Best Toothpastes for Dogs
We’ve all smelled doggy breath. But that stinky odor coming from your dog’s mouth isn’t just “how dogs are” — it’s often a sign of bad oral hygiene or periodontal disease. Just like humans, dogs’ teeth get plaque and tartar up from food if you don’t brush often enough. Brushing your dog’s teeth with a dog toothpaste and toothbrush regularly can help control build up on your pup’s teeth and keep it from getting worse.
Cobbing in Dogs
Nibbling, or “cobbing,” refers to a dog gently chewing with his front teeth. The term cobbing may have been coined because the dog’s nibbling resembles a human nibbling on a corn cob. Dogs have been known to do this to their owners, other humans, other animals, themselves, and toys. Let’s explore the many reasons for cobbing in dogs. I asked this question of both fellow trainers and just plain dog parents and received a lot of input on why dogs cob.
Can Dogs Taste Spicy Foods?
Two common questions among pet owners is whether their dogs can taste spicy food and, more importantly, whether they should have it. The short answer is no to both questions. Dogs can’t “taste” spicy food and, no, they should not have it. It may even lead to diarrhea, vomiting, gas, and stomach pain.
Do Allergy Shots Offer Lasting Relief for Dogs?
The sight of your dog constantly scratching, licking, or chewing is a familiar and distressing one. Dog allergy shots can offer a dog some needed long term relief.
Developing a Dog Exercise Routine
Keeping your dog well-exercised has a variety of benefits. Not only will you keep them at a healthy weight and their muscles limber, you can also use exercise as a way to bond with your dog and provide them with mental enrichment.
Before you begin an exercise routine with your dog, there’s a lot to know. We chatted with canine physical therapist Dr. Courtney Wheeler, PT, CCRT, from Walking Paws Rehab in Boulder, Colorado, and canine conditioning coach, Kirsten Belinsky, CPDT-KA, CSCC, from Canine Athletics Training Center in Longmont, Colorado about all things dog exercise.
How to Train Your Dog to a Dog Whistle
Dogs can learn to respond to all sorts of sounds and cues, but among the most effective for a solid recall, or “come,” is...
What Does Catnip Do to Dogs?
Catnip seems to have a mild sedative effect on a few dogs, but I wouldn’t recommend it to calm a dog on the 4th of July! If you decide to expose your dog to catnip, try a small amount of dried crushed plant or fresh crushed leaves.
Knuckling in Dogs
Knuckling in dogs is a condition where a dog walks or stands on the top of their paws instead of placing their pads on the ground. Knuckling results in the paw folding under when the dog walks.
Best Peanut Butter for Dogs
Peanut butter is a popular treat among dog owners, used to fill puzzle toys, hide medications, or as a reward for good behavior. Most...
How to Get Dog Hair Out of the Car
I have floofy dogs, so I learned to remove dog hair from my car. I also became a fan of preventatives. For example, if...
Sileo for Dogs
Sileo gel for dogs may help dogs who seem to instinctively fear noise, or at a minimum, dislike certain noises. Those sounds can include...
What To Know About In-Home Euthanasia
Wherever Harley went, commotion followed. I had a hunch that even in death, his knack for turmoil would live on, and I wasn't wrong.
The...
What To Expect When Adopting a Long-Stay Shelter Dog
Adopting a dog who has been a long-term resident at a shelter can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Long stints in an animal shelter...
The 5 Best Reflective Dog Collars
Whether you’re camping with your dog, or just want to keep them visible on late-night potty walks, a reflective dog collar is a must-have for your dog’s safety.
Reflective collars keep your dog visible to you, cars, bikes, other people, and other dogs. Dogs who wear reflective collars are easier to see both on leash and off leash, thereby reducing accidents.
Did My Dog Sprain His Leg?
If my dog sprains his leg, or is otherwise lame or sore, my immediate go-to is to run a cold hose over the area (or the whole leg) for 5 minutes two to three times a day. You need to time the 5 minutes because it will feel like an hour after just 30 seconds.
How to Tell If Your Dog Is in Pain
Dogs communicate their discomfort with subtle changes in their behavior, posture, and habits. Recognizing these signs helps you maintain your dog’s health.
Can Dogs Get Norovirus?
Just like people, dogs are susceptible to gastrointestinal illnesses including norovirus.
Essentials for Your Dog
What comes to mind when you think of things you need for your dog? (Not necessarily things you want: much as I might like a diamond-encrusted collar or a $1,000 plush dog bed for Frankie, they’re not really necessities. Not in my world, anyway.) When it comes right down to it, pretty much everyone has a different idea of what items are considered essential for a dog.