dog health Archives

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

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

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

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

5 Ways To Fight Fall Allergies In Dogs

Fall’s falling leaves, moisture, and windy weather means 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

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

5 Ways To Help Your Dog Snore Less

You’re about to fall asleep with your pup curled up by your side, but all of a sudden, a huff, wheeze, and snore scares away those much-needed Z’s. Listening to your sleepy pup let out soft little snores is cute at first, but it soon loses its appeal when it starts to keep you up at night. As with humans, there are a number of reasons why dogs snore. Snub-nose dog breeds like Pugs, Boston Terriers, and Bulldogs are more … 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

Top 3 Health Concerns For Pit Bulls

Aside from being total love-bugs, Pitties have another great thing going for them: they are a fairly healthy breed compared to other larger dogs. However, this does not mean they are free from any issues. Prospective Pit adopters and those who already own one or two should be aware of the common problems that they can have. Knowing about them can lead to early detection, which can benefit both dog and owner. The following are 3 of the top health concerns for … Read more

5 Things Your Senior Dog Needs More Of

As your dog ages, their needs change. They’re still your four-legged best friend, but a general slowing down is inevitable. You can help them through their golden years by keeping them happy and healthy for as long as possible. You’ve gone through the puppy stages and trained an adult dog, and now it’s time to give your senior pup the necessary nutrients, attention, and care. Here are a few things your senior dog needs more of now that he’s getting … Read more

The Healthiest Food Will Bring Your Pet A Thriving Life

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 our dogs are capable of being so much more than just “fine” and won’t settle for less. How do you take your dog … Read more

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

Pet parents want their dogs to have the healthiest, longest life possible. Every year, we learn more about how healthy eating can affect a human’s mood, energy levels, and overall health – so it makes sense that the same would apply to dog food. Nom Nom has embarked on a journey to revolutionize pet health, starting with the #1 contributing factor to a healthy lifestyle: what they eat. Everybody knows by now how many health problems a lifetime of eating … Read more

5 Common Misconceptions About Giving Dogs Bone Broth

With so many conflicting opinions about canine nutrition, it can be stressful to consider adding something new to your dog’s diet. Bone broth is a vitamin, nutrient and amino acid-packed supplement made entirely from natural ingredients that offers several important benefits for your dog’s health. Socorro, um “dog-chef” invadiu a cozinha! #comhumorémaisgostoso #dogchef #AlCaponeburger #marys #hamburgueriapremium #quenãofaltemsorrisos Posted by Marys – Hamburgueria Premium on Wednesday, May 4, 2016 Here are five common misconceptions that may be preventing you from giving … Read more

Top 3 Health Concerns For Your Miniature Schnauzer

Unfortunately, Miniature Schnauzers are not as healthy as their larger counterparts, the Standard Schnauzer. The Minis are prone to more health problems and a few are more serious than what the Standards are prone to. If you own one or are thinking of getting one, it’s good to know the common issues they may face so you can keep an eye out for symptoms. The following are the top 3 health concerns for your Miniature Schnauzer. #1 – Urinary Stones … Read more

Top 3 Health Concerns For Your Rottweiler

Whether you own a Rottweiler or are thinking of adding one to your home, it’s good to know about the common medical problems that occur in the breed. Being aware of how much you may have to spend at the veterinarian can help you decide if this really is the breed for you. And if it is, knowing what to look for can help with early detection of any problems in your beloved friend. The following are the top three ... Read more

Top 3 Health Concerns For Your Pug

It’s no secret that Pugs come with a certain number of health issues. Some of these issues stem from their body shape and breeding practices over the years. If you are thinking of adding a Pug to your family or already have one, it’s a good idea to know the types of issues that are common in the breed so you can watch for symptoms. The following are the top three health concerns for your Pug. #1 – Brachycephalic Syndrome … Read more

Top 3 Health Concerns For Your Standard Schnauzer

Standard Schnauzers are a very healthy breed. They have an average lifespan of thirteen to sixteen years and they do not have any of the serious genetic medical conditions other breeds have. Of course, this does not mean your dog will never develop any type of health issue, but they are going to be less likely than some breeds, or even their small counterparts, the Miniature Schnauzer, to develop such conditions. It is good to be aware of the few … Read more

Top 3 Health Concerns For Your Poodle

Poodles of all sizes are generally fairly healthy with long lifespans. Most owners spend a lot more money at the groomer’s than at the vets. However, they do have a several serious health issues that can not only rack up large vet bills, but can also lead to an early death if not caught. A good owner should now the possible health issues in their breed, so they can watch for signs. The following are three of the top health concerns … Read more

Top 3 Health Concerns For Your Shetland Sheepdog

The Shetland Sheepdog is a bright, lively dog with a fairly long lifespan, averaging twelve to fourteen years. However, the breed does have quite a few medical conditions that can end up being costly and even shorten their lives. It’s important to talk to any breeder you are thinking about adopting from to make sure they are doing the necessary tests on their breeding dogs. Whether you own a Sheltie or are thinking of getting one, it’s good to know … Read more

Is My Shih Tzu Overweight Or Obese?

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

3 Signs Your Shetland Sheepdog Is Overweight

Shetland Sheepdogs are such an active breed, you may think that you don’t have to worry about yours getting overweight. But Shelties loves food just as much as they do chasing things and will gladly eat to their heart’s content. Owners who over-treat will find themselves with a pudgy Sheltie quicker than you may think is possible. And many Shelties spend more time on the couch begging than they do exercising. Since obesity leads to all kinds of health problems … 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