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What Is Paw Pad Hyperkeratosis And How To Heal It

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Paw pad hyperkeratosis is a type of skin condition where a dog develops especially dry, crusty, and sensitive skin on the bottom of their paws. It’s also called “hairy dog feet” because it can look like the dog is sprouting an unusual type of hair on the bottoms of their paws. If this sounds like something your … Read more

How To Help Your Rescue Dog Gain Weight

“Skin and bones” are words to describe a specific population of rescue dogs. They’re the ones found staggering near death on the side of the street or rummaging through the dumpster looking for scraps of anything remotely edible. They’ve known what true hunger feels like, and recovering from near starvation isn’t an easy process. Helping a rescue dog gain weight isn’t tossing them a few McDonald’s burgers and letting them go to town. It isn’t even leaving a limitless supply … Read more

Top 4 Tips For Avoiding Dementia In Your Senior Dog

As dogs age, their muzzles grow grey, their bodies slow down, and some are at risk of developing dementia. Also referred to as canine senility or Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD), dementia is a condition that can cause stress, anxiety, confusion, and put a dog’s safety at risk. It’s heartbreaking to watch a senior dog suffer from the effects of dementia, but it’s a painful reality everyone who loves an aging dog needs to prepare for. The exact cause of dementia … Read more

Does Your Pup Have Missing Hair And Hot Spots? This Nutrient Might Help

You’re used to shedding, but some dogs suffer from more severe hair loss. Patches of missing fur on your pup’s chest, belly, shoulders, or legs could mean a number of different things. Infections, irritations, and allergies all cause bald spots, and there’s also the risk of your dog developing painful hot spots. You’ll need to discern the exact cause of the issue to find the most efficient solution, but there’s one nutrient that could help bring back your pup’s healthy … Read more

Astaxanthin For Dogs: The Powerhouse Super-Nutrient Everyone’s Talking About

It’s hard to pronounce and even harder to spell, but dog owners, vets, and behaviorists are spreading the word about an antioxidant called astaxanthin. It’s the natural red pigment that gives lobsters, shrimp, krill, and flamingos (from the shrimp they eat) their color, but turning things red and pink isn’t what people are talking about. Evidence shows that dogs, cats, and people can benefit from the antioxidant’s powerful ability to protect the body from free radicals. And don’t worry, it … Read more

5 Reasons To Supplement Your Dog’s Diet With DHA

Out of all the possible supplements your dog could benefit from, there’s one that stands out for being especially vital. DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is a type of omega-3 fatty acid found in eggs, certain types of organ meat, and fish. It’s an essential part of a dog’s health, but the canine body can’t produce what it needs. Without the body’s ability to produce it naturally, your dog relies on their diet to satisfy more than cravings. Here are a few … Read more

A Guide To Cushing’s Disease In Dogs

Cushing’s disease is a condition affecting a dog’s endocrine system, the glands that produce and secrete hormones throughout the body. One of those hormones, cortisol, is responsible for stress management and balancing the immune system. Cortisol is essential for healthy body function, but too much or too little can cause problems. A dog dealing with increased levels of cortisol has hyperadrenocorticism, more commonly known as Cushing’s disease, but the condition can be difficult to diagnose. Causes of Cushing’s Disease There … Read more

The Healthiest Food Will Bring Your Pet A Thriving Life

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. What do you say when people ask you how your dog is doing? Do you shrug your shoulders and say “fine”? Or do you tell your friends and family that your dog is overjoyed, on top of the world, honest-to-goodness thriving? Some people may be okay with knowing their dogs are doing “fine,” but others know that … Read more

5 Natural Ways To Boost Your Dog’s Immune System

Your dog’s immune system is like a security guard, constantly patrolling the body for potentially harmful pathogens such as bacteria and viruses, then eliminating them before they can do harm. In order to effectively do its job, the immune system needs healthy maintenance and an occasional boost. The following 5 methods may seem pretty simple, but when it comes to immunity, natural methods are best. 1. Feed a Healthy Diet Just about every time we cover a canine health topic, proper … Read more

Rottweiler Weight Management: Veterinary Health Assessment (2026)

While Rottweilers typically very active and burn energy fairly easily, they can definitely become overweight. In the United Kingdom, there are have been several Rottweilers in the news for obesity, including one Rottweiler taken into the PDSA Pet Aid Hospital that weighed over 150 pounds. Unsure if your Rottie could stand to lose a few pounds? The following are 3 signs your Rottweiler is overweight. How Much Should Rottweiler Weigh? 77 to 130 Lbs Image Source: Arne List Via Flickr #1 – ... Read more

Shih Tzu Weight Management: Veterinary Health Assessment (2026)

Overweight Shih Tzus are prone to many health issues, even some that can lead to an early death. Being overweight puts stress on their joints and internal organs, including their heart. It increases the risk of many health issues including many forms of cancers, diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, osteoarthritis, and urinary bladder stones. So, to help keep your pup as healthy as possible, it’s good to watch and make sure yours is not getting too pudgy. The following are three ... Read more

Top 9 Pet Insurance Plans for Chihuahuas (2026)

There are dogs who love a nap on the couch—and then there are dogs who are always ready to spring into action. Whether it’s leading the way on a hike, charging headfirst into a new experience, or fearlessly stepping up to protect their pack, these daring breeds never hesitate. They’re courageous, confident, and often the first to volunteer (whether you asked them to or not). You’ll find them at the front of the line, alert and excited for the next big moment. These are the dogs who leap before they look, lead with heart, and bring bold energy into every part of your life.

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Life grows more expensive by the day. Gas, groceries, utilities, it’s all getting to be too much. But what happens if one of your furry family members gets sick or hurt? Vet bills aren’t getting any cheaper either, and a major medical episode from Chihuahua health problems can really put you behind. Or even force you to … Read more

Pros And Cons Of Different Types Of Dog Food

german shepherd with all types of dog food

Choosing the right dog food can feel overwhelming. From kibble and canned food to raw, air-dried, and homemade diets, there are more options than ever for feeding your dog. Each type of dog food comes with its own benefits and potential drawbacks, and what works best depends on your dog’s health, lifestyle, and nutritional needs. Below, we break down the pros and cons of the most common types of dog food to help you make a more informed decision. There’s … Read more

3 Tips To Successfully Train Your Dog With Treats

Positive reinforcement is scientifically proven to be one of the most effective and humane ways to train your dog. It builds trust, strengthens your bond, and creates a dog who wants to work with you. But even when you’re committed to positive methods, small mistakes can slow your progress — especially when it comes to treats. Food rewards are one of the most misunderstood parts of positive reinforcement training, yet for most dogs, they are also one of the most … Read more

10 Most Common Dog Obesity-Related Illnesses

A few extra pounds might not seem like a big deal at first, especially when your dog still acts happy and hungry. But obesity isn’t just about appearance. Carrying excess weight can quietly strain your dog’s body over time, increasing the risk of painful health problems and making everyday movement harder. From joints and organs to hormones and the heart, being overweight can affect nearly every part of your dog’s health. Here are common illnesses linked to canine obesity, along … Read more

How Much Omega-3 Should I Give My Dog? Fish Oil For Dogs

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for your dog’s health, supporting everything from skin and coat condition to joint mobility, heart function, and overall inflammation control. Since dogs cannot produce omega-3s on their own, many pet parents use fish oil for dogs to help provide the right balance of EPA and DHA for daily wellness. Knowing how much … Read more

The 4 Most Common Causes For Ear Infections In Dogs

Have you ever noticed your dog shaking their head excessively, scratching at their ears, or emitting a funky smell from their head? If so, your pup may be suffering from an ear infection—a surprisingly common health issue in dogs. In fact, according to veterinarians, ear infections are among the top reasons dog owners seek veterinary care. These infections can be painful, irritating, and even lead to more serious complications if left untreated. While dogs of all breeds and ages can … Read more

What Is A Holistic Vet And Should You Schedule An Appointment?

holistic vet

As an advocate for your dog’s health and happiness, your decisions for her care will have a great impact on her life. You choose what to put in her bowl and how much she exercises, but even the best pup parent can’t do it all. It’s important to have a vet you can trust and rely on. You have a lot of options, and one of those options is to choose a holistic vet. While most veterinary offices fall under … Read more

Health Is Wealth, And The Same Can Be Said For Your Dog

Dog eating Nom Nom

Pet parents want their dogs to live long, vibrant lives, starting with what’s in their food bowl. Just like with people, the link between nutrition and well-being in dogs is undeniable. We know that a balanced diet can help humans maintain energy, boost mood, prevent disease, and increase longevity. So why wouldn’t the same be true for our furry friends? Unfortunately, many commercial pet foods fall short. Often filled with fillers, preservatives, and human food byproducts (yes, the parts people … Read more

4 Common Ingredients In Dog Treats To Watch Out For

common ingredients in dog treats

You love making your dog happy with something as simple as a yummy treat. Sure, she’ll gulp down almost anything that’s edible (and a few things that aren’t), but you want your dog’s treats to be nutritious as well as delicious. Unfortunately, many brands of dog treats include ingredients that aren’t good for your dog’s health. Some ingredients offer zero nutritional value, and others have potentially harmful side effects. Here’s a list of common ingredients in dog treats you want … Read more

Is My King Charles Spaniel Overweight Or Obese?

The Association for Pet Obesity says that over half of the dogs in the United States are overweight. That number is the same in the United Kingdom, and it’s a growing problem in other parts of the world as well. This means that there is a good chance your Cavalier King Charles is overweight. There are many things that could be contributing to the extra weight gain, including health issues, lack of exercise, and/or too much food. First though, you ... Read more

Top 3 Health Concerns For Your Pomeranian

Pomeranians are a fairly hardy breed, but they do have some health issues that come with being a small breed. Since small dogs were bred down from larger ones, they are predisposed for issues their larger counterparts do not often have. Whether you own a Pomeranian or are thinking of getting one, it’s good to know the medical issues you may have to deal with. Some of them can be fairly costly, requiring surgery. Others are more about ongoing maintenance to … Read more

How Gentle Stretches Can Help Your Dog Stay More Limber

Dogs suffer from stiff joints, soreness, and general bodily pain alongside the best of us. Unlike the human members of the family, however, their struggle usually goes unnoticed. The good news is, there’s an easy way you can help your dog ward off pain and feel younger and healthier. Stretching is great for both people and pets. People often underestimate the benefits, but making a daily effort to gently extend and exercise your dog’s muscles will do them a lot … Read more

Here’s Why Your Dog Pees The Bed…It’s Not What You Think

dog pees the bed
Cleaning up messes is an unavoidable part of pup parenting, but peeing the bed is something more often related to human children than fur babies. You can’t send your dog to bed with a pair of pull-ups, and waiting for them to grow out of it won’t work either. When a dog wets the bed, potty training is rarely the issue and can be linked to a potential infection or medical condition like Spinal Cord Disease or Diabetes. When They’re ... Read more

Traditional & Holistic Vets Agree: These 4 Tips Help Dogs Live Life To The Fullest

Whether you prefer a straight-laced veterinary clinician or a holistic vet with a focus on Chinese medicine, we all have one common goal when we consult a doggy doctor: More healthy years with our canine BFFs. Two very different vets agree on four things pawrents need to do in order to achieve that goal. Dr. Elizabeth Murphy, author of How to Age-Proof Your Dog, believes prevention is the key to longevity and that we are the “guardians of our pets’ health.” … Read more

What You Need To Know About Hip Dysplasia

Hip dyplasia is a serious skeletal condition affecting a high percentage of large breed dogs and occasionally small dogs. It’s diagnosed as a malformation of a dog’s hip joint that makes moving painful, and in extreme cases, walking normally is impossible. Owners of large dogs need to be aware of the risks and symptoms to provide their pets with the happiest and healthiest futures. Related: Best Hip Dysplasia Supplements for Dogs Like humans, dogs have what’s called a ball and … Read more

5 Tips For Keeping Your Dog In Great Shape

Whether your dog is bubbling over with energy or prefers to snooze on the couch all day, staying in shape is an important part of their overall health. Obesity is as common in dogs as it is in humans, and extra pounds affect canine health in similarly negative ways. An active dog benefits from a faster metabolism, better muscle tone, a more regular digestive system, and less stress. Dogs love to hunt, chase, herd, and run, and it’s a dog owner’s job … Read more

What Every Dog Parent Needs To Know About Vaccine Reactions

Vaccinations have saved countless lives – both human and animal. But as with all pharmaceutical products, they have their side effects. It’s important to understand the difference between normal post-vaccine symptoms and potentially life threatening reactions. “True” vaccine reactions are rare and the benefits of protecting against deadly diseases like Parvo and Rabies far outweigh the risks. Understanding the different health concerns associated with vaccines can help you initiate an important discussion with your veterinarian on your dog’s behalf. Together … Read more

5 Ways To Fight Fall Allergies In Dogs

Autumn’s falling leaves, moisture, and windy weather mean it’s time to deal with fall allergies. Your dog is just as susceptible to allergies as you are, and all that sniffing he’s bound to do puts him especially at risk. Sneezing, coughing, red eyes, and itchy skin are all possible side effects. Whether it’s the mold that grows under damp piles of leaves or decaying plant matter swept up by the wind, there’s a number of things your dog could be … Read more

This Food Makes Your Dog Feel Like a Puppy Again

When it comes to dog food, we all want to make sure we are feeding our dogs all the goodness they need without any harmful ingredients or additives. I am one of those dog moms. That’s why I jumped at the opportunity to try Dr. Jeff’s Optimum freeze-dried dog food and Daily Canine Care supplement. My dog was so excited after eating this food that she celebrated with some zoomies! Meet Townes, the Lucky Taste Tester I adopted my female … Read more

5 Reasons Your Dog Won’t Eat And How To Help

dog won't eat

When it comes to the canine appetite, most people are used to dogs gobbling everything in sight. They rush to eat their meals and taste test things you’d never dream of putting near your mouth. But on the opposite side of that spectrum, it’s not uncommon for dogs to be picky eaters or suddenly stop eating altogether. These are the dogs that barely nibble on their kibble and turn their wet noses up at everything in their dishes. Not eating … Read more

How To Help Your Senior Dog Find Relief From A Dry Nose

Your dog’s slobbery kisses aren’t the same without that cold, wet nose pressing up against your face. And if your senior dog’s nose is dry or cracked, you have more than the quality of their kisses to be concerned about. As one of a dog’s most important features, the health of their nose is always important. A dry nose is irritating and in the worst cases, it’s even painful. It’s sometimes a symptom of serious illness, but most of the … Read more

5 Signs You’re Dealing With A Flea Infestation

dog has fleas

There’s only one “f” word that strikes fear into the hearts of all dog people: FLEAS. These blood-feasting insects are so tiny you can barely see them, but they wreak havoc on your home. If your dog has fleas, the bugs won’t stay on their unwilling host for long. It always starts with one, but soon enough, there are fleas in your carpet, couch, blankets, and even your bed. A flea infestation takes over your entire house, and your dog … Read more

If Your Dog Is Lethargic, It’s Time To Figure Out Why

You know your dog better than anyone, but that doesn’t make it easy to know when she’s not feeling well. She can’t come out and tell you she’s ill, and that leaves you to worry and wonder when something seems “off.” Decreased activity is one of the most common symptoms of canine illness. Commonality, however, doesn’t make it easy to identify or interpret. If your dog is lethargic, there’s always a reason. The trick is knowing what that reason is. … Read more

Mysterious Dog Disease is Rapidly Spreading Through Virginia

Veterinary clinics in Virginia are warning pet owners of a mysterious new threat to their furry family members. In the past month, more than 150 dogs in the Charlottesville area have received veterinary attention for a type of respiratory condition similar to whooping cough. The disease is highly contagious, and local vets are officially calling the issue an “epidemic.” Autumn Tails Veterinary Center in Charlottesville, VA is one of many veterinary clinics that has seen a huge intake of dogs … Read more

5 Reasons Hemp Oil For Dogs Is Exploding In Popularity

It’s a dog owner’s priority to safeguard the well-being of their pets, and a new player in the world of veterinary science is opening all-natural doors of opportunity. Hemp oil from hemp is the medicinal herb dog owners are talking about. The benefits of Hemp oil are reaching more dogs every day. Here are a few reasons why dog owners are choosing it for their pets. Related: 10 Best Dog Doors 1. It’s Nontoxic and Not Psychoactive The first concern … Read more

Why It’s Important To Let Your Dog Sniff During Walks

Getting your dog out the door for daily exercise will always be a step in the right direction when it comes to their health and happiness.  There is a way, however, for your dog to get even more enrichment from their regular walk around the block. While you’re busy looking at the scenery, your dog’s nose is working overtime. They walk a few feet before stopping to sniff, and then they take a few more steps to find something else … Read more

If Your Dog Is Under Stress, Consider Adding A Probiotic To Their Diet

With a dog bed in every room and no job or obligations to worry over, it’s hard not to be jealous of your dog’s care-free lifestyle. Their lack of responsibility seems blissful, but that doesn’t mean they’re immune to stress. Dogs get stressed out just like humans do, and like us, high stress levels can seriously affect their health and well-being. Counting to 10 and meditating won’t work for a stressed-out dog, but adding probiotics to your dog’s diet is … Read more

Is Your Dog a “Weekend Warrior”? Make Sure You’re Taking Care Of His Joints In These 5 Ways

You wish you could spend every day playing fetch and hiking with your dog, but weekday obligations get in the way. Between work, family, and everything else life throws at you, finding time to exercise your dog can seem impossible. While you’re at work Monday through Friday, your dog is lounging around the house. You both live for the weekends when it’s finally time to have some fun. If this sounds like you, your pup is a weekend warrior. You … Read more

The Top 6 Ways To Give Your Pup The Probiotics He Needs

Approximately 70% of a dog’s immune cells reside in the gut, so it is extremely important to their overall wellness that digestive health is maintained. For this reason, veterinarians often recommend probiotics for their canine patients in addition to a healthy diet. Related: 12 Best Probiotics for Dogs (+1 to Avoid) Probiotics balance the “good” and “bad” bacteria in the gut in order to protect the dog’s natural defenses, promote digestive heath, and keep the body working to its full potential. … Read more

10 Times Probiotics Are Especially Beneficial To Your Dog

Up to 80% of a dog’s immune system is located in the gastrointestinal tract, so maintaining digestive health means far more than just preventing upset bellies and loose stools. Related: iHeartDogs Rates the Best Probiotics for Dogs Probiotics replenish the levels of healthy bacterial flora in the GI tract and prevent the “bad” bacteria from taking over. Dogs with unbalanced flora levels experience digestive problems and are more susceptible to illness. In general, probiotics are a healthy addition to your … Read more

9 Best Essential Oils For Your Dog

In an effort to help your furry best friend live a more natural and healthy life, you may have considered essential oils for your dog. But when it comes to these potent plant oils, with so many out there, choosing safe essential oils for dogs can get a bit tricky. There’s a lot of information out there about the risks and benefits of using essential oils with pets, and everything revolves around one very important concept. It’s the understanding that … Read more

What’s Going On When Your Dog Chatters Their Teeth?

A dog owner’s first instinct when they see their pup chattering their teeth is usually to grab a blanket. Humans clack their teeth together when the’re cold, and it’s true dogs occasionally do it too. It’s the body’s attempt at generating more heat, but what if it’s the middle of summer and your pup is out on a long walk? Or maybe you’re inside your cozy home about to play with a new toy? There are some situations where temperature-related … Read more

Why Does My Dog Drool So Much?

When you live with a dog, drool is part of the package. You get used to the slobber that stains your clothes and accept the fact dog drool is an unavoidable part of your life. It’s usually not a big deal, but sometimes the liquid leaking out of your dog’s mouth gets out of control: there are puddles of it on the floor, wet stains on the couch, and you can’t look at your pup’s face without seeing strings of … Read more

10 Signs Of Canine Cancer Every Dog Owner Should Know

The National Cancer Institute’s Center for Cancer Research reports that around six million dogs in the U.S. are diagnosed with spontaneous cancer every year. While a better understanding of canine nutrition and advanced veterinary technology is prolonging the average dog’s lifespan, the risk of developing cancer increases as a dog ages. Recent reports indicate about half of dogs over 10 years old are diagnosed with some type of cancer.1 We must take it upon ourselves as concerned pet parents to know … Read more

Dog Won’t Stop Itching? Why Pet Parents Are Turning to Neem Oil for Relief

Between allergies, fleas, mites, and standard dry skin, an itchy dog is a miserable dog. There are several reasons why Fido might be scratching more than usual, and it’s not always easy for dog owners to find the kind of relief they need. You can try bathing them and ask your veterinarian for medication, but there’s an all-natural way to stop the itch. Neem oil is something humans have been using for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. It can … Read more

10 Signs It’s Time To Switch To A New Vet

Having a good relationship with a veterinarian is an important part of being a responsible pet owner. From annual check-ups to emergency situations, you need to know your chosen vet will give your pup the best possible care. Trust, respect, and confidence all come into play, and unfortunately, you can’t always find the ideal person with the first office you schedule appointments with. If a recent experience has you doubting whether or not you’ve found “the one,” pay attention to … Read more

How To Be Your Dog’s Advocate When She’s Facing A Serious Illness

It’s a moment every pet parent dreads: your dog has been diagnosed with a serious illness. While your veterinarian does her best to explain the disease, treatment options and prognosis, your head spins with questions: Is my dog suffering? Can my family handle the emotional strain? How much will all this cost? Dr. Nancy Kay is a veterinarian and the author of Speaking for Spot: Be the Advocate Your Dog Needs for a Happy, Healthy, Longer Life. She says that … Read more

6 Dog Flu Symptoms Every Pup Parent Needs To Know

Dog flu is making its rounds across the country, and the best thing dog owners can do is be prepared. Outbreaks have already spread through Washington, California, and Colorado, but dogs in every state are at risk of coming down with the flu. K-9 influenza is extremely contagious and cases range from mild to severe. Dogs who frequently spend time at dog parks and other places where they’re around other canines are most at risk. Veterinarians recommend owners be especially … Read more

6 Ways To Improve Your Dog’s Health And Happiness

Wagging tails and slobbery kisses are always signs of a happy and healthy pup. You want that tail to wag as often as possible, but deciphering your dog’s specific needs isn’t always easy. They can’t tell you what they want, and you haven’t quite mastered those doggy mind-reading skills. If you’re worried your dog isn’t feeling as good as he should, there are steps you can take to improve their quality of life. Here are a few easy ideas that … Read more

Why Has Bone Broth Become So Popular With Dog Owners?

Health food trends come and go, and when something suddenly becomes popular, the smart consumer is right to be a bit skeptical. No one wants to put all their faith in an unproven craze, and now that bone broth seems to be the new hit thing for a healthy dog diet, it’s time to learn the facts. More and more dog owners are learning about the benefits of bone broth, and evidence shows it’s not just a passing fad (in … Read more