For reference in this article:

• Small Dogs are considered to be less than 10 kg (less than 22 lbs).
• Medium Dogs are between 10 kg and 25 kg (22 lbs to 55 lbs).
• Large Dogs are over 25 kg (over 55 lbs).

Benadryl Dosage Chart by Dog Weight

A chart for Benadryl dosage can be a helpful resource in determining the appropriate amount of medication to give your dog. Just find your dog’s weight on the chart and match it with the corresponding dose – for instance, a 50-pound dog would typically need 50 mg of Benadryl. Keep in mind that this dose can usually be administered two to three times per day, depending on your pet’s needs.

• Dosage Calculation: The dose is calculated based on the dog’s weight. The typical range is 1-2 mg of Benadryl per kilogram of body weight.
• Administration: Benadryl is usually given orally. It comes in tablet, liquid, or capsule form.
• Monitoring: Watch for any signs of allergic reactions or side effects, especially when giving Benadryl for the first time.
• Safety: Do not use time-release capsules for dogs, as they can absorb them differently than humans.
• Consultation: It’s always best to consult with a veterinarian before giving Benadryl to ensure it’s safe for your specific dog, especially if your dog has other health issues or is on other medications.

Please remember, while Benadryl is generally safe for dogs, It’s advisable to consult with your veterinarian before administering this medication, especially if your dog has any underlying health conditions. It should also be noted that smaller dogs will require a much lower dosage compared to larger breeds in order achieve the recommended standard amount.

Key Takeaways

• Benadryl (diphenhydramine) can help alleviate allergy symptoms, travel anxiety, and other conditions in dogs, with dosage determined mostly by the dog’s weight (1 mg per pound, two to three times daily).

• An accurate dosage of Benadryl is crucial for dogs’ safety; use of a dosage chart and vet consultation is advised, especially for dogs with health conditions.

• While generally safe, Benadryl can have side effects and isn’t suitable for all dogs; dogs with pre-existing conditions should only be given Benadryl under veterinary supervision, and alternatives may be considered.

Understanding Benadryl and Its Use in Canines

Benadryl, also known as diphenhydramine, has the same effect on dogs and humans alike. It acts as an antihistamine to counteract histamine’s impact on capillaries and relieve allergy symptoms caused by common triggers such as pollen, mold, and house mites. To allergies, Benadryl tablets can help with mild-to-moderate travel anxiety, motion sickness, and itching in pets.

To ensure its effectiveness and safety for your dog’s health, it is important to determine the appropriate dosage of Benadryl based on their body weight. The right amount will vary depending upon how much they weigh. As with any medication, it is crucial to carefully follow instructions when administering Benadryl dosages for dogs. Just remember-when giving medications always consider a pet’s size!

Key Factors Influencing Benadryl Dosage

The weight of your canine is an essential element when determining the appropriate dosage of Benadryl to give. It is recommended to administer 1 mg per pound of the dog’s body weight, two or three times daily. This means that larger dogs will require a higher dose than smaller ones in order for it to be effective.

Aside from weight, other factors such as the specific condition or ailment being treated also play a role in deciding how much Benadryl should be given. For instance, severe allergic reactions may need a slightly increased amount compared to mild cases of anxiety.

Remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach when administering Benadryl. The proper dosage depends on various factors and must always be determined carefully.

Calculating the Right Benadryl Dosage for Your Dog

When administering treatment to your dog, it’s important to know their weight and the condition being treated. To ensure a safe and effective dosage of Benadryl for your dog, some basic math may be required. Luckily, we have a helpful resource (the Benadryl dosage chart) to simplify this process for you. With this tool, determining the correct amount of Benadryl is made easier.

Liquid Benadryl Considerations for Dogs

When deciding whether to give your dog liquid Benadryl, it’s important to note that not all versions are safe. Some contain harmful substances like alcohol and xylitol for dogs. Children’s liquid Benadryl usually has a lower concentration of diphenhydramine HCl and is considered a safer option for small dogs.

The dosage of liquid or tablet form should be based on the weight of your dog at 1 mg per pound. It is recommended to seek advice from your veterinarian before administering any type of Benadryl medication.

When Is It Safe to Give Your Dog Benadryl?

This video and article from PetMD provides a great exclamation how and when to use Benadryl.

It may be unclear when it is safe to use Benadryl, but there are certain situations where it can provide relief. Examples include insect bites, hives, swelling, inflammation and redness.

Benadryl dosage for dogs should always be determined by a veterinarian as different factors must be considered. Although being a bad guy, despite being a good guy, it is still a good thing. Safe, there are times when giving your dog Benadryl might not be advisable due to health conditions like upset stomachs or diarrhea.

Dry mouth could also make administering Benadryl problematic – this means that underlying health issues such as seizures, heart problems, and glaucoma shouldn’t be given without consulting with their vet beforehand.

Recognizing Signs of Allergic Reactions in Dogs

Dogs, like humans, can suffer from allergies too. It is important to be able to recognize the signs of an allergic reaction in your dog so that you can provide them with relief as soon as possible. These symptoms include red and itchy skin and the presence of hives.

In particular, airborne allergens can cause a variety of reactions in dogs such as excessive shedding, paw licking, and sneezing.

Itchy skin, watery eyes, runny nose, coughing, vomiting, and diarrhea. If any of these symptoms are present in your dog, Benadryl may be just what they need for relief.

Therefore, it is crucial for pet owners to pay attention if their beloved furry friend begins displaying signs or behaviors indicating an allergic reaction. Airborne allergies tend to affect our canine companions more frequently which reinforces how helpful Benadryl could potentially play role providing solution if necessitated by symptom presentation involving uncontrollable scratching, paw biting/shaking, gastrointestinal troubles(mostly vomiting & diarrhea), and other various problematic manifestations. Moreover, timely administration of this medication could positively influence quality life altering malady typically self-ending only once treated accordingly. However, the above mentioned list offers entire typical clinical repertoire associated perfectly customized drugs working well relieve a patient’s condition.

Potential Risks: Understanding Benadryl Overdose and Side Effects

While Benadryl can help alleviate your dog’s allergies, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers and adverse reactions. Giving too much Benadryl can have serious consequences for your pet, and common side effects like sleepiness, lack of saliva production (dry mouth), and a faster heart rate should not be ignored.

What to Do If Your Dog Experiences Side Effects

If your dog experiences any side effects from taking Benadryl, there is no need to panic. Mild symptoms such as lethargy, dry mouth or difficulty urinating can be managed at home with close observation. If these signs worsen or an allergic reaction occurs (e.g., breathing difficulties and swelling), immediate veterinary care should be sought.

In case of severe side effects like hyperactivity, depression, rapid breathing, increased heart rate and dilated pupils along with disorientation in dogs after administering Benadryl, requires urgent medical attention. Therefore, it is crucial to take the pet to a veterinarian promptly if any of these symptoms are noticed following the use of this medication.

To ensure the well-being of your furry companion while using Benadryl for allergies or other conditions such as motion sickness, intelligent monitoring is necessary for possible adverse reactions ranging from mild discomforts that could easily resolve on its own without treatment to more concerning ones requiring professional intervention. So always remain vigilant and do not hesitate in seeking timely help when needed.

Administering Benadryl Safely to Dogs

Properly administering Benadryl to your dog requires understanding and instruction. It is important to follow the recommended dosage prescribed by a veterinarian, give the medication with food when feasible, and maintain a schedule of 2-3 doses per day for maximum safety and effectiveness. This information will help ensure that your dog receives appropriate treatment while taking Benadryl.

Guidelines for Regular and Children’s Benadryl

Selecting the appropriate type of Benadryl for your dog is crucial in administering it safely. Regular Benadryl is typically recommended for adults and older children, while Children’s Benadryl has specific dosage instructions tailored to kids.

Giving your dog Children’s Benadryl at the correct dose is safe. It’s always best to consult with a veterinarian before using either regular or children’s Benadryl on dogs to ensure proper dosing.

Special Considerations for Dogs with Health Conditions

If you are considering giving your dog Benadryl and they have pre-existing health conditions, it is important to be extra cautious. This medication can cause urinary retention in dogs with liver or kidney issues, which may worsen their condition. For diabetic dogs, the use of Benadryl should only be done under the supervision of a veterinarian.

Regardless if your dog has an ongoing health problem or is healthy, seeking advice from a vet before administering Benadryl is recommended for safety reasons.

Treating Seasonal Allergies in Dogs with Benadryl

As the spring season arrives and pollen fills the air, some dogs may begin to exhibit symptoms of seasonal allergies. These can include red rashes on their skin and swelling in their face or tongue, indicating an allergic reaction to something in their surroundings.

One possible treatment for these seasonal allergies is Benadryl, which has been known to effectively alleviate symptoms and provide relief for dogs. It is important to consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment options that address any underlying causes of your dog’s allergies.

Alternative Usages for Benadryl with your Dog

While Benadryl is a useful option for managing dog allergies, there are other usages as well. This table provides a additional usages and general guideline. The exact dosage and suitability of Benadryl for a particular dog should always be determined by a veterinarian, who can consider the dog’s specific health needs and medical history.

Usage and Indications

• Allergies: For symptoms like itching, hives, and swelling.
• Motion Sickness: To prevent nausea and vomiting during travel.
• Sedation: Mild sedative effect can help with anxiety or restlessness.

Important Considerations

• Dosage: Should be precisely calculated based on the dog’s exact weight.
• Frequency: Typically administered every 8-12 hours, but may vary based on the condition being treated.
• Consult your Veterinarian: Before giving Benadryl, especially if the dog has other health issues or is on other medications.
• Monitoring: Observe for any adverse reactions, particularly when starting a new medication.
• Safety: Avoid use in dogs with certain medical conditions like glaucoma, heart disease, or high blood pressure.

Alternative Solutions for Dog Allergies

While Benadryl is a useful option for managing dog allergies, there are other alternatives available as well. These include prescription medications such as hydroxyzine pamoate, cyclosporine, prednisone, and Apoquel. It’s important to consider the best options in treating your dog’s allergies while ensuring their health and comfort.

Making lifestyle changes can also contribute greatly to your dog’s overall wellbeing when dealing with allergy symptoms. This may involve improving their diet, providing regular exercise opportunities and minimizing exposure to allergens. As always consult with a veterinarian before starting any new treatment plan for your furry friend.

When it comes down to finding solutions for alleviating your pet’s allergic reactions besides Benadryl some considerations have been mentioned like getting help from veterinary medical assistance that includes advanced prescribed formulas of Hydroxyzine Pamoate among others which provide another possibility than just Benadryl products along incorporating healthy habits on behalf of our pets’ maintaining good nourishment balanced lifestyles or avoiding close contact with objects known sources responsible directly otherwise inducers aggravating biological affecting elements either by breathing ingestion absorption touching outright specifically hygiene routine cleaning recommendations warranting productive treatments against these nuisance causing unavoidable family canine companions’ welfare sake lives full exchange enjoyment happiness savviness contents above all risks hazardousness occurrences through prevention versus contingency

Summary

From recognizing the signs of an allergic reaction in your dog to understanding the right dosage of Benadryl, we’ve covered a lot of ground. Remember, while Benadryl can be an effective treatment for a variety of conditions in dogs, it’s always crucial to consult with a vet before administering any new medication. After all, our furry friends depend on us to keep them healthy and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much Benadryl can I give my dog?

If you need to know the proper dosage of Benadryl for your dog, reference the comprehensive chart below. It is crucial to consult with your veterinarian before giving any medication to your furry companion. Remember that even though Benadryl can be used in dogs, they may require different dosages compared to humans and other animals.

Is 25mg of Benadryl too much for a dog?

The recommended amount of Benadryl for a 25-pound dog is 1 mg per pound of body weight, which equates to 25 mg. This dosage can be given two times daily. Administering the full recommended dose would be too much for a dog weighing in at 25 pounds.

How many mg is one Benadryl?

One adult tablet of Benadryl has a total of 25 mg Diphenhydramine HCL.

A single dose of children’s Benadryl (Diphenhydramine) typically contains 12.5 mg of Diphenhydramine. This is commonly found in liquid formulations, where the concentration is usually 12.5 mg per 5 ml (1 teaspoon). It’s important to note that children’s dosages are based on the child’s age and weight.

For use in dogs, however, dosing is quite different and should always be determined and overseen by a veterinarian. Never use adult’s or children’s medication dosages as a guide for pets, as their pharmacological needs and tolerances can be significantly different from humans. Use the comprehensive chart above as a guide and always consult with your veterinarian before giving any medication to your furry companion.

Can you give your dog Benadryl?

It is safe to administer Benadryl to dogs, as long as it is done under the supervision of a veterinarian. The dosage should be determined based on the dog’s weight for optimal results. Giving Benadryl to your canine companion can help your dog. Be considered harmless and effective when used correctly.

The majority of people seem to like their dogs licking them because they believe their dog loves them. Nevertheless, it would be best if you remained cautious because dogs can accidentally harm you. Their mouths may be clean, but they contain a lot of natural germs that can be dangerous to humans; that’s why your dog licking you might be hazardous. You shouldn’t worry much, though, as long as it doesn’t touch an open wound, your eyes, nose, or mouth.

Why Does My Dog Lick Me In the Face?

People love their dogs. These animals aren’t only adorable additions to the family – they are participants.

Dog owners tend to spend a great deal of time looking for the ideal food, buying toys, and even clothing for their best friends, searching for ways to train them, adjust the houses, and make their dogs’ life extra comfortable and more secure. It’s no surprise they observe their dog and wait for a signal that their love is reciprocated.

That’s just how they see their dog licking them in the face. Dogs seem to be licking a whole lot. Most dog owners see it as an indicator of affection. Is it the case? Some dogs tend to lick people’s faces more than others. Does it imply that they are much more caring? Or is there something more to it? Possibly they greet in that way, or attempt to taste you? Sadly, there is no specific answer, but dog experts have some theories:

• Why Does My Dog Lick Me So Much?

Your dog licking you may be for attention. Dogs are quick to observe which behaviors force different kinds of reactions, so they probably recognize that licking will certainly always provoke a response. Many people laugh and smile when their dog licks them, yet some will certainly get annoyed. It does not matter if the reaction is unfavorable or favorable when your dog desires attention. They just want you to notice them when they feel sad, bored, or lonely, as well as they feel compensated even if you are busy with something else. Barking isn’t always as efficient as licking.

• Do Dogs Like How You Taste?

Do not stress; it does not suggest that your dog will ultimately wind up eating you. But dogs can indeed appreciate your taste. Besides, it’s a little salty and extremely particular, and also, dogs often tend to lick these kinds of flavors. Dog licking is also their way of discovering their surroundings – dogs need to touch and taste almost whatever they see. And you become part of their world.

• Can Dogs Pick Up On Human Anxiety?

Dogs appear to understand whenever you’re stressed out, anxious, or sad. So if you come back from work feeling exhausted and upset, and you lay on the couch, you may anticipate your dog running to you to bring you some comfort. Your dog will do so by licking your feet or hands. And also some people find it is quite calming.

• Are Dog Licks Really Kisses?

Yes, one of the reasons dogs lick you is probably affection, as they tend to lick people that they spend a great deal of time with. Besides, that’s what their moms do when they have their puppies – they lick them to show them love and make them feel safe. Dogs lick your face if they can get to it, or any other spot of skin available, like hands, neck, or a leg. So why do some dogs tend to lick more than others? It’s much like with people – not everyone loves embracing and kissing; however, it does not indicate they like you less. They may have different methods of revealing affection, or they do not like licking.

How Do I Get My Dog To Stop Licking Me?

You may love your dog’s kisses; however, no one wants them all the time. You might also assume that having a dog licking your face is horrible – it’s ok; it does not suggest that you don’t love your dog. Among the most reliable methods to stop your dog licking you is to quit showing your emotions while being licked. Don’t show your happiness, and do not reveal to your dog that you’re angry about those licks. Turn your head away and act like it didn’t occur. When they’re not licking you, reward him with love. A little bit complicated, but still feasible, is to train your dog to kiss you just when he hears a specific command. You might try it on your own, by awarding those wanted kisses as well as overlooking unwanted kisses. You can also turn to a dog instructor.

Can Dogs Have OCD?

It’s not very common, yet it’s possible in the case of dogs that have experienced trauma and prolonged stress and anxiety. If it seems like your dog is licking every little thing too often, including himself, you must think about talking to your veterinarian or going to a pet behaviorist directly. Your dog may likewise require medications to alleviate it’s anxiety, as they aren’t capable of finding out if they’re stressed. Yet medications must regularly be combined with proper training. If your pet has an unidentified history (or you recognize that he has been abused in the past), it’s particularly vital to respond.

The Area Surrounding My Dog’s Feet Is Red, and He Licks It a Lot. What Kind of Treatment Can I Apply?

Most of your dog’s sense of touch is located in its paws, and it sweats there too, so it’s good that you noticed the problem so you can keep your dog’s paws in good shape. The good news is that the symptoms you describe, redness, and your dog’s paw licking, are quite common. The bad news is that any number of causes can lead to this behavior. They include:

• Skin irritants, such as salt or chemicals on the ground 
• Infection due to parasites, fungi, or bacteria 
• Allergies, arthritis, or some other more internal problem 
• Cysts or other growths. 

Paw redness can also be due to dogs habitually chewing and grooming the area, similar to a child biting its fingernails a lot. It could be your dog reacting to stress and boredom. Schedule a visit for your dog with his veterinarian to determine precisely what’s going on. If there is no medical cause, behavior modification might be needed to break your dog’s paw-licking habit. You would also need to identify the source of any stress and try to resolve that issue.

How Do I Treat a Yeast Infection On My Dog’s Paws?

If your dog’s paws are always damp from excessive licking, they will be more susceptible to developing a yeast infection. Things to look out for include skin redness, itching, odor, thickened skin, swelling, warmth, and flakey or crusty skin. Bathe your dog using an antifungal shampoo, ensuring that you clean the affected areas thoroughly. For the next step, use an antifungal spray, or you can make up a spray at home using half organic apple cider vinegar and half water. As yeast needs a moist environment to thrive, keep your dog’s paws as dry as possible.

It is essential to determine what caused the yeast infection to prevent it from coming back. Some common causes include; allergies (food, pollen, skin, etc.) and often damp skin (from licking, swimming, etc.). Sometimes hot, humid weather can increase the chances of a yeast infection developing.

How Can I Get My Dog To Stop Licking His Paws?

If your dog is licking his paws occasionally, then it is part of his self-grooming routine. However, if it is occurring frequently or aggressively, then that indicates that there is a   

problem. Check the paws carefully for signs of injury or other health-related issues such as a food allergy or a fungal infection. It is essential to have your dog checked out by your veterinarian to ensure there is no medical reason for your dog licking his paws. 

If there is no medical cause, behavior modification might be needed to break your dog’s paw-licking habit. You would also need to identify the source of any stress and try to resolve that issue.

Excessive dog licking should stop once the cause has been determined, and treatment sought.  

Article written by Author: The Dog Daily Expert

Getting old is no excuse to become a couch potato—and that goes for dogs, too! As your dog ages, regular exercise keeps his muscles toned, his joints protected, his body trim, and his mind sharp. He may no longer be able to slaughter the Frisbee as he used to, but an exercise routine tailored to his likes and needs will make his remaining years truly golden.

How Much Exercise Does My Senior Dog Need?

“The most important thing with older dogs is making a routine,” says Nann Dawn, shelter manager at the Oakland Adoption Center in Oakland, California. Dawn is also one of the shelter’s innovative Silver Muzzle Club founders, an adoption program for pets eight-years and older. “Make time for exercise every day. They can’t afford at their age to be weekend warriors.”

Whether your dog’s idea of fun is swimming, walking, or playing with other dogs, build up slowly. If it’s walking, start with a few blocks and gradually progress to a couple of miles a day.

Beware of overstraining your dog. An older dog will want to please you and might end up playing beyond its limits. Monitor the situation closely and make sure your dog doesn’t become dehydrated, overheated, or too tired. “The key is not to push a dog,” says Chuck Keiser, DVM, at the Heartland Veterinary Hospital in Kentucky. “You don’t want to push an animal beyond a comfort zone.”

What Activities are Good for Senior Dogs?

Steer clear of high-impact activities like jumping, which can stress aging joints. Dr. Keiser recommends swimming as “absolutely the best” for older dogs because it is low-impact. Walking is a close second for the same reason. Surprisingly, however, Keiser also likes agility training, which he says can be easily adjusted to suit a senior dog‘s ability. “There are lots of ways you can modify an agility course for an older dog,” says Keiser. Lowering jumps is a good example. “It can still be a blast for them to participate.”

Obedience training is another option to get senior dogs moving. “Every adult dog who joins the Silver Muzzle Club goes through obedience work,” says Dawn. “We have yet to find one that doesn’t like a little round of treat training,” she says. And a lot of the senior dogs have gone on to do pet therapy. “Most dogs don’t make it to old age without being really good dogs. Sometimes they’re ready to work.”

Dawn also recommends at-home toys, such as Buster Cubes and Kongs filled with kibble, because they keep a senior dog entertained and exercise the jaw muscles. As for social activities, she prefers large dog parks where an older dog might avoid getting bullied or crowded by younger aggressive dogs. “Older dogs can’t take those adolescent body slams,” she says. “Most of them can’t keep up with the youngsters.”

By knowing your older dog’s likes and limitations, the two of you can develop an exercise regimen that will keep both of you having fun for years to come.

Article written by Author: Marcella Durand

1. Slim Down

Recent studies indicate that if your dog is overweight, it can shorten his life. And pet obesity is a growing health problem due to today’s more sedentary lifestyle. The recently updated National Research Council‘s Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats says as much as 25 percent of America’s pets are overweight. You can tell if your dog is too fat by running your hands along his sides — if you have trouble feeling his ribs, he’s got a problem! And did you know that dogs should have waistlines? Consult your veterinarian about a weight-loss plan, which will probably involve more exercise, fewer snacks between meals, and food that is lower in fat.

2. Assess Your Dog’s Changing Needs

When dogs are young, they can seem indestructible — they run for miles, play for hours, and even will plop down on cold, hard floors for a snooze. But just like the rest of us, they slow down as they get older and need extra comfort — as well as more medical care. If you notice your dog taking longer to get up from a lying-down position and having trouble jumping on and off furniture, take her to the veterinarian to see if she has a treatable age-related condition such as arthritis. You can make her life more comfortable in other ways, as well, such as getting a heated dog bed to soothe aches or regularly brushing a graying coat to keep it in condition.

3. Take Him for the Longest Walk of his Life

And make it a regular habit. Everybody knows that it’s much easier to exercise with a partner, even a furry one. And walking is particularly great exercise. It’s easy on both human and canine joints and provides a relaxing and fat-burning (yes, they can happen at the same time) workout. Both you and your dog will enjoy the mental and physical stimulation of long walks, whether the scenery is wooded glades or busy urban streets. Research local parks and nature preserves for canine-friendly areas, make sure to bring lots of water for both of you, and no matter where you are, even the most remote-seeming forest, make sure to bring out everything you brought in, including dog poop!

4. Stretch Her Mind

Like humans, dogs need constant mental challenges to keep their brains happily humming along. Try adding some new commands to your dog’s repertoire or twists to old ones. If your dog already knows how to sit and lie down, teach her how to roll over or speak. Or invent a new game: Take a favorite toy and hide it in another room while your dog stays in the kitchen on a down-stay. Both of you will enjoy hunting for it! If you have a particularly active dog and a big backyard just waiting for some fun, try setting up some basic agility courses. If you’ve got a friendly, gentle dog who’s up to date on all her shots, volunteer for some hospital or school visits — you’ll be doing a good deed while your dog laps up the extra attention.

5. Help the Dog Species

Love one dog, love them all. And that can mean helping unwanted hounds at your local shelter or animal rescue group. Donating an hour or two a week to walk a shelter dog is much appreciated by both shelter staff and under-exercised, cooped-up dogs. If you don’t have time to dog walk, donate a soft old blanket to comfort some elderly dog in his cage or a toy or two for puppies to play with (even a simple ball will do). Most shelters accept donations of office equipment — many have “want lists” on their websites. If nothing else, cold hard cash is always welcomed by underfunded shelters.

Article written by Author: Marcella Durand

Many dog owners seem to feel that walking their dog must be done; a chore that goes along with dog ownership. But walking your dog doesn’t have to be a chore — it can be so much more. When you’re out walking your dog, you are spending time together, interacting with each other, and sharing the sights and sounds of the world around you.

Opportunity for Training

The time spent walking your dog is also a great time to refresh training skills. Walking your dog is no fun if your dog is dragging you down the street, so teaching her to walk nicely on the leash is an excellent skill to emphasize. Have a few treats in one pocket, or if your dog isn’t motivated by treats, take a favorite small toy. When your dog begins to surge forward on the leash (before she is pulling hard), show her the treat or toy, tell her, “Sweetie, watch me!” and make a 180-degree turn. Use the treat or toy to make sure she turns with you, and praise her, “Good girl! Super!” Give her the treat or let her play with her toy for a few moments. After a few surprising turns, she will begin to keep an eye on you when you’re out walking. When she does, praise her.

Opportunity for Socialization

Walking your dog is a wonderful time to meet and greet your neighbors. To protect your neighbors from your dog’s enthusiastic greetings and dirty paws, teach your dog to sit when people greet her by holding her collar with one hand and tucking her hips under her with the other hand. Don’t let your neighbors pet her while she’s misbehaving; that would reward her bad behavior. Once she’s sitting (even if you have to help her do it), your neighbors can greet her and make a fuss over her.

Opportunity for Your Dog to Work

You can also give your dog a job to do while walking. You might be amazed at how much satisfaction your dog will get from something as merely as carrying some of your junk mail home from the mailbox! Put a rubber band or two around several pieces of junk mail or advertisements, making the mail into a tube shape. Hand it to your dog and tell her,

“Take it!” and encourage her to follow you with it. Praise her, “Good girl to take it! Super!” Begin by having her carry it just a few steps and make a big deal over her efforts. With praise and encouragement, she will carry it longer or even carry a small bag home from the grocery store.

Walking your dog is so much more than just a chore. While walking your dog, you are outside in the fresh air, you’re getting some exercise, you’re meeting people, and you’re practicing your dog’s social and training skills. All these things are excellent ways to strengthen your relationship with your dog.

Article written by Author: Liz Palika

The day you bring home a little puppy for the first time is a memorable one. It’s exciting to add a new four-legged member to the family. And in these early days, it is critical to begin laying the groundwork for how you will care for your precious puppy’s health and medical needs. Here we will advise on how to find a Veterinarian for your puppy, how to give your puppy a pill, and how to protect your puppy from fleas. 

How Do I Find a Veterinarian For My Puppy?

Just like you, your new puppy needs high-quality health care. Ask a friend or your local humane society to recommend a veterinarian. 

Be sure to consider the location of the clinic. A drive across town during a medical emergency could delay urgently needed treatment.

Once you’ve narrowed your choices, take time to visit the veterinarian’s office, inquire about services offered, and talk to the doctor and staff about your new puppy. If you like what you see and hear, arrange a time to bring your puppy for an initial examination. It’s a good idea to visit the veterinarian within the first three days after you bring your puppy home to ensure it’s in good health. The veterinarian will probably check:

• Stool. A fecal exam will reveal the presence of internal parasites.

   

• Body. A head-to-tail physical exam includes inspecting your dog’s coat and feeling the body for abnormalities. The doctor will check the eyes, ears, mouth, and heart and examine the anus for signs of intestinal parasites.

Once an exam is completed, your veterinarian can advise you on immunizations, spaying and neutering, and future health care visits.

Spaying and Neutering 

For most pet parents, the expense, time, and expertise involved in breeding dogs responsibly are beyond their reach. Here are some advantages to having your puppy spayed or neutered:

• For females, there will no longer be a mess to deal with during their 21-day heat cycles, which occur approximately every six months. The heat cycle begins in females sometime after six months of age.

   

• Spaying a female before her first heat cycle will reduce the chance of mammary tumors or uterine diseases.

• Neutered males tend to be less aggressive than un-neutered males.

• With a neutered male, the urge to mark territory may lessen.

• A neutered male is less likely to want to roam in search of potential mates. 

Most veterinarians say dogs should be spayed or neutered by the time they are six months old. Both operations are performed under anesthesia and may require an overnight stay at the veterinarian’s office. Recovery time is quick, with most dogs resuming regular activity in a few days.

Spaying (for females) consists of an ovariohysterectomy. Neutering (for males) involves the removal of the testicles. When you bring your puppy to the veterinarian’s office for the first thorough examination, this is an excellent time to ask the doctor to explain the details of these procedures.

How Do I Give My Puppy a Pill?

Most puppies don’t like taking medicine. And who could blame them? But the good news is that when you use the right technique, that bitter pill can be much easier to swallow. Here’s how.

Step 1: Begin with a play session and praise your puppy for relaxing it. Then get on the same physical level as your puppy. With a large puppy, kneel next to it while the dog is in the sitting position; with a small puppy, place it on a grooming table or a countertop. 

Step 2: Place one hand over the top of the puppy’s muzzle. Hold the pill in your free hand, and then gently open its mouth with that hand.

Step 3: Place the pill in the center of the tongue as far back as you’re able to reach. Then close your puppy’s mouth and hold it shut while you blow gently but quickly at its nose. Doing so will cause your dog to swallow before it has a chance to spit the pill out. Give your dog a treat immediately afterward to ensure that the tablet has been swallowed. End each session with play and praise.

How Do I Protect My Puppy From Fleas?

The common flea causes your dog discomfort; it can also transmit disease, pass on tapeworms, and cause anemia, especially in vulnerable puppies and older dogs. Regularly inspect your dog for any signs of fleas. Intermittent scratching, biting, and gnawing, plus evidence of flea dirt between your dog’s back legs or on top of its rump, are telltale signs of fleas. If your dog is continuously biting and gnawing itself or you can see fleas, you’ve got a full-blown infestation. 

Check your dog for fleas by standing it in a bathtub and vigorously rub your hands through its fur. If little dark dots fall on the tub floor, they’re likely fleas or flea “dirt” (which is the flea’s excrement). You’ll know it’s a flea problem if the “dirt” turns red when you add a drop of water.

Prevention is the key to winning the battle against fleas. There are prescription products that prevent fleas from biting or reproducing. They are given to your dog in either oral or topical treatments, once a month, to break the flea’s reproductive cycle. Ask your veterinarian for more information.

Meanwhile, there are many misconceptions about keeping these pesky critters away. 

Here’s the truth about the two most common myths:

Myth: Garlic and onion repel fleas. 

Reality: Feeding your dog garlic or onion will only result in bad breath. It will have absolutely no effect on fleas, and feeding large amounts of onion to dogs can be toxic.

Myth: Brewer’s Yeast repels fleas.

Reality: No evidence exists that feeding your dog Brewer’s Yeast repels fleas.

Paying careful attention to your puppy’s health will get your new family member off to a great start.

Article written by Author: Anne Black