be controlled first. Arthritis, elevated blood glucose or diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney failure, and hormonal imbalances can be caused or exacerbated by excess body fat and require specific nutritional formulations to aid in weight loss. 

Why feeding your dog less food can be risky

The problem with “cutting calories” by simply feeding your dog less “regular food,” is you risk reducing essential nutrients, creating additional problems to a dog experiencing chronic inflammation due to excess body fat. Most vets can share stories of misguided dog owners who created serious metabolic imbalances in their dogs by feeding a quarter or half of “normal.” In addition, a dog’s metabolism adapts or “resets” in response to reduced calories, resulting in less weight loss than you’d expect.

What to look for in a dog food for weight loss

For overweight dogs, therapeutic weight loss diets remain the safest and most proven method to reduce excess body fat. Keep in mind that marketing terms such as “weight management,” “healthy weight,” “weight care” and “weight control” have no regulatory or legal meaning and are not weight loss diets.

Look for foods labeled:

• Light
• Lite
• Low calorie
• Less calories
• Reduced calories
• Lean fat
• Low fat
• Less fat
• Reduced Fat

These are approved and proven dog weight loss formulations.

In general, feed a food containing the fewest calories per cup or can your dog enjoys. Most therapeutic weight loss formulations will contain less than 260 calories per cup compared to maintenance diets that range from 325 to 500 calories per cup.

I typically start my dog weight loss patients on a higher protein and fiber weight loss diet. Protein and fiber have been proven to help with satiety and make your dog feel fuller, longer, resulting in less begging and pestering behaviors for food. If a dog doesn’t like the weight loss diet, don’t hesitate to ask your veterinarian for another recommendation. There are many well-researched therapeutic diets with a wide variety of nutritional formulations to choose from, so your dog can get healthy while still savoring their meals.

A good rule-of-thumb is to transition your dog to a new food over a seven to ten-day period by adding an additional 25% of the new diet every two to three days. If you’d like to compare nutrition levels between pet foods, my colleagues at Tufts University, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, have created an excellent Pet Food Calculator.

How much food should you feed overweight dogs for weight loss?

You’ll first need to have your dog examined by your veterinarian and an ideal weight calculated based on his current BCS. Based on your pet’s degree of excess weight, your veterinarian may choose a target weight higher than the ideal weight to start (Step Weight Loss). You can visit PetObesityPrevention.org for caloric recommendations or use this basic formula for weight loss in dogs:

Weight in pounds divided by 2.2 gives you weight in kilograms (kg)
Calculate your dog’s Resting Energy Requirements (RER) in calories (kcals) based on ideal or target weight:
30 x (ideal or target body weight in kilograms) + 70 = Daily RER calories

For weight loss in healthy adult, inactive, indoor, spayed or neutered dogs, feeding the RER calories for the step-weight loss target weight (or ideal weight in some cases) should be adequate. In cases that fail to respond to this number of calories, your veterinarian may further adjust the total.

How fast should my dog lose weight?

Whatever weight loss dog food you feed, it should help your dog reach his ideal weight safely and quickly. My general guidelines for weight loss in dogs are 3 to 5% body weight loss per month. For a 95-pound Labrador Retriever that needs to lose 20 pounds, that’s about 4 to 5 pounds per month for five to six months. Most of my canine weight loss patients will be on a weight loss program for three to 12 months.

If a dog isn’t achieving his weight loss goals every 30 to 90 days, you should either reduce calories 10% or try a different diet. I’ve seen too many dogs being fed the same food for months without losing adequate weight. Change the amount, formulation or brand at least every 90 days if your dog isn’t losing weight. Metabolic adaptation is real; changing the diet periodically may be required to keep your dog’s weight loss on track.   

How much should I exercise my dog for weight loss?

Exercise is important, but the majority of fat loss begins — and ends — at the food bowl and treat jar. In general terms, canine weight loss is about 70-percent diet and 30-percent activity. Aim for at least 20- to 30-minutes of walking or structured play daily.

What about dog treats for weight loss?

Take stock of the treats you’re giving. Many of these “calorie grenades” pack an awful lot of energy into an irresistible flavor bomb. For doggie weight loss, try switching to wholesome, low calorie veggies such as baby carrots, sliced cucumbers or zucchini, broccoli, celery or any crunchy greens that charm your canine. 

Baby carrots	2-3 calories per carrot
Cucumber	1 calorie per ¼-inch slice
Apple	16 calories per slice (1/8) large red apple
Asparagus	3-5 calories per spear
Celery	6 calories per 7- to 8-inch stalk
Broccoli	5-6 calories per floret
Banana	7-9 calories per ½-inch slice
Pumpkin	21 calories per ¼ cup (canned, without salt)

Swap high-calorie treats for dog-safe fresh fruits and veggies. ©fotostorm/Getty Images

Dog weight loss is a journey

Good health is a journey. Losing excess body fat takes time. Stay on the weight loss path your vet maps out, and you’ll be rewarded with a healthier, happier doggo when you reach your destination.  

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The 3-3-3 Rule: What it is and how to do it

The post The 3-3-3 Rule: What it is and how to do it by Debbie DeSantis, BAH, CPDT-KA 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 3-3-3 rule explains what you need to know about the adjustment period in the first three days, three weeks and three months after adopting a rescue dog. Understanding what to expect and how to help your rescue dog adjust leads to a smoother transition and happier home.

Adopting a dog is a wonderful but challenging experience. When we change jobs or schools, new experiences can be exciting and intimidating at the same time. A rescue dog also needs time to adapt to and understand his new life.

You need to comprehend what he’s going through and try to help him adjust. Generally, puppies adapt more easily than adults do because they are almost blank slates learning new things and being exposed to new environments. Older and shyer dogs usually adjust more slowly. Each dog is an individual and, depending on his background, may take longer than expected to acclimate to a new life. Let him progress at his own pace. Let’s look at what you should know before adopting a rescue dog, what the adjustment issues will look like and what you should do to ease the transition.

Phases of a rescue dog: The first three days

Your new canine companion needs some time to decompress. He probably feels unsure of what’s expected of him and is stressed. He may:

• Feel overwhelmed
• Be scared and unsure of what’s going on
• Not be comfortable enough to “be himself”
• Not want to eat and drink
• Be shut down and curl up in a safe area such as in a crate or under furniture and sleep a lot
• Have diarrhea from stress or dietary changes
• Test his boundaries

Phases of a rescue dog: The first three weeks

During this time, your new addition starts to feel relaxed and his true personality emerges. He may:

• Start to settle in
• Feel more comfortable
• Realize that this could possibly be his forever home
• Figure out his environment
• Get into a routine
• Let his guard down and start to show his true personality
• Show any ingrained behavior problems

Phases of a rescue dog: The first three months

This is the period when your adopted dog’s true personality and temperament are displayed. It’s a great time to bond with him. He may:

• Be completely comfortable in his new home
• Start to trust and build a bond with you
• Gain a complete sense of security with his new family
• Settle into and embrace his new routine

How to help your rescue dog settle in your home

Set up a safe space away from commotion, such as a spare bedroom or laundry room. It should be a welcoming area with a cozy bed and crate.

Establish a routine so that your new canine companion will know what to expect from and feel confident in his new world. He needs regular feedings, exercise, play and training. Use positive reinforcement and speak calmly when getting to know him. Have patience. Introduce him slowly over time to his new environment and family.

The 3-3-3 Rule establishes milestones that help predict what your new canine addition may be experiencing. By understanding what occurs during these three periods, you’ll be better able to help him adjust to his new world. With patience, planning and routines, the bond with your rescued pup will blossom and you’ll have great adventures to come and memories to make.

The post The 3-3-3 Rule: What it is and how to do it by Debbie DeSantis, BAH, CPDT-KA 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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Best Dog Food for Skin Allergies

The post Best Dog Food for Skin Allergies by Dr. Angie Krause, DVM, CVA, CCRT 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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Figuring out why your dog is so itchy and what to do about it can be complicated and frustrating.

Food allergies — and therefore, dog skin allergies — in dogs are becoming more common. The most frequently reported foods that cause allergic symptoms in dogs are beef, chicken, lamb, wheat, soy, walnuts and corn. However, dogs can be allergic to any foods containing small amounts of protein including fruits, vegetables and grains. Most food allergies can be successfully managed with a change in diet. Changing the meat source of your dog’s food, introducing a novel meat or feeding a hydrolyzed protein diet can help alleviate your pup’s symptoms. 

How do I know if my dog is allergic to his food?

Food allergies and sensitivities can have many symptoms but often manifest as itchy skin. Environmental allergens can cause these same skin symptoms. Dogs with food allergies commonly have environmental allergies as well. Without treatment, these symptoms can become more severe over time.

Food allergy symptoms include:

• Repeated ear infections
• Rash around mouth and anus
• Anal gland infections and leakage
• Repeated skin infections (hot spots)
• Itchy skin
• Licking/chewing paws and legs
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Reflux

What’s causing my dog’s food allergies?

The exact cause of food allergies and sensitivities is poorly understood. However, it is believed that genetics and the integrity of the intestines may play a role in the development of food allergies in dogs. Rotational diets have been thought to decrease the likelihood of developing food allergies. The rationale is that by rotating proteins daily, weekly, monthly or even seasonally, the body may not have time to become intolerant of any one protein. This theory has not been proven with any scientific evidence.

If I treat my dog’s food allergies, will it treat the skin allergies, too?

The best treatment for dogs with food allergies is to identify the offending foods and remove them from the diet. A small number of dogs will be able to resume eating those allergenic foods after several months of elimination. Dogs who are allergic to just one meat source may find immediate success in a diet change. However, dogs with several food allergies may require a more advanced diet strategy to diagnose and successfully treat their symptoms.

Work with your veterinarian to ensure that your dog’s skin allergy symptoms are not caused by other factors such as parasites, environmental allergies, stress or other diseases. Adding a veterinary dermatologist to your veterinary team can expand your pet’s treatment options. You can find a dermatologist near you.

Trying different dog food diets can eliminate dog skin problems from food allergies. ©Eva Blanco/EyeEm/ Getty Images

Managing food allergies in dogs through diet

The following are several diet strategies that may be successful in treating dogs with food allergies:

New meat source diet

If you suspect your dog has a food allergy, the easiest change to make is switching the protein source in your dog’s diet. For example, if you are feeding a chicken-based diet, switch to a beef- or fish-based diet. Read the ingredient label carefully to ensure that there is only one protein source. For example, many pet food companies will add chicken to formulas that are advertised as having primarily fish in the recipe. Once you decide on a new protein source, check the ingredients in treats and supplements to ensure that your pup only gets one source of meat protein.

Limited ingredient diet

This diet limits the total number of ingredients, typically to one source of protein and one source of carbohydrate; for example, lamb and rice. These diets are commercially available over the counter or by prescription from a veterinarian. The advantage of prescription limited ingredient diets is that the manufacturing lines are more controlled, helping to prevent cross contamination from other formulas, which is important for extremely sensitive dogs. These diets can also be prepared at home as long as they are balanced. There are tools out there to help. For example, Balanceit.com is a website that helps pet owners design and balance a limited ingredient diet.

Novel Protein Diet

A novel protein is defined as a protein that your dog has never eaten before. This may decrease the likelihood that your dog will have a reaction. However, some foods are cross reactive. For example, a dog that is allergic to beef may also be allergic to lamb, even if he has never eaten lamb. Proteins that are often novel to dogs include duck, alligator, venison and kangaroo. These diets may also double as limited ingredient diets, as many of them are designed with itchy, allergic dogs in mind. 

Hydrolyzed Protein Diet

These diets are regularly prescribed by veterinarians to diagnose and treat food allergies. To understand how these diets work, you need to understand the structure of a protein. Think of a protein like a strand of pearls. Each pearl is an amino acid. The longer the strand of pearls, the more likely the body is to consider it an allergen. Hydrolyzed diets are made up of proteins that are cut up into smaller strands of pearls. This makes each protein less likely to be allergenic. Soy, chicken and fish are commonly used to make these diets. Even though soy and chicken are common allergens, they become less allergenic when hydrolyzed into smaller proteins. Only feed this diet with hydrolyzed treats — adding other non-hydrolyzed treats could cause allergic symptoms in your dog. There are several different formulations and prescription brands of hydrolyzed diets. If your dog does not like the flavor or has symptoms while eating one, try another brand or formulation. Find examples of hydrolyzed diets here.

 Amino Acid Based Diet

An amino acid based diet is like a hydrolyzed diet, but is further broken down into individual amino acids. This is like taking the strand of pearls and cutting it into individual pearls. This nearly eliminates the chances of your dog being allergic to this diet. This type of diet is only manufactured by one brand of prescription dog food. Like the hydrolyzed diet, this diet should be fed alone and without other treats and food. If this diet is effective in controlling your dog’s symptoms, it should be continued for at least 14 weeks. At that time, you can begin adding one single ingredient per week to the amino acid based diet. When adding foods back to your dog’s diet, start with foods that have less reaction potential, such as fruits and vegetables. This method will help you determine which foods cause your dog symptoms. It is safe for your dog to continue to eat the amino acid based diet for life. You can also switch to a home cooked diet or a commercial diet containing foods you have already tried that don’t cause symptoms. Amino acid based diets are less palatable compared to other diets. If your dog refuses to eat this diet, try switching to a hydrolyzed diet, which tends to be more palatable. Amino-acid based diets tend to be prescription only. An example is Royal Canin’s Ultamino dog food.

Finding the right diet to help treat your dog’s food allergies can be a process. Each time you switch your dog’s diet, take time to add in the new diet while slowly phasing out the old. Transition time should take four to seven days. You may need to try a few different diets before you find one that is effective. These diets may take four to six weeks to bring relief. Avoid treats and supplements that are not on the diet plan. No matter what type of diet strategy you are using, never stop giving your dog his prescription medications. Patience is critical! It may take up to six months to find a diet that not only works for your dog’s allergies, but is also an enjoyable flavor and consistency.

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What’s the Difference Between F1 vs F1B Goldendoodles?

The post What’s the Difference Between F1 vs F1B Goldendoodles? by Lauren Katims 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.

F1 Goldendoodles are a cross between a purebred Golden Retriever and a purebred Toy, Miniature or Standard Poodle. Dog breeders refer to these dogs as “first generation” (F1) Goldendoodles and they get 50 percent of their genes from each breed. F1B Goldendoodles are a cross between an F1 Goldendoodle and a purebred Poodle or a purebred Golden Retriever.

Although all Goldendoodles will be part Golden Retriever and part Poodle, personality traits and appearance will differ based on how much Poodle or Golden Retriever the Goldendoodle offspring inherited. Dog breeders enhance certain temperament and appearance characteristics of the offspring by choosing to weigh more heavily on either the Golden Retriever genes or the Poodle genes.

Do F1 Goldendoodles have a different appearance than F1B Goldendoodles?

They can. F1 Goldendoodles have furnishings — the longer hair that surrounds a dog’s beard area and eyebrows — and gives the Goldendoodle the signature fluffy look. Poodles have the furnishing gene and Golden Retrievers do not. Furnishings are a dominant gene, so F1 Goldendoodles will always inherit furnishings from the Poodle parent. F1B Goldendoodles may not always have furnishings if two non-furnishing coat genes (also referred to as improper coat or IC) are present from a Goldendoodle crossed with a Golden Retriever. Breeders can test for these genes and share results with potential owners.

Goldendoodles get their furnishings, or longer hair on their faces, from the Poodle. © Lara Streight Photography

Are F1 vs F1B Goldendoodle personality traits different?

The F1B Goldendoodle’s personality traits will depend on which purebred was crossed with the F1 Goldendoodle. If a Poodle was used, the offspring may show a high sensitivity and alertness to its environment, high intelligence levels and an ultra-high trainability level. If a Golden Retriever was used, expect an extremely social and loyal dog, who needs lots of physical and mental stimulation through service jobs, socialization and retriever games.

The F1 Goldendoodle is a 50-50 combination of its parents’ purebred genes, so personality traits are less predictable as with any mixed breed.

How do I know if I’m getting an F1 or F1B Goldendoodle?

Goldendoodle breeders should be able to provide lineage. The Goldendoodle Association of North America, the Goldendoodle’s breed club, lists nationwide breeders they’ve accepted into their club.

Still unsure? Start by making a list of questions to ask Goldendoodle dog breeders. And take your time — patience will help you find the right Goldendoodle for your lifestyle.

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How to Use a Dog Whistle and What to Use a Dog Whistle For

The post How to Use a Dog Whistle and What to Use a Dog Whistle For by Rachel Brix 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 whistles are great for all types of training but are especially helpful for a rock-solid recall and various dog sports and activities. Dog whistles are used to make communicating with your dog from long distances easier, since the sound carries and can penetrate thick cover, crowd noises and bad weather. These features are all significantly important not only for recall, but also for sports such as agility, herding and hunting and for gun dogs and working dogs.

While dog whistles aren’t as commonly used as other cues or markers, they can be even more effective depending on your needs for training. Choosing the right whistle and knowing how to use it — and how not to lose it — makes all the difference.

What is a dog whistle?

Dog whistles differ from clickers or verbal markers in that whistles are detailed communicators. Depending on what you’d like your dog to do, you might use a variety of sounds, blows and blasts. A long blast might tell the dog to go left or right, where two short blasts might mean stop. Whistles also differ from clickers and markers because whistles are attention-getters. They signal the dog to do something while clickers and verbal markers mark the behavior once it’s performed. 

There are two main types of dog whistles: silent and audible. Since a dog’s ear is biologically much different (and far superior) to a human ear, they have a much more acute sense of hearing. Choosing the right frequency for your dog is key, as some dogs may be sensitive to higher frequencies. It must work for you, but it also must work for your dog.

Additionally, one of dogs’ many superpowers is they can move their ears independently of one another. Therefore, dogs can be more precise with pinpointing sounds and from different directions and greater distances, which makes whistles ideal for sport, work and long-distance recall.

What is a dog whistle used for?

Darcie Jennings, founder and head trainer at CommuniCanine Training, is a firm believer in the power of the whistle for a rock-solid recall. Darcie says the very first client whose dog she whistle trained went from not responding to verbal cues to responding almost 100% of the time when the whistle blew. She’s introduced whistle recalls to her clients both in private lessons and recall classes ever since. 

Darcie emphasizes dogs will respond faster and more consistently when using a whistle as a recall cue than they will to a verbal recall cue only. She says it’s literally a night and day difference. She and her clients primarily use audible whistles and are especially fond of the Acme 210.5, because it’s the most pleasant on the ears and easiest to blow.

How to use a dog whistle for the recall cue

Darcie has the following quick-and-easy tips on how to use a dog whistle for a rock-solid recall.

1. Standing right beside your dog, blow your whistle and then immediately feed your dog numerous high-value treats one after another or pull out her favorite tug toy and have a good game of tug.
2. Pause for a moment (how long of a pause will depend on where the dogs’ attention goes when you stop engaging with her): no talking to your dog, no feeding or playing with her; you’re just boring.
3. Then blow the dog whistle and feed or play again.
4. Repeat 10 to 20 times.
5. Once your dog is visibly responding excitedly to the whistle (it may take more than 10 to 20 reps for some dogs) start adding distance between you and your dog, a few feet at a time, so that when you blow the whistle she comes back to you to get the treat. 

For us humans, it can be challenging to remember to bring your whistle with you or you might end up losing it. So here are Darcie’s pro tips to be sure you’ve always got one handy:

• Keep it on your car key ring
• Attach to your dog’s leash with a key ring or carabiner
• Use a lanyard
• Attach to a zipper pull of your hoodie/jacket
• Use the built-in keyring on your backpack

When not to use a dog whistle

At the end of the day, dog whistles aren’t for every dog. Some dogs may respond fearfully to them, so take care to watch your dog’s reactions in a trial with various types. Darcie says for more sensitive dogs it sometimes may take just a bit more time to desensitize them to where they’re happy to hear the sound. Try softer blows, shorter blasts or a different whistle altogether. Dog still not having it? Then maybe a whistle isn’t right for your dog.

And dog whistles aren’t an effective or proper tool for suppressing behaviors like excessive barking. Instead, you’d want to figure out the underlying causes for the excessive vocalizations and address those emotional needs instead. Besides, if you end up using the whistle as a punishment (i.e., for barking) you could end up poisoning the whistle, and your dog won’t want to respond to it.

How to use a dog whistle for working or sporting dogs

Allyson Tohme, UK Kennel Club Instructor in Working Trials (Advanced) says whistles are unmatched when you need to communicate with your dog out of sight as the sound travels much further than the human voice. And whistles are consistent, unlike the human voice which can vary depending on health or mood.

Versatility makes whistles especially useful for sport since the handler can be quite a distance from the dogs and still communicate clearly and effectively. And if many handlers are using whistles, you can help your dog distinguish which cues to respond to by using different tones, sounds and even frequencies.

Allyson says her favorite is the shepherd’s lip whistle because it’s far more versatile than all the others which have a single pitch, and you can only vary the number and/or length of “pips.” You can actually play tunes on the lip whistle, so you have far more potential cues at your disposal than is possible with other whistles.

And although she doesn’t prefer one brand over another, she does say Acme produces the entire gamut of whistles and are inexpensive if you need to replace a lost or damaged one.

In her experience with various dog breeds in various contexts, Allyson hasn’t found any certain breeds to be more responsive to a dog whistle than others. 

Allyson’s quick-and-easy tips on how to use a dog whistle are:

1. Train the verbal cue first, then the whistle and then the hand signal.
2. Once the dog is responding to the verbal cue, precede the verbal cue with the unknown cue (whistle).
3. Wait one second then use the verbal cue.
4. It usually takes only a maximum of six sessions before the dog is anticipating the whistle will be followed by the verbal cue so the latter can be faded.
5. Extend the distance incrementally so all three cues may be used interchangeably depending on what is more appropriate for the context and, of course, if the dog is looking at you or not (essential for a hand signal to be appropriate)!

If you really want to talk to your dog, try a whistle. You can develop your very own language and then take it to the streets in agility, herding or even when you need to break out your best recall. Their versatility, flexibility and cost-effectiveness make dog whistles a must-try for any pet parent or handler. 

There are a wide variety of dog whistles, either being silent or audible. This dog whistle is the Acme 210.5, which is easy to blow and easy on the ears. ©Melissa L Kauffman

Best dog whistles to buy

Acme brand is often the top choice, known for producing a variety of types, softer sound, being inexpensive and widely available, even at Walmart.

Other popular brands, many of which are also available on Amazon, include:  

• SportDOG

• GSM Brands

• Fox

Videos on how to use a dog whistle

Are you more of a visual learner? Check out these videos on how to use a dog whistle in various situations.

• Teaching recall
• Another one on teaching recall
• Gundog training tips
• How to use in dog sports
• Tips for using a silent dog whistle

The post How to Use a Dog Whistle and What to Use a Dog Whistle For by Rachel Brix 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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How Accurate is a Dog DNA Test?

The post How Accurate is a Dog DNA Test? by Rachel Phelps 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.

Do you have a mixed-breed dog and constantly wonder what combination of breeds went together to create your uniquely awesome canine? Does that curly hair prove it is part Poodle, or do the big ears mean a relative was a Basset Hound? Maybe you asked your vet and groomer and received different guesses. If so, that is not surprising. A 2009 study funded by the National Canine Research Foundation found that when they showed dog photos to over 5,700 pet professionals, only 27% of the dogs were identified correctly.

More and more pet parents are turning to dog DNA tests to finally answer the “what breed is it” question. There are a lot of different tests on the market, so how do you know what is the most accurate dog DNA test? The dog DNA test accuracy largely depends on the size of the company’s breed database and how many DNA markers (data points) your dog’s sample will be compared against.

What is DNA?

DNA is short for deoxyribonucleic acid, a long molecule that carries the unique genetic blueprint information about an organism. You have probably seen graphical images of DNA showing how it is made up of two linked strands twisted around each other that look like a ladder. Making up the rungs of the ladder is a backbone of adenine (A), cytosine (C), guanine (G) or thymine (T), referred to as ACGT. The order and sequence of ACGT determine everything about the dog, such as his fur color, how tall the dog will be, the color of his eyes and even potential health issues. This unique combination of ACGT is the dog’s complete set of genetic information, commonly called the genome.

In 2005, the first complete domestic canine genome sequence was documented and published by the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard. According to senior author Eric Lander, director of the Broad Institute and a professor of biology at MIT, “The incredible physical and behavioral diversity of dogs — from Chihuahuas to Great Danes — is encoded in their genomes. There are 2.5 million genetic differences among different breeds of dogs.” This study also revealed that a dog’s genome sequence helps determine what genetic contributors, such as cancer or other significant diseases, can affect certain breeds.

How do you collect a dog’s DNA?

Collecting your dog’s DNA is as easy as taking a swab of your dog’s cheek. DNA kits typically provide a cotton swab that you put against the inside of the dog’s cheek that you roll and rotate around to collect cells. After letting it dry for a few minutes, you put the swab back in the sleeve and mail it to the company in the provided prepaid mailing envelope.

According to Dr. Adam Boyko, the chief science officer and founder of DNA Embark, once the sample arrives at the lab, the dog’s DNA is separated from the other parts of the cells. This is achieved by washing the cells over a research-grade microarray (a microscope slide that grabs the actual DNA) to analyze it. Using a computer, your dog’s genetic code is compared to genetic makers of purebred dogs to determine your dog’s breed(s). Results are typically sent over email or by mail in two to four weeks and are usually divided into percentages based on the dog’s breed composition.

How accurate are dog DNA tests?

Dog DNA test accuracy largely depends on the size of the company’s breed database and how many DNA markers (data points) your dog’s sample will be compared against to determine his breed(s). Also, each company has different proprietary methodologies to calculate these results.

Some DNA tests also analyze for inherited diseases in the dog’s genome. This is done by looking for specific genetic sequences associated with certain diseases. A DNA test can only warn of the possible risk, not the certainty of your dog acquiring the disease. The test can tell you if your dog may be predisposed to a certain medical condition, but it doesn’t mean your dog will necessarily come down with that condition.

Also, the dog DNA testing industry lacks long-term scientific studies of mapping genetic variants to the risk of diseases. There are limited peer-reviewed studies to validate the data and a lack of funding to conduct this follow-up research. For these reasons, it is important to not make medical decisions based solely on a dog’s DNA test results. If you have any concerns about your dog’s risk for certain diseases based on a DNA test, you should consult your veterinarian.

Which dog DNA test should I purchase?

Deciding on the best DNA test for your dog can be confusing as there are many choices. Not only are there several companies offering dog DNA tests, but some companies offer multiple types of tests to choose from. Here are several factors to consider when selecting your kit.

• Your budget – Costs can range from as little as $68 to over $200 based on how extensive the testing is.
• The DNA test accuracy – Depending on the brand, dog DNA test accuracy for breed identification can range from 90% to 99%.
• The company’s breed reference database – A basic test can compare your dog’s DNA against at least 95 breeds to more than 350 based on the company’s proprietary database.
• Medical conditions and dog traits – For some brands, medical condition testing is a part of the basic test, while for others, it is an additional cost.
• Veterinarian consultations – Based on the results, you may have questions. Some brands have veterinarians you can contact for a consultation.

No one correctly guessed what breeds made up Murphy Brown’s background. His dog DNA test done by DNA My Dog seemed pretty accurate with results stating he was a mix of Chihuahua, Cocker Spaniel, Dachshund and Miniature Pinscher. ©Melissa L Kauffman

Once you have decided on your budget and what features are important to you, there are plenty of dog DNA tests to choose from. Below are details on some of the most prominent ones to help you decide on the most accurate test for your needs.

DNAmydog.com – starts at $68.99. The results are returned within two weeks and include a custom certificate with your dog’s photo stating his unique DNA composition. Also available for purchase are a geriatric age test and an allergy test.

Easy DNA – starts at $79. This company offers various animal (and human) DNA testing services. Results take two to three weeks from receipt of the samples by its lab. Results are compared against its DNA database, which comprises over 95 breeds of dogs, plus 350 breeds are offered for $109. For an additional fee, it also has disease testing, inherited disease and trait testing and allergy testing.

Embark Vet – starts at $109. Results arrive in two to four weeks. This test checks against over 230,000 genetic markers and screens over 210 genetic health risks. You may also be able to research your dog’s family tree and determine your dog’s relatives in the canine relative finder application. Embark Vet also has breed and health kits and purebred testing kits. Certain tests include a consultation with an Embark geneticist veterinarian.

OniVet — starts at $119. This test screens for genetic diseases, coat colors, breed traits and parent confirmation. The standard test compares your dog’s DNA to over 350 breeds and will give an adult weight prediction for puppies. Test results are posted online in two to three weeks. Also available is a health add-on that tests over 220 health risks and over 40 physical traits. Other tests include the mycobiome and purebred DNA tests.

Wisdom Panel — starts at $99.99. The results are ready in three weeks. This kit screens for over 350 breeds, 25 medical conditions and over 35 traits. This company has the world’s largest breed reference database. The premium kit includes 180 additional health tests and a veterinarian consultation for any notable health findings.

No matter what your dog’s DNA test reveals (and if you agree with the accuracy of the results), these tests are a fun and great way to learn more about your pup, their likely personality traits, and why they behave the way they do.

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Top Signs of Pancreatitis in Dogs and What to Do Next

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

Many dogs will be one-time offenders for pancreatitis, while others will struggle with symptoms for their entire lives. Understanding pancreatitis signs and symptoms, the diagnostic process, as well as dietary and holistic management, are important steps toward helping your dog manage the pain.

What does the pancreas do?

The pancreas is an organ located to the right of the stomach that plays an important role in the digestive health of your dog. It produces enzymes that aid in digestion and insulin to regulate blood sugar.

Pancreatitis is defined as inflammation of the pancreas and can present acutely or become a chronic disease over time. Many times, pancreatitis is triggered by dietary intolerance and the consumption of high-fat foods. This is why veterinary emergency facilities experience an increase in pancreatitis cases around holidays, when pets typically eat more human foods. Other causes of pancreatitis include genetic predisposition, cancer, obesity, hormonal imbalance like Diabetes mellitus and certain medications. Causes of pancreatitis are often unknown.

Top signs of pancreatitis in dogs

When considering whether your dog is suffering from pancreatitis, look for the most common signs and symptoms. Symptoms of acute and chronic pancreatitis will vary in length and severity.

A veterinarian may perform an abdominal ultrasound to diagnose pancreases in your dog ©Vesnaandjic/Getty Images

Acute pancreatitis is a sudden onset of symptoms including:

• Persistent vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Inappetence or decreased appetite
• Dehydration
• Extreme lethargy

Chronic pancreatitis persists over a long period of time with symptoms including:

• Decreased appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Intermittent vomiting
• Diarrhea

Acute pancreatitis will present with severe symptoms and is more common in dogs than chronic pancreatitis. Chronic pancreatitis may present more subtly and worsen with time. Some dogs with chronic pancreatitis will have periods where they experience more severe, acute symptoms.

How do you diagnose pancreatitis in dogs?

If your dog has pancreatitis symptoms, take him to a veterinarian to determine next steps. During the diagnosis process, you can expect:

• Examination. An exam including abdominal palpation will be the first step to diagnosing your dog with pancreatitis. Your vet will collect information about your dog’s diet, including changes in appetite, and history and frequency of vomiting. Before the visit, log these changes, so you are ready to present them during the exam. This timeline could help expedite your dog’s diagnosis and treatment plan.
• Bloodwork. Because signs of pancreatitis are often non-specific, your veterinarian may run specific blood tests, which can hone in on a possible pancreatitis diagnosis and rule out other medical conditions and contributing factors.

Pancreatic Lipase Immunoreactivity (PLI) is the most sensitive laboratory test available for dogs with pancreatitis because it assesses lipase levels in the bloodstream. During pancreatitis, normal trace levels of lipase increase considerably. While PLI laboratory tests are highly specific, results take longer to receive than alternative in-house tests, which becomes important when treating a sick dog.

• Abdominal Ultrasound. An abdominal ultrasound is a noninvasive diagnostic that assesses organs and structures within the abdomen. This test is around 40-70% sensitive for pancreatitis in achieving a formal diagnosis. Ultrasounds rule out non-related medical conditions that may be contributing to your dog’s symptoms, as well as pancreatic tumors.
• Biopsy. If a pancreatic mass is found, it may need to be removed for testing. Biopsy is the most invasive diagnostic test and may be contraindicated (not suggested) for seriously ill patients. Discuss the details with your veterinarian and consider getting a second opinion.

What should my dog eat if he has pancreatitis?

Diet therapy is the most critical component to the prevention and management of both acute and chronic pancreatitis, and it starts with introducing a low-fat diet.

A low-fat diet can help manage your dog’s pancreatitis symptoms ©Stefan Cristian Cioata/ Getty Images

For acute pancreatitis, a low-fat diet will be an important part of your dog’s temporary treatment plan. For chronic pancreatitis, a low-fat diet will be a permanent change.

Such diet changes may include the following:

• Low-fat prescription commercial diets. These diets will require a prescription from your veterinarian. Examples of low-fat dog diets include:
• Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Gastrointestinal
• Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Gastroenteric
• Hills Prescription Diet Veterinary Care ID
• Low-fat commercial diets. Most common commercial dog food diets include low fat options. Discuss these options with your veterinarian before use. Some examples include:
  • Wellness Core Reduced Fat
  • Blue Buffalo Life Protection Healthy Weight
  • Canidae Pure Healthy Weight
  • Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight
• Low-fat treats. There are many prescription and commercial low-fat treats available. Avoid high-fat table scraps or treats such as marrow bones and opt for homemade treats, such as dehydrated fruits or vegetables, instead. Examples include sweet potato, kale, green beans, carrots and apples. Avoid toxic foods such as onions, garlic and grapes.
• Home-cooked diets. Home cooking for dogs with pancreatitis is a great option because you have control over ingredients and can adjust as needed. Using an online resource such as Balanceit.com you can create a home-cooked diet specifically supportive for dogs with pancreatitis that will provide necessary vitamins and minerals.

Communicate with the people in your dog’s life. Providing house guests, family members, pet sitters, veterinary staff, trainers and groomers with alternative, safe treats can reduce pancreatitis symptoms. Environmental management, such as removing access to trash and cleaning the kitchen to prevent counter surfing, is also important.

Are there holistic treatments for dogs with pancreatitis?

According to Dr. Angie Krause, holistic veterinarian and owner of Boulder Holistic Vet, there are some holistic approaches that may support your dog through pancreatitis symptoms.

Dr. Krause’s suggestions include:

• CBD has natural anti-inflammatory properties and reduces nausea and pain. Start at the low end of CBD’s dosing range (0.25mg/kg twice daily). Find a reputable CBD product that does not include additional ingredients. Dr. Krause uses HempRx products.
• While Dr. Krause suggests all dogs take a quality probiotic, this is especially helpful for supporting the gut health of dogs with pancreatitis. Alternating probiotic strains may be beneficial. Dr. Krause uses Thorne Bacillus and RxBiotics in her practice.
• Chinese Herbs. Certain Chinese herbs can work to alleviate pancreatitis symptoms in dogs. Find a veterinarian who practices Traditional Chinese Medicine near you through the Chi Institute website.

Dr. Krause recommends starting with one diet or supplement change at a time, in order to carefully track results.

What online resources are available for pancreatitis in dogs?

Pancreatitis can be an extremely stressful disease to manage and may leave you feeling discouraged and isolated. Online resources, such as Dogs with Pancreatitis on Facebook, which has 5,000 members, connect you with other pet parents going through a pancreatitis diagnosis with their dogs. These groups are an excellent way to expand you and your dog’s team while also supporting other pet parents.

While pancreatitis is a very serious disease, many dogs who experience it will live long and happy lives! Because pancreatitis shares symptoms with many other conditions, it can be difficult to diagnose. Advocating for your dog and educating yourself will give your sick dog the voice he needs.

The post Top Signs of Pancreatitis in Dogs and What to Do Next by Claire Primo, CVT, ACMT, FFCP 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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