dog health
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
Here’s Why Your Dog Pees The Bed…It’s Not What You Think
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
Health Is Wealth, And The Same Can Be Said For Your Dog
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
How Much Omega-3 Should I Give My Dog? Fish Oil For Dogs
Omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in your dog’s overall health, supporting everything from skin and coat health to joint mobility and heart function. Since dogs cannot produce omega-3s on their own, they must obtain these essential nutrients through their diet. While some commercial dog foods contain small amounts, many pet parents turn to fish oil supplements to ensure their pup gets the right balance of EPA and DHA—two powerful omega-3s known for their anti-inflammatory and health-boosting properties. Finding … 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
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?
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
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
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 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
A Guide To Cushing’s Disease In Dogs
Difficult to diagnose, 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. Causes There are three types of Cushing’s disease in dogs. The most … 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
Top 9 Pet Insurance Plans for Chihuahuas 2024
iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you./font> 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
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
Pros And Cons Of Different Types Of Dog Food
There are so many different ways to feed your dog. How do you know what’s best? There is no easy answer. The best thing to do is to check the pros and cons of each style of dog food and decide what works best for you and your pooch. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of each. This is only an introduction; you should always do your research and talk to your vet before changing your dog’s diet. Canned Dog … Read more
4 Common Ingredients In Dog Treats To Watch Out For
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
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
8 Items That Will Help Make Your Dog Feel More At Home
Sharing your life with your dog starts at home, usually with a bed and a bowl. Even before we bring home our pup, we make sure we have everything he needs to be happy. Leashes, treats, etc. Once you have the basics, though, what else can you do to make sure your dog feels like your house is truly his home? You don’t have to break the bank to spoil your dog and make him feel like he belongs. He … Read more
5 Reasons Your Dog Won’t Eat And How To Help
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
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
How To Help Your Rescue Dog Gain Weight
“Skin and bones” are words to describe a specific population of rescue dog. 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
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
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 puts 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
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
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 dogs, cats, and people can benefit from the antioxidant’s powerful way of protecting the body from free radicals. And don’t worry, it won’t … 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
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
Does Your Pup Have Missing Hair And Hot Spots? This Nutrient Might Help
You’re used to the shedding, but some dogs suffer from more extreme cases of 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 … 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
Skipping This Weekly Chore Can Mean Extra Trips To The Vet And Unnecessary Pain For Your Dog
When you’ve finished brushing your dog’s fur and cleaning her teeth, there’s still one more task you need to accomplish… Cleaning your dog’s ears is something that is often forgotten but always important. Like humans, dogs rely on this basic form of hygiene to prevent serious medical issues. Wax, dirt, and other types of debris can build up in your dog’s ear canals. Continually missing out on cleanings could lead to a painful situation for your pup. Bacterial Infections The … Read more
Top 3 Dog Health Issues Supplements Can Help With
For a dog owner, keeping a beloved pet healthy is always a priority. From their teeth and bones to skin and fur, your pup relies on specific nutrients to keep them looking and feeling their best. When your dog doesn’t get enough of those vital ingredients in their regular diet, supplements fill in the gaps. Whether your pet suffers from a specific health issue or you want to prevent future problems, supplementing their diet with certain vitamins and minerals may … Read more
3 Tips For Better Dog Dental Health
Dog dental health has become a big topic in the past few years. Good dental health doesn’t just keep doggy breath at bay. It can save you thousands at the vet, helps your dog have better quality of life, and can even help them to live longer lives. Did you know that an infection in your dog’s mouth can spread to other organs – even the brain – and cause death? The following are 3 tips for better dog dental … Read more
When It Comes To Health, Mixed And Purebred Dogs Aren’t Always The Same
Whether you choose a purebred dog or a mix, there are always potential health concerns. Many people contend that purebreds are more likely to have serious health problems due to their higher risk for certain genetic conditions. Others argue that mixed breed dogs often come from unknown backgrounds where they may be exposed to an array of viruses, parasites, etc. There are a few ways you can acquire a new furry friend: select a breeder or rescue group that specializes … Read more