On a percentage basis, more dogs than people suffer from heart disease. According to Novartis Animal Health, a Switzerland-based healthcare company, 25 percent of dogs aged over seven have the most extreme heart disease form, heart failure. By contrast, the National Institutes of Health estimates that only 6.4 percent of men and 2.5 percent of women between the ages of 65 and 74 suffer from the same condition.

Heart Disease and Dogs

While both dogs and people can get heart disease, the reasons they acquire these conditions differ.

“With human beings, it’s a matter of lifestyle putting on weight, not eating properly and not exercising,” explains Dr. Deborah Fine, assistant professor of cardiology at the University of Missouri-Columbia College of Veterinary Medicine. “With dogs, what we see is mostly caused by genetics or breed susceptibility.” 

There are various ways of ensuring a healthy heart for your dog. However, before making any changes in your dog’s lifestyle or diet, it is fundamental that you consult with your veterinarian. Take a look at these significant factors that determine dog heart health, and prepare to talk to a specialist if you’re worried about anything.

Healthy Diet For Your Dog’s Heart

Nutrition is essential for your dog. A balanced diet is necessary to develop a healthy, strong heart and ensure a long life. Dogs with a poor diet will suffer the consequences.

Firstly, it is vital to purchase high-quality dog food that includes the right nutrients and minerals essential for the growth of a fit, functional heart. Many low-cost options will not have the required vitamins for your dog to develop healthy heart muscle. It is better to invest in premium dog food from the beginning to save on possible consequences.

Please do not overdo it with treats. If your dog is in training, use the specially designed training treats. These are small and do not take away from their regular eating regime.

Finally, if you think your dog could be overweight, it could be at a higher risk of developing a heart problem. It would be advantageous to speak to a veterinarian about establishing a diet plan to reduce their size.

Healthy Lifestyle For Your Dog’s Heart

Exercise is indispensable in your dog’s life. Dogs need a daily activity that helps maintain a healthy weight and bodily functioning. Generally, dogs love to participate in frequent cardio exercises, such as running, walking, hiking, swimming, and even agility training. These types of activities help your dog to maintain a healthy heart.

 Additionally, you must schedule regular check-ups at the veterinarian with your dog. Dogs age faster than humans, and that includes their hearts. This aging rate is why it is paramount to take your pet to the veterinarian’s clinic at least twice a year. This way, the veterinarian can make sure that s/he is in optimum fitness.

Prevention and Care of Dog Heart Disease

It may seem odd to mention dental care when talking about heart health, but it is much more important than you might think. Dental infections and plaque can enter the bloodstream from the mouth and make their way to the heart, causing more debilitating illnesses. Actively check out your dog’s teeth and gums from time to time. Keep an eye out for anything unusual, such as bleeding, bad breath, or excess drooling.

Heartworm is a severe disease spread through mosquito bites. It is essential to use veterinarian-approved products to prevent infection because this disease can have dire consequences. Heartworm can lead to inflammation, restricted blood flow, pulmonary embolism, lung disease, and heart failure. 

Watch Out for Symptoms

There are several symptoms that dog-owners should be aware of to look out for heart problems. Some breeds are predisposed to having heart disease, and others may be more likely to develop one type. It is essential to research your pet’s breed to stay informed on any heart issues.

The following is a list of common symptoms of heart problems in dogs:

• Shortness of breath
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Fainting
• Coughing
• Swollen abdomen
• Lack of appetite or ability to exercise

Early detection of heart problems is ideal, so it’s essential to look out for these signs in your dog. If your dog is suffering from these symptoms, make an appointment with your veterinarian straight away. To find out what is going on with your dog’s heart, the veterinarian will run specific tests. These tests can include a physical exam to listen to the heart and lungs or an ultrasound or x-ray to see the heart muscle physically. They could also check their blood pressure check or do an EKG to discover any arrhythmias. Finally, they may do blood or urine analysis to determine what levels of chemicals are in their system that could negatively affect heart function.

Common Heart Diseases in Dogs 

The two most prevalent canine heart diseases — dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and mitral valve disease — are believed to be at least partially hereditary.

DCM and mitral valve disease cripple the heart in different ways. DCM causes swelling of one of the heart’s lower chambers, which are called ventricles. The left ventricle is affected more often than the right. “The ventricle changes from a football shape to a basketball shape,” explains Dr. Fine. “This weakens the ability of the heart to pump blood. The heart becomes large and flabby and beats weakly.”

Mitral valve disease attacks the valves that serve as doorways between the heart’s upper chambers, called atria, and the ventricles. The valves deteriorate to the point that they don’t close completely. Failure to close allows blood in the ventricle to flow back to the atrium instead of the rest of the body. Consequently, the heart must work harder than usual to pump enough blood to meet the dog’s needs.

Symptoms of Heart Disease in Dogs

With either condition, a dog may not show outward symptoms for years. Eventually, though, the dog shows signs that all is not well. Those signs can include:

• Lethargy
• Appetite loss
• Coughing, especially during exercise or excitement
• Gasping for breath
• Fainting or collapsing
• Gradual abdominal swelling

Although these signs can signify the onset of heart failure, they also mimic other conditions. For example, if the heart’s left side fails, fluid backs up into the lungs, but other conditions can do that too. That’s why a dog with these symptoms needs a thorough examination with appropriate testing. “You need a chest X-ray to confirm left-side heart failure,” says Dr. Fine. “Fluid in the lungs could also be pneumonia, bronchitis, or fibrosis of the lungs. 

At-Risk Dog Breeds for Heart Disease

Due to inherited genes and as a consequence of breeding, DCM usually affects large or giant breeds, especially:

• Doberman Pinschers
• Great Danes
• German Shepherds
• Irish Wolfhounds
• Mastiffs

Mitral valve disease, again due to genetics and breeding, affects a disproportionate number of small breeds, including:

• Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
• Chihuahuas
• Toy Poodles
• Maltese
• Bichon Frise
• Beagles
• West Highland White Terriers

Both diseases generally strike dogs mid-life or later, except for the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, which can show signs of mitral valve disease at just two years of age.

Caring for an At-Risk Dog

If your dog is one of the more susceptible breeds, expert monitoring from an early age is a good idea. For example, some experts believe that every Doberman Pinscher older than one year should receive an annual electrocardiogram because DCM is especially prevalent in that breed. Similarly, other experts recommend that Cavalier King Charles Spaniels receive yearly screenings for mitral valve disease. Such monitoring won’t prevent either condition, but it can lead to earlier, more aggressive treatment that can improve a dog’s quality of life and even lengthen it. “With heart disease, it’s not just about living longer, it’s about living better,” says Dr. Fine.

You can help your dog live better too. In addition to aggressive monitoring for early detection, good home care can keep a dog comfortable longer. If heart failure hasn’t occurred, “Keep your dog active, maintain a healthy diet and a healthy weight,” suggests Dr. Fine. “Excess weight makes the heart work harder.” 

Treatment Options for Dogs with Heart Disease

Once a dog has been diagnosed with heart failure, treatment focuses on controlling symptoms and the condition’s progression. A veterinarian may start treatment by prescribing a diuretic to reduce the dog’s fluid level and an ACE inhibitor, which levels 

blood pressure to better help the diuretic work. A dog with right-sided heart failure may also undergo abdominocentesis, a procedure in which the veterinarian inserts a needle into the abdomen to withdraw excess fluid. A dog with DCM may be prescribed medications to help the heart contract more normally.

Because these conditions aren’t curable, owners may question whether treatment is worthwhile. Dr. Fine responds, “I always encourage people to try therapy (treatment) because the medications can help their dogs return to their old selves. Give it a few weeks — the vast majority of dogs do much better.”

Article written by Author: Susan McCullough and The Dog Daily Expert

The American Kennel Club pedigree of Fallon Flights O’Fancy, an Irish Setter owned by Anne Schilling, is a mile long. The stunning purebred from Madison, Wis., justly holds his furry mahogany head high, but he isn’t snooty when he selects his friends. One such canine chum is Frank, a scruffy, shelter-rescued mutt that Fallon met at a dog park.

Unlike Fallon, Frank’s family history is a mystery. But thanks to new DNA testing procedures, Frank, and most mutts like him, can have their mixed breed ancestry deciphered. The tests are the scientific version of the best guessing game of all, “What kind of dog is that?” which has kept dog park walkers in conversation for years.

The DNA tests cannot reveal every bit of information about your dog since genetic data isn’t available for every breed and mix. Even if you don’t receive an entirely positive breed identification, at least some breeds can be eliminated from your dog’s pedigree.

Are Dog DNA Tests Accurate?

Dog DNA tests can identify the majority of known breeds. The major limitation is the number of breeds in the testing company’s database. The more breeds they have, the more accurate the results.

Most companies advise that their dog DNA test results are between 95%-99% accurate.

What is the Most Accurate Dog DNA Test?

The companies of two leading dog DNA tests, Embark Dog DNA Test and Wisdom Panel Canine DNA Test, claim to have a very high accuracy rate of over 90%.

How Much is Dog DNA Testing?

Pricing for dog DNA test kits ranges from $100 – $170.

Our Recommendations for a Dog DNA Test

• Embark Breed Identification Dog DNA Test
• Embark Breed Identification and Genetic Health Dog DNA Test
• Wisdom Panel Essential Dog DNA Test
• Wisdom Panel Premium Dog DNA Test

conditioner. She vacuums with a HEPA filter and bathes her pet every so often with a hypoallergenic shampoo. She also says, “Fred gets an antihistamine before therapy visits because he’s allergic to something there. It’s all about managing his environment.”

Bad Genes, Not Bad Dogs

Fred, King Sigfred, and other dogs prove daily that a hereditary disease doesn’t automatically mean that you and your dog must suffer. Sometimes you can prevent or delay conditions by following specific medical and nutritional recommendations. Your veterinarian can advise you, but the day-to-day management is up to you.

Article written by Author: Phyllis DeGioia

A few years ago, veterinarian Sophia Yin took her Australian Cattle Dog, Zoe, to a horse ranch and let the dog sleep in the stables overnight. In the middle of the night, Dr. Yin was startled by a strange, loud howling sound. “It sounded like the loneliest dog in the world,” recalls Dr. Yin, DVM, a certified applied animal behaviorist who worked at San Francisco Veterinary Specialists. She then realized it was her pet, Zoe. “She thought she had been left and abandoned,” Dr. Yin recalls.

Your dog may howl when you least expect it — as you’re warbling a tune at the piano, when a fire engine siren sounds or if your dog is left alone in a strange place. Howling may not be music to your ears, but to your dog, it is a throwback to its wolf instincts. The purposes, meanings, and triggers of howling may surprise you.

Why Dogs Howl

Howling — like barking — is one way that dogs communicate with other dogs, and to a lesser degree, with people. Studies have found that dogs bark for different reasons. While less research has been done on dog howling, researchers believe that dog howling is a throwback to wolf heritage and that howls also have various meanings.

Dogs often howl out of boredom or loneliness, seeking to communicate with others, as was the case with Dr. Yin’s dog. They may also be trying to summon other dogs or alert them about their location, identity, territory, and more. In the wild, wolves howl in an attempt to reassemble the pack after individuals travel far and wide. Dogs — descendants of wolves — may sometimes be trying to do the same.

“Because howling is long and sustained, its carrying distance is further than a bark, which is short and brief,” says Lisa Peterson, communications director for the American Kennel Club. “It’s like a ‘long distance’ doggie telephone call since the long, drawn-out sound can travel for distances of several miles.” 

Howling may be triggered by sirens, singing, or other noises the dog finds similar to howling, says Dan Estep, Ph.D., a certified applied animal behaviorist in Colorado and co-author of Help! I’m Barking, and I Can’t Be Quiet (Island Dog Press, 2006). Social facilitation convinces dogs to copy another dog’s behavior, such as when one dog barks at the mail carrier and the rest of the dogs on the block do the same.

Prolific Howlers

Some dog breeds tend to howl more than others, such as hound dogs or Northern breeds, like Siberian Huskies or Alaskan Malamutes. That’s because humans have encouraged this type of vocalization over the years for hunting, sledding, and other activities. “The hunter needs to hear them, so they want to breed a dog with a loud bay or howl that they can hear over distances,” Peterson explains.

On occasion, dogs will preface a howl with a few short barks. Researchers believe that this type of howl is meant to try to attract extra attention, sort of like tapping a fork on a glass in a crowded room. Other research has found that dogs have distinctive barks, and the same is likely true of howls. “With wolves, the thing about howling that makes it different from barking is that it’s not only longer but more musical in tone,” Dr. Yin says. “It can be carried farther and carry more of an individual characteristic.”

How to Control Dog Howling

If your pup’s howling gets on your nerves or your neighbors complain, you may want to try these tips:

• Mask triggers 

If the doorbell or a noon siren from the firehouse causes your dog to howl, leave the television or radio on to mute the other sounds, Peterson suggests.

• Try an anti-bark collar 

Suppose you live in an apartment and need to curtail the howling or else. In that case, Estep suggests trying a training collar that either sprays citronella oil or emits an ultrasonic sound when the dog attempts to vocalize.

• Behavior modification 

Desensitization to triggers may work, Estep advises. Set up training sessions during which you keep your pet calm and reward it with treats while exposing your dog to what makes it howl — the ringing of a doorbell or a telephone, for example.

You can also avoid situations in which you know your dog may howl. After hearing Zoe’s plaintive howl once, Dr. Yin let her dog sleep in her car whenever they went away on subsequent trips. Given the familiar environment and Dr. Yin’s frequent safety checks, Zoe napped in peaceful silence.

Article written by Author: Elizabeth Wasserman

Holding Lily the Chihuahua required a gentle touch recently at a hair salon, for fear of breaking one of her bird-like bones that I could feel through her thin fur and skin. She stared appreciatively into my eyes while sitting on my lap. We were waiting for her owner, Allison Lindquist, executive director of the East Bay SPCA in California. On answering why there are so many Chihuahuas found in adoption shelters, Lindquist told me, “I’m worried about all Chihuahuas now. They’re on their way to becoming the next Pit Bulls.“

She explains that dog breed popularity can follow trends. Due to the latest breed “fashion” and Disney’s movie Beverly Hills Chihuahua, more people have been bringing home tiny breeds, particularly Chihuahuas, and then dumping them off at adoption shelters not long afterward.

The same thing has happened to Pit Bulls since they have an established “tough and cool” image. She says, “Sadly, many people do little research into breed characteristics and don’t understand and commit to the responsibilities of lifetime ownership of a puppy or dog.”

The Pitfalls of Adopting a Chihuahua

If you’re still considering adopting a Chihuahua into your home, perhaps after having admired one on TV or in a film, John Dauzat, director of Fremont Animal Services in California, offers some words to chew on. “A puppy that looks cute in a movie may not seem as cute when it chews a favorite shoe or cries to go out at 3 a.m. “Rather than work through the issues, it is often easier to dump the animal.”

“Sadder yet,” adds Adam Parascandola, director of California’s Oakland Animal Services, “is when a family realizes a poor fit with their Chihuahua and relegates the innocent animal to the backyard. That is when we get calls for barking or neglected dogs.” He continues, “Many times, help reaches these animals too late; some are too antisocial and fearful ever to enjoy life with a family again.”

How to Avert a Chihuahua Adoption Disaster

Despite the potential problems, countless Chihuahua owners can attest that this smallest of breeds makes one of the sweetest and most loving pet companions for the right individuals and families. To avoid Chihuahuas going the way of Pit Bulls (becoming home rejects at adoption shelters), Linquist offers the following advice:

• Resist the Impulse Buy of a Chihuahua

These dogs are solely dependent upon us, and their lives are entirely in our hands. That is a massive responsibility for a long, long time.

• Do your Homework Before Adopting a Chihuahua 

Research the Chihuahua breed to determine if it will suit your lifestyle. You can do this online by reading books or talking to neighbors, co-workers, veterinarians, and other animal experts.

• Volunteer at a Shelter 

Most could use the helping hands while also allowing you to see what’s involved in pet care. See first hand how chihuahuas behave in the shelter before you decide to take it home for adoption.

• Consider your Living Situation 

Do you plan to stay in your home for a while, or could you move in a few years? If you rent, will your landlord allow pets, even small dogs like Chihuahuas? All of these factors, and more, could affect what happens to your dog in the long run.

• Be Honest About Your Financial Ability 

Take a hard, detailed look at your income and savings to make sure that you’ll afford pet care costs now and in the years to come.

• Consider Saving a Shelter Dog 

While many reputable Chihuahua breeders exist, check with your local adoption shelter to see if they have what you are looking for. You could save a life while saving money.

Lily is proof that you can find loving little Chihuahuas for adoption at animal shelters and that caring homes can break the Pit Bull shelter cycle. Is she here to stay? Just ask one of Lindquist’s three additional dogs, all Pit Bulls, which have grown very protective of Lily and have voted that she’s a keeper.

Article written by Author: The Dog Daily Expert

With such various offerings in the pet food aisle, selecting the right food for your dog can feel complicated. Health issues and life stages may take precedence, but feeding according to breed-specific needs is also an important consideration, especially for healthy adult dogs. 

When George Kantor took his Pug Sadie to his mother’s country home for the holidays, the New York City psychologist forgot to bring his diminutive dog’s small-breed kibble. It was Christmas Eve, and the stores were closed, so he fed Sadie from the food bag of his mother’s standard poodle. “If you know pugs, they never turn down a meal, and Sadie is no exception,” says Kantor. But the pug’s holiday meal soon turned sour.

“She seemed to be having a hard time with the bigger pieces,” he explains. Unfortunately, the kibble didn’t stay down, leaving Kantor with a most unwanted “gift” to clean up. He surmises, “I guess she wasn’t able to chew the large chunks quickly enough.” Kibble size isn’t the only reason to feed your best friend food specific to breed size. Appropriate nutrient levels also vary based on whether your dog is small, medium, large, or giant.

Your dog’s weight at maturity determines its breed size, whether your pet is a giant purebred or a tiny mixed breed. A giant-breed dog may reach 90 pounds or more at maturity, while a large breed will grow anywhere from 51 to 90 pounds. A small/toy dog will weigh up to 20 pounds as an adult. Any furry friend between (21 to 50 pounds) is a medium-sized dog.

Below, veterinarians Trisha Joyce, DVM, of New York City Veterinary Specialists, and Katy J. Nelson, DVM, a Virginia-based emergency veterinarian, weigh in on the importance of size-specific feeding.

Adult Nutritional Differences in Dogs

Post-growth, different breeds still have different needs. “Caloric needs vary based on breed size,” says Dr Joyce. Small and toy breeds have higher metabolic rates (more than twice those of large breeds)and smaller stomachs. They, therefore, function best on energy-dense diets and small meals. Small-breed formulas have more calories per cup than medium- and large-breed foods, making an energy-packed diet most appropriate.

Large and jumbo dogs have special nutritional considerations, mostly related to joint health issues. “In adulthood, larger dogs are prone to orthopedic problems and arthritis, so you may want to select foods that have protective substances for their joints, like glucosamine,” says Dr Joyce. Supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin, which are sometimes included in commercial dog chows, are thought to maintain your oversized pet’s cartilage.

Your Dog in Maturity

“The rate at which a dog ages depends on the breed,” explains Dr. Joyce. The larger and heavier the dog, the earlier the aging process begins. A large or jumbo dog should then start eating a “maturity” diet earlier than a small or toy dog. Larger breeds tend to have shorter life spans, so they might be considered seniors as early as six-years-old, while smaller dogs don’t generally reach senior status until ten years. Check with your veterinarian if you’re not sure when to start a mature diet.

The nutritional makeup of all senior diets should include immune-system-supporting antioxidants like vitamin E and beta-carotene. But such diets also vary by breed size. Large and jumbo dogs are still in need of nutritional support for their sensitive joints, so glucosamine should be on the ingredient list in your large or jumbo pet’s formula. Similarly, small dogs continue to need energy-dense food, and the calories per cup should be higher than for medium and large breeds.  

As for Kantor and his Pug Sadie, they had to make do over Christmas. “I cut the kibble pieces in half before I fed her Christmas day!” he recalls laughing. “The next morning, the stores were open super early, and we were back to her small-breed kibble by breakfast.”

 

What is the Difference Between Toy Breed Dog Food and Regular?

Suppose your dog is a Chihuahua, Toy Poodle, Brussels Griffon, Maltese, Pekingese, Pomeranian, or Yorkshire Terrier or weighs 10 pounds or less. In that case, you could consider feeding him a toy-breed dog food formula.

“The vast majority of toy dogs are shaky and are always cold,” says Dr. Nelson. “They’re worked up all day long over nothing.” As with fidgety people, the constant movement of toy dogs means they burn energy all day long. They also have small stomachs that cannot hold significant portions, so they need an especially calorie-dense formula. Small dogs also tend to have poor dental health and may benefit from tartar-controlling dog foods, helping protect their teeth.

As there is a wide variety of toy dog foods on the market, check with your veterinarian to help you to find the right one for your dog. Follow the portion recommendations on the label and adjust accordingly if your dog does not maintain a healthy weight.

What is the Difference Between Small Breed Dog Food and Regular?

If your dog is a Jack Russell, Shih Tzu, Pug, Lhasa Apso, Cocker Spaniel, Border Terrier, French Bulldog, or Dachshund or weighs between 10 and 20 pounds, you could consider feeding him a small-breed formula.

In the commercial dog food world, toy and small formulas are often one and the same, and with good reason: “A lot of small dogs are also high in energy and low in stomach capacity. Plus, they need bite-sized kibble for their relatively small mouths,” says Dr. Nelson.

However, small dogs are more likely than toy dogs to become overweight. To ensure that toy- and small-dog formulas do not pack the pounds on your dog, small-dog owners need to be particularly attuned to portion control.

Finding the right dog food for your dog is a significant first step; ensuring they are fed correctly is the second. Follow the portion recommendations on the label and adjust accordingly if your dog does not maintain a healthy weight.

As there is a wide variety of dog foods on the market for small dogs, check with your veterinarian to help you to find the right one for your dog for whatever their life stage.

 

What Should I Feed My Mid-Sized Dog?

If your dog is a Schnauzer, Beagle, Border Collie, Basset Hound, Irish Terrier, Portuguese Water Dog, or Shar-Pei or weighs between 20 and 50 pounds, you could consider feeding him a standard adult dog food formula.

Mid Sized dogs are considered standard by the pet food industry, and their needs encompass the needs of most dogs: high-quality protein dog food to maintain muscle mass, fiber to promote intestinal health, fish oil for healthy skin and coat, carbohydrates for fuel and vitamins and minerals for proper immune function.

“These are middle-of-the-road dogs,” says Dr Nelson. “In adulthood, there’s not a lot separating their dietary needs from large breeds.” Such dogs do, however, reach what is considered old age more slowly than bigger dogs. Mid Sized canines can safely remain on “adult” instead of a “maturity” formula through to age 7.

As there is a wide variety of dog foods on the market for standard-sized dogs, check with your veterinarian to help you to find the right one for your dog for whatever their life stage.

What is the Difference Between Large Breed Dog Food and Regular?

Suppose your dog is a German Shepherd, Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Pointer, Great Dane, Bullmastiff, Newfoundland, Rottweiler, or weighs over 50 pounds. In that case, you could consider feeding him a large or giant-breed dog food formula.

Post-puppy-hood, large and giant breeds have the same nutritional requirements and the same concerns. “They have a lot more joint issues compared to smaller dogs,” says Dr Nelson. Foods for these oversized dogs should contain glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate for joint health and antioxidants like vitamin A and vitamin E to slow the aging effects, which larger dogs do more quickly.

Finally, they also require fewer calories. Large-breed foods have less fat and calories per kibble because, except for hunting dogs, the dogs they’re targeted at tend to be less active. The L-carnitine in these formulas will help large and giant dogs to burn fat more efficiently.

Large dog breeds can be more susceptible to conditions such as Orthopedic Disease and Bloat. Feeding your large dog a formula specifically designed for large dogs made by

a reputable company can help avoid the onset of these conditions. Consult with your veterinarian for any recommendations and advice.

Finding the right dog food for your dog is a significant first step; ensuring they are fed correctly is the second. Follow the portion recommendations on the label and adjust accordingly if your dog does not maintain a healthy weight.

No matter your dog’s breed, feeding the right formula will help maintain its health and longevity, an objective that all dog lovers can agree on, regardless of their breed preferences.

Article written by Author: Darcy Lockman, and The Daily Dog Expert

Carl Greenhous’ English Bull Terrier, Toby, had a strange obsession with dental floss. With every chance he got, the canine rummaged through the bathroom trash bin and picked out only the used strands of floss.

“He would usually poop it out, but sometimes it wouldn’t pass all the way through,” recalls Greenhous.

New research is revealing that swallowing non-food items may be more common among Toby’s breed than others. A study in the Journal of Small Animal Practice is the first to look at which dog breeds are more likely to come into a veterinary hospital with swallowed objects obstructing their gastrointestinal tract. It’s also helping to determine what factors might best predict successful treatment.

Terriers Top the List

Dr. Graham Hayes, a veterinary surgeon at the University of Cambridge Veterinary School in the U.K., reviewed every case over four years of dogs coming into a local animal hospital for gastrointestinal obstructions. Five breeds were significantly more likely to have swallowed something they shouldn’t have:

• Staffordshire Bull Terriers (by far the most likely)
• English Bull Terriers
• Jack Russell Terriers
• Border Collies
• Springer Spaniels

“I think rooting about, scavenging rubbish and chewing up plastic toys is in the nature of terrier-type breeds,” says Hayes.

Successfully Treating Obstructions

Besides looking at breeds, Hayes analyzed each documented case to determine what factors most often lead to positive — or negative — outcomes.

One factor was the type of object swallowed, “discrete” or “linear.” Discrete objects are things like balls, toys, or bones. A linear object is something long and thin, like a piece of string or fabric (think: Toby’s fave, dental floss). Hayes found that dogs are more likely to swallow discrete objects, but linear objects are more likely to be fatal.

“Part of the [linear object] gets stuck somewhere, such as around the base of the tongue or in the bottom of the stomach, and the rest gets moved down the intestine by contractions,” explains Hayes. “Eventually … the string digs into the side of the intestine, which ruptures the bowel in several places. A whole length of the intestine can become severely damaged.”

Another reason linear objects are more dangerous is they often cause only a partial obstruction of the bowel, so food and water can continue to pass through. Owners may not notice anything is wrong for a while.

“Linear objects damage a greater amount of the bowel, may cause less obvious clinical signs in the patient and can be harder for the vet to diagnose by clinical examination and X-rays,” says Hayes.

Keeping Your Dog Safe From Swallowing Foreign Objects

The most obvious thing to do is keep potentially harmful objects away from your dog, especially young dogs. If your dog swallows an object, bring your pet to the veterinarian immediately for an exam, which should include an X-ray. Hayes found that quicker diagnosis leads to better outcomes.

Of course, not all owners catch their dog in the act, so how would you know if your dog swallowed an object?  You should start to get suspicious if your pet refuses to eat for 24 hours or more, but the primary warning sign is vomiting in the absence of bowel movements. Hayes urges caution, however, in using anti-vomiting medicine or medicine that promotes bowel movements.

“Vomiting is the major clinical sign associated with obstruction of the bowel, and masking this clinical sign with medication can make the animal appear much better but is not addressing the underlying cause,” says Hayes. Medication that promotes bowel movements may stimulate bowel contractions and hasten rupture of the bowel, which is frequently fatal.

Hayes recommends a mutt for those looking to add a dog to their family and wants to know which types are least likely to get into this sort of trouble. “I like crossbreeds, as they tend to be much healthier than pedigree dogs due to more outbreeding and hybrid vigor,” he says.

Article written by Author: Brad Kloza

The best workout partners never complain, bring unfailing energy to your exercise sessions and stick by your side rather than racing ahead or trailing behind. If it sounds like it would be tough to find someone to fit that description, it’s time to consider a four-legged workout partner.

“For the most part, any dog can be a runner,” says Lindsay Stordahl, a professional dog runner, and walker who operates Run That Mutt in the Fargo-Moorhead area of North Dakota. Stordahl has covered more than 4,200 miles with clients’ dogs. “People get too caught up over whether or not their dog can run. If you are not sure, then simply try.”

It’s also possible you might find another exercise activity to enjoy with your dog, such as swimming, which is low-impact for joints, says Dr. Amber Andersen. Dr. Andersen is a veterinarian at Point Vicente Animal Hospital in Rancho Palos Verdes, Calif. A dog-focused activity such as agility training can also provide workout benefits for both you and your dog.

Before You Begin a Workout Program with Your Dog

Of course, it’s not merely a matter of grabbing a leash and heading out the door. Before you begin working out with your dog, experts say you should consider these factors:

• Your health and the health of your dog  

It’s a good idea to check with your veterinarian and your physician before you begin a workout program.

• Your dog’s breed

Stordahl runs with all manner of breeds. However, short-faced (i.e., brachycephalic) dogs, such as English Bulldogs and Pugs, can overheat quickly. “They have an already compromised respiratory system,” says Andersen. “Monitor them closely.” An English Bulldog will likely be happier walking because of its heavyset body.

• Your dog’s age

“Many veterinarians will stress that a large-breed dog should not run until it’s about 18 months old because the dog’s bone structure will not be fully developed until that time,” says Stordahl. Check with your veterinarian to determine when a young dog is ready to jog, then keep to a modest pace and distance. Older dogs, like older humans, can suffer from arthritis or other health conditions.

• Weather conditions

Extreme temperatures and weather conditions can impact your dog’s ability to work out. Be particularly conscious of your dog’s water needs in warmer weather.

Working out With Your Dog

“Gradually increase the intensity and duration of exercise over a few weeks,” says Andersen. “Be consistent and committed so both you and your dog can build stamina.” Exercising with your dog will work better if you do the following:

• Let your dog be a dog

“Usually, our dogs are allowed to stop and sniff on daily walks, so they will want to do this during more intense jogs or runs,” says Andersen. “Before you start running, let your dog have ample time to relieve itself as well as sniff around. During the cool down after your run, let your dog do this again.”

• Use a harness and ditch the retractable leash

A harness allows for greater control, and you’ll want to keep your dog on a short leash.

• Do regular paw-checks

“If your dog is new to running, you should stop and check its feet at least every five minutes until you know how much it can handle,” says Stordahl. “If the paws look pink or tender, then slow to a walk and head home.” Bleeding paws mean a few days’ rest, though they should heal on their own. Your dog’s feet will naturally toughen.

• Know when to stop

If you see a wagging tail and your dog is alert and responsive, it most likely is enjoying the activity. It’s time to stop when you see any respiratory distress or lameness or when your dog starts dragging behind or slowing down.

Be creative and patient as you find a workout routine you both enjoy. “Exercising is vital to both human and canine health,” says Andersen. “Finding a way to incorporate your dog’s fitness routine with your own will make you both happy and can be a huge time-saver.”

Article written by Author: Kim Boatman

“Small dog syndrome” refers to tiny dogs with a big attitude. In humans, a comparable phenomenon is called the “Napoleon complex.” That’s a phrase used to describe an inferiority complex held by people who are short in stature. Napoleon stood about 5 feet 6 inches, but what would today be considered a short stature did not stand in the way of his military and political achievements. People with this complex are said to be driven by a perceived handicap to overcompensate in other aspects of their lives.

Small dogs, in turn, “get a bad rap for being yippy, yappy, snappy and high-strung,” say Wendy Nan Rees and Kristen Hampshire, authors of the Dog Lover’s Daily Companion. However, Rees and Hampshire add that these little dogs don’t seem to care much about size. They think they’re big, so they act like it. The writers astutely ask: Have you ever seen a Bernese Mountain Dog back off from a feisty Chihuahua? The Chihuahua will probably be the one that doesn’t back down. (Owners, however, should be present to take control of such situations and prevent them in the first place.)

Rees and Hampshire propose a very interesting theory about small dog syndrome. They  

believe it is rooted in people’s willingness to overlook bad behavior. They explain that because small dogs can usually just be scooped up in our arms, we tend to slack on obedience training. With larger dogs, such training is often not ignorable.

Can Small Dog Syndrome Be Cured?

The solution to curing a small dog of this syndrome is to just stick to a training plan. Be sure to teach your little dog foundation commands. That way, the next time your dog goes into a yapping fit or decides to dig on your furniture, you can rein in the behavior before it becomes habitual.

Article written by Author: The Dog Daily Expert

Every child deserves to grow up with a pet. A beloved animal does wonders for a child’s physical, emotional, and mental development. For a child, the unconditional love exchanged, the reduction of anxiety felt, and the commitment to caring for another life can set them on a stable path. If you think your child is ready, here are some factors to consider as you choose what kind of pet to get for your family.

What Is a Good First Pet For a Child?

There are many factors to consider when determining what type of pet to get your children, such as the size of your house, your child’s age, how busy your family is, and the lessons you would like to teach. For example, if your child is young and you want them to be responsible for taking care of another life, generally, a fish might be a good option. A fish will require the cleaning of a tank and daily feedings. 

If your child needs companionship, physical activity, and more responsibility, a Labrador or other breed of dog could be the perfect pet. On the other hand, if your child is ready for some responsibility but not enough to devote a ton of time and attention, then a cat may be the best way to go.

At What Age Should a Child Get a Pet?

If you are considering getting a pet for your child, it’s essential to wait until they are old enough to understand that the pet is an animal and not a toy. Generally, this would be around 5 – 6 years old. By this age, most children would be old enough to safely handle the pet and care for it. Your local library would be a great place to go to find books on pet care for children.

What Is the Best Age For a Child to Get a Dog?

Before deciding on getting a family dog, it is essential to understand that pets are a daily responsibility. Having a family pet such as a dog will help you teach responsibility to your children, but ultimately the responsibility of the dog’s care will fall on you. Waiting until your youngest child is around 5 – 8 is an excellent time to introduce a dog to your family.  

Should All Children Have a Pet?

There are heaps of benefits for children through pet ownership. As mentioned earlier, caring for a pet helps teach your child how to nurture and be responsible for another life. Also, dog ownership provides a silent ear for children to practice reading aloud to, reducing the risk of developing allergies, an increased opportunity for exercise through playing with and walking the dog, and cuddling a dog to reduce stress, anxiety, and loneliness.

How Do I Prepare My Child For Dog Ownership?

A few things would be beneficial for your child to learn before the arrival of a new dog.  

Teach Your Child How to Behave Around Dogs 

Children need to be taught how to interact with dogs safely. Warning cues given by dogs may not be evident to children, so children must be taught the correct way to interact with dogs. For example, ensuring that your child knows not to put their face too close to the dog’s face, not to pull the dog’s ears or tail, or not to be rough with the dog is a good starting point. Once your child understands these concepts, then introduce your child to a friend’s or neighbor’s dog under your supervision. As well as learning how to interact with a dog safely, children also need to have enough empathy to understand that animals feel pain and have needs that need to be met (feeding, exercise, etc.) 

Teach Your Child About the Cost of Dog Ownership

While each pet requires different care, most of them will require a veterinarian’s assistance at one point in their lives. Like all medical bills, the costs can add up quickly. Having pet insurance is imperative to avoid the high costs of medical assistance.

Include your children in the process. Teach them the vital lesson of veterinarian costs and evaluate pet insurance by considering covered services and deductibles. Also, show them how to choose the right provider. For instance, according to Pet Life Today, Embrace offers insurance covering accidents, illnesses, wellness visits, and preventative care.

Teach Your Child About Feeding and Walking a Dog Daily

Whatever pet you decide to get will require a daily feeding or two. To prepare your child for that principal responsibility, give them a daily task to do for a certain amount of time before they can get a pet. Some chores you can give them to prepare are:

• Taking out the trash
• Setting the table
• Washing the dishes
• Helping to prepare a meal
• Making a bed

If you choose to get your child a dog, they will need physical activity daily. Depending on the breed, the level of physical activity necessary will vary.  Ensure your child is up for the task; just because they are active outside with their friends won’t necessarily mean they want to run with the dog or throw a ball. A daily walk will require your child to stop

things they are interested in so that they can tend to their pets’ well-being. Get them ready for the physical requirements by having them take walks at the same time every day.

If you believe your child could benefit from getting a pet, it is time to prepare them for the responsibility. Let them in on the decision-making process by teaching them about costs and the requirements to care for the pet. Before getting the pet, help your child understand the responsibilities by getting them into routines. There are many advantages to getting your child a pet; make sure they (and you) are ready to take that step.

Article written by Author: Brandon Butler and The Dog Daily Expert