The post Bowel Obstruction in Dogs: Signs, Causes, Treatment and Prevention Tips by Claire Primo, CVT, ACMT, FFCP appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

If your dog has a habit of eating foreign objects from around the house, you’re not alone. This is a common behavior in many dogs, with serious consequences. Bowel obstruction in dogs can quickly escalate to life-threatening emergencies. Know the signs and causes, so you can get the best treatment and learn how to prevent this emergency.

What is a bowel obstruction in dogs?

Bowel obstructions occur when a dog’s stomach becomes partially or fully blocked, so food or water cannot pass through your pup. As a result, dogs become dehydrated and malnourished. In severe cases, bowel obstructions can cause electrolyte imbalances and permanent damage or perforation of the intestines.

Common causes of bowel obstruction in dogs

Common household items cause bowel obstructions in dogs. These include:

• Socks and underwear
• Bones
• Corn cobs and fruit pits
• String
• Floss
• Tampons

Aside from ingesting household items, bowel obstructions can stem from:

• Intestinal masses
• Severe intestinal inflammation
• Severe constipation
• Intussusception (folding of the intestines)

Signs of bowel obstruction in dogs

Common signs of bowel obstructions include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss

Dogs with partial obstructions may experience the above symptoms with less severity, or experience the symptoms intermittently.

Treatment for bowel obstruction in dogs

The reason for your dog’s bowel obstruction will dictate his treatment plan.

If you know or are concerned that your dog has ingested a foreign object, or your dog is displaying symptoms of an obstruction, consult your veterinarian immediately!

Bowel obstructions related to foreign objects can sometimes be managed by inducing vomiting. This should only be done under the direct supervision of your veterinary team and immediately after ingestion has occurred. Some dogs, depending on their size and what was ingested, may  pass the object naturally.

Your veterinarian may run additional diagnostics, including:

• Physical exam
• Radiographs
• Abdominal ultrasound
• Bloodwork

Often, bowel obstruction cases require surgical intervention. Depending on your dog’s condition, IV fluids and supportive care are given prior to surgery. Your dog will undergo general anesthesia before your veterinarian makes a surgical incision into the intestines to remove the obstruction. They may need to remove portions of dead and necrosed intestinal tissue.

Dogs who ingest foreign objects are often repeat offenders. If your dog has lost some of his intestines or has scar tissue as a result of previous obstructions, treating future obstructions is riskier.

How to help your dog pass obstruction

Some dogs, depending on their size and what was ingested, may pass the object naturally. If your dog’s condition appears stable and non-painful, performing gentle massage can promote healthy movement of your pup’s bowels and overall gut motility, potentially helping to naturally pass the obstruction. 

Here is a step-by-step article discussing how to massage your dog to help him poop. If you know your dog ingested something sharp, such as glass, never attempt to help him pass the obstruction. Discontinue the massage session if your dog displays distress or his condition worsens. 

Preventing bowel obstruction in dogs

Modify your current lifestyle to minimize future risk.

Tips for preventing bowel obstruction:

• Removing access to trash
• Eliminate bones as treats
• Track when items are missing
• Supervise your dog with toys
• Remove non-food items from your dog’s reach
• Watch for signs and symptoms

Most dogs with bowel obstructions will make a complete recovery, but early intervention is key. Do not ignore signs and do not assume that your pup will pass an obstruction naturally. If your pup has already gone through a bowel obstruction, the biggest means to prevention will be minimizing risk. I hope this does not become your dog’s “thing,” but if it does, these tips may save his life!

The post Bowel Obstruction in Dogs: Signs, Causes, Treatment and Prevention Tips by Claire Primo, CVT, ACMT, FFCP appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

The post Dug Up at Dogster: June 2023 Dog Events and Dog Holidays by Lauren Katims, Executive Editor Dogster appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

It’s officially summer and here in Northern California that means hot, dry weather, lots of pool and ice cream time  — and the start of fire season. Over the past couple of years, devastating fires have destroyed homes and millions of acres of land, displacing families, pets and wild animals. Although, it’s not pleasant to think about, having an emergency preparedness plan for your family, including your pets, makes split decisions easier when disaster strikes. June is National Pet Preparedness month and an ideal time to start (or finalize) your plan. Need some inspiration? A couple years ago, I wrote this article about organizations that help pets in natural disasters.

One step is making sure you prioritize the right gear, such as a carseat, harness, leash and to-go bag packed with essentials.  Having these items in one organized location eliminates the stress of decision making when you have to get out of the house fast.

Planning to attend any dog events near you? Send us pictures of your pup to be featured on our social media pages.

Or email us at dogstermag@belvoir.com.

June 2023 monthly dog holidays

National Pet Preparedness month

National Foster a Pet month

National microchip month

June 2023 dog holidays

June 4-10: Pet Appreciation week 

June 13: World Pet Memorial day

June 17: National Dog Dad’s day

June 19-23: PSI’s National Take Your Pet to Work week 

June 23: PSI’s National Take Your Dog to Work day

June 2023 dog events

Throughout June, 2023: Humane Society’s #MoreThanaPet campaign continues to raise money for pet parents who don’t have money or access for pet supplies and vet care. Visit morethanapet.humanesociety.org to learn more about the campaign and share the story of what your pet means to you. Every photo shared = one bowl of food for pets in underserved communities.

Throughout June 23, 2023: For the 10-year anniversary of Apoquel, a medicine to relieve allergic itch and inflammation in dogs due to atopic and allergic dermatitis, the company is launching a grant program for pet shelters across the U.S. The program will enable 10 shelters to provide allergic relief to about 100 dogs in each of their local communities. Zoetis will announce the 10 selected shelters during “Itchy Pet Awareness Month” in August. To enroll and see requirements, visit Zoetis For Shelters by June 23.

June 2-4, 2023: Bark on Biddle is a three-day dog festival in downtown Wyandotte, MI. Dogs compete in Dock Jumping competitions, chase a lure at Lucky Dogs Lure Course, play in a Puppy Foam Party with their owners and participate in other contests throughout the day or socialize with other pets and their humans. There will be a variety of pet related vendors, doggy fashions, homemade dog treats, unique dog toys, dishes and samples of dog food and treats.

June 4, 2023:  Petco will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11:30 a.m. EST. for the grand opening of its new Union Square flagship, a unique one-stop health and wellness destination for pets, in New York City. The new two-story, 25,000 square-foot pet care center combines the best of Petco’s physical and digital offerings, including a stylish grooming salon, full-service veterinary hospital, JustFoodForDogs kitchen and curated merchandise assortment for a complete pet care experience.  The ceremony will be followed by the “Paws in the Park” party and adoption event at noon. Petco Love will bring together more than 20 local animal welfare partners, including Muddy Paws and Animal Care Centers of NYC, to help hundreds of adoptable pets find loving homes. Additionally, there will be a fashion show, presented by BOBS from Skechers, featuring adoptable pets. To help raise awareness for Petco Love’s lifesaving work, local artist Andrea Cáceres, who is also featured in the flagship’s “17th & Bark” collection, will design a custom mural to be displayed at the event.  

June 4, 2023: Join the Irvine Animal Care Center in Irvine, California to its 17th annual Super Pet Adoption & Fundraiser event. Local pet rescue groups bring adoptable dogs, cats and birds, along with vendors and services for pets and their humans like gourmet food trucks, a bake sale and a drawing giveaway. Tickets are sold at the door: $5 for adults, free for children. Event parking is free.

June 5, 2023: The ElleVet Project begins its summer veterinary mobile relief tour providing free veterinary care and supplies to the pets of the unhoused and low-income communities throughout the United States. The ElleVet team travels throughout the country treating thousands of pets in unhoused, low-income communities and areas stricken by natural disasters in a 32-foot RV dubbed the “ElleVan.”  The complete schedule of summer dates and locations is available on the nonprofit’s website.

June 7, 2023: Tune in while Morris Animal Foundation co-hosts a webinar with TedxMileHigh on Hemangiosarcoma, a deadly cancer in dogs. Dr. Kelly Diehl, senior director of science communications at the foundation, will sit down with Dr. Antonella Borgatti, professor of oncology at the University of Minnesota, to talk about clinical signs, treatment options and new research findings that could change the odds for dogs suffering from this cancer. Register here for this event.

June 10, 2023: Join Helen Woodward Animal Center’s 35^th Annual Spring Fling Gala on June 10 from 6 p.m to 11 p.m. at Fairbanks Village Plaza in Rancho Santa Fe, Calif. Guests will enjoy cocktails, dinner, music and a silent auction. Tickets can be purchased at silver, gold and platinum levels (ranging from $300 – $600 a ticket) with various special amenities included at each level.

June 11, 2023: Join the annual Put-in-Bay Pooch Parade at 10 a.m in Ohio, where judges determine the cutest, smallest, largest, most talented, individual best dressed, group best dressed and the dog that looks most like its owner. Registration begins at 9:30 am at the DeRivera Park gazebo.

June 12- 18, 2023: Bid on original artwork created by 16 of the world’s best painting canines (and one special guest sloth)! The 3rd annual Tripawds Dog Art Auction, held online and run by the Tripawds Foundation, raises money for amputee pets battling cancer by funding the Kaiserin Cancer Care Package program, which delivers monthly care bundles for dogs and cats who have lost a limb to cancer.

Want to see what dog holidays are coming up in 2023? Check out Dogster’s dog holiday list.

The post Dug Up at Dogster: June 2023 Dog Events and Dog Holidays by Lauren Katims, Executive Editor Dogster appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

The post Best Hot Weather Dogs: Why These 9 Breeds Love the Sun by Yvonne Villasenor appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

If you live in a hot climate and want a dog who can tolerate the heat and accompany you in all this fun, there are particular breeds who like — and even thrive — in warmer temperatures.

“Certain breeds stand out for their ability to cope in warm climates,” says Dr. Alex Schechter, founder of Burwood Veterinary. “Breeds better suited for hot weather have developed a range of physical and behavioral characteristics that allow them to tolerate high temperatures and humidity levels. These traits include a thinner coat, loose skin, larger ears and a more efficient respiratory system.”

Dogster also interviewed Ben Ryba & Brendan Foster, co-owners of True Canine Training, to learn more about hot weather dog breeds.

Best hot weather dogs: Top 9 breeds

Basenji

Known for their independence and intelligence, Basenjis are an ancient African dog breed who’s no stranger to warm climates. Their short, fine coat, small stature and large ears help keep them cool in hot weather. A Basenji’s ideal human companion is an experienced dog handler, hunter/sportsman, or family with older children. Basenjis groom themselves similarly to cats and require brushing every few days due to their low shedding.

Chihuahua

A pint-sized breed originating in Mexico, the Chihuahua has a thin, smooth coat best-suited for warm weather. These small pooches love to be lap dogs and are deeply devoted to their families and can often be caught sunbathing or cuddled under a blanket for warmth. Chihuahuas are great for apartment dwellers and families with older kids. Long-haired Chihuahuas require frequent grooming, while short-haired Chihuahuas only need occasional brushing.

German Shorthaired Pointer

“The German Shorthaired Pointer is a hunting dog and typically will grow to be between 50 and 70 pounds. They have short fur and no hair underneath, which keeps them cool in the heat,” Ben and Brendan say. “They love to run and swim and are great for a family, a hunter, or someone who is an outdoor enthusiast in warmer environments.”

While the German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) isn’t a heavy shedder, the dog breed can shed year-round in warmer climates and require more frequent brushing.

Read our article on the best dog brushes for shedding.

Vizsla

The Vizsla is a Hungarian dog breed with a short, sleek coat that makes them well-suited to hot weather — and easy to groom! But because they’re high-energy dogs who require a lot of exercise, they may need to be exercised early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid overheating, Dr. Schechter says. Known to be “Velcro dogs,” Vizslas make excellent family dogs and are best for anyone with an active lifestyle and able to spend ample time with them.

Australian Cattle Dog

The Australian Cattle Dog, also called the Blue Heeler, has a short double coat that keeps this dog breed cool no matter whether they’re working or playing hard. Developed in — you guessed it — Australia, this medium-sized breed is known for high energy and endurance and a love of exploring, making them a great fit for active pet parents, families, hunters or cattle breeders.

Pharaoh Hound

The visually striking Pharaoh Hound originated in ancient Egypt and is known as one of the oldest domesticated breeds. Natural athletes, Pharaoh Hounds love running and swimming and thrive in hot weather thanks to their large ears and short, thin fur that doesn’t need much grooming. Pharaoh Hounds are adaptable, active and affectionate; all they really require from a companion or family is that someone keep up with their exercise needs.

Yorkshire Terrier

Not only is the Yorkshire Terrier’s fine, silky hair fabulous, but it’s also beneficial in keeping them cooler when temperatures rise. (Although, you’ll need to keep your Yorkie inside during extreme heat.) Yorkies are small dogs with larger-than-life personalities and lots of energy, surely an excellent match for high-energy types and families with older children. It may come as no surprise that their beautiful, long coats require regular grooming.

Mexican Hairless (Xoloitzcuintli) pronounced “show-low-eet-SQUINT-lee”

A distinct, rare breed, the Mexican Hairless or Xolo for short, originated in ancient Mexico and has little-to-no hair, making it easy to stay cool on hot days. While easy to groom, this also means this dog breed needs sunscreen when outside since the skin is susceptible to sunburns and shouldn’t be out in extreme heat. The Mexican Hairless can be standard, miniature or toy-sized. Regardless of size, these gentle and playful dogs make great companions for people and families who may consider themselves couch potatoes.

Afghan Hound

Another ancient dog breed is the aristocratic Afghan Hound. Originating in Afghanistan, the Afghan Hound is highly adaptable to both hot and cold temperatures. This medium-sized breed has a single, silky coat so glamorous that it requires regular grooming. Often referred to as being “cat-like,” the Afghan Hound is independent, athletic and laid-back. Their ideal human companion is an experienced pet parent who lives a more active lifestyle.

Hot weather dogs: How hot is too hot?

“Different dog breeds have varying heat tolerance levels, but all dogs can be at risk of heat exhaustion or stroke in hot weather,” Dr. Schechter says.

High temperatures pose several dangers for all dogs. However, puppies, geriatric dogs and dogs with health conditions should especially avoid being in hot weather since they’re at a higher risk of developing heatstroke.

Signs of overheating include:

• Excessive panting
• Dry or pale gums
• Lethargy or weakness
• Glazed eyes
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Rapid heartbeat
• Difficulty standing or walking
• Seizures or collapse

Provide your dog with ample shade and water. If you notice signs of overheating, give your dog room temperature water and get to a veterinarian immediately.

The post Best Hot Weather Dogs: Why These 9 Breeds Love the Sun by Yvonne Villasenor appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

The post How to Treat a Broken Dog Nail by Kristina Lotz appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Broken dog nails often come with a lot of blood, which makes most dog parents panic. But keeping your cool is important to getting the broken nail assessed and treated. Tim Vogel, CEO of dog grooming and wellness franchise Scenthound, explains how to treat a broken dog nail at home and when it’s considered an emergency.

Steps to treat a broken dog nail

1. Have your dog sit or lie down so you can get a close look, says Tim. Treats help relax nervous dogs.
2. Check for bleeding. Use slight pressure and Styptic Powder (like KwikStop) to stop the blood.
3. If there’s no bleeding or when the bleeding stops, carefully remove the hangnail or broken nail with clippers or a Dremel, but do so cautiously, he says, in order to avoid more damage or cause your dog pain.
4. Trim the nail above the break to detach the damaged portion and prompt healthy nail regrowth. Look at the nail head-on. If you see black or a pinkish color, you’re getting close to the quick, or the dark park in the center of the nail that contains blood vessels and nerves. Stop cutting.

Dog nail separated from the quick: What to do

If there is a lot of bleeding, chances are your dog’s nail has separated from the quick.

• First, use a clean cloth to apply gentle pressure to stop the bleeding. Patting your dog’s nail with Styptic Powder also stops bleeding fast.
• Then, apply a dog-safe antibiotic ointment (we like Vetericyn Plus Antimicrobial All Animal Wound and Skin Care).
• Wrap the paw with a gauze bandage. Keep the bandage dry and clean and monitor your dog so you notice if he chews it off. If he does, repeat the process to re-bandage.

Should I take my dog to the vet for a broken nail?

If you can’t get the nail to stop bleeding, it’s time to see a vet, says Tim. Bandage the paw for a temporary solution and head to nearest emergency vet. Keep your dog calm, as movement and stress will increase blood flow.

The post How to Treat a Broken Dog Nail by Kristina Lotz appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

The post Borzoi Dog Breed Temperament by Megan Arszman appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Some dogs have a job and love to work, but ancient breeds bred for hunting like the Borzoi are not that type of dog, says longtime breeder Pamela Jo Leichtnam from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. “They love the fun of the chase. They love to run, and they need to exercise,” she says. “But, once they are done with their run and their exercise, they can come in and be a couch potato just like other breeds. They don’t have to be active all the time. They don’t run all day; they can go out and have their exercise and then they rest.”

Training sighthounds like the Borzoi

There is a stigma about the temperament of sighthounds that their minds focus solely on the chase, but the Borzoi is biddable and trainable to be successful in just about any sport or arena.

“They are as smart as a fox,” says Pamela Jo. “They’re not hard to train — it’s just the amount of time you want to put into them to get what you want out of it, just as with any other breed.”

Borzois are treat driven when it comes to training, and it’s easy to train a dog that lives to please.

Best families for Borzoi temperament

Borzoi dog breeders have placed their puppies with families with children and with other dogs or with no children. However, Pamela Jo cautions against bringing an adult Borzoi into a home with smaller dogs or cats if the Borzoi is not used to smaller animals due his temperament.

“You must realize they are a hunting breed — they’ll chase a bunny or a squirrel,” she says. “If you have a smaller dog in the house or a cat, the best way to handle that is to buy a puppy and raise the puppy with that. It’s just their instinct.”

Borzois do best in homes with yards so they can run and do not do well in apartments only because of the need to exercise — going for walks is not enough for this dog.

“I think Borzoi are just very sweet, very biddable dogs, and an educated owner will make for a happy, long lasting relationship,” says Pamela Jo.

Interested in getting a Borzoi? Check out the Borzoi Club of America.

Read about other sighthounds in the article Come See About 5 Sighthound Dog Breeds.

The post Borzoi Dog Breed Temperament by Megan Arszman appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

The post Chronic Hepatitis in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment by Dr. Ernie Ward appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Astra, the 6-year-old Cocker Spaniel exhibited several vague clinical signs like not eating every few days and occasional vomiting. Blood tests showed significantly elevated liver enzymes. Many conditions can cause an increase in these values, but one enzyme caught my attention: ALT. ALT stands for alanine transaminase and is usually part of routine screening blood chemistries. Whenever a dog has a high ALT and no other liver enzyme elevations, it indicates chronic hepatitis could be the cause. Because Astra’s other liver tests were normal, it suggested this could be early in the disease course.

Symptoms of chronic hepatitis in dogs

The clinical signs associated with chronic hepatitis vary widely as a result of the multiple functions of the liver. The most common symptoms include:

• A mild-to-marked decrease in appetite, often irregular and intermittent
• Lethargy or being less active
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Increased thirst and urination
• Distended abdomen that may be filled with fluid (ascites)
• Pale yellow (jaundiced) tinge to the skin, eyes, ears and gums

In more severe cases, dogs may act strangely or exhibit neurological signs, such as: unresponsiveness, depression, aggression, blindness or staring into space, standing in corners, pressing their heads into walls or corners, and, rarely, loss of consciousness or seizures.

Chronic hepatitis may be detected on routine blood health panels and can be diagnosed before your dog develops illness. Once clinical signs of liver disease develop, the condition is often in a very advanced or late stage.

Tests for dogs to check for chronic hepatitis

In scenarios when a patient has fuzzy symptoms (ones that could come from a variety of issues) and elevated ALT like in Astra’s case, moving quickly is the patient’s best chance of surviving many forms of hepatitis. But, we needed more information to determine if Astra had chronic hepatitis and why. To do that, I needed to have a look at her liver.

While radiographs are useful in many cases, they’re not good at detecting subtle or minor abnormalities, particularly in organs such as the liver. I suspected this could be early chronic hepatitis, and I needed to confirm it quickly to begin treatment. To do that, I needed to use ultrasound.

Fortunately, a radiologist specialist visited our clinic once a week and would be available the following day. I needed to add Astra to her already busy schedule.

The radiologist performed the hepatic ultrasound and agreed that chronic hepatitis was likely. Based on her findings, I recommended Astra have a liver biopsy. Before that, we ran some blood clotting and additional liver-function tests to ensure Astra could undergo the relatively straightforward laparoscopic biopsy. This procedure is done under brief anesthesia through a small, keyhole-like incision in the skin.

How does a dog get chronic hepatitis

While I expected the diagnosis of chronic hepatitis to be confirmed, it’s never easy to accept. The biopsy showed increased liver copper, indicating Astra had a copper storage disorder. This is often a genetic disorder, but we don’t fully understand it yet. There are many causes of chronic hepatitis, but all require an early diagnosis to achieve successful outcomes. Some potential causes of chronic active hepatitis include:

• certain medications (carprofen, phenobarbital, trimethoprim/sulfa, etc.)
• infections (canine adenovirus type 1, leptospirosis)
• genetics
• autoimmune disorders
• excess dietary copper
• certain liver toxins

Most cases of chronic hepatitis are of unknown etiology, and we still don’t fully understand the condition. Even when we identify chronic hepatitis early, many dogs still succumb to this terrible disease.

Treatment for dogs with chronic hepatitis

In Astra’s case, the first step was to remove the excess copper harming her liver through a medical process called chelation. I started her on d-penicillamine (D-Pen) and a low-copper therapeutic diet. The main side effect of this drug is nausea and vomiting, and it needs to be taken on an empty stomach to facilitate absorption and bioavailability. In dogs that experience upset stomach or decreased appetite, anti-nausea meds or a short course of steroids may help. I also advised offering distilled water if copper plumbing contributed to Astra’s condition.

After six months of treatment, Astra’s ALT liver enzyme returned to normal. I suggested we repeat the liver biopsy, but her owner declined. We chose to continue monitoring Astra’s liver tests every three months.

About a year later, Astra returned with the same symptoms as before. This time I noticed her eyes were yellowish as soon as I entered the exam room. Blood tests confirmed all her liver enzymes were increased, and she’d lost considerable weight. Sadly, it was time to let her go.

Chronic hepatitis is a disease that isn’t talked about enough in dogs. Even if your dog’s symptoms don’t seem specific for a disease, they’re real. It’s essential for you to be their advocate during the exam and insist on finding an answer. For Astra, her human family was able to spend another 18 months with her before she passed away, and those memories are incredibly precious to them.

The post Chronic Hepatitis in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment by Dr. Ernie Ward appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

The post Common Beagle Mixes by Megan Arszman appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Beagles are easily identified by their black, tan and white short fur, big brown eyes and floppy ears. Not to mention that howl. They’re also one of the smallest members of the Hound group, broken into two categories: measuring either 13 inches (or less) at the shoulder or between 13 to 15 inches. The Beagle’s cuddly temperament, strong sense of smell and hunter demeanor makes for a great, but often unpredictable, mixer with another dog breed’s amped up drive or feisty personality. Beagle mixes can often be the best of both breeds.

Dogster compiled a list of the most common Beagle mixes and what temperament you can expect from each mixed breed, based on the two parent dog breeds. Of course, as with all mixed breeds, there is no guarantee.

Top Beagle mixes

Pug-Beagle mix (Puggle)

Fun plus snuggles equals the Puggle, or Pug-Beagle mix, who adapts well to smaller living situations. The Pug’s penchant for Brachycephalic syndrome, a breathing condition that affects flat-faced dogs, might not be too severe thanks to the Beagle’s longer nasal genes.

The Pug was bred to be a human companion, so expect extra cuddles and lap time from this mix.

To read more about the Pug dog breed, go to our Pug breed profile.

Beagle-Labrador mix (Beagador)

Think: A Beagle who loves water with an extra shot of energy and affection, and you have this Labrador Retriever-Beagle mix. Based on the sizes of the two parent breeds, this mix will weigh anywhere between 25 and 45 pounds, but has a penchant for becoming overweight, due to a food loving gene combination. Regular exercise is a must.

Read our Labrador Retriever breed profile here.

Beagle-Chihuahua mix (Cheagle)

One of the smallest Beagle mixes, the Cheagle is a very dependent and loyal dog that loves her person, much like the Chihuahua dog breed. Chihuahuas can be oblivious to their tiny size and and act as a watchdog, barking at strangers. The Cheagle measures 8 to 13 inches and weighs up to 20 pounds.

Read our full article on popular Chihuahua mixes.

American Pitbull-Beagle mix (Beaglebull)

Think of this combination as the musclehead Beagle, thanks to the solidly-built American Pit Bull Terrier. The Beaglebull generally measures 18 to 20 inches and weighs 30 to 40 pounds, with a smooth, dense coat, similar to both the Beagle and the Pitbull.

American Pit Bull Terriers are affectionate and loyal if socialized from an early age. Mixed with the loyal Beagle, you may have a muscly cuddlebug on your hands.

Australian Shepherd-Beagle mix (Australian Beagle)

Measuring approximately 13 to 23 inches tall, the Beagle gets a color refresh thanks to the Australian Shepherd’s unique color patterns (Blue merle, black, red merle or red, all with or without white markings and/or tan (copper) points). This Beagle mix is likey to be a hard working and energetic dog, inheritting the intelligence, work ethic, endless energy and knack for dog sports from the Australian Shepherd and the Beagle’s hunting tendencies.

Boxer-Beagle mix (Boggle)

Looking for the fun and sometimes silly personality of the Boxer, but with slightly less energy? The Boggle takes the never-ending energy burst from the Boxer and tones it down with the Beagle’s laidback persona. The Boggle loves learning new tricks and thrives with an active family.

Learn more about the Boxer dog breed.

As with any breeding, do your research by going to the parent dog breeds’ club pages or Dogster’s breed profile pages and speak with the breeders to understand the positives and negatives when mixing two breeds. But most of all, enjoy your pup!

The post Common Beagle Mixes by Megan Arszman appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

The post How to Stop a Dog from Marking in the House by Sassafras Lowrey, MFA, CPDT-KA, CTDI appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Marking in the house is a smelly and frustrating issue that’s challenging for dog owners to address. The key to stopping a dog’s marking is to understand your dog’s motivations for peeing inside. Then, consistently utilize positive reinforcement training methodologies and management to prevent the marking behavior. 

Let’s start with the first step: Figuring out the why behind the behavior.

Why is my dog marking in the house?

Although your dog lifting a leg on your couch, wall or in the corner of the living room isn’t ideal, urine marking is a very natural behavior for dogs, who experience the world through their noses and leave their scent behind as a form of communication: I’ve been there, or this is my territory.

Many people assume that only male dogs, and specifically intact males, urine mark their territory, but this isn’t the case. Male and female dogs urine mark, regardless if they are spayed or neutered. Some female dogs even lift their legs to mark.

The main reasons your dog marks in the house are:

• Your dog is trying to tell other dogs or animals the house is part of his territory.
• To communicate and manage his feelings about changes or stressors in the home. Rearranging furniture, moving to a new space, new schedules or family members moving in or out.
• Medical issue, such as a urinary tract infection
• Smell trigger from urine on the carpet

How to stop your dog marking in the house 

Step 1: Rule out a medical issue. Take a trip to the vet, who will rule out any health conditions that’s causing your dog to have the urge to pee. Once this is ruled out, you know the marking is likely behavioral and it’s time to start working with your dog.

Step 2: Understand triggers.  Pay attention to when and where your dog starts to mark — somewhere new, when another dog or animal has been in the home, new furniture or returning to the same location again and again. Once you can anticipate the behavior, you can prevent and interrupt the behavior.

Step 3: Supervise. Keep your dog in sight as often as possible, especially if he hang outs in an area of the house where he tends to mark, to intervene before he acts. Redirect him before he lifts a leg or squats. If you can’t fully supervise, keep him confined to a crate or dog-proofed room with an easy-to-wash floor in case an accident happens. 

Step 4: Redirect. If you notice your dog sniffing the wall or furniture, use treats and toys to redirect him away from that area and bring him outside to potty. Redirecting your dog before marking is far more effective than trying to interrupt your dog once he starts and it reduces the frequency of future marking attempts. When your dog moves away from the area he was sniffing/about to mark, praise and encourage with treats and toy play.

Step 5: Manage your environment. Baby gates or tethering your dog to you with a leash around the house, keep your dog near you and in sight. Daily routine management is also important. When your dog wakes up from a nap or seems restless, direct him outside to potty. Back inside, continue supervising and redirect your dog away from the area he wants to mark.

Step 6: Prevention. For determined markers, wearing a diaper or belly band is a preventative measure. Dogs don’t like the sensation of being wet, so most won’t try to mark with the diaper on. Only use the diaper or belly band when you are nearby and able to intervene if your dog becomes stressed, distressed or entangled and regularly check that it’s not wet. When damp, change it right away to prevent irritation and discomfort. To protect your carpet, small, easy-to-wash area rugs and towels protect regularly marked areas.

Here are more cleaning tips for dog parents.

Other tips to stop dogs marking in the house: 

Additional tips to help as you work with your dog, include:

Encourage outdoor marking: Provide an outlet for this natural marking behavior by giving your dog plenty of space and opportunity to urine mark in appropriate locations outside. Don’t rush your dog while walking; give him a chance to stop to pee. 

Clean thoroughly: Clean up any accidents that do happen. If your dog smells pee, he’s more likely to continue trying to urinate in that location. The better you can clean and neutralize the urine smell, not just cover it up, the less likely your dog will continue to smell urine in that location and return to continue marking.

Don’t punish: As frustrating as marking in the house is, we don’t want to punish our dogs for peeing/marking. Instead, take him directly outside and then thoroughly clean the area. Think through what might have triggered the marking behavior and keep a closer eye on your dog.

The post How to Stop a Dog from Marking in the House by Sassafras Lowrey, MFA, CPDT-KA, CTDI appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

The post The Best Biodegradable Poop Bag by Rachel Phelps, MBA, MPA, Dip. PDT, Pet Product Expert appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

We all know that cleaning up after our dog plays an important part in being a responsible dog owner, but did you know some poop bags are kind to the environment? Traditional plastic bags are made from polyethylene, which can take hundreds of years to break down in a landfill. Biodegradable bags, on the other hand, are made from materials that break down naturally in a compost pile or in a landfill.

When choosing the best biodegradable dog poop bag, look for the following criteria:

• Material: Eco-friendly poop bags are typically made from plant-based materials such as starch, corn and vegetable oils. These types of materials break down over time. Some bags also keep materials out of the landfill by using post-consumer recycled plastics.
• Durability: While these bags are designed to break down over time, you still want them strong and thick enough to not tear or leak while you are using them, especially if your dog has poop problems.
• Compostability: If you plan to compost yourself, look for certified compostable bags, which means they fully break down in a compost environment.

Our top picks for best biodegradable poop bags

• The Original Poop Bags USDA Certified Biobased Rolls are made of 30% recycled materials with a recycled cardboard core. They’re thick and leak-proof for easy handling of your dog’s waste. $36.99/orange-scented countdown rolls (960 poop bags); poopbags.com

• MetroPaws Poopy Packs XL Dog Waste Bags are designed for large messes. These extra-large bags come in trendy colors and patterns. Durable and degradable the packaging is made from 100% recycled content. Comes in pink, seafoam, orange or black. $16.99/200 XL bags; metropaws.com

• Earth Rated Dog Poop Bags are made from 65% certified post-consumer recycled plastic, which gives a second life to over 5 million pounds of landfill-bound plastic every year. Comes in unscented or lavender scented. $13.99/270 bags; earthrated.com

Ultimately, choosing biodegradable poop bags makes a small but impactful choice to protect the planet. The next time you’re stocking up on supplies, make the switch. Your dog, and the earth, will thank you!

Want to dig through more poop articles? Check out:

• How to Massage a Dog to Poop
• Why Does My Puppy Poop So Much?

The post The Best Biodegradable Poop Bag by Rachel Phelps, MBA, MPA, Dip. PDT, Pet Product Expert appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

The post What’s Required to Travel to Hawaii With Your Dog? by Cindy Howle appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

In order for pets to leave the Hawaii airport, there’s a multi-step process of showing proof of two rabies vaccinations and passing an OIE-FAVN (Fluorescent Antibody Virus Neutralization) blood test measuring the response of the immune system to the rabies vaccine, after a 30 day waiting period. Then, you must meet specific island requirements.

Following the state’s checklist ensures your pet won’t get stuck at the Hawaii Animal Quarantine Station.

When should I start planning my trip to Hawaii with my dog?

Plan early, months in advance, for Hawaii’s tight vaccine requirements, long before flight time, according to Hawaii’s Department of Agriculture (HDOA), Animal Quarantine Station division. Notify your vet as soon as possible to schedule your dog’s appointments during the appropriate time-frame (see below) before your trip.

Review the pre-flight checklist before you and your dog travel to Hawaii

A series of steps must be taken for a dog to be released from the airport through the Hawaii Direct Airport Release. To start, follow this vaccine checklist, which directs you to the correct set of requirements based on your final island destination.

Items on the checklist include:

• Working microchip required
• 30-day minimum waiting period after last rabies vaccine
• 30-day minimum waiting period after FAVN blood sample has been received at lab
• FAVN report must be received at the Animal Quarantine Station before arrival
• Accredited vet must complete a health certificate within 10 days of your trip and administer flea and tick treatment before flight
• Complete HDOA Dog/Cat Release Form
• Pay DAR fees — $185 in Honolulu; $165 for neighbor island permit

There are additional forms and requirements based on your island destination.

Specific Hawaiian island requirements for dogs

Your island destination and your length of stay change travel requirements:

• Travel to Honolulu, follow Checklist #1
• Traveling directly to Kauai, Maui or Kona, follow Checklist #2 — Requires prior arrangements with an approved vet to meet you at the airport at your expense
• Travel to Kauai, Maui or Kona requires a Neighbor Island Import Permit (NIIP) — requested at least 30 days in advance of arrival

Will my dog be quarantined in Hawaii?

“If they do not complete all the requirements in the required timeframe, the dog will not be released and will be held in quarantine in Hawaii or returned to the point of origin at the owner’s expense,” according to HDOA.

Hawaii animal quarantine information:

• Cost for 120-day quarantine is $1,080.
• Owners in Kauai may choose quarantine at the Kauai Humane Society at $100/day.

Kauai Humane Society created a video guide to bringing you dog to Kauai.

For questions about the travel requirements with your dog, contact Animal Quarantine Station at  rabiesfree@hawaii.gov or by phone at (808) 483-7151

For all to enjoy paradise on arrival, follow HDOA’s vaccine and island requirements and plan early based on your situation.

The post What’s Required to Travel to Hawaii With Your Dog? by Cindy Howle appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

The post How to Become a Pet Sitter by Mary Schwager appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

How do you become a pet sitter? What if you have no experience? We’ve got answers from some of the nation’s top experts.

“You should take an inventory of your pet-care experience and knowledge,” says Beth Stultz-Hairston, president of Pet Sitters International (PSI), (an educational organization for professional pet sitters. “Consider questions such as your length of experience caring for your pets or pets of friends and family. What types of pets you have experience with? What type of relevant training you’ve had?”

If you need experience or want to ensure pet-sitting is in your wheelhouse, spend more time with animals.

“I highly suggest you volunteer at rescues or animal shelters,” says Amy Sparrow, president of the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS), the national nonprofit organization for professional pet-sitters. “Work at vets’ offices, kennels and doggy daycares.”

Pet sitters often transition to animal care from other industries. Suzanne Thomsen worked in corporate America and then as a teacher. She wondered if pet-sitting might be preferable to the boardroom and classroom.

The North Carolina mom had caregiving experience raising her children and dogs. Four years ago, she got her first pet sitting job and now has a new “leash” on a fulfilling career.

“I have my own hours, no constant requests and deadlines, no political environments, no demanding superiors, no talking-back students,” Suzanne says. “Pet-sitting is a relaxed environment with loving pets that only want your love.”

But before you quit your day job make sure you’re OK not working 9 to 5. Pet sitters work rain or shine, nights, weekends and holidays — popular times people go away.

Get certified as a pet sitter and join pet-sitting organizations

Though no federal regulations require pet sitters to have specific training, dig into  certifications that prove you’re responsible and ready for emergencies.

Formal training in pet CPR and first aid is critical. PSI and NAPPS offer pet-sitter education and certifications that make you stand out from the pack.

“The pet-owning public needs an easily identifiable way to determine the most qualified, knowledgeable, professional pet-sitting options,” Beth says.

Join professional organizations to network and share information. Amy runs her own pet sitting company, but she learned from others in the biz as a newbie. “The smartest thing I did was join an association. I asked established members what they wish they would have done so I wouldn’t make the same mistakes,” Amy says.

How to start a pet-sitting business

First, decide how to run your pet business or service. Do you want to work for a company, start your own or work for yourself?

According to a PSI survey of its members, 99% of pet-sitting businesses are independently owned, and more than half are sole proprietors with no employees.

Even if you’re a one-person operation or work as an independent contractor through a pet care app like Rover or Wag!, create a plan for your accounting, tax and legal issues.

“One of the biggest downfalls of aspiring pet sitters is lack of business knowledge,” Beth says. “It’s important to seek out the tools and resources you’ll need to run a business efficiently and effectively.”

Hire an accountant and attorney or consult pet-sitting associations or the U.S. Small Business Administration for resources.

If you add employees, follow all the local, state and federal rules so you don’t end up in the doghouse. You may need to file a “doing business as” registration with your city or incorporate as a business with your state.

Pet sitter insurance

Be sure to get insurance. Even if you pet sit a few hours a month, you’re offering a service and could be liable if something goes wrong.

“General liability insurance is a must-have for all businesses,” says Janet Ruiz with the Insurance Information Institute. “It protects you and your company from common lawsuits arising from everyday business activities. It will cover you if the dog you were walking bit someone.”

If you drive pets in your car or bring them to your home, your auto or homeowners’ insurance may not pay if something happens while you’re on the job. Talk to an insurance agent about coverage. If you’re certified, you may get a discount.

“We often see businesses fail when they don’t have insurance and suffer losses,” Janet says. “Businesses with insurance are more likely to recover from losses.”

Amy has customized coverage for her clients’ pets and property.

“I have clients in multimillion-dollar homes,” she says. “I worry about a dog knocking a vase over or a dog who starts limping. The insurance covers that.”

How to find pet-sitting jobs

Demand for pet sitters is at an all-time high. Many pet care businesses are racing to hire more employees. Find a local pet-sitting business with openings or work through websites and apps that connect sitters with pet parents. Note that some companies take a cut of what you make. If you want to create your own company, paw through the following items before you get started as a pet sitter.

• Decide on a memorable name for your pet-sitting service
• Create a logo
• Set up a website
• Order business cards
• Start advertising: Post flyers at dog parks, on social media and ask people to spread the word.

Ask for reviews after each successful pet-sitting job. “Your reputation is your most important thing,” Amy says.

Suzanne started by creating a profile on Rover. “You set your parameters: the number of pets, size of pets and distance you will travel. You set your fees,” Suzanne says.

Before a pet sitter can post a profile on Rover, she must pass a criminal background check, pass a safety quiz on pet body language and be approved by the company.

“Rover empowers our community of pet sitters and dog walkers to grow their businesses through our platform,” says Kate Jaffe, trends expert at Rover. “With the tools and resources we provide, sitters have the flexibility to set their own rates, schedules, services and choose which bookings they accept, so they can create a pet-care business that matches their unique needs.”

Wag! also requires caregivers to submit a profile, pass a pet-safety quiz, a background check and have business insurance. Once your profile is approved, you can start working that day.

“It could take months or years for a caregiver starting out on their own to find enough business to make their business a reality,” says Keith Mosley with Wag!. “But pet parents are submitting requests for both on-demand services and scheduled requests on the Wag! app.”

Going rate for pet sitters

“What should I charge?” is one of the most popular questions PSI receives from pet sitters.

The organization’s most recent survey found the average fee for a 30-minute pet-sitting visit was $24.18. An overnight visit averaged about $90.82. Pet-sitting rates vary depending on where you live.

“It’s important to research the going rate in your service area,” Beth says. “It’s also important to calculate your overhead business costs when determining your rates to ensure you can make a profit.”

Ask your clients to sign a contract specifying your role, rate and payment. “That’s just a smart business practice,” Amy says.

Words of advice for pet sitters

Network with other pet sitters to have backup caregivers in case you have to cancel.

Ask potential clients to fill out a questionnaire about their pets. Be honest if you don’t feel you can handle their animals’ care.

Suzanne insists on meeting pets before accepting a job. She ensures she’s a good match, so everyone is safe rather than sorry.

“Having raised two children and taught hundreds of students, I know how important their safety and comfort are,” Suzanne says. “It’s no different when nurturing a pet.”

The post How to Become a Pet Sitter by Mary Schwager appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

The post Help! My Puppy Doesn’t Want to Walk by Debbie DeSantis, BAH, CPDT-KA appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Some puppies love to go for walks and will pull ahead like sled dogs to reach their destination. But what if your puppy puts on his brakes and refuses to budge? Don’t despair! There are ways to get him happily going.

Walks help exercise a puppy and provide him with socialization to new experiences. But puppies aren’t born knowing how to walk on a leash. So, it’s up to you to train them.

The first step is figuring out why your puppy doesn’t want to walk.

Top reasons your puppy doesn’t want to walk

Because each puppy is an individual, there are many reasons why your puppy is hesitant, and they aren’t all behavioral issues. Here are the top reasons your puppy doesn’t want to walk:

• Collar or harness issue: The puppy isn’t used to wearing a collar, harness or leash. Some pups will freeze in place when any of these are attached until they’ve been trained to wear them. Or, the collar or harness doesn’t fit, which makes walking uncomfortable.
• Not ready to go home. The puppy wants to remain on his walk. He doesn’t want to go home because the walk will end.
• Fear of the great outdoors or new things. Some pups will put the brakes on when they’re scared of going outside and all that they will encounter. This includes happily walking during the day, but becoming fearful in the dark at night.
• Too tired to walk. This can occur at the beginning of the walk or sometime during the walk.
• Something is painful. Your puppy may have a physical issue. Or, his nails may be too long, causing discomfort.
• The weather: too hot, cold or rainy.
• Wanting to stop and sniff. A dog has a “nose brain” and loves to see who’s been there and what is going. So, he stops to smell the roses, so to speak.
• Wanting to greet people and dogs. If your puppy is a social butterfly, he’ll stop walking when he sees other beings.
• If you always take the same route, a puppy communicates that he wants a new path by refusing to move.
• Too fast or slow pace. If you’re walking too quickly, your pup jams the brakes on because the leash is tight or because he can’t keep up. If you walk too slowly, he’ll stop walking because he’s bored.
• You’ve inadvertently discouraged him to walk. This can happen when someone corrects a dog too often, such as when he pulls or tries to pick up items.

Puppy doesn’t want to walk: How to help

After you’ve figured out the reason your puppy isn’t walking, now’s the time to take action. Don’t try to pull your puppy along or tighten the leash — make walking a fun experience! Follow these 13 steps:

1. Practice using walking equipment inside your house. Put on his collar or harness and give him yummy pieces of deboned chicken. Play with him. Have a leash drag and also reward when you attach it. Encourage him to move forward with a food lure or favorite toy. Make putting on and wearing the equipment a fun game.
2. Make sure that your puppy isn’t too tired. Even though the adage that “a tired dog’s a good dog” may be true in some circumstances, it’s not the case here. Choose a time when your pup shows you he’s ready to rumble.
3. Schedule a vet exam to ensure the puppy doesn’t have a physical problem.
4. Practice short walks in different weather conditions. Use treats and take him out when it rains. Get him used to warm and cool conditions, too, and wearing a coat or sweater. Avoid temperatures that are too hot or cold, which are unsafe for your pet.
5. Teach core training behaviors, like loose leash walking, sit/stay and come. By teaching these basic behaviors, you’re training your puppy to move. Training equals confidence.
6. Let him sniff. Many dogs enjoy a “sniffari” as part of their walk.
7. Praise often and use high-value treats (foods that are a 10 out of 10 for your dog!) when he’s walking, such as small, pea-sized pieces of chicken or cheese. Keep these high-value by saving them only for walking time.
8. Appoint your dog’s favorite person or another dog as a lure. Some puppies readily walk when there’s a loved one walking in front of them.
9. Plant hidden treasures along the route. A stuffed Kong or favorite toy put in place prior to the walk motivates him to find treasure on subsequent walks.
10. Schedule regular walks at the same time of day. Dogs are creatures of habit and respond well to schedules.
11. Socialize him using positive reinforcement, introducing him to new scents, sights, sounds, people and animals.
12. Start your walk away from home. Carry or drive your puppy a short distance, even 20 feet away. This encourages him to walk homeward bound to his perceived safety.
13. Avoid areas that scare him, such as a busy area or road. Instead, find quiet spaces until he’s socialized to new environments.

Don’t despair if your puppy doesn’t want to walk. There are many measures that you can take to convince him that walks are fun. Then, it’s time for adventure!

The post Help! My Puppy Doesn’t Want to Walk by Debbie DeSantis, BAH, CPDT-KA appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

The post My Dog Ate Weed! Here’s What to Do by Megan Arszman appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

With the increase in states legalizing marijuana, weed is not only more accessible to humans, but also increases instances of a dog ingesting it.

Dog ate weed? First, don’t lie about it.

Dr. Anna Robinson, a small animal veterinarian in New Braunfels, Texas, stresses that you need to be completely honest with everyone when speaking about the issue.

“No veterinary professional worth anything cares if you are illegally (or legally) in possession [of marijuana],” she says. “It’s against our code of ethics and AVMA policy to report you — unless you are involved in an active animal abuse case — as you are seeking treatment for your pet.”

Instead, keeping this knowledge will frustrate and anger a veterinarian, who will run more tests as she ascertains what’s in your dog’s system. This increases treatment time, cost (due to increased lab work) and potentially worsening symptoms.

Dog ate weed: Second, check for clinical signs

Signs and severity differ based on how much weed your dog ate, what type of weed and how long it’s been in his system. Vet-approved amounts of CBD are safe for dogs, while THC is dangerous. If your dog consumed a baked product made with THC, there could be other harmful ingredients, such as herbs, chocolate, nuts or xylitol that are extremely toxic to dogs.

Here are common initial signs of THC to look for:

• Pupil dilation
• Ataxia (drunk-like walking)
• Hypothermia
• Rapid behavior fluctuations that are atypical for your pet (i.e., acute aggression, depression, disorientation, bizarre behaviors, etc.)
• Excessive salivation
• Vomiting

In the later stages after your dog ate weed, you might see:

• muscle tremors
• disorientation
• hyperesthesia (extreme sensitivity to external stimuli)
• seizures

If you realize within an hour of consumption, vomiting can be induced, preferably at a veterinary practice). Dr. Robinson stresses calling your veterinarian for dosing and recommendations for inducing vomiting.

Dog ate weed: Third, head to the vet

If your dog is showing clinical signs, or you saw your dog consuming weed, go to a veterinarian for evaluation immediately. “If ever in doubt it never hurts to bring your pet to a veterinarian, especially in this case, as the difference between having to wait in a dark room for symptoms to subside and needing IVs and decontamination is a deceptively short amount of time or exposure,” says Dr. Robinson.

Your veterinarian will also ask that you call a poison control line, which will assign you a case number and assist the veterinarian (either your regular vet or emergency vet).

A poison control representative will ask:

• for a credit or debit card number up front
• who you are and whether you are a legal owner of the pet you are calling about
• for your pet’s signalment (breed, age, sex and if spayed/neutered)
• if you’re in route to a facility
• what the pet’s current symptoms are and may direct you to symptom specific first aid based on your response.
• what the pet consumed, specifically product details, such as if the marijuana was in edible or cream form (i.e., is there chocolate or xylitol involved), whether subcomponents are listed as an ingredient (non-THC cannabinoids which act on similar receptors) and if the weed/CBD has a cut agent (meaning, some other herb, herbal oil extract or another legal or illegal drug).

“The latter we see especially frequently with CBD and weed popularity,” says Dr. Robinson. “Most veterinarians do not request poison control case numbers unless there is another toxicant involved, but the standard practice can vary between veterinary hospitals.”

Finally, you’ll get a case number and potential contact information for your veterinarian to use.

A final note: Swift action is key, but honesty and having detailed information are equally important when it comes to weed poisoning with your dog.

The post My Dog Ate Weed! Here’s What to Do by Megan Arszman appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

The post How Do Dogs Get Mange? by Dr. Brittany Kleszynski, DVM appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Mange in dogs is caused from mites, which are parasites that result in hair loss and skin inflammation. Two different types of mites cause mange in dogs— Demodex species and Sarcoptes scabiei. Puppies are born with Demodex mites, while Sarcoptes mites are contracted from exposure to other dogs, wildlife or contaminated bedding. Sarcoptic mange is contagious to other dogs and humans, but demodectic mange is not.

Is dog mange contagious? Sarcoptic mange is; demodectic mange is not

Sarcoptic mange is caused by the mite named Sarcoptes scabiei. This condition is commonly referred to as “scabies,” and it is highly contagious among dogs. It tends to spread quickly in places where large numbers of dogs are kept, such as shelters and boarding facilities. Sarcoptic mange is considered zoonotic, which means it can spread from dogs to people, too! It causes extreme itch and most commonly affects the ears, elbows, armpits, legs and bellies of dogs.

Demodectic mange in dogs is not contagious. Demodectic mange, also referred to as red mange, is caused by Demodex mites. These mites naturally live in hair follicles and oil glands and do not usually cause concern in healthy dogs because the immune system keeps them under control. However, in puppies or dogs with weakened immune systems, such as seniors or dogs who have underlying health issues, the number of mites can rapidly increase and result in mange. Localized demodectic mange is commonly seen in between the digits on the paws, around the eyes and on the muzzle, while generalized demodectic mange affects the entire body. This form of mange is not contagious to other dogs or people.

Dog mange: signs and symptoms

Mange causes characteristic signs in affected dogs. These include:

• Hair loss
• Red and inflamed skin
• Crusty patches, scabs and open sores
• Thickened skin
• Foul odor

Because sarcoptic mange is so uncomfortable, pet parents often notice their dogs aggressively chewing at their skin to combat the extreme itchiness. Demodex can result in itchy skin as well, but it is typically much milder. Both forms of mange can lead to skin infections, which may result in swelling and pain.

Dog mange: treatment

Most commonly, veterinarians treat mange using specific oral flea and tick preventatives that are also effective against mites. Dips, topical medications and injections are less commonly used for treatment. Medicated shampoos are often started prior to topical or oral therapies to improve treatment outcomes. These shampoos soften the skin, remove scales and crusts, and cleanse the hair follicles. Additional medications, such as antibiotics, antifungals or anti-inflammatories, may be prescribed in some cases. Although dogs start feeling better fairly quickly once treatment begins, it can take a couple months for their skin to heal and their hair to grow back.

Dog mange: tips to stop the spread

To prevent the spread of sarcoptic mange, keep affected dogs separate from other pets until the mites have been eliminated. The dog’s environment, bedding, toys, collars and leashes should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Wear gloves and wash hands and arms well after coming into contact with a dog who has sarcoptic mange.

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In general, a dog’s cone can usually be removed seven days after surgery but depends on several factors, says Dr.Natalie Isaza DVM, and owner of Access Veterinary Services  in Florida. “First and foremost, follow your veterinarian’s instructions before removing the cone,” she says.

When to take cone off dog after neuter: What to consider

Although it’s tempting to take the cone off early because your dog may not like it around his neck, removing it too early can cause more harm than help. Before removing your dog’s cone after his surgery, ask yourself this series of questions to see if your dog is ready:

• Does your dog tend to lick at his skin even when there has been no surgery?
• Does the incision site look red and inflamed?
• Is there a discharge from the surgery site?
• Are the stitches visible or “buried” under the skin? Dogs enjoy chewing on stitches.

If any of these are true, leave the cone on longer, Dr. Isaza says. And if there is any sign of infection, contact your vet immediately as your sweet boy might need an antibiotic.

Taking cone off dog after neuter: Care tips

When you decide your dog is ready, check off these steps to manage his new cone-free lifestyle.

• Monitor closely for the next few hours.
• If your dog appears depressed or lethargic, this might indicate an infection.
• If he licks or bothers the surgical site, put the cone back on, and contact your veterinarian for further instructions.

Why is a cone important after neuter?

The thick plastic design prevents licking or injury. Some dogs acclimate beautifully and others not so much. Highly energetic dogs often dislike the restriction. Some opaque plastics interfere with vision and can cause panic, she says.

“There are other alternatives to an Elizabethan collar (a cone) that may be better,” says Dr. Isaza. Ask your vet about options like an inflatable donut worn around the neck or a BiteNot Pet Collar.

Following your vet’s instructions to the “T” is always the plumb line alongside careful monitoring of the surgery site that determines when to remove your friend’s cone.

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The post How to Train Mixed Breed Dogs by Rachel Brix, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, Fear Free Certified appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

When training a mixed breed dog find out what motivates him. Rewards vary, but all dogs respond to food. Experiment! Add some breed-specific enrichment when possible and leave room in your routine for his personality to shine.

Teach your mixed breed dog basic cues such as:

• Sit
• Stay
• Down
• Recall
• Loose-leash walking
• Four on the Floor (not jumping up on people)
• Leave it and Drop it

And to really know a cue, your dog should generalize that cue to different environments with various levels of distractions. For example, your dog should be able to sit in your living room as well as he does at the vet’s office or outside on a walk.

Breed-specific dog training

An at-home DNA kit makes a great and easy way to determine your dog’s breeds. The results help with challenges you may face in training. Research your dog’s breeds to find out which behaviors you might see and what type of training or cues you may need to focus more on.

For example, Beagles, Siberian Huskies, Dachshunds, Yorkshire Terriers and Weimaraners have the reputation for being stubborn, so you need to be more patient and more creative with your efforts. Chihuahuas and Pit Bulls, for different reasons, need extensive socialization. Australian Shepherds need to be given a job to do or they will find one that you may not approve of.

Does dog breed affect behavior?

Although breed can impact your dog’s predispositions for certain behaviors, there isn’t a single gene that causes any given behavior because environment — beginning at conception — largely influences behavior.

Some predispositions include certain breeds needing more mental stimulation than others. Terriers love to hunt. Border Collies and Australian Shepherds love to herd. German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois enjoy protection work and scent work. On the other hand, brachycephalic (short-snouted) dogs, such as English and French Bulldogs, Pugs and Pekingese, should avoid activities or sports that can cause them to overheat. Research the types of dogs that make up your mixed breed as it can guide  you to the types of activities your dog might be into.

Dog breed personalities

While breed type can influence behavior, it doesn’t guarantee it, so let your dog tell you what he likes. Not all retrievers like to retrieve, and not all Labradors love water. Provide lots of opportunities, and let the biscuits fall where they may.

Explore enrichment activities to see what your dog enjoys and what could be used as rewards, especially if you’re having behavior issues or are stuck in your training. Lack of stimulation and exercise cause most behavioral problems, so ensure your dog gets enough of both. And, all dogs love to explore the world through their noses, so start with scent-work activities.

Enrichment ideas for mixed breed dogs:

• Agility
• Canicross
• Treiball
• Manners (i.e., obedience) training
• Sniffari
• Scent work
• Puzzles/games
• Trick training

Ultimately, training a mixed breed equates to training a purebred and breed is only a starting point for training. Every dog is an individual, and training should prioritize his unique needs. Work with what your dog shows you and what you observe, not necessarily what certain breeds should and shouldn’t be doing.

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That moment when you witness your dog happily bounce around and pick up what looks like a rock is likely a mix of confusion and annoyance for most pet parents.

Who does that? Well, dogs.

Dogs eating rocks is actually a very common occurrence with a number of possible causes, says Dr. Adriana Fisher, of VCA Animal Hospitals.

“I have seen a standard Poodle eat 10 pounds of loose gravel because frying oil was dumped on the gravel driveway,” says Dr. Fisher.

Why do dogs eat rocks? 5 common reasons

Possible reasons for dogs chewing rocks range from medical to behavioral:

• “I have seen a great deal of sled dogs that eat rocks when they are not in training season,” says Dr. Fisher.
• Pica (eating non-food items) induced by a nutritional deficiency. “But this is usually explained by a behavioral issue,” says Dr. Fisher.
• Spills on rocks from dog-enticing things like food grease or blood.
• General anxiety, separation anxiety or compulsive disorders also can cause dogs to eat abnormal objects like rocks. Dr. Fisher says compulsive and anxiety disorders usually have other symptoms like chewing on any object available, self-mutilating, tail-chasing and/or destroying items when left alone.
• A puppy eating rocks can mean teething. “Young dogs like to chew on anything to relieve their gum pain — including rocks,” she says.

Dog chewing rocks: How to stop it

“A basket muzzle is the best option for rock-eaters when they are outside,” says Dr. Fisher. “This allows them to pant and drink water but not eat rocks.”

Read our article about using a dog muzzle for behavioral issues.

Other ways to prevent dogs chewing on rocks include:

• Give your dog safe items to chew like bully sticks, dental chews and frozen, nonfat plain yogurt in a Kong or just as a large, frozen block, says Dr. Fisher.
• Enrich your dog’s daily activities with exercise, training and mental stimulation.
• Get your dog checked out at the vet to rule out a nutritional deficiency.
• Monitor your dog outside when rocks are present and limit access to rocks as much as possible.

My dog ate a rock: Is it an emergency? Rock Risks

Chewing rocks can lead to broken teeth that need surgical removal and swallowing rocks can lead to a gastrointestinal blockage requiring surgical removal from the GI tract, says Dr. Fisher.

“If the owner knows a rock has been eaten, they should bring their dog to the vet immediately as removal via endoscopy or vomiting induction is easier if the rock is in the stomach,” she says.

“Rocks can sit in the stomach for days to months and only cause some GI symptoms such as occasional vomiting and decreased appetite. Once the rock moves through and blocks the intestine, then it is a life-threatening emergency. A rock blockage can cause rupture of the intestines that can lead to death fairly quickly.”

Rock-eating in dogs is more common than you might think, but it’s still potentially dangerous. Monitor your puppy or dog if you suspect this is becoming a bad habit and determine if it’s behavioral or medical. In some cases, the solution could be as simple as more exercise and brain games.

The post Why Do Dogs Eat Rocks and How to Stop It by Jessica Peralta appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

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Whether you’re baking for your dog or for yourself, these cupcake toppers make a pawesome decoration at your dog-themed party.

DIY cupcake topper — What you’ll need:

• Color Printer/design program
• Full size sticker paper or plain paper
• Toothpicks
• Scissor
• Glue stick (if using plain paper)

DIY cupcake topper — Instructions:

1. Using the design program, lay out your picture three times in a 1½ by 1½ circle and print. Printing your photos on sticker paper makes it easier to assemble your 3-D toppers. You can also print on plain paper and use a glue stick to assemble.
2. Cut out each picture.
3. Fold each circle in half. Peel off backing and adhere your toothpick to center of one of the circles. Adhere second circle to half of the first circle, adhere third circle to first and second circle, creating a 3-D topper.
4. Insert into a yummy cupcake or any other dessert!

The post DIY Cupcake Topper: Easy Dog Birthday Party Idea by Linda Facci appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

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You may have heard dogs born in 2020 called pandemic puppies or dogs. These dogs developed behavioral issues related to growing up on lockdown. If this describes your dog, he may need help navigating a world outside COVID lockdown, since he did not get to socialize with other dogs during that important formative time. This resulted in adult dogs who struggle with socialization, overreactivity and separation-related issues.

What is a pandemic dog?

Commonly known as “pandemic puppies,” these young dogs were brought into homes during the height of the pandemic and beyond. Similar to the groupings of a human generation label (i.e., Gen X or Gen Z), the timeline of pandemic puppies is a bit fuzzy but generally considered to be between March and December 2020.

According to Frontiers in Veterinary Science, online searches for both cats and dogs topped out in April and May of 2020, for dogs this began to decrease in July and returned to average (compared with 2019) by the end of 2020. The ASPCA estimates 1 in 5 households adopted either a cat or dog during spring and winter of 2020 and 90% of these dogs remain in those homes.

Pandemic dogs socialization issues

Generation P’s biggest problems stem from lack of proper socialization. Right alongside us, pandemic puppies lived very sheltered lives for a year or longer. Therefore, they didn’t get the necessary exposure and experiences to help navigate new situations confidently.

Socialization remains one of the simplest yet most complex components of dog behavior — it’s also arguably the most important. In short, canine socialization is the process of acclimating dogs to live comfortably with other humans and dogs, places, objects and activities.

Dogs have very definitive points in their development where socialization takes place. The general estimate for this developmental window is between 3 to 16 weeks where dogs’ brains are the most receptive to novelty. Proper socialization involves distinctly positive experiences, or potentially negative experiences turned into positive experiences. In short, no negative experiences and a wealth of stellar ones. But Generation P’s flat-out lack of many of these experiences has led to fear and anxiety when faced with newness.

So how do you expose your fearful dog to new things? Don’t throw your dog into the deep end of the pool! Be her emotional support human and hold her paw while she learns to navigate new things in life, whether it’s meeting new dogs, people or experiencing new things. Always work to create positive associations and set her up for success.

Pandemic dog socialization do’s

• Take it slow and do not overwhelm. One new thing at a time.
• Brush up on dog body language so you know if your dog’s feeling it or not.
• Always allow your dog the choice to opt out of anything at any time.
• Go at her pace — never force her.
• Don’t lead (or drag!) her to any new thing or situation. Allow her to approach if/when she’s ready.
• Give her time and space to figure things out.
• Support her choices. Praise, play and treats help make positive associations

Pandemic dog socialization don’ts

• Never force interactions.
• Don’t break trust by forcing it. Always be willing to let it go and let her opt out.
• Never scold or otherwise punish your dog for her reactions to new things and risk making it worse or breaking trust.
• Avoid trying to do too much at once or too much too soon. One experience/dog/human/activity at a time!
• Dogs are always communicating, so don’t ignore her efforts to tell you how she’s feeling about any given situation.

Finally, take time to consider whether what you’re asking of your dog is truly necessary. For example, most dogs actually don’t want to be social butterflies once they depart puppydom. Focus on what helps your dog and family feel the most comfortable and at ease and start there. So, if separation-related issues are the top priority, hone in on that first and table the other issues for now. Working together and making improvements is sustainable for the long haul.

How to socialize a pandemic dog with other dogs

Although you can’t “redo” socialization, you can help to minimize your dog’s overreactivity, stress and fear.

Don’t force the issue or allow your dog to rehearse, or practice, undesirable behavior:

• barking
• lunging
• growling
• snapping
• biting

Distance is your BFF when looking to expose your dog to other dogs in a positive way. Follow these dog dog socialization steps:

• Choose neutral territory that’s safely contained.
• Minimize most (ideally all) distractions.
• Start with dogs on short leashes from as far away as necessary where your dog is interested, but not overreacting.
• Carefully gauge body language as you slowly decrease the space between them.
• If either dog shows signs of stress, stop and retreat.
• Try again if dogs are calm.
• If not, try a different day or a different dog.
• If all is well, drop the leashes, but keep them on a bit in case you need to act quickly.
• Keep interactions short and sweet. End on positive note.

If your dog can’t handle being in an enclosed space with another dog without being overreactive, call in a pro for help with proper desensitization techniques.

Pandemic dogs: separation-related Issues

We all got used to hanging out with each other, and only each other, for many months, and in some cases well over a year. So, when people with pets began returning to work (or worked from home but returned to socializing themselves), our puppies-turned-adolescents were left alone for the first time in well, forever. Even adult dogs and resident dogs pre-COVID were used to us being home with them 24/7. Then we weren’t.

As many of us returned to more normal lives after lockdown, our dogs were simply left alone. As a result, many of these dogs developed separation-related behaviors such as:

• Barking or howling
• Inappropriate chewing
• House soiling
• Panting, pacing, drooling
• Destructive behaviors

These behaviors may subside about 15 to 20 minutes after you leave, or things could be more serious and be full-blown separation anxiety. Separation anxiety for dogs is often used as a catch-all phrase for problems when dogs are left alone. However, true separation anxiety is a much more serious problem, which can be likened to a panic attack in humans. It likely needs the help of a professional trainer and even your vet, because medications may be part of the treatment plan.

Management strategies for separation-related issues include desensitizing your dog to your absence and teaching and reinforcing calm behaviors when you’re home. This includes while you’re getting ready to leave, which can often trigger dogs to the fact you’re about to leave. Follow these steps to help with dog separation-related issues at home:

• Be sure your dog gets enough physical and mental stimulation each day. You have hobbies, devices, friends, work, etc. Your dog only has you. Fill up her life with the good stuff so she’s content.
• Break up the day. Come home for lunch or arrange for someone to pay a visit for playtime and petting while you’re gone.
• Minimize disturbances. Close the blinds, leave the TV on. Prevent your dog from being stressed by outside things (unless your dog likes gazing out into the backyard or lying in beams of sunlight on the floor).
• There’s an app for that. Many apps help you monitor, talk to, treat and even interact with your dog while you’re away.

Dogs do not “get back at us” for leaving them or act out of spite or anger. Separation-related behaviors are usually directly related to the stress, anxiety and even fear your dog feels when you leave.

Pandemic dogs: When to bring in the pros

Getting knowledgeable and educated professionals on board with your dog’s care supplements any dog’s well-being. This is especially true for pandemic dogs.

If you suspect separation anxiety, consult with professionals. These professionals include a veterinarian, trainer, and pet sitter, as well as a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT).

Choosing an experienced, credentialed, rewards-based, force-free trainer makes all the difference. You can find one in your area by searching Pet Professional Guild (PPG) , Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) or the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC).

Visits to the veterinarian help your pandemic dog, especially if you can find a Fear Free Certified vet clinic. Fear Free Certified vet clinics and other Fear Free Certified professionals, such as trainers, groomers, dog walkers and now boarding facilities, are trained and required to maintain continuing education in helping alleviate stress, fear and anxiety that generally comes with these experiences. We all use at least one of these services, so this is a simple way to help support your dog’s emotional and behavioral health.

Your dog didn’t develop her issues overnight, and she won’t get over them overnight, either. It boils down to this: You both needed each other during the pandemic and while you love your dog, she probably needs you now more than ever. You may not have your Dream Dog but with support, patience and lots of love you can both be living the dream together.

The post Pandemic Dogs and Puppies: Socialization and Behavioral Issues by Rachel Brix, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, Fear Free Certified appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

The post 5 Dog Training Tips for Beginners by Rachel Brix, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, Fear Free Certified appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Gone are the days of strict obedience dog training, so unless you aspire to compete in obedience, relax. Cues like sit, come and manners are important, but first, you need to establish a solid foundation. This includes teaching your dog to exist harmoniously with you and your family and fit comfortably into our human-centered world.

How do we do this?

Here are 5 dog training tips for beginners to point you (and your dog) in a zen-like direction:

Become versed in dog speak

Dogs are nonverbal, constantly communicating how they feel and what they want and need. So, understanding dog body language is key to not only building a solid relationship, but also to being successful in any training, sport or activity you do together.

Focus on enrichment and meeting your dog’s needs

Let your dog be a dog! Most behavior issues stem from boredom or lack of stimulation and exercise. Enrichment is meeting your animal’s species-specific needs by providing varied and optimal opportunities to engage in natural behaviors. Dogs love to sniff, dig, forage, chew, etc. Give your dog ample enrichment opportunities (breed-specific when possible) to keep her happy and content.

Discover what motivates your dog

Each dog is an individual. Since learning and behavior change are based on reinforcement, have fun playing detective, discovering what drives your dog. Create a food “ladder” by ranking foods your dog likes and those he loves; the idea is to have a ready-to-go chart of various levels of his favorite foods, a wow-factor for him each time you offer the food. Use lower-rung foods for easier training requests and graduate to higher rung foods for more challenging tasks. Break out the super snacks for the toughest gigs. Remember, it’s just food: experiment with dog-safe fruits, veggies, cheese balls, any type of treat he might like. Adjust meal portions accordingly (treats add calories to your dog’s daily food intake!) and avoid foods that are toxic to dogs.

Reminder: Don’t free feed, or offer unlimited amounts of food all day without a schedule. Not only does it compromise a powerful motivator, but it can lead to overeating and obesity.

Aside from food motivators, include praise and play when working your way up your food ladder!

Manage your dog’s environment

Set up your dog for success. Getting into the trash? Buy a covered can or put it in a closet. Counter surfing? Don’t leave things in reach. Shy dog? Don’t bring her to crowded events. Create environments and situations your dog can handle — don’t throw her in the deep end of the pool.

Reflect and rephrase. Instead of asking, “How do I stop my dog from digging in the garden?” ask, “How can I get my dog to dig in only appropriate places?” Hint: Read out article to find out how. This gives you something to train (win-win) rather than setting you up to punish your dog (always a lose-lose).

Be patient

Learning new behaviors (and changing existing ones!) is complicated — don’t expect your dog to “get it” immediately. Sociologists say it takes 21 days on average for humans to form a new habit, so expect to put in at least a few weeks teaching your dog new stuff. Sure, she might learn sit in one or two quick sessions, but it’s a whole different ball game for her to generalize or know that sit means sit no matter where she is, what else is going on around her or who is around.

Start small, work tall. Don’t expect middle school-level mastery if you’re putting in grade school effort. Again, set her up for success and break your training up into smaller steps when necessary.

If your work feels challenging, contact a qualified professional rewards-based trainer. Support and guidance go a long way for your dog and minimize frustration for you. Laugh, celebrate little victories and expect things will be wonky sometimes. Mistakes are an integral part of learning for both you and your dog. Find a rhythm and have fun!

The post 5 Dog Training Tips for Beginners by Rachel Brix, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, Fear Free Certified appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.