Best Heated Dog Beds and Are They Safe?

The post Best Heated Dog Beds and Are They Safe? by Rachel Phelps, MBA, MPA, Dip. PDT, Pet Product Expert 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.

Heated dog beds are becoming increasingly popular among pet owners who want to provide their pup with a warm and comfortable place to rest. But are they good for your dog’s health? According to veterinarian and author Doc Halligan, the answer is yes!

Heated beds especially benefit senior dogs with arthritis and other health issues.

“When dogs get older, they may benefit from having soft and heated bedding as their muscle mass decreases,” she says. “They may also develop calluses and sores and their joints can become stiff. Especially for older dogs or those with health issues, orthopedic and heated beds can greatly enhance their quality of life.”

There are many options available, but here are our top picks:

PetMate’s ASPEN Pet Self-Warning Rectangular Lounger; $29.99 – $69.99

1. PetMate’s ASPEN Pet Self-Warning Rectangular Lounger: This bed doesn’t require electricity. Made with soft and plush materials, it features a special heat-reflecting technology used in space blankets to radiate the pet’s own body heat to retain warmth. Comes in the color barn red and cream in sizes small, medium and large. $29.99 – $69.99; petmate.com

K&H Thermo-Snuggly Sleeper Heated Dog Bed; $142.99-$169.99

2. K&H Thermo-Snuggly Sleeper Heated Dog Bed: This bed warms to a dog’s normal body temperature only when the animal is in the bed. It is made of soft and plush materials and has a removable cover and pillow for easy cleaning. Comes in colors gray or sage/tan and in medium and large sizes. $142.99-$169.99; khpet.com

The Pet Life Dream Smart Electronic Heating and Cooling Smart Dog Bed; $94.99-$113.99

3. The Pet Life Dream Smart Electronic Heating and Cooling Smart Dog Bed: This high-tech solution for keeping your dog comfortable year-round features a heating unit to warm the bed and a fan to cool it. It also has a machine-washable removable fleece cover. Comes in colors gray, navy, burgundy red and mocha brown, plus sizes medium and large. $94.99-$113.99; shop.petlife.com

What to look for in a heated dog bed

Not just any heated dog bed will do. Shop for the best one with the following criteria in mind.

Safety – Pick a bed with a shut-off feature so it doesn’t overheat and cause a fire. Also, an adjustable thermostat prevents burns and a chew-resistant cord prevents electrical shock.

Size and Shape – A bed that’s too small won’t be comfortable, while one that’s too big won’t provide enough warmth. Measure your dog to ensure you get the right size.

Durability – This is especially important for pups who love to chew everything in sight. Look for a bed with a removable and machine-washable cover for quick clean-up of accidents.

A heated dog bed can be a great solution to keep your dog warm and cozy. Prioritize safety, size and durability when picking the right one for your pup, and I am sure your dog will have “sweet puppy dreams” in his new warm bed.

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Hypothyroidism in Dogs: Symptoms Causes and Treatment

The post Hypothyroidism in Dogs: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment by Dr. Brittany Kleszynski, DVM 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.

When a dog’s thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, a condition called hypothyroidism occurs. Middle-aged and older dogs are most commonly affected. Thyroid hormones help regulate many internal functions, such as metabolism and heart rate. When these hormones are low, vital functions are impaired and symptoms develop. Fortunately, with early detection and treatment, most hypothyroid dogs have a normal life expectancy.

Causes of hypothyroidism in dogs

Lymphocytic thyroiditis, an immune-mediated condition, is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in dogs. It occurs when the immune system attacks and destroys the thyroid gland, resulting in significant inflammation and low hormone production. It is unknown why the immune system decides to attack the thyroid gland, but it is thought to be hereditary.

Hypothyroidism in dogs can also occur due to thyroid gland atrophy. During this process, the functional tissue of the thyroid gland is replaced by fat. Veterinarians also don’t know why this process occurs.

A pituitary gland tumor is another cause, but it is extremely rare. The pituitary gland is located at the base of a dog’s brain and is responsible for secreting thyroid stimulating hormone. In dogs with a pituitary tumor, this process is impaired, and the thyroid gland is not stimulated. Therefore, thyroid hormones are not produced.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism in dogs

One symptom of hypothyroidism in dogs is chronic ear infections. ©
Jose Luis Pelaez Inc/ Getty Images

Hypothyroidism causes numerous symptoms in dogs, which may include the following:

• Weight gain despite a normal appetite
• Fat accumulation around shoulders, neck and hind end
• Lethargy
• Dull hair coat
• Slow hair regrowth
• Flaky and/or thickened skin
• Patches of alopecia (hair loss)
• Slow heart rate
• Cold intolerance
• Recurrent skin and ear infections
• Fertility issues
• Reduced tear production (dry eye)
• Nerve abnormalities

Dogs with hypothyroidism may have high cholesterol, high fat content and mild anemia on bloodwork.

How to treat hypothyroidism in dogs

Dogs with hypothyroidism require oral supplementation of a synthetic thyroid hormone called levothyroxine. This medication is given daily and is relatively inexpensive. The dose, which is determined by the dog’s weight, may change over time based on his response to treatment. Periodic bloodwork helps the veterinarian assess hormone levels and adjust the dose when necessary. Supplementation is required for the remainder of the pet’s life.

Since hypothyroid dogs are already prone to high cholesterol, switching to a low-fat kibble is beneficial. Omega-3 fatty acids also promote a healthier skin and coat. Your veterinarian can recommend the best type of food to meet your dog’s specific needs.

Life expectancy

Hypothyroidism is not a curable condition. However, most healthy, hypothyroid dogs live long, happy lives with the proper monitoring and treatment. Dogs with additional health issues, such as heart disease or kidney disease, may have shorter lifespans due to the difficulty in managing hypothyroidism alongside concurrent illness.

If left untreated, hypothyroidism results in a poor quality of life, an increased risk of complications and a reduced lifespan. Early diagnosis ensures your pet receives the treatment he needs to be happy and healthy. If you notice any signs of hypothyroidism in your dog, bring him to the veterinarian for evaluation.

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Top Velcro Dog Breeds and How to Manage

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Does your dog follow you everywhere you go? If your pup is always stuck to your side, you have what is commonly called a velcro dog. The name comes from the hook-and-loop fastener used to hold fabric together. These dogs always want to be with their people, and depending on the breed, they can be very protective. Although some people get annoyed with how needy velcro dogs are, this clingy behavior is natural and with some breeds, desirable.

Top 9 velcro dog breeds:

Any dog can display velcro dog behaviors, but there are dog breeds who have a solid reputation for their velcro tendencies. Here are the most affectionate dog breeds:

• Maltese
• Pugs
• Chihuahuas
• Italian Greyhounds 
• Golden Retrievers 
• French Bulldogs 
• Dobermans
• German Shepherd Dog 
• Vizslas

Affectionate dog behavior explained

Dogs breeds with a velcro personality were developed specifically to be close to their people. Some of these dogs were bred as companion dogs and attentive to people’s feelings; other breeds were created to work side-by-side with humans. For these dogs, clingy behavior is a breed-specific trait and is desirable. This is something to consider before getting a dog. If you want a more independent companion, these dogs are not the breed for you. A true velcro dog is confident and well socialized, but given the option, he’ll always choose to be close to you.

Our dog breeds section gives insight into finding the right dog for your lifestyle.

Velcro dogs and safety hazards

If your dog always wants to be with you, it’s wonderful, but it can also pose a safety issue. If you find yourself tripping over your dog who is literally underfoot, create a training plan to keep both you and your dog safe. Here’s how:

• Teach your dog to go to his bed or another designated area that is out of the way.
• Lure him there with a treat or toy.
• Then, reward your dog with praise and treats for being on his bed or designated spot.
• Repeat these steps until your dog can go to his bed on cue.

The goal is for your dog to see his bed as a rewarding place, so you won’t trip over him while you’re cooking or moving around your house.

The difference between velcro and anxiety behavior:

Velcro dog temperament is not the same as a dog having separation anxiety, insecurity or feeling uncomfortable on his own. Dogs with velcro dog syndrome prefer to spend time with their people, but they are also perfectly capable of being alone. Dogs with anxiety become distressed or uncomfortable when alone. For anxious dogs, connect with your veterinarian to see if there is an underlying medical issue. Work with a dog trainer who utilizes positive reinforcement techniques to help your dog learn new coping skills. Similarly, if your dog suddenly starts sticking to you like velcro and that isn’t his normal temperament, it could be an indication that he’s in pain or has some other underlying health condition.

If you notice a change in your dog’s temperament schedule an appointment with your veterinarian right away to determine if there is a medical cause for the behavior changes.

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18 Facts About the Imposing Dogo Argentino

The post 18 Facts About the Imposing Dogo Argentino by Allan Reznik appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

A relative newcomer to our shores, the Dogo Argentino embodies the kind of power, strength and courage that stops you in your tracks. Chew through these noteworthy facts about this impressive South American canine.

1. Where does the Dogo Argentino come from?

The Dogo Argentino is an Argentine breed of large mastiff-type bred in the early 20th century for dog fighting and for hunting large game such as wild boars, peccaries and pumas. He originated in the province of Cordoba, in the central region of the country.

2. Who first bred the Dogo Argentino?

The Dogo’s creator was Antonio Nores Martinez, a doctor from a family that put a high value on tradition. In 1928, Dr. Nores Martinez set out to realize his vision of developing a new dog breed that he named the Dogo Argentino. He began with the now extinct Old Fighting Dog of Cordoba. He admired this breed for its power, but wanted to enhance size and strength. Other breeds were added over generations, beginning with the Bull Terrier, then followed by Great Dane, Pointer, Boxer, Bulldog, Pyrenean Mastiff, Irish Wolfhound and Spanish Mastiff.

Dr. Nores Martinez selected for white coat color, and rejected any dog with an undershot (Bulldog) mouth and jaw. He worked tirelessly on this mission, and by the 12th generation, his dogs were breeding true. In 1947 he presented his breed to the Club de Cazadores (“hunters club”) of Buenos Aires along with a breed standard. It was a labor of love for the doctor brothers Nores Martinez (the late Antonio, and his successor, Agustin) but ultimately, their dream of developing a supreme canine hunter and athlete bore fruit.

3. When was the Dogo Argentino accepted into national breed clubs?

It took until 1973 for the Dogo to be accepted as the first and only Argentine breed by the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI), a world organization that recognizes the breeds that may compete in its global dog shows. The breed received full American Kennel Club recognition in January 2020.

4. What is the coat color of the Dogo Argentino?

The Doctors Nores Martinez envisioned an all-white dog, and the American Kennel Club breed standard abides by their strict directives. Of color, the AKC standard allows that the “only tolerable spots are one black or dark-colored patch on the skull but which can also be located on one ear or around one eye or very small dark spots on the ears … More than one spot on the head (with the exception of small spots on the ears) is a disqualification … A black spot anywhere other than on the head is a disqualification.”

5. What is the Dogo Argentino’s temperament like?

The Dogo is loving with family,  but a very dominant, protective breed when it comes to strangers and other dogs. Under “Character & Temperament,” the breed standard tells us that the Dogo is a “strong, tenacious and rustic dog that was created to protect family and property, as well as to hunt large game and destructive predators. He is a faithful companion at home and in the field. Of all the Dogo’s attributes, he is above all else, courageous.”

6. What is the Dogo Argentino height and weight?

The Dogo is a large-sized dog breed with a height of 24 to 26.5 inches at the shoulder and the weight going from 88 to 100 pounds.

7. How long does the Dogo Argentino live?

The life expectancy of the Dogo is 9 to 15 years.

8. How active is the Dogo?

High energy level. Adaptable, trainable and eager to please so obedience, agility and rally are all possible with a well-socialized Dogo.

9. Is the Dogo Agentino good for first-time owners?

Typically, no. This breed is much too strong and dominant for most situations.

10. Is the Dogo Aregentino a good family pet?

He can be. A good Dogo breeder who socializes the puppies from an early age, followed up by ongoing socialization in his new home is essential. If there are other pets in the home, give careful consideration to the dynamics involved; this is a dominant breed.

11. Is the Dogo a good apartment dog?

In most cases, no. This is an active, dominant breed with a high watchdog/protective nature.

12. How easy is it to train a Dogo?

High trainability. This breed is eager to please.

13. Is the Dogo given to excessive barking?

Medium to high barking level. Don’t get the Dogo Argentino if you are looking for  quiet dog.

14. Does the Dogo make a good traveler?

Typically, yes. Get him accustomed to car travel early. Crate training is essential for safe car travel, hotel and motel stays, overnight stays at the veterinarian, etc.

15. Is the Dogo easy to groom?

Yes. The Dogo Argentino has a medium to high shedding level, so occasional brushing reduces unwanted white hair left on furniture, floors and carpets. The breed has a smooth, short coat.

16. How popular is the Dogo Argentino?

This breed comes in as No. 88 in the American Kennel Club list of the most popular breeds in 2022, based on annual registrations. (There are 200 recognized breeds in all.)

17. Is there deafness in the Dogo Argentino breed?

Like the Dalmatian, the white Bull Terrier and the white Boxer, the Dogo may experience pigment-related deafness. There is the possibility of an approximate 10 percent deafness rate overall with some dogs afflicted unilaterally (deaf in one ear) and some bilaterally (deaf in both ears). Studies have shown that the incidence of deafness is drastically reduced when the only Dogos bred are those with bilaterally normal hearing. Insist on seeing the results of health testing for both parents and puppies if you are looking to add a Dogo to your home.

18. Are Dogo Argentinos included in breed bans?

The Dogo has a fighting-dog heritage. Coupled with his size, strength and natural dominance, this has resulted in bans or ownership restrictions in certain countries, including the Cayman Islands, Denmark, Norway, Fiji, Iceland, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong and Turkey. In the United Kingdom, under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, it is illegal to own a Dogo Argentino without lawful authority. In the USA, some cities may ban the breed, and there may be insurance company policies and housing restrictions that impact breed ownership.

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How to Teach a Dog to Shake

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Teaching your dog to shake is a classic dog trick that most dogs learn very quickly and will thrill your friends and family.

Watch our dog trainer’s video on teaching your dog to shake. (Natasha, email me before you post this article, so I can send you the link.)

Before your training session, gather your supplies:

• small pieces of treats your dog is excited about
• a clicker if you are clicker training
• an area with minimal distractions like a quiet room inside your home

Teach a dog to shake in 5 steps:

Step 1: Holding a treat in a closed fist out to your dog. Wait as your dog explores your hand sniffing, nuzzling and then eventually pawing at your hand trying to get the treat. When your dog paws at your hand, praise (click if you are clicker training) and give your dog the treat. This is the foundation for what will become the shake trick.

If your dog sniffs and licks at your hand while trying to get the treat, ignore this and be patient until she uses her paw.

Step 2: When your dog constantly paws at your hand to get the treat in your closed fist, start to introduce the verbal cue of choice like “shake” or “hello.”

Step 3: As your dog improves, phase out the treat in your hand. Hold out your empty fist to your dog and give your verbal cue for shake. When your dog places her paw on your hand, praise and give her a treat.

Step 4: When your dog is consistently offering the shake behavior with your empty fist, hold out an open hand and give her the verbal cue to shake. When your dog’s paw connects with your hand, praise, click and treat.

As you practice, hold your hand out to your dog at her chest level so it will be comfortable for her to reach and shake your hand.

Step 5: Start to add a few seconds of duration with your dog’s paw on your hand, and gently move your hand up and down in a hand-shaking motion. Be sure to praise and reward your dog with treats after she finishes the trick!

Next steps

The more familiar your dog gets, practice shaking in areas with distractions like while on a walk. Also try increasing the duration of shaking your dog’s paw. If your dog is social and enjoys interactions, shaking is a great trick that other people can cue for your dog. Just remember to praise and treat her after she shakes hands!

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Hyperthyroidism in Dogs: Causes Signs and Management

The post Hyperthyroidism in Dogs: Causes, Signs and Management by Dr. Brittany Kleszynski, DVM appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Dogs have a thyroid gland in their necks that produces hormones. When excess thyroid hormones are released, hyperthyroidism occurs and results in negative effects in the body. This condition is most common in older dogs but is quite rare overall.

Causes of hyperthyroidism in dogs

A cancerous thyroid mass is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism in dogs. Less commonly, a benign mass called an adenoma can develop in the thyroid gland and cause symptoms.

Giving too much levothyroxine to a hypothyroid dog is also a common cause of hyperthyroidism. This can be prevented through monitoring and dose adjustments.

Signs of hyperthyroidism in dogs

Hyperthyroidism in dogs causes various symptoms, which include the following:

• Enlargement of thyroid gland
• Weight loss despite an increased appetite
• Increased thirst and urination
• Increased heart rate
• Abnormal heart rhythms
• Dull hair coat
• Hair loss
• Hyperactivity
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Behavioral changes, such as aggression
• Difficulty breathing and swallowing
• Coughing
• Facial swelling

If you notice any of these symptoms, bring your dog to the veterinarian right away to determine the underlying cause and begin treatment.

Management of hyperthyroidism in dogs

Management depends on the underlying cause. For dogs who have received too much levothyroxine, simply adjusting the dose can return thyroid hormone levels back to normal.

In dogs with thyroid masses, surgery may be an option. Radiation therapy can be used alone or in combination with surgery as another form of treatment. Radioactive iodine therapy also destroys thyroid tissue and reduces hormone levels. Your veterinarian can advise you on the best approach based on your dog’s overall health and needs.

Complications of hyperthyroidism in dogs

Hyperthyroid dogs are at an increased risk for other health conditions, such as heart or kidney disease and high blood pressure. Because thyroid cancer has usually spread by the time of diagnosis, most dogs experience a shortened lifespan. However, with the proper management, dogs with hyperthyroidism can still live happy lives.

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How to Teach a Dog to Lay Down

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Teaching your dog to lie down is a practical cue because it leads to more advanced behaviors. When your dog can lie down on cue, he’ll be able to  stay on his bed or master tricks like rolling over or crawling. The sky’s the limit! Your pup will enjoy the training and your friends will be impressed.

How to teach your dog to lay down

Before you start training, follow these tips to set up your surroundings for a successful session:

• First, to set your dog up to succeed, exercise him before starting the training session. He needs to be tired enough that he will want to lie down.
• Gather his favorite dog treats. The reward should be something that your dog loves and will follow with his nose when you attempt to lure him.
• Start training in a room without distractions, not even his favorite dog buddy who may pounce on him in play.

How to teach your dog down: the lure method

1. Cue your dog to sit in front of you. If he doesn’t know that behavior, teach it to him first during a separate training session.
2. Hold a small piece of yummy treat in front of his nose. Slowly move the treat straight down towards the floor. When he follows the treat, mark the desired behavior with “yes” and give him the reward.

Dogster tip: Stay calm when marking the behavior. If you get too excited, chances are your dog will get up.

3. Repeat this several times. During each successive step, continue moving the treat closer to the ground. When successful, praise and reward.

Dogster tip: If your dog gets up, ensure you’re not moving the treat too quickly, causing the behavior. Start again.

4. If your dog hunches up instead of lying down flat, slightly move the treat away from him after the treat reaches the ground. It should look like an “L” motion.
5. When your dog lies down flat, with his elbows and hocks on the ground, praise and reward.

Dogster tip: Place the treat reward on the ground just between your dog’s paws. This keep her lying down.

6. Repeat these steps a few times, always praising and rewarding your pup when she lies down on the ground.
7. As you lure your dog from the sit position, add the cue “down.” Praise and treat when she lies down, elbows on the ground. Perform this a few times.
8. Fade the treat lure after your dog understands what’s expected. Still use the hand motion but have the treat hidden in your other hand behind your back. Mark the behavior and treat when she lies down.
9. After your pup successfully lies down without the treat lure, fade the hand motion. Then use the verbal cue only. Mix it up after your dog understands what’s expected. Sometimes use the verbal cue and hand signal. Other times, use just the verbal cue or the hand signal.
10. Use a random reinforcement schedule. After your pup understands what you expect, treat less frequently. Do this slowly. You still want your pup to be motivated. And don’t forget the praise.

Teaching this trick will often take more than one training session. Don’t rush the process. It’s most important that your dog understands what’s expected before moving on.

Before teaching her dog how to lay down, dog trainer and writer Debbie DeSantis cues him to sit. © Debbie DeSantis.

What if my dog won’t lie down?

Don’t panic! Try luring your dog to go under something as if there were a bridge and he’s doing a limbo under it.

1. Sit on the floor and bend your knee as if it were a bridge. Alternatively, lure your dog under a table or chair rung, as long as the piece of furniture is stable and won’t move, which could startle a dog.
2. Then, follow the steps above, luring your dog with a yummy treat under the “bridge.” Always praise and reward when she lies down.
3. Eventually, fade the bridge and the treat lure.

If your dog won’t lure down, don’t despair. When you return from a walk or after a play session, have treats handy and wait for your dog to lie down.

Start calmly rewarding the behavior. Behavior that’s rewarded will repeat itself. Then you can start adding a “down” cue when she lies down. Mark and reward the behavior.

Debbie lures her dog from a sitting position, down to the ground with a treat. © Debbie DeSantis.

Next steps for teaching your dog down

After your dog lies down on your cue, start adding distractions. Have someone walk in the room at a distance. Perform the trick in different locations, on different surfaces and at different times of day. Up the distraction ante as your dog can handle it. The goal is for your pup to generalize the behavior in other settings.

Teaching your dog how to lie down on cue is a very useful behavior if you want to take your pup in public settings, especially with other dogs. Think of all the fun you’ll have together taking the show on the road!

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