Leading vet
Can you imagine what your teeth would look like if you never brushed them? Not pretty that’s for sure! So, what about your dogs’ teeth? Like us, dogs need routine dental care.
According to the American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS), 75% of dogs over the age of four have dental disease. In fact, dental disease is one of the most common medical conditions we see in dogs. This should come as no surprise. Most people do not brush their dog’s teeth, and we all know that our dogs are not brushing their own teeth.
Dental disease doesn’t just lead to bad doggy breath, it can lead to tooth loss, painful tooth root abscesses, difficulty eating, and other serious health problems.
The combination of food, saliva, and bacteria leads to plaque formation. If not removed by brushing, it mineralizes and becomes tartar. Tartar accumulation promotes bacterial infections below the gumline, which results in gum recession and destruction of the tooth’s support structures. Unless treated, pain and tooth loss can occur and bacteria can enter the blood stream and spread to distant organs, like the kidney, liver and heart.
Dental disease can occur at any age, but it is more common in older dogs and certain dog breeds. Chihuahuas, Dachshunds and toy breeds appear to have a genetic predisposition for dental disease and often develop dental issues earlier than other breeds.
Make sure your dog is seeing their veterinarian at least once a year. If they are older than 7 years they should have routine check-ups twice a year. During these check-ups your veterinarian will do an oral exam and be able to detect if your dog has any dental disease. In between these visits you should ideally be checking your dog’s mouth regularly as well. Flip your dog’s lip and take a close look at your dog’s gums. Are they red and swollen? Next look at their teeth. Are they clean and white or do you see brown discoloration, thick tartar on the teeth? Do you see any broken teeth? Do they have bad breath? Do you see any drooling or have you noticed them having trouble eating? If you notice any of these things (swollen gums, broken teeth, tarter buildup) it means that your dog has dental disease and should see their veterinarian as soon as possible for a full oral examination.
Dental disease in dogs is diagnosed by a veterinarian. The veterinarian will perform a thorough examination of your dog’s mouth and may recommend dental x-rays to determine if your dog has a tooth root abscess, retained tooth root, or a diseased tooth that needs to be extracted.
If your dog already has dental disease a complete dental cleaning by your veterinarian is necessary. This involves an evaluation of the oral cavity and cleaning not only the surface of the teeth, but underneath the gumline where the majority of bacteria and tartar are found. After the teeth are cleaned, they are polished to smooth the roughened surfaces that were created by the cleaning. Next, an antibacterial solution is flushed below the gumline to remove any debris that collected after the scaling and polishing. Lastly the entire mouth is checked again, and dental x-rays will likely be used to assess the extent of the dental disease and the need for any tooth extractions or additional work. Even though most people can tolerate and sit through a thorough dental cleaning, dogs can’t. The only way to perform a complete dental cleaning in dogs is by using general anesthesia.
For many dog parents, the thought of placing their beloved dogs under general anesthesia is scarier than the actual cleaning. So, what about a non-anesthetic dental cleaning? It is important to know that it is currently illegal for anyone other than a veterinarian or a supervised and trained veterinary technician to perform a dental cleaning. Even when done by a trained professional, there are risks with non-anesthetic dentals. Animals with dental disease often have painful mouths. Without anesthesia, an animal may experience pain and move during the cleaning. This can be dangerous since many of the instruments used are quite sharp and can hurt the animal if it jerks during the procedure. However, the biggest issue with non-anesthetic dental cleanings is that the cleanings are superficial and do not address the tartar under the gumline where the majority of dental disease resides. For these reasons, both the American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC) and the American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS) do not recommend non-anesthetic dental cleanings.
So how can you make the anesthetic dental safer? Pre-anesthetic bloodwork and chest x-rays are used to screen for underlying medical issues. Although anesthesia can never be risk free, the use of modern gas anesthetics such as sevoflurane and isoflurane, sophisticated monitoring equipment, as well as intravenous catheters and IV fluids have greatly improved the safety of general anesthesia. Your veterinarian will need to look at your dog’s individual risks versus the benefits of dental care and advise you appropriately.
The best way to prevent dental disease is to brush your dog’s teeth regularly. Ideally you want to start brushing your dog’s teeth when they are young so that they become used to the routine. Young dogs also have clean healthy teeth and will get used to brushing if you start when they are young, just like nail trims. Dogs should have their teeth brushed daily or at the very least a few times a week. It is important to use a dog-safe toothpaste and not toothpaste intended for people. Dog-safe toothpaste does not bubble or foam and does not require your dog to rinse their mouth out afterwards. And they come in exciting flavors like chicken, beef, seafood and peanut butter. Yum, right?
Brushing is easier than you might think. I recommend you start by using your fingers. Put dog toothpaste on them, let your dog lick it off and then gently hold your dog’s mouth closed (to prevent them from accidentally pinching your finger) and slowly and gently use your finger to rub the outside of their teeth in a circular motion. Try doing this for a few days to get them used to it, then try using a finger brush or dog toothbrush. Remember reward your dogs afterwards by letting them lick the remaining paste off the toothbrush or give them a dental chew as a reward.
Ideally you should brush your dog’s teeth once a day. I try to brush my dogs’ teeth every night after I brush my teeth. If you just cannot manage daily brushing, try to brush their teeth a few times a week or at the very least weekly. Remember the more you brush your dog’s teeth, the less likely they will develop dental disease.
NO! If your dog already has significant dental disease, brushing is not recommended. Brushing your dog’s teeth may cause your dog pain. Swollen red gums are inflamed will be tender and are likely to bleed if brushed. The best thing to do for a dog with dental disease is to have a dental cleaning by a veterinarian to remove the tarter and bacteria. Once the teeth are clean and the gums are healthy, your veterinarian will recommend you start brushing.
Although nothing beats regular brushing, oral wipes, dental diets and dental treats can help reduce the bacteria and plaque that lead to tartar formation. Nowadays you can find all kinds and flavors of dental chews. These chews usually have ridges and textured grooves that help keep your dog’s teeth clean and reduce plaque and tarter. In addition, they often contain ingredients that reduce bacteria. Most importantly to your dogs, they are a delicious treat. My dog loves getting a dental chew and I love that he is getting dog treat that’s good for his teeth.
No matter what you choose, be consistent and see your veterinarian regularly for check-ups. Remember, dogs should have their teeth checked at least once a year and if you notice your dog has bad breath, trouble eating, has excessive drooling or red inflamed gums call your veterinarian to schedule an appointment sooner. If your dog already has dental disease a complete dental cleaning is necessary. Remember early diagnosis and treatment are the best defense against serious dental disease.
Apples are a popular mid-day snack. We even love to savor this fruit in our salads, smoothies, and pies. The global admiration for apples can be affiliated with its multiple health benefits. In fact, apples are one of the healthiest fruits you can eat.
But can you share this crunchy treat with your dog? Let’s find out…
Yes, apples are safe for dogs. This sweet and filling fruit has many health benefits for our furry friends. They are chock-full of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that help promote good health and wellness.
To learn precisely how an apple benefits your dog, let’s discuss the 5 most significant advantages of feeding apples to a dog.
Apples contain both soluble and insoluble fibers that aids in digestion and helps regulate bowel movements that prevent constipation and diarrhea.
Fiber is also great for your dog’s gut health. The fermentation of fiber in a dog’s gut produces short-chain fatty acids. These acids act as an energy source for the epithelial cells that line the gut. Healthy epithelial cells ensure proper digestion of food and absorption of nutrients.
Also, more than half of the fiber in an apple is made of a substance called pectin. This is a prebiotic that helps feed the good bacteria and prevents the growth of harmful bacteria.
Another benefit of adding fiber-rich food to your dog’s diet is that it encourages weight loss. Obesity is a growing concern for dogs and can lead to many serious illnesses. Fiber can help make your dog feel fuller and satisfied in between their meals.
Apples are a healthy source of vitamins that can supplement your dog’s diet. The complete breakdown includes:
This is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that can help improve your dog’s vision and keep their skin and coat healthy. It also supports cell growth, boosts the immune system, and promotes brain and skeletal development.
This vitamin is crucial for strengthening the immune system, promoting collagen synthesis, and healthy aging in dogs. In fact, dogs, like most mammals, can synthesize vitamin C on their own inside the liver. But various environmental stressors like growth, injuries, vaccinations, relocation, etc can cause vitamin C depletion.
By feeding them fruits like apples that are rich in vitamin C, you can help ensure they meet their daily nutritional requirements and lead a happy and healthy life.
This is another fat-soluble vitamin that helps metabolize calcium into the bones of your dog. It prevents calcium from depositing in the heart and arteries. Vitamin K is also essential to promote proper blood clotting that allows wounds to heal. Without this function, even the smallest wounds would continue to bleed and become fatal.
Apples contain calcium, phosphorus, manganese, and potassium. All of which are essential nutrients that should be included in your dog’s diet to support a healthy and balanced meal.
Calcium and phosphorus play a vital role in supporting your dog’s bones and teeth. Whereas manganese protects the cell’s energy and helps metabolize protein and carbohydrates. Potassium is a macro-mineral that is known to support your dog’s kidney, heart, and muscle function.
Apples contain antioxidants that help protect your dog’s body from oxidation or free radical damage including joint and arthritis problems. Antioxidants can also improve immune system activity and help your dog fight allergies.
A puppy requires antioxidants to remove toxins and germs from their body and an adult dog needs antioxidants to power its muscles and minimize inflammation.
Apples contain vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps improve a dog’s joint health and immune system. It also contains polyphenols, a type of plant compound and a strong antioxidant that can help reduce the risk of many cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.
It’s very important to keep your dog’s teeth and gums healthy. Bad dental health can lead to tooth loss, bad breath, oral pain, and other illnesses.
An apple contains malic acid, which is known to help create excess saliva in a dog’s mouth. This reduces the amount of bacteria growth and infections in their mouth. It not only prevents bad breath but also helps strengthen their teeth.
But bear in mind that apples cannot substitute brushing and basic oral hygiene practices.
Your dog can get an allergic reaction to anything from its surroundings. The constant itchiness that comes with allergies can make any dog miserable. In such a case, apple can be a natural and safe option that can help fight off the harmful effects of allergies.
Apples contain quercetin, a flavonoid, that is often used to reduce itchiness, inflammation, redness, and other discomfort caused by allergies.
But it’s important to note that if your dog is suffering from an allergic reaction, you should consult your veterinarian to get proper treatment and medication. Quercetin-rich fruits like apples should be considered as an extra anti-allergy boost.
Now that you know how beneficial it is to feed apples to your dog, you must be excited to get started. But what is the right way to feed apples to your dog? Is it safe for them to consume a raw apple? Let’s find out.
You can feed a raw apple to your dog, in fact, it’s the healthiest way. Even dogs love eating raw apples because of their crunchy texture.
To get started, always wash and scrub the apples to remove germs and bacteria. Many sellers even add a layer of wax on the apple skin to make it look glossy and appealing. Washing ensures all these toxic layers are removed completely.
Then you can cut the apples into small chunks depending on your dog’s size. Make sure you don’t feed them big pieces as they can cause a choking hazard.
Also when you’re cutting an apple, remove the seeds, stem, and core. Apple seeds contain some amounts of cyanide. If your dog accidentally consumes a few seeds it won’t be fatal but consuming a large number of seeds or a small amount regularly can cause cyanide poisoning.
The core of the apple is hard and big in size making it difficult to chew and swallow. It’s recommended that you always remove the core to avoid choking hazards for your dog.
The skin of the apple, however, is completely safe to eat and in fact, it contains many vitamins, fibers, and antioxidants like polyphenols that can support your dog’s immune system and overall health.
You can feed plain applesauce to your dog. The ones that are readily available in stores generally contain high levels of sugars, artificial flavors, colors, and other preservatives. All of these ingredients can be toxic for your dog.
You should be able to find brands that make dog-friendly unsweetened applesauce that’s free from fillers and preservatives. Or another great option is to make it at home.
To make your own applesauce all you have to do is wash and cut apples into small chunks. Remember to remove the seeds, stem, and core. You can leave the skin on and start cooking the apples in a large pot or slow cooker.
To make the applesauce even more nutritious and appealing to your dog, you can replace water with bone broth that’s safe for dogs. Once the mixture reaches a puree-like consistency, take it off the stove, allow it to cool down and then store it in an air-tight container.
You can feed this homemade applesauce on its own or mix it in with their regular kibble diet to add moisture. In summers, you can even freeze applesauce to make popsicle sticks.
Apple pie is a signature comfort food that's loved by people everywhere. But it’s not a dish that you should share with your dog.
Apple pie contains many ingredients including nutmeg that can pose a serious health risk for your dog. Even the most basic apple pie recipes contain large quantities of butter, sugar, and fat that can lead to an upset stomach.
Apple chips are simply dehydrated apple slices that can be a low-calorie treat for your dog. They do retain all the vitamins and antioxidants but no real fiber. The store-bought apple chips also contain a high amount of sugar. Hence its safe to feed apple chips to your dog, but it’s healthier to stick to raw apples.
Before you start feeding apples to your dog, let’s also talk about some precautionary measures that will help you reap the maximum benefits without any health concerns.
Apples are filled with nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that can help support the overall well-being of your dog. But it’s a fruit that should be used only as a supplement to a well-balanced diet.
The right portion size of apples you can feed your dog will depend on their breed, weight, age, and health condition. But ideally you should only feed 1 or 2 slices of an apple per day.
Remember that apples contain natural sugars, starch, and fiber that can negatively affect a dog’s health if they consume too much in one sitting. Overindulgence can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, diarrhea, constipation, or stomach pains.
Furthermore, it’s important that you introduce apples to your dog’s diet gradually and in moderation. Monitor their reaction for a few hours if they’re eating an apple for the first time. If you see any symptoms of an allergic reaction like itching, coughing, sneezing, etc contact your veterinarian immediately.
If your dog responds well, you can start feeding them apples regularly but in moderation.
Puppies can enjoy apples just like an adult dog. You might have to cut the apples into smaller chunks to make them easier to chew for a puppy.
Remove the seeds, stem, and core as they can be dangerous for a dog. It’s also recommended that you peel the apple skin before feeding because it can feel thick and tough to chew and can get stuck in a puppy's throat.
If they’re eating an apple for the very first time, just feed them a small piece and monitor their response for an allergic reaction. If they experience any digestive issues like vomiting or diarrhea, refrain from feeding them more apples and get in touch with your veterinarian.
Apples that are sold in grocery stores or supermarkets are often treated with pesticides and coated with a layer of wax to look shiny. You can remove the layer of wax by properly washing and scrubbing the apple before eating.
But if you wish to avoid any possible pesticide contamination, buy organic apples for your dog.
Amongst the many health benefits, apples also have certain drawbacks. They contain a lot of natural sugar and although your dog might love the taste of sugar it can cause problems for dogs who suffer from diabetes or obesity.
Hence if your dog is suffering from any prior health condition, you should consult your veterinarian before making any changes in their diet and feeding them apples.
Apple is one of the healthiest fruits you can add to your dog’s diet. The nutrients, vitamins, and minerals present in apples can help reduce the risk of certain diseases, fight inflammation, improve vision, support digestive health, and strengthen the immune system.
But just like every other food, moderation is the key. Feed the right amount of apples to your dog and use it only as a supplement to a well-balanced diet.
If you have any further doubts, you can consult your veterinarian before feeding apples to your dog.
Let’s answer some frequently asked questions about feeding apples to a dog:
Yes, dogs can eat green apples. In fact, just like red apples, green apples are also nutritious and vitamin-rich fruits that have many health benefits for a dog.
Yes, a dog can eat apples with skin. But remember to properly wash and scrub the apple to remove germs, bacteria, and wax-layer.
The skin or peel of the apple contains fiber and antioxidants like polyphenols that are healthy for a dog’s body. However, if you’re feeding apples to a puppy, you should remove the apple skin as it can be hard to chew and can get stuck in their throat.
It’s not safe to feed crab apples to your dog. It contains a high amount of cyanide that can lead to an upset stomach or other health complications including reduced blood oxygen and decreased heart rate.
No, you shouldn’t feed apple pie to your dog. It contains additional ingredients like nutmeg, a high amount of butter, and sugar, that can be harmful to your dog.
Apples and peanut butter are both safe for a dog. However, peanut butter often contains an ingredient called xylitol, which is harmful to a dog. If you want to feed it to your dog you should buy peanut butter that doesn’t contain added preservatives and xylitol.
Additionally, peanut butter is sweet and can increase the blood sugar level and fat of your dog. If your dog is suffering from diabetes or obesity, try to refrain from feeding them peanut butter.
Dogs can eat 1 to 2 slices of apples every day. However, try to keep rotating apples with other dog-friendly fruits like bananas, cranberries, or watermelon. This way your pet will reap various health benefits that come with different fruits and they will not get bored with the same snack.
Sources:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/fruits-vegetables-dogs-can-and-cant-eat/
https://www.metlifepetinsurance.com/blog/pet-care/can-dogs-eat-apples/
https://thismessisours.com/can-dogs-eat-apples/
https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/can-dogs-eat-apples
https://usatoday.com/story/news/2022/07/03/can-dogs-eat-apples-fruits-safe/7756379001/
Lamb has been gaining popularity in America, in part because it's a delicious and highly nutritious meat that contains many vitamins and minerals. But is lamb meat healthy for our furry friend?
Absolutely, yes! Lamb is a safe and healthy meat that you can feed to your dog. Continue reading to find out its many health benefits and how to share this delicious protein with your dog.
Below are 3 reasons why you should include lamb in your dog’s diet.
Lamb, just like every other meat, is primarily composed of protein. A 100g serving of lamb has around 24g of protein. Plus, it contains all nine essential amino acids making it a high-quality source of protein for your dog that can help build and maintain muscles.
Including lamb meat in your dog’s diet will also help maintain and repair their cells, support the immune system, and promote the growth of hormones and healthy enzymes.
Lamb is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids act as an anti-inflammatory and protect your dog against inflammation or damage from free radicals. It helps relieve itchiness, dryness, and skin allergies by supporting the skin and coat health of your dog.
Apart from that, omega-3 fatty acids also have a wide range of health benefits as they help support the dog’s immune system, heart, and kidneys. It’s also highly beneficial if your dog suffers from arthritis or other chronic pain conditions.
Lamb contains many important vitamins and minerals that are required for vital body functions. It’s particularly rich in B vitamins as it contains vitamin B3 (niacin) which helps break down fatty acids to produce energy, vitamin B6 which helps the body form hemoglobin, and vitamin B12 which is crucial for a healthy nervous system.
On the minerals side, lamb provides iron in form of heme iron which is highly bioavailable and better absorbed by the dog’s body. It’s an essential mineral that is directly involved in the formation of red blood cells and hemoglobin.
Lamb is also rich in phosphorous that supports healthy kidney and motor functions. It also contains zinc which is an antioxidant that supports healthy skin and coat and strengths your dog’s immune system.
There are various ways in which you can incorporate this delicious red meat into your dog’s diet. Let's discuss 3 of the most popular ways in which you can feed lamb to your dog at home:
One of the most convenient ways to feed this protein is to buy high-quality dog food that already contains lamb and/or lamb meal.
The main difference between these two ingredients is how they are processed. Lamb on the ingredient label refers to de-boned muscle meat that comes from the animal, similar to what you would find in a grocery store. Lamb meal refers to muscle meat, organ meat, and some bone that has been cooked, dried, and ground. This makes lamb meal a good source of protein and minerals like calcium.
Dogs can eat and digest raw lamb although most vets advise against it. This is because it may contain harmful bacteria like Salmonella, Listeria, E.Coli, and more.
Most vets also advise against raw lamb for dogs who have developing or weakened immune systems and dogs who suffer from digestive issues or sensitive stomachs.
Cooked lamb is a safe and healthy option for a dog. But make sure while cooking you don’t add any seasoning to the meat as it can be harmful to your dog’s health.
You can cook ground lamb with rice and some dog-friendly vegetables or boil some meat chunks and add them as a topper to their kibble diet to make it more appetizing.
From bones to liver and heart, let’s discuss what parts of a lamb are safe for a dog:
While some bones are safer to give to your dog than others, it's often recommended to avoid giving raw bones to your dog as it could splinter and there’s also a risk of bacteria.
If you still want to feed a raw bone to your dog, you should only feed them a bone that is bigger than their snout. Also, ensure the bone is clean and free of harmful bacteria. Don't leave the dog unattended with the bone as they can easily choke or hurt themselves.
And what about cooked lamb bones? Cooked bones can break and splinter more easily causing injury to your dog. It can hurt their mouth and tongue or cause serious internal injury by piercing the esophagus or intestine. Thus you should always avoid giving cooked lamb bones to your dog.
If you want your dog to get the most nutrients from the lamb bones, try making a lamb bone broth at home. You can also add vegetables to the recipe to make the broth more nutritious. But don’t add any seasoning or harmful ingredients like onion and garlic to the recipe.
You can feed this bone broth to your dog when they are sick or add it to their regular diet to make it more appetizing.
You should never feed lamb fat that's present on the outside of the cut of meat to your dog. Whenever you are cooking lamb at home, make sure you cut off the skin and exterior fat. It isn’t healthy for their body and can cause diarrhea and might even trigger pancreatitis.
Although the marbling of fat within the piece of lamb is safe for a dog.
Lamb's liver is a safe and healthy option for your dog as it contains a high amount of vitamin A, vitamins B2, B9, B12, copper, and iron. You can chop the liver into small pieces and cook it with lamb meat. Avoid feeding raw liver as it might contain bacteria and parasites.
Also, try feeding lamb liver as an occasional treat as overindulgence can lead to a vitamin A overdose.
Just like the liver, the lamb’s heart is also healthy and full of essential nutrients. You can cook and feed it to your dog as an occasional treat. But avoid feeding too much as the heart is relatively fatty and can lead to an upset stomach.
Lamb is perfectly safe for a dog but in moderation. Too much of any food, even protein-rich meat, can be harmful to their health. They need a healthy and well-balanced diet that contains protein with other essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
It’s also important to know that some cuts of lamb contain more fat than others and eating fatty meat regularly can irritate a dog’s stomach, especially if they’re small or suffer from digestive issues.
Furthermore, when feeding lamb to your dog, you should also be cautious about an allergic reaction. Look for the following signs of an allergic reaction:
If you notice any of these signs of lamb allergy, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Lamb is a delicious and nutritious red meat you can feed to your dog. It’s a high-quality source of protein that contains omega-3 fatty acids and many other essential nutrients. They work together to boost the immune system, promote healthy skin and coat, and support the overall growth and well-being of a dog.
You can easily buy dog food and treats that contain lamb or cook some meat at home. But it’s recommended to avoid feeding raw lamb to your dog as it might contain harmful bacteria like Salmonella, Listeria, E. coli, and more. The same goes for lamb bones as they can also contain bacteria or they can splinter and cause injury to your dog’s mouth and internal organs.
Let’s answer some frequently asked questions about feeding lamb to your dog.
Many vets advise against feeding raw lamb to a dog. There’s a risk that it might contain harmful bacteria like Salmonella, Listeria, E. coli, and more.
No, you should never feed cooked lamb bones to your dog. It can easily break and splinter causing injury to your dog's mouth or tongue. It can even cause a serious internal injury by piercing the esophagus or intestine.
Yes, your dog can eat lamb shank. It’s a cut from the bottom section of the lamb’s leg. You can buy lamb shanks, cut off the fatty trimmings, cook the meat without any seasoning, and add it to your dog's meal.
Yes, your dog can eat lamb organs like liver, kidney, and heart but in small amounts. Also, make sure you only feed cooked lamb organs as the raw ones might contain harmful bacteria.
If you still have any further doubts or questions, contact your veterinarian before adding lamb to your dog’s diet.
Sources:
https://www.purepetfood.com/help/can-dogs-eat-lamb
https://addictionpet.com/blog/why-feed-lamb-for-your-dogs-health-benefits-and-more/
https://www.shepherdsongfarm.com/grass-fed-grass-farming/health-benefits-grass-fed/
Leading vet
Americans are obsessed with weight loss. Just look at the latest fad diet, exercise trend, “fat burning” supplement, or prescription weight loss drug. Considering that 65% of Americans are overweight, this infatuation with getting slim is not all that surprising. Unfortunately, many people overlook the fact that their own pets need to lose weight. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, 50% of dogs are overweight. Although an overweight pet may look cute, it is not healthy.
Just like in people, being overweight makes your pet more likely to develop a number of different medical conditions. Overweight pets are at risk for developing arthritis, diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease, respiratory and heart disease, and some forms of cancer. Compared to normal weight dogs, overweight dogs live shorter lives.
Why do dogs become overweight? Unlike people, our dogs can’t order a supersized Big Mac meal at McDonald’s or drink a 590 calorie Starbucks Mocha Cookie Crumble Frappuccino. The answer is simple: our dogs are overweight primarily because we feed them too much. Besides eating too much at mealtime, dogs can also gain weight from treats. Treats add empty calories that add up quickly, especially if they are given frequently. Finally, the other side of the weight gain equation is exercise. Our dogs are overweight because they are not active enough for the amount of food they eat. An active dog has a higher caloric demand and can stay trim even if they eat “a lot.”
How do you know if your pet needs to lose a few pounds? First, you should be able to easily feel but not necessarily see your pet’s ribs and spine. While looking from above, you should see a waist, and while looking from the side, you should see the abdomen tucked up. This hourglass figure is desirable not just with swimsuit models but with our pets as well. If you suspect that your pet may be overweight, your pet should have a complete physical examination by a veterinarian before initiating any diet plans. Your veterinarian will not only give you an objective opinion about your pet’s weight, but they will also ensure that your pet’s obesity is due to excess calories and not an underlying medical condition.
If you aren’t sure if your dog is overweight, you should check with your veterinarian. In addition to weighing your pet, your veterinarian will determine their body condition score by examining their appearance from above, from the side, and by palpating their ribs, spine, and other bony prominences. The body condition score ranges from 1 to 9, with 1 being very thin, 9 obese, and 5 being ideal. If your dog is overweight, your veterinarian will help you develop a diet plan and most importantly make sure your dog doesn’t appear overweight because of a medical condition.
Some pets that are overweight have medical conditions. For example, hypothyroid disease, a condition where the body fails to produce thyroid hormone, which helps control metabolism, can cause a pet to become overweight. The good news is this is a manageable condition in pets just like it is in humans. In addition, some medical issues can cause a pet to look overweight, when in fact they are not. Heart disease and some types of cancer can cause ascites, a condition where the abdomen fills up with fluid. This causes pets to look like they have a large belly. Cushing’s disease is another condition that also causes affected pets to have a bloated stomach. That’s why it is important to always have your veterinarian check your pet before starting a diet. In addition to ruling out medical issues, your veterinarian will help you determine your dog’s goal weight.
The key to helping your dog lose weight safely is to have a plan. Ask your veterinarian to develop a program to help your dog reach their ideal weight. The main treatment for obesity consists of decreasing caloric intake and increasing physical activity.
Once you determine that your dog is overweight you will want to examine their current diet. What food are they eating? How much and how often are they eating? Do they get treats? How many and what? Table scraps? Do they have access to another pet’s food?
Most commercially available diets are formulated for the needs of active, intact dogs. To help your overweight, neutered, or spayed dog lose weight, most veterinarians recommend decreasing the amount of food and giving it in three separate meals. Another option is to switch to one of the many available low-calorie weight-loss diets or high protein, low carbohydrate diets. Speak with your veterinarian to find-out which option is best for your pet. Check with your veterinarian regularly to ensure that your dog is losing weight at an appropriate rate.
Once your pet’s ideal weight has been established, there are several ways to obtain this goal. The underlying principle is to decrease overall caloric intake. This can be accomplished by decreasing the quantity of food or by switching to a low-calorie diet. These diets allow you to feed your pet similar quantities of food, but by replacing fat with fiber they will get fewer overall calories. If you choose to change diets, be sure to switch foods gradually since abrupt food changes can lead to gastrointestinal distress.
Remember any calorie adds up. If your pet is eating the perfect amount of a well-balanced diet BUT they are also getting treats several times a day or helping themselves to another pet’s food bowl they are consuming excess calories. It is also important to remember that table scraps have calories, and these can add up quickly. Instead of rewarding your pet with a high calorie treat, use verbal praise, or offer them pet-safe fruits and veggies. Carrots make an excellent low calorie treat.
An important part of any weight loss regimen includes monitoring. Monitoring how much weight your pet is losing helps ensure that they are losing weight at a healthy rate and provides confirmation that your plan is working. This can be achieved with regular weigh-ins, ideally monthly. If your dog is not losing weight at the weigh-ins, it tells you that you need to change something about the weight-loss plan. On the other hand, seeing your dog’s progress can be motivating and help stick with the plan.
Lastly, just like people, pets need exercise. Exercise is an important part of the weight loss equation because it increases your dog’s metabolic rate. That means your dog is still “burning” calories even after they stop exercising.
Before starting an exercise regimen, check with your veterinarian to ensure your pet is healthy enough and to formulate an exercise plan. Some breeds, like the brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds (pugs, bulldogs, etc.) are exercise-intolerant. Running with large breed puppies should also be avoided since it can harm their growing bones and joints. Likewise, older dogs should avoid strenuous exercise that aggravates their arthritis.
There are many ways to increase your pet’s activity. One easy way to increase your dog’s activity is to go on walks. Going on a walk is a low impact exercise that can be adjusted to your pet’s fitness level. Just make the walk shorter if your dog is getting tired. Another reason to take your dog on a walk is the side benefit that walking has on the human walker.
Another fun way to increase your dog’s activity is to take them to your local dog-friendly park. Playing off-leash is a great way to burn calories. Some dogs love to play with other dogs by chasing each other or wrestling. Playing with other dogs is mentally and physically stimulating. If your dog is not a social butterfly, bring a frisbee or ball to play fetch. Playing fetch with your dog not only exercises them but also strengthens their bond to you. Taking your dog to a dog-friendly park is an easy and fun way to exercise your dog without breaking into a sweat.
If you are feeling extra motivated to become fitter yourself, you can also run with your dog. Just check with your veterinarian to be sure that your dog is healthy enough to run and their breed is conducive to running. Remember, some breeds, like brachycephalic breeds (pugs, bulldogs, boxers) should never run for long distances. If possible, choose dirt trails which are easier on your dog’s, and your own joints. Start with shorter distances and gradually run longer distances to build endurance. Remember to avoid running when the weather is too hot since dogs are less heat-tolerant than people in general. Some breeds, like Vislas, Weimaraners, Dalmatians, and Dobermans are natural runners and can become your long-term running buddy. They are super athletes and will motivate you to run faster to keep up with them!
If your dog has arthritis and can’t run, there are other activities they can do. Swimming is an excellent exercise that will help your dog burn calories without putting stress on their joints. In fact, water physical therapy is often used to rehabilitate dogs after they undergo surgery.
Unlike other health problems, obesity can easily be prevented and treated because we control what our pets eat. As Dr. Ernie Ward, founder of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention sums it up, “Obesity is the greatest health threat our pets face today. What and how much you feed your dog is the most important decision you make each day regarding their health.” Start by taking your dog to the veterinarian to identify their ideal weight. Monitor their weight by weighing them regularly at home. Taking your dog to the veterinarian for routine visits will also ensure that your dog is at the right weight. Your veterinarian can also recommend the right diet for your dog’s metabolic needs. Finally, promote an active lifestyle by encouraging play and taking lots of long walks. Obesity is a serious problem, but you can help combat it by having fun with your dog and promoting active play.
A dog can become overweight if they consume more calories than they burn through daily activities and exercise. An inactive lifestyle, feeding them table scraps, giving them too many treats, and feeding them an unhealthy diet can also contribute to weight gain in dogs.
The best way to determine if a fluffy dog is overweight is to feel their ribs. If you cannot feel the ribs, then your dog is likely overweight. You can also check to see if there is a noticeable waist, if there is no waist, this is another indication of an overweight dog. But if you are unsure, remember you can always ask your veterinarian.
The fastest way for a dog to lose weight is to create a calorie deficit diet by reducing their food intake and increasing their physical activity. It is essential to do this under the guidance of a veterinarian to ensure the weight loss is safe and gradual. Rapid weight loss can cause health problems and slow down the metabolism.
It's difficult to determine if a certain weight is overweight for a dog without knowing their breed, age, and activity level. The ideal weight range for a dog can vary based on these factors. It's best to consult a veterinarian to determine a healthy weight range for your specific dog.
The Body Condition Score (BCS) is a commonly used tool by veterinarians to assess if a dog is overweight or obese. BCS takes into account the dog's overall body shape, including their ribs, spine, waist, and belly. If your dog is overweight, your veterinarian will help you develop a diet plan and most importantly make sure your dog doesn’t appear overweight because of a medical condition.
For more than a thousand years, rice has been a staple food for humans. And not just that, the commercial dog food you buy for your pooch may also contain rice. In fact, if your pet has ever fallen sick, their veterinarian might have recommended a bland diet of white rice.
This is because white rice has multiple benefits for a dog’s health - it’s easy to digest and can even help to improve their digestive health.
But what about brown rice? A lot of people suggest that it’s a healthier alternative to white rice. But is it safe for your dog? Let’s find out…
The short answer is yes! Brown rice can be a safe and healthy supplement for your dog. It contains vitamin B and D that can support your dog’s metabolism and heart health, calcium and phosphorus that can help maintain strong bones, teeth, and ligaments, and magnesium which helps support muscle movement and energy production.
Brown rice also contains selenium which is an essential trace element that’s involved in thyroid function, reproduction, and antioxidant protection. It even contains manganese that can protect your dog’s body against free radicals.
Apart from these nutritional benefits, let’s also discuss 6 other amazing benefits of adding brown rice to your dog’s diet.
When compared to white rice, brown rice has a lower glycemic index. Hence it might be a better option for dogs who suffer from diabetes. Because low glycemic foods can help in reducing excess body weight and blood sugar. These may even help lower the risk of type 2 diabetes and heart diseases.
Your dog needs carbs to fuel their body’s energy. The carbohydrates present in brown rice can help boost your dog's energy and improve cognitive functions.
Brown rice is a whole grain which means it's less refined and less processed than white rice. It contains every part of the grain including the fibrous bran, the nutritious germ, and the carb-rich endosperm.
If your dog suffers from sensitivities or allergies to gluten or other grains like corn or wheat, then brown rice might be a great option for them. It’s a gluten-free food, which can help your dog stay healthy and energetic.
Brown rice contains relatively few calories and is high in fiber. It can help your dog feel full and shed some extra pounds. But it should be served in moderation. Brown rice also contains carbohydrates, hence overconsumption can have the opposite effect on your dog’s body.
Brown rice generally contains higher levels of insoluble fiber than white rice. By adding it to your dog’s diet you can increase their fiber intake which might help treat constipation.
Although if your dog is suffering from diarrhea, you can add more soluble fiber to their diet or consult your veterinarian.
As mentioned above brown rice is a whole grain consisting of the bran layer that constitutes its tan or brown color.
White rice is the same grain without the outer hull, bran, and germ layer. It’s made by a process of milling that cleans, shells, and removes the bran layer from the brown rice.
This process alters the taste and texture of the white rice and helps prevent spoilage by extending its storage life. The downside of this process is that it also removes various nutrients, for example, the removal of the bran layer makes the white rice lose some dietary fiber, fatty acids, and magnesium.
White rice contains slightly higher calories and carbohydrates than brown rice. It also contains less nutrient value as compared to brown rice. Another difference between the two is that brown rice contains more fiber content because of the bran layer that remains intact.
Brown rice is a more nutritious and fibrous food option compared to white rice. Hence if you’re looking to add a supplement to your dog’s diet that’ll provide more fiber while still being low calorie, then brown rice might be a good option for your dog.
Due to its gluten-free nature, brown rice is also quite popular amongst pet owners whose dogs suffer from sensitivities and allergies. It can also be a great supplement for dogs that have high blood pressure, cholesterol, or blood sugar levels. The insoluble fibers in brown rice can also help treat constipation.
The bran layer present in the brown rice makes it harder to digest when compared to white rice. Hence it’s not advisable to serve home-cooked brown rice to your dog when they have a sensitive stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, or nausea.
Additionally, if your dog suffers from any other health issues, you should consult a veterinarian before feeding home-cooked brown rice to your dog.
Many vets may recommend serving plain white rice to help treat diarrhea. It contains soluble fibers and more starch than brown rice which can help bind the stool and calm the gut of your dog.
White rice also contains higher-calorie content compared to brown rice, hence it can lead to weight gain. If your dog is overweight or is trying to lose weight, you should avoid white rice.
Furthermore, it contains a higher glycemic index which can lead to a rise in blood sugar. If your dog suffers from diabetes or heart disease, you would want to choose brown rice over white rice or you can consult your veterinarian.
Let’s discuss the right portion sizes and methods of preparing brown rice for a dog…
Brown rice is nutritious as it contains every part of the grain including the fibrous bran, the nutritious germ, and the carb-rich endosperm. It also contains carbohydrates and calories but lower than white rice. Thus it’s important that you serve it in moderation and only as a supplement to a complete and well-balanced diet.
The exact portion size will depend on your dog's age, weight, and breed. But ideally, the serving size should fall in the 10% Treat Rule. The calories your dog gets from brown rice shouldn’t exceed 10% of your dog’s daily calorie amount.
Many dog food brands use rice or some other grain in their recipes. You’ll have to take this into consideration before introducing brown rice to your dog's diet. Excess intake of rice can significantly increase their fiber intake which could cause multiple health problems.
Furthermore, overconsumption of brown rice can increase your dog’s carbohydrates intake which could lead to weight gain. Feeding the right portions of brown rice will ensure your dog gets all the nutrients without packing on extra pounds.
You should never feed your dog raw brown rice. It’s a whole grain that retains the bran layer which makes it harder to digest. Hence it’s important to properly cook the brown rice before feeding it to your dog.
Start with cleaning the brown rice with water to remove excess starch. Then add some water and brown rice to a large pot and bring it to a boil. Due to the tougher outer layer, brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice.
Remember while cooking rice don’t add any spices or seasoning like salt, pepper, oil, butter, cumin, soy sauce, herbs, etc. These ingredients aren’t safe for dogs and can cause multiple health problems.
But if your dog is a fussy eater and refuses to eat rice on its own, you can mix it with their existing meal to make it more appealing.
You can feed your puppy brown rice but in moderation. Remember they need a lot of protein for the growth and development of their muscles and organs. Hence a majority of their diet needs to be protein-based and well-balanced. Brown rice should only be served as a supplement.
You can cook brown rice for a puppy in the same way as mentioned above. But if you’re worried that brown rice will be hard to digest by a puppy, you can slightly mash cooked rice to make it even easier to chew.
If you feed brown rice to your puppy correctly, it can help in keeping their energy level high and support their overall well-being.
If you're introducing brown rice to your dog, then you should take certain precautions to ensure they can reap maximum benefits while avoiding health issues.
Rice is a grain and in a rare case, your dog can be allergic to it. Even if they weren’t before, a dog can develop allergies at any point in their life.
If your dog has an allergic reaction to brown rice you might see symptoms like itchy skin, hair loss, vomiting, skin rashes, or ear infections. It's best to consult your veterinarian to determine whether your dog suffers from a rice allergy or not.
While preparing brown rice for your dog avoid adding spices or seasonings including butter, salt, oil, etc. Also do not feed fried rice to your dog. It contains a lot of sodium, spices, sauce, and garlic. All these ingredients can cause serious trouble for a dog.
Brown rice is packed with carbohydrates. The dog food you buy from the store to feed your dog also contains carbohydrates. And while your dog needs some healthy amount of carbs to fuel their energy and growth, overconsumption can lead to weight gain and other health issues.
To avoid this keep track of their total carbs intake and consult a veterinarian to discuss all your dog's nutritional requirements.
Brown rice should never substitute or replace a complete and well-balanced diet. It’s made with mostly carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins but contains little protein which needs to be balanced with protein from other ingredients for a complete and well-balanced diet.
If you fail to balance their diet or feed them too much brown rice it can cause nutritional deficiencies leading to many other health problems in your dog.
Brown rice is a good choice to supplement with your dog's diet. It’s packed with high-quality nutrients that can help your dog feel more satisfied after eating. The digestible carbohydrates can boost their energy level keeping them healthy and active throughout the day.
Just remember the right portion sizes and avoid adding harmful ingredients like butter, oil, or any other spices.
If you have any further questions, you can consult a veterinarian before adding brown rice to your dog's diet.
It depends, if the upset stomach is due to constipation then brown rice would be a better option as it contains higher levels of insoluble fiber than white rice. But if your dog has an upset stomach due to diarrhea, the soluble fibers and starch content in white rice will help in binding their stool and calm their gut.
Filler is an ingredient present in dog food to add bulk to a diet without adding any nutritional value. Whereas brown rice has many nutritional benefits as it contains vitamin B and D, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, selenium, and manganese.
Vitamins and minerals present in brown rice might be able to prevent a lot of health issues in your dog. But whether or not you should feed brown rice to your dog when they’re sick will depend on what kind of sickness they are suffering from. You should consult a veterinarian about your dog's diet when they’re sick.
If your dog has diarrhea they might benefit more from adding white rice to their diet. The soluble fiber and starch present in white rice can help bind the stool and calm the gut of your dog. Many veterinarians might recommend feeding cooked white rice to your dog when they have diarrhea.
Yes, brown rice contains high levels of insoluble fiber that can help treat constipation.
You can feed brown rice to a dog on its own or you can mix it with their existing meal to make it more appealing.
It mostly depends on a dog’s size, age, weight, and breed. Ideally, you should follow the 10% Treat Rule which states that the calories your dog gets from brown rice shouldn’t exceed 10% of your dog’s daily calorie amount.
Sources:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/advice/can-dogs-eat-rice/
https://sundaysfordogs.com/blog/is-brown-rice-for-dogs-safe
We love cuddles and kisses from our dogs. But this joy can be dampened when their breath stinks! While it’s normal for a dog to have a certain degree of bad breath, excessively foul-smelling breath can be a sign of a much bigger problem.
In this article, we'll delve into the top 10 reasons why your dog’s breath smells so bad and what you should be doing in such situations. We’ll also share some tips and tricks that’ll help you prevent bad breaths and promote better oral health in your canine companion.
Below we have discussed the 10 most common reasons that can lead to bad breath in dogs:
Digestive issues in dogs can lead to the production of gasses, which are often released through the mouth, similar to burping, resulting in bad breath. In such cases, you might also notice signs like vomiting, diarrhea, changes in appetite, or lethargy.
How can you address this?
If you’ve recently made a sudden change in your dog’s diet, then the new food addition could be the culprit behind their digestive issues and bad breath. If there aren’t any allergy issues, most of these problems will go away once they have adjusted to their new diet. You can also simply stop feeding that food or revert to their old diet.
Otherwise, you can either try incorporating fiber-rich food into their diet to help relieve gas and promote healthy digestion or consult with a vet to find the cause of your dog’s digestive issues.
Bad oral hygiene and periodontal disease are a leading cause of bad breath in dogs. They are caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth, which results in the overgrowth of bad bacteria and a foul smell.
How can you address this?
Most dogs will develop some tartar or plaque at some point in their life. However, this situation can be avoided by regular brushing and appropriate chew toys.
But if you do suspect your dog has tartar or plaque buildup, you should schedule a professional cleaning appointment with a veterinarian to address this issue promptly. When left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to more severe health problems than just bad breath.
Many dogs will eat just about anything, even things that we might find unappetizing or even gross. This includes garbage, poop, rotting food, and other unpleasant items. While this habit can be a normal part of their behavior, it can lead to health issues such as gastrointestinal upset or infections and even bad breath.
How can you address this?
It’s generally recommended to always keep an eye on what your dog is eating and train them to respond to commands like "leave it" or "drop it" to immediately prevent them from consuming inappropriate items.
But if you suspect your dog has eaten something bad which has led to bad breath, then you can take them to a vet. They will help ensure that whatever your dog ate wasn’t toxic and won’t experience any undesirable side effects.
Since we don’t brush our dog’s teeth after every meal, there’s a chance that they can have food particles stuck between their teeth. After a few days, when this food particle starts decomposing, it can emit a bad odor in their mouth.
This situation can also occur with other non-food items like garbage or a piece of grass that they ate out of curiosity.
How can you address this?
Regardless of what your dog ate, you can address this issue by brushing your dog’s teeth regularly and giving them appropriate chew toys. You can also incorporate water-rich fruits and vegetables like cucumber, celery, and watermelon to promote saliva production, which helps rinse away food particles from their mouth.
Untreated or poorly managed diabetes can cause bad breath in dogs. It happens when the body starts breaking down fat in the absence of sufficient glucose for energy. This process produces a byproduct called ketones that leaves a distinctive sweet or fruity odor on a dog's breath.
How can you address this?
In case you smell a sweet or fruity odor on your dog's breath, you should consult with a veterinarian to diagnose and manage their diabetes.
When a dog’s kidneys aren’t working properly, a buildup of toxins and waste products occurs in their bloodstream. These toxins often emit an ammonia-like odor which often resembles the smell of urine. Therefore, such odor is considered an early sign of kidney dysfunction or disease.
How can you address this?
If you smell ammonia or urine-like smell on your dog's breath, take them to a vet for proper diagnosis and treatment of their kidney problems.
Much like kidney disease, liver disease can also result in bad breath, as improper functioning of this organ results in toxins building up in the bloodstream. However, this situation is accompanied by many other signs like yellowing of the skin or eyes, also known as jaundice.
How can you address this?
Signs of liver disease can vary depending on different factors. Therefore, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian if you suspect your dog’s bad breath is caused due to liver disease.
Certain nutritional deficiencies or nutritional imbalances can impact your dog’s health and immune system, making them more susceptible to oral infections and bacterial overgrowth, which can lead to bad breath.
How can you address this?
With the help of a veterinarian or pet nutritionist, start by evaluating your dog’s diet to figure out any nutritional deficiencies. Depending on the situation, you might have to provide them with additional foods such as fruits and veggies or add a commercial supplement to their meal.
Nasal problems like sinusitis or rhinitis lead to a buildup of mucus, which can provide a breeding ground for bacteria that affect your dog’s breath. Additionally, the inflammation and infection associated with nasal issues can contribute to changes in the odor of a dog's breath.
How can you address this?
In case of nasal problems like sinusitis or rhinitis, you should seek veterinary help for medications or treatments to alleviate discomfort.
Oral tumors are a much more serious and life-threatening problem that more commonly affects older dogs. They develop in the mouth and can lead to various symptoms, including difficulty eating, drooling, bleeding, and bad breath.
How can you address this?
Oral tumors are a serious health complication that might require surgical removal, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy, depending on their size and location. Thus, it’s essential to provide your dog with proper veterinary attention in such situations.
Treating bad breath in dogs involves addressing the underlying causes. If your dog is experiencing bad breath due to bad oral hygiene, then you should be more regular with their brushing schedule. Also, remember to use a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste, as some oral hygiene products made for humans can be harmful to dogs.
Apart from this, you can take the following steps to treat bad breath and promote the overall oral health of your dog:
If, even after taking all the right precautions, your dog still has bad breath, then you can consult with a veterinarian to determine the underlying health conditions that might be contributing to the issue.
It’s inevitable that your dog, at some point in their life, will suffer from bad breath. However, you can tackle the problem even before it starts. Here’re a few things you can do to help prevent bad breath in your dog:
If your dog occasionally gets bad breath, then you probably don’t need to visit a vet. You can keep up with their brushing routine and try home remedies like chew toys and dental treats.
However, you should take them to a vet if:
Remember that bad breath can be a sign of a bigger health problem. If you can provide your dog with prompt veterinary care, it can help prevent any unforeseen circumstances.
There can be endless reasons for your dog’s bad breath. It can be something minor like a food particle stuck between their teeth or a major health issue like kidney or liver disease. You should look for signs and accompanying symptoms to determine the cause and take appropriate action.
You should also make sure that you maintain your dog’s proper oral hygiene by regularly brushing their teeth with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste, providing well-balanced meals, and scheduling regular veterinary dental check-ups. These simple steps will go a long way in not only preventing bad breath but also promoting the overall oral health of your dog.
Now if you have any more doubts about why your dog’s breath smells bad, then please consider consulting a veterinarian for further guidance.
Let’s answer some frequently asked questions about why a dog’s breath smells so bad:
1. What does bad breath in dogs mean?
Bad breath in dogs can be caused due to various reasons, including dietary habits, periodontal disease, digestive issues, diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease, or even oral tumors. You should look for additional symptoms or talk to a veterinarian, as they can help determine the exact cause of bad breath in your dog.
2. Is bad breath in dogs a sign of illness?
While an occasional bout of less-than-fresh breath is normal in dogs, persistent foul breath can be a sign of illness such as periodontal disease, digestive issues, diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease, or even oral tumors.
In case of an illness, bad breath would be accompanied by other symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, changes in appetite, weakness, difficulty breathing, or a sudden change in behavior. If you notice these signs or your dog has persistent bad breath, you should consult a veterinarian in order to rule out any potential health concerns.
3. What diseases cause bad breath in dogs?
Various diseases, like periodontal disease and oral infections, can cause bad breath in dogs. Even some serious health conditions like kidney disease, liver disease, untreated or poorly managed diabetes, and oral tumors can contribute to bad breath in dogs.
4. Does kidney disease in dogs cause bad breath?
Yes, kidney disease can cause bad breath in dogs. It happens because kidneys are responsible for cleaning waste from a dog’s body, but when they aren’t working properly, a buildup of toxins and waste products occurs in the bloodstream. These toxins often emit an ammonia-like odor which often resembles the smell of urine.
https://www.petmd.com/dog/symptoms/bad-breath-dogs-causes-treatment
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/get-rid-of-stinky-dog-breath/
As pet parents, we’re always on the lookout for the perfect chew toy to keep our dogs happy, healthy, and active. Thankfully, we have plenty of options available, although some are better than others.
One such option is rawhide chews. You probably have heard some good and bad things about them, and in this article, we’ll put them all together to ultimately determine - is rawhide bad for dogs?
Let's start unraveling the truth and make informed choices for our furry friends.
Rawhide is obtained from the inner layer of animal skin or hide and is considered a byproduct of the meat industry. These hides are mostly taken directly from the slaughterhouses and placed into brines to slow their decay.
The process of turning a hide from the slaughterhouse kill floor into chews involves the following steps:
1. Cleaning - Once the rawhide arrives at tanneries, it’s first cleaned to remove any remaining fat, flesh, or hair from the animal. This cleaning process usually involves using chemicals like lime or sodium sulfide.
2. Splitting - The rawhide is split into thinner layers, so it’s more flexible and easier to work with. This process is done by mixing rawhide with water and some chemicals to make it puffed up and easier to split.
3. Coloring - This is an important step as it involves making a by-product look more appealing and appetizing to dogs. There are usually some chemical treatments involved to add more flavoring and coloring to the hide.
4. Preserving - Lastly, rawhides are dried to remove any moisture and preserved to prevent spoilage.
While these are the standard steps followed to make rawhide chews, it’s important to note that not all rawhide products are created equal in terms of quality and safety. There are rawhide products that contain additives and chemicals which can be harmful to a dog’s health.
Now the big question is, are rawhide chews bad for dogs? Most experts will say that you should avoid giving your dog rawhide as the risks outweigh the potential benefits. We have highlighted the potential benefits and risks associated with rawhide chews to help you make informed decisions about your dog’s health.
First, let’s discuss a couple of benefits associated with rawhide chews:
1. Might Improve Dental Health
Chew toys are known for their dental benefits, and rawhide chews are no different. When a dog chews on rawhide, it helps in scraping off plaque and tartar buildup from their teeth. This action also promotes saliva production, which further helps in breaking down and preventing the buildup of harmful bacteria in a dog’s mouth.
It’s because of these dental health benefits some people claim that rawhide chews can be a part of a dog’s dental care routine with regular brushing and other dental care treats. However, this benefit isn’t unique to rawhide chews, as most dental chew toys in the market can also help improve your dog’s dental health.
2. Provides Mental Stimulation
Rawhide chews can help alleviate your dog’s boredom and provide mental stimulation. They can spend hours chewing on these chews, which will not only satisfy their natural chewing instinct but also keep them occupied.
In some dogs, the act of providing mental stimulation with chew toys can also prevent undesirable behaviors like excessive barking, chewing on household items, or digging.
Now, let’s also discuss some risks associated with rawhide chews:
1. Digestibility Issues
Rawhide chews are meant to be chewed and are nearly impossible to digest. Most likely, your dog will try to rip and swallow a piece of rawhide. If that happens, the rawhide won't be digested and can cause digestive issues and intestinal obstruction. in fact, it can even pose a greater risk of choking in smaller breed dogs.
2. Concerns About the Chemicals
Rawhide is often heavily treated with various chemicals during the cleaning, softening, shaping, and drying process. These chemicals are needed to remove impurities, sanitize the hide, and make it suitable for dogs.
However, some of these chemicals used during the processing phase can be toxic for dogs. It will come down to you as pet owners to do your research about reputable manufacturers who you can believe prioritize the safety of the products by using minimal and safe chemical treatments.
3. Risk of Contamination
Rawhide is a natural product made from animal skin. Thus, there is a small chance of it being contaminated with harmful pathogens. Especially if the rawhide wasn’t properly cleaned and sanitized before processing, there is a possibility that bacteria present on the animal's skin could have survived and transferred to the final product.
After comparing the pros and cons, if you choose to give your dog rawhide chews, here are some important precautions you should keep in mind:
Puppies often have some unique needs and considerations compared to adult dogs. This also applies to their choice of chew treats. Rawhide chews may be suitable for an adult dog but not for a puppy.
Firstly, puppies who are less than 6 months old should avoid rawhide chews. It’s mainly because, before this age, their teeth and digestive system are not fully developed to handle the tough texture of rawhide chews.
But even after they are 6 months old, you might want to consider other softer and safer alternatives, especially if they belong to a small breed or have some unique health requirements. We recommend that you consult with a veterinarian to determine what’s the right kind of chew toy for your puppy.
If you’re skeptical about rawhide chews, you can consider other amazing alternatives listed below:
Chews made from healthy, crunchy vegetables are a safe and healthy option for dogs. You can use cucumber, frozen carrots, or even dried sweet potatoes to make simple DIY dog chews at home.
Just make sure you have washed and peeled these vegetables beforehand. And also, just like with other chews and toys, constantly supervise your dog to ensure their safety.
Deer and elk antler chews are also a popular choice amongst pet owners. They are eco-friendly and single-ingredient treats that don’t contain any additives, chemicals, or preservatives. However, they can be extremely hard and can even lead to damaged teeth, which are painful and expensive to repair.
Pig ear chews are another natural and single-ingredient treat. They are savory and an appetizing option that can effectively cleanse your dog’s teeth. However, these chews have a considerable amount of fat and calories, so you should only give them to your dog occasionally and in moderation.
Using raw bones as chew toys is an age-old practice. They have several benefits, as the texture of raw bones can effectively scrape away plaque and tartar from your dog's teeth, which promotes better dental hygiene. Even the bone marrow contains various nutrients that can help improve your dog's overall health.
However, you should exercise caution when feeding bones as they most often pose a risk of choking. Cooked bones, in particular, are dangerous for dogs as they can splinter easily, causing serious injuries in their mouth, throat, or digestive system.
Bully sticks are long-lasting, protein-rich chews for dogs. They are also single-ingredient treats that are typically free from additives or preservatives. These chews even have a natural taste and texture, which draws in dogs and can provide hours of entertainment while cleaning their teeth.
Made from yak or cow milk, Himalayan chews are basically hard cheese. These are an amazing rawhide alternative for dogs who are more prone to swallowing, as these chews are generally considered safe to swallow. They are also a great choice for dogs who have a sensitive stomach, as these chews are free from lactose and gluten.
Apart from these rawhide alternatives, there are many new ones getting introduced every year. You can either find them online or at your local pet store.
Rawhide chews can be good for dogs. They offer some benefits, including better dental health and mental stimulation, but they also have certain drawbacks, like digestive issues, harmful chemicals, and bacterial contamination. In fact, these drawbacks are why some pet food stores have decided to remove all rawhide products from their shelves.
When it comes to determining whether these treats are right for your furry friend, we recommend consulting with a veterinarian.
Rawhide chews offer a satisfying chewing experience to dogs while scraping away plaque and tartar from their teeth and promoting better dental hygiene. Plus, these chews offer mental stimulation that can help alleviate boredom and prevent undesirable behaviors like excessive barking, chewing on household items, or digging.
Many veterinarians and pet owners consider rawhide bad for dogs due to several reasons. First, rawhide products can be treated with various chemicals during the cleaning, softening, shaping, and drying process. These chemicals help in making the product suitable for dogs, but in some cases, it can be unhealthy for dogs.
Secondly, rawhide is very difficult to digest. So if your dog accidentally swallows a large piece of a rawhide chew, it can cause choking, digestive issues, or intestinal obstruction.
Additionally, there’s also a small risk of bacterial contamination if the rawhide isn’t properly cleaned and sanitized during processing.
Many experts believe the potential risks outweigh any of the benefits, such as digestive issues, harmful chemicals, and bacterial contamination.
Ultimately, we recommend you consult with a veterinarian to determine if rawhide chews would be a good option for their dog. And if you do choose to give them rawhide, we’ll advise you to exercise caution and buy the chews from a reputable manufacturer, supervise your dog at all times, choose a more age and size-appropriate chew, and replace the rawhide chew once it’s all chewed up to a small piece.
It depends on your dog's unique needs and health considerations. While some dogs can tolerate rawhide chews every day, others might experience some digestive problems. We recommend that you consult with your veterinarian to determine if daily rawhide chews are appropriate for your dog.
A puppy should be at least 6 months old before they can have any rawhide chews. It’s mainly because, before this age, their teeth and digestive system are not fully developed to handle the tough texture of rawhide chews.
Furthermore, during their early growth years, it would be more beneficial to opt for much softer and safer chew toys that are made especially for puppies. We recommend you consult with a veterinarian to determine the right kind of chew toy for your puppy.
https://www.dutch.com/blogs/dogs/is-rawhide-bad-for-dogs
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/are-rawhide-chews-dangerous-for-dog/
Whenever we talk about a dog’s well-being, a big emphasis is on their digestive health. Even vets place great importance on maintaining a healthy digestive system to promote your dog’s optimal health and happiness.
But despite all the awareness and efforts made by pet owners, digestive issues remain a common problem in dogs. What’s worse is that these issues can arise due to various factors, including diet, stress, infections, or an underlying health condition.
We fully understand how complicated it can get when you’re trying to better understand your dog's digestive health. That’s why we have compiled this list of the 15+ most common digestive issues that can affect dogs. This guide will help you identify these issues and address them effectively to prevent any major health complications.
But before that, let's discuss when you need to seek the help of a veterinarian for your dog's digestive issues.
The first thing you should do when your dog has stomach issues is to monitor their symptoms. If it’s a case of mild and occasional problems with no other concerning symptoms, you can firsttry some home remedies like temporarily switching to a bland diet and keeping them hydrated.
However, you should take your dog to a veterinarian immediately when:
Remember that whenever you’re unsure, a vet visit can save you a lot of trouble. They will help you understand your dog’s unique digestive needs and may recommend diet and lifestyle modifications to improve the quality of their life.
Although this isn’t an extensive list, below, we have tried to compile some of the most common dog digestive issues every pet owner should know:
This is undoubtedly the most common issue every pet owner encounters. Diarrhea in dogs can happen due to endless reasons, ranging from minor issues like dietary changes to more significant concerns like eating something they shouldn’t.
If your dog experiences diarrhea once in a while, then you probably don’t have anything to worry about. In such cases, you can try simple home remedies like temporary fasting, a bland diet, and proper hydration. However, if the diarrhea is more frequent or lasts for more than a day or two, then you might want to take the situation more seriously, as it can be a sign of an underlying health issue.
It’s important to consult with a veterinarian in case of persistent diarrhea.
After diarrhea, constipation is a major digestive problem that can affect your dog. It’s a condition that is characterized by difficulty in passing stools, straining while pooping, or infrequent bowel movements.
The biggest cause of constipation includes dehydration, lack of dietary fibers, lack of physical activity, or some kind of blockages in the digestive tract. In some cases, constipation can also be a symptom of a more serious health issue.
That’s why, just like in case of diarrhea, you can first try home remedies like dietary adjustments and increased water intake for mild and occasional constipation. In case of persistent constipation, it's recommended to consult with a veterinarian to diagnose the underlying cause.
Simply put, gastroenteritis is the inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. It can be caused by dietary indiscretion (eating food items found in the garbage or foreign objects), bacterial or viral infections, intestinal parasites, or food allergies.
In most cases, gastroenteritis presents two common symptoms - vomiting and diarrhea. It’s also easier to resolve with proper treatment and dietary adjustments. But nonetheless, this situation requires prompt veterinary attention.
Intestinal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, Giardia, tapeworms, and whipworms can cause various health issues in dogs. They can lead to anemia, nutritional deficiencies, dehydration, weight loss, and a variety of gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea and vomiting.
This situation can be avoided by routine deworming, practicing good hygiene, promptly removing your dog’s feces, and properly cleaning and disinfecting their drinking bowls regularly. But if you suspect your dog has an intestinal parasite, consult your veterinarian promptly for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Bloat or GDV is a much more serious condition that most often affects dog breeds with a deep and narrow chest, like Great Danes and Saint Bernards. It happens when a dog’s stomach fills with air and twists on itself, trapping the air, food, and fluid inside. This restricts the blood flow from the hind legs and abdomen, returning back to the heart. It can send a dog into shock and can result in serious organ damage.
Unfortunately, the exact cause of bloat isn’t well understood, but it’s advised to seek immediate veterinary attention if you suspect your dog may be experiencing bloat.
Colitis, also known as large bowel diarrhea, is the inflammation of the colon. It leads to symptoms like frequent and loose stools, straining to defecate, blood in stool, and abdominal discomfort.
Stress is one of the major causes of colitis, but this condition can also be caused due to other reasons, including bacterial infections or parasites. Additionally, the treatment for this digestive problem depends on its specific cause. A veterinarian will be able to determine that cause and guide you on the most effective course of action.
EPI is a condition where the pancreas cannot produce enough pancreatic enzymes. This causes difficulty in digesting proteins, fats, and carbohydrates as well as poor nutrient absorption, which then leads to health problems like malnutrition, weight loss, diarrhea, and dry, dull coat.
The primary cause of EPI is the lack of functional pancreatic tissue that produces digestive enzymes. In some cases, genetics play a huge role in the development of this condition, but other factors, like chronic inflammation, injury, or pancreatitis, can also lead to EPI.
It's important to bear in mind that while EPI cannot be completely cured, it can still be managed effectively with the right treatment and diet under the guidance of a veterinarian.
IBD is caused due to the inflammation of the intestinal lining, and it often leads to various digestive problems. This condition is characterized as a syndrome rather than a disease in itself.
The exact cause of IBD remains unclear, but it’s often believed to be a result of an exaggerated immune response, certain bacterial infections, or exposure to certain toxins or allergens. Depending on the cause, the treatment can include dietary management, medication, and, in severe cases, surgery.
Therefore, it’s important to consult your veterinarian promptly if you notice persistent symptoms of IBD, such as diarrhea, vomiting, or weight loss.
Your dog’s gut consists of various microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. These microorganisms play an important role in various bodily functions like digestion and immune response.
When the balance between these microorganisms is disrupted due to stress, infections, aging, dietary changes, or any other reason, it leads to dysbiosis. This condition can impact your dog’s digestive health and immune system, potentially increasing the risk of many health problems.
At-home remedies to address dysbiosis include dietary modifications and prebiotics and probiotics supplements. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, it's crucial to consult a veterinarian.
Megacolon occurs when a dog's colon becomes distended, and it loses its ability to contract and move feces effectively. This leads to severe constipation, as the feces accumulate in the colon, causing it to become enlarged.
This condition can occur due to genetic abnormality or can be a result of various factors, including dietary issues, dehydration, and certain medications. The treatment for megacolon will generally depend on the cause and severity of the situation. But in worst-case scenarios, dogs might even need surgeries to remove waste from their body.
If you suspect your dog might have a megacolon, consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis.
Dogs have a natural tendency to smell and chew on unfamiliar objects in their surroundings. It’s quite a natural behavior, but it can become dangerous when they accidentally ingest something that isn’t suitable for consumption. It can be a small toy, socks, or even some spare change that you left on the table.
If a dog has swallowed an object, it can lead to an intestinal blockage or obstruction. In such cases, dogs often exhibit signs like vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy, loss of appetite, and straining during defecation. This is typically considered a medical emergency and needs immediate veterinary attention.
Gastric ulcers, or stomach ulcers, are painful sores that develop on the lining of your dog’s stomach. They can be caused due to bacterial infections, stress, or increased production of stomach acid.
This is a painful condition that can make your dog experience discomfort and distress. They might also exhibit other symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal pain, and black, tarry stools.
You should to take them to a vet as this condition requires medications, dietary adjustments, and management of any underlying causes.
Food allergies and sensitivities can cause significant digestive issues in dogs. When they eat something they are allergic or sensitive to, it can trigger gastrointestinal problems like vomiting, diarrhea, excessive gas, and abdominal pain.
In case of a mild allergic reaction, a dog will feel better when you have removed the allergen from their diet. However, in case of a severe allergic reaction, you might need professional help to identify and eliminate the source of your dog’s allergies.
Pancreatitis, as you might already know, is a condition that refers to the inflammation of the pancreas. Your dog’s pancreas is located near the stomach, and it plays a crucial role in digestion as it produces various digestive enzymes and hormones. When inflamed, the pancreas starts to function abnormally by releasing digestive enzymes prematurely, leading to damage and irritation within the pancreas itself.
Some common signs of pancreatitis in dogs include vomiting, fever, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, diarrhea, etc.
Now, the exact cause of pancreatitis is unknown, but it’s believed that in some cases, it can be triggered by a high-fat diet, certain medications, or obesity. The treatment for this health condition varies depending on whether it’s acute or chronic. But in both cases, you should seek medical care for your dog in order to manage their condition.
Intussusception is a serious condition in which a dog’s intestine "telescopes" or slides into another, causing a blockage or obstruction. It’s more common in large and giant breeds of dogs and is often caused by intestinal parasites, bacterial or viral infections, ingesting foreign objects, or abrupt dietary changes.
The signs and symptoms in dogs will depend on the location of the intussusception. But in general, you’ll notice vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, distended abdomen, and blood in the stool.
This condition almost always requires surgical correction.
The liver is a vital organ, and it plays an important role in your dog’s digestive health. It produces bile, which helps in breaking down and absorbing fats and nutrients from the food. But when it's affected by a disease like hepatitis, its ability to produce bile gets disrupted. This results in poor digestion, decreased nutrient absorption, and a range of gastrointestinal problems such as vomiting and diarrhea.
Additionally, the signs, symptoms, and treatment of liver disease will vary based on the specific type of disease that has affected your dog. However, if you notice any persistent digestive issues or changes in your dog’s behavior, it's essential to consult with your veterinarian.
Occasional digestive issues in dogs are fairly common, but you can take the following steps to protect them from more severe and frequent problems:
Most digestive issues sound scary! And the mere thought of our dog suffering from such a health condition can be distressing. Yet you should understand that even though you cannot fully protect your furry friend from occasional digestive problems, you can ensure that they receive the best possible care to minimize the impact of such issues.
You can take preventive measures, such as providing them with a well-balanced diet, avoiding harmful substances, helping to keep them stress-free, and, most importantly, scheduling regular veterinary check-ups.
Also, note that the above list of digestive issues is not exhaustive, and there are many other less common digestive issues that may affect your dog. Ultimately, you should continuously monitor your dog's behavior and promptly seek veterinary advice if you notice any signs of digestive discomfort.
Let’s answer some frequently asked questions about a dog’s digestive health:
In most cases, dogs with digestive problems exhibit symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, excessive gas, and abdominal pain. You might even notice some behavioral changes like lack of appetite, decrease in energy levels, or lethargy in your dog.
If you observe any of these signs, you should seek veterinary attention for a thorough examination of your dog's digestive health.
You can take various precautionary steps to prevent stomach issues in dogs, such as providing a well-balanced diet, avoiding harmful ingredients, maintaining a regular exercise routine, keeping them stress-free, and practicing good hygiene.
You should also schedule regular veterinary check-ups to monitor your dog's digestive health and overall well-being.
The diet of a dog experiencing digestive issues depends on their unique health condition and the severity of the problem.
In case of mild and occasional stomach problems, most veterinarians recommend temporarily switching to a bland diet consisting of boiled chicken, steamed rice, or cooked sweet potatoes. However, when a dog is suffering from a serious digestive issue, your dog will probably need a specialized diet plan that addresses their specific needs.
There can be various factors that can cause digestion issues in dogs. Some of the most common ones include eating something they shouldn’t, allergies, bacterial or viral infections, intestinal parasites, and stress.
Digestive issues can also have a genetic component, as certain breeds may be more susceptible to certain health problems.
When your dog is suffering from digestive issues, you should monitor their symptoms closely. If they have a mild and occasional stomach problem without other concerning symptoms, you can try some home remedies like temporarily switching to a bland diet and keeping them hydrated.
In case the digestive issues persist or you notice other concerning symptoms, it is important to seek veterinary advice.
https://www.thesprucepets.com/how-long-for-dog-to-digest-food-5086088
https://bondvet.com/b/digestive-issues-in-dogs-causes-prevention-and-treatment
Leading vet
November has been designated National Pet Cancer Awareness Month. While most people know that cancer is a leading cause of death in humans, many do not realize that it is also a leading cause of death among pets, especially older dogs and cats. Like their human companions, animals can develop different types of cancers. Fortunately, many cancers can be treated, especially when detected early. The goal of National Pet Cancer Awareness Month is to educate the public about the most common cancers in pets and to teach pet parents how to recognize the signs and symptoms of cancer.
Cancer is a genetic change in a cell that causes it to divide and proliferate uncontrollably. There are two types of cancer: benign and malignant. Benign tumors grow but do not invade tissue and do not spread to distant locations. Malignant tumors grow invasively and can metastasize (spread throughout the body).
Unfortunately, cancer is one of the leading causes of death in older animals. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) 1 in every 4 dogs will develop cancer in their lifetime. The Veterinary Cancer Society estimates that almost half of all dogs over ten will develop cancer.
Cancer encompasses a variety of diseases in which cells proliferate abnormally. Depending on the type of cancer and location, the specific presenting symptoms, prognosis, and treatment will vary. However, although each cancer is unique, they share many signs and symptoms. To increase your odds of detecting cancer in your pets early, you should become familiar with the common signs and symptoms of cancer. Be alert and watch for any changes in your pet. Some of the things to watch for are unexplained weight loss, trouble eating, decreased activity level, coughing, breathing problems, abnormal bleeding, lameness or limping, and the appearance of any skin growths or lumps and bumps. It is important to realize that these are only some of the most common signs and symptoms of cancer. These signs and symptoms are not specific to cancer and may be seen in other diseases. The key is to be observant and notify your veterinarian immediately if you notice any of these symptoms or have other health concerns about your dog.
*Note this list is not comprehensive. There may be other signs of cancer and these signs may also be seen with other diseases.
Unfortunately, no matter how vigilant we are, our pets may be asymptomatic in the early stages of cancer. To improve the chances of early detection, you should take your pet in for check-ups regularly. Your veterinarian will do a complete examination checking your pet from head to tail, looking for abnormal skin growths (lumps and bumps), enlarged organs or masses in your pet’s abdomen (belly), abnormal heart or lung sounds, and abnormalities in their eyes, ears, and mouth. These exams are important because veterinarians often discover things that you may not have noticed. For instance, how often do you open your pet’s mouth and look inside? Sadly, most people don’t do this, and oral cancers are common in pets. When oral cancers become symptomatic and animals stop eating or drool excessively, it may be too late because the tumor is too big to treat. Remember the goal and the best way to improve your pets’ odds of beating cancer is early detection. Regular examinations are one of the best ways to do this. Personally, I recommend animals over 6 years of age be seen by their veterinarian seen twice a year.
Not all cancers can be detected on physical examinations alone, so your veterinarian may also recommend screening tests like blood work, urinalysis, and radiographs (x-rays), to uncover underlying diseases like cancer. These tests are quick and painless and can give your veterinarian a lot of information about your pet’s health. The specific tests ordered by your veterinarian will be individualized and depend on the age, sex, and breed of your pet.
If your veterinarian is concerned about a lump or bump, they will likely recommend a fine needle aspirate or biopsy to determine if the lesion is benign or malignant. Fine needle aspirates and biopsies are often recommended prior to surgery because they help your veterinarian determine if the mass must be removed at all and if it does, how aggressive the surgery needs to be to decrease the odds of it recurring in the same area. For pets suspected of having cancer but without visible masses your veterinarian may recommend one or more of the following diagnostic tests: radiographs (x-rays), blood tests, an ultrasound, and possibly advanced imaging such as a CT scan, MRI or PET scan.
Like their human companions, dogs can develop many different types of cancer. According to the Veterinary Cancer Society, the most common cancers seen in dogs are mammary tumors. Other common types of cancers seen in dogs are: lymphoma, osteosarcomas, mast cell tumors, oral melanomas, hemangiosarcomas, and transitional cell carcinomas.
Once you overcome the initial shock, it is important to realize that all cancers are different, and some are more treatable than others. The decision to treat and how aggressively to treat can be complicated. It depends on the cancer’s location, its stage, and the patient’s general health. Your veterinarian may suggest you see a veterinary oncologist to sort through the latest treatment options and determine which treatment is best for your pet.
The treatment depends on the type of cancer and location. Treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and immunotherapy, or a combination of these treatments. As is the case with other diseases, typically the earlier cancer is detected the better the prognosis. In recent years, our ability to treat cancer has improved dramatically and pets with cancer are living longer. Fortunately, recent advances in veterinary oncology have made many previously untreatable cancers now treatable.
While remission is the ultimate goal, quality of life is equally important. As a result, cancer treatments in dogs are generally less aggressive than regimens used in people. Therefore, pets typically do not suffer from some of the troubling side effects seen in people, such as nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and extreme fatigue. If side effects occur, your veterinarian will adjust the treatment to ensure that your pet remains as comfortable as possible. The goal is to prolong your pet’s life while still maintaining quality of life.
Yes, all cancers are different, and some are more treatable than others. The type of cancer, location, size, and response to treatment all affect the ultimate prognosis. With many cancers, the earlier treatment is started the better the prognosis and ultimately the longer the survival times. That's why it is so important to bring your pet to their veterinarian for examinations at least once a year.
Yes! While recent advances in the field of veterinary oncology have enabled veterinarians to treat many previously untreatable cancers, there is still a pressing need for more safe and effective treatments. Clinical trials are an important step in the development of new treatment protocols. They enable researchers to evaluate new medications by studying how medications are metabolized, establishing effective doses, and identifying any potential side effects. There are hundreds of clinical trials being conducted at universities and veterinary specialty clinics around the United States. If your dog has an untreatable cancer, or if the treatment is cost-prohibitive, consider enrolling your dog in a clinical trial since most are partially or wholly subsidized. Besides helping your pet, you may be helping countless other animals in the fight against cancer.
The AVMA”s website has information about clinical trials and a searchable database for ongoing clinical trials. I also recommend pet owners ask their veterinarian or veterinary oncologist if they are familiar with any local trials that may be of benefit to their pet.
Unfortunately, just like in humans, some cancers can recur. The likelihood of recurrence depends on the type of cancer. Before treatment your veterinarian or veterinary oncologist will give you the latest statistics pertinent to your dog’s cancer type and stage. This will include median survival times with and without treatment, rates of remission, and odds of recurrence. These statistics, while not an exact guarantee, may help you make an informed decision that is right for you and your pet.
You may be surprised to learn that some cancers are preventable. So how can you prevent cancer in your dog? Spaying your female dog before their first heat decreases their risk of mammary carcinoma. Neutering your male dog will prevent them from developing testicular cancer. A 10-year study by the University of California Davis found that the age when this should be done in male dogs depends on the breed. To learn more about this speak with your veterinarian or check out the study by the University of California Davis. If you have a hairless breed of dog or light-colored dogs (like Pit Bulls, Bull Terriers), they have a higher risk of developing sun-induced squamous cell carcinomas, especially if they spend a lot of time outdoors. If your dog is at risk for skin cancer, consider using pet-safe sunscreen on the hairless area or nonpigmented skin (belly and ears).
Yes. Sadly, certain breeds have a genetic predisposition to certain cancers. Some of the breeds that are more likely to develop cancer are: Boxers, Golden Retrievers, Bernese Mountain Dogs, German Shepherds, and Rottweilers. However, it is important to know that any breed or mixed breed can develop cancer. If you have a dog breed that is predisposed to cancer it is important to be extra vigilant and notify your veterinarian right away if you notice any changes in your pet’s appearance or behavior.
No. If your pet is on a well-balanced diet and they are eating and maintaining their weight, there is no need to change their diet. The nutrition service at Tufts Veterinary School caution against feeding raw diets or raw treats (even freeze-dried raw foods) to pets with cancer. Raw meat, dairy and eggs have a high risk of bacterial contamination with: Salmonella, Listeria, E-coli, Campylobacter and more. Pets with cancer are at a greater risk for infection, especially pets undergoing chemotherapy.
Yes. To find a support group in your area, speak with your veterinarian. The Animal Cancer Foundation (www.acfoundation.org) provides helpful articles about cancer in pets and pet loss support.
Remember early detection and treatment is the best way to improve your pet’s odds of beating cancer. So make sure your pet gets regular check-ups, take advantage of recommended screening tests, and be familiar and on the lookout for the most common signs and symptoms of cancer in pets. Be sure to report any “lumps and bumps” or other abnormal findings to your veterinarian right away.
When we talk about the gut health of our dogs, we often hear terms like prebiotics and probiotics. But have you heard about postbiotics? It’s a relatively newer kind of “biotic” that’s gaining a lot of recognition in commercial products.
In fact, it’s even claimed that postbiotics are just as beneficial for dogs as probiotics. In this article, we’ll try to decode whether or not postbiotics can help in promoting a dog’s health and well-being by discussing their various health benefits.
But first, let’s start by understanding what exactly are postbiotics.
Dogs have diverse gut microbiomes with varying types of probiotics, but not all dogs have the same probiotic lineup in their guts. This variability can be due to various factors such as breed, diet, genetics, and overall health.
Probiotics are considered good bacteria because they help in maintaining a balanced gut microbiome, aid in digestion, support nutrient absorption and also contribute to a healthy immune function.
Prebiotics, on the other hand, are a type of soluble fiber that remains undigested as they pass through your dog’s digestive system. When they reach the large intestine intact, they serve as food for the probiotics or the beneficial gut bacteria. When probiotics “eat” prebiotics, it generates postbiotics.
When a dog lacks a particular probiotic or has insufficient amounts, it results in a shortage of a corresponding beneficial postbiotic. Therefore, supplementing their diets with postbiotics can provide the benefits that they may not be getting naturally.
Interestingly, many researchers have found that postbiotics are responsible for most of the benefits that were previously attributed to probiotics.
There are several types of postbiotics that are produced when probiotics consume prebiotics. Some of the most common ones found in a dog’s body include:
As mentioned earlier, postbiotics offer a range of health benefits that were previously attributed to probiotics. These benefits include:
Postbiotics can help in improving your dog’s gut health by:
Postbiotics can strengthen your dog’s immune system by stimulating the production of various immune cells like T-cells and B-cells. These cells play a crucial role in protecting the body against various infections and maintaining proper immune function.
Additionally, postbiotics can also help reduce gut inflammation which helps in promoting a healthier immune response.
Proper digestion and regular bowel movements are often associated with a healthy gut microbiome. Since postbiotics help contribute to a healthy gut, they also help in promoting regular bowel movements in dogs.
Additionally, postbiotics can also positively affect gut motility, which allows the food to move smoothly through the digestive tract, reducing issues like diarrhea or constipation.
Postbiotic digestive enzymes help in breaking down macronutrients like proteins, fats, and carbohydrates in a dog’s gastrointestinal tract. This helps in optimizing their body's ability to extract and absorb nutrients from the diet.
If you read your dog food labels, you might have seen brands claiming their pet food is either rich in prebiotics or probiotics. This gives pet owners a hassle-free option of feeding their dogs all the “biotics” directly through their regular meals. However, you still need to consider the quality and viability of these supplements.
For example, probiotics are live bacteria that can get destroyed when traditional pet food is cooked at high temperatures. So even if the label says the food contains probiotics, these dead bacteria wouldn’t provide the intended health benefits.
Postbiotics, however, don’t have this problem as they aren’t live organisms. They can easily be stored and added to dog food without affecting its health properties.
Therefore, while probiotics can offer many health benefits, they aren’t a viable option for most traditional dog foods. Postbiotics are a much more stable and effective option that can provide similar health benefits to your dog.
You should consider all such factors and properly read and understand the ingredients list when buying commercial dog food.
Postbiotics occur naturally as an output of probiotic fermentation. But you can still supplement your dog’s diet with specific kinds of postbiotic supplements. These supplements would be formulated to provide the required amount of beneficial postbiotics that can support the gut health and overall well-being of your dog.
However, when you’re thinking about adding postbiotic supplements to your dog’s diet, make sure you talk to a veterinarian first. They’ll help you understand whether or not your dog needs postbiotics and what kind of postbiotics would best suit them according to their health requirements.
If you want to include some natural postbiotic food sources, you can consider feeding your dog:
Prebiotic Rich Foods
Feeding your dog prebiotic-rich foods like bananas, chicory roots, oats, apples, and pumpkins can indirectly lead to an increase in postbiotics. Since your dog already has billions of live beneficial bacteria in their gut, adding more prebiotics would increase its fermentation. This, in turn, would lead to increased production of postbiotics.
Probiotic-Rich Foods
Similarly, you can also increase the level of postbiotics in your dog’s gut by feeding them foods that contain probiotics, like yogurt or kefir. You can feed your dog these foods as meal toppers or occasional treats.
However, when buying these food items, you need to make sure that they are dog-friendly. This means that it shouldn’t contain any additional ingredients, seasonings, artificial sweeteners, or flavorings, as that can be harmful to dogs.
Whether you choose commercial postbiotic supplements or natural food sources, you should first consult with a veterinarian to understand your dog’s health requirements. Remember that if you have a perfectly healthy dog who eats a well-balanced meal, you might not need to give them any additional supplements.
If you choose to give your dog probiotic or postbiotic supplements, you should start with small amounts and adjust the dosage according to your dog’s digestive health. You should also monitor your dog’s reaction to these supplements as, in some cases, dogs can have an adverse reaction to any change in their diet.
If you notice signs of continued digestive distress or intolerances after eating postbiotic-rich foods or supplements, you should take your dog to a veterinarian immediately.
Postbiotics offer a range of health benefits for a dog. These supplements can help improve their gut health, promote better nutrient absorption, boost the immune system, and support regular bowel movements.
When choosing to feed postbiotics to your dog, you can easily buy specific kinds of commercial supplements that would be formulated to support their gut health and overall well-being. You can also consider adding natural sources of prebiotics and probiotcs, as they would indirectly lead to an increase in postbiotics.
However, before getting started, we’ll recommend you consult with a veterinarian and determine the best supplement options for your dog.
Let’s answer some frequently asked questions about postbiotics and their health benefits for dogs:
Probiotics are live beneficial bacteria that live in your dog’s gut, and postbiotics are generated when probiotics “eat” prebiotics. You should consider various factors to determine which one of these “biotics” are better for your dog.
Ultimately, you should start by assessing your dog’s health needs and consult with a veterinarian to understand what kind of supplements would be appropriate for them.
The best food products for postbiotics would be the ones that are rich in either prebiotics or postbiotics. These food items would indirectly lead to an increase of postbiotics in your dog’s gut.
https://doggybiome.com/expert-advice/boost-dog-health-with-probiotics-prebiotics-and-postbiotics/
Leading vet
Dogs are more than just pets, they're family. We want them to be happy, healthy, and live long lives. So, what can you do to help your furry loved ones stay healthy and live their best lives? Here are 10 of the best ways to keep your dog healthy.
Just like humans, dogs need a well-balanced diet and plenty of water to stay healthy. It is important to provide them with a well-balanced diet that meets their nutritional requirements. Feed your dog a high-quality food brand, and avoid foods that contain artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. A diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals will help your dog maintain a healthy weight and provide them with the energy they need to stay active. Make sure your dog always has access to fresh, clean water. If you have questions about your dog’s nutritional requirements always speak with your veterinarian to determine which diet is best for your dog before changing diets.
Exercise is essential for dogs, just as it is for humans. Regular exercise can help prevent obesity, promote healthy joints, and reduce stress and anxiety. Regular exercise helps your pet burn calories and maintain a healthy weight. It also provides dogs with mental stimulation, which is important for their overall well-being. Activities such as playing fetch or going for a walk can help keep dogs mentally engaged and prevent boredom. Exercise can help reduce stress and anxiety in dogs by releasing endorphins, the body's natural "feel-good" chemicals. This can help dogs feel more relaxed and calmer. In contrast, dogs that don't get enough exercise can become bored and restless, which can lead to behavior problems such as excessive barking, destructive chewing, and aggression. Walking your dog isn’t just good for them, it’s great for pet parents too!
Regular check-ups with your veterinarian are an essential part of keeping your dog healthy. Routine examinations can help detect any health problems early and ensure that your dog is up to date on vaccinations and preventative medications. Your dog can’t tell you when something is wrong. So never skip a check-up because your dog looks healthy. Just like us, dogs can develop diseases like kidney disease, thyroid disease, diabetes, dental disease, cardiac disease and cancer. During a routine visit, your veterinarian will examine your pet from head to tail. Veterinarians have the tools and training to detect subtle signs of diseases. Remember the goal of annual examinations is to not only prevent disease, but also to catch any illnesses early. The earlier diseases are discovered the better the odds are that your dog can be treated successfully. So, remember whether your pet appears healthy or not, all pets should see their veterinarian at least once a year. If they are older than 7 years they should have routine check-ups twice a year.
Dental health is important in pets and must not be overlooked. According to the American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS), 75% of dogs over the age of four have dental disease. In fact, dental disease is one of the most common medical conditions we see in dogs. This should come as no surprise. Most people do not brush their dog’s teeth, and we all know that our dogs are not brushing their own teeth. Dental disease doesn’t just lead to bad doggy breath, it can lead to tooth loss, painful tooth root abscesses, difficulty eating, and other serious health problems. Pets should have their mouth examined by a veterinarian at least once a year. This typically takes place during your pet’s annual physical exam. During these check-ups your veterinarian will do an oral exam and be able to detect if your dog has any dental disease. In between these visits you should ideally be checking your dog’s mouth regularly as well. The best way to prevent dental disease is to brush your dog’s teeth regularly. Ideally you want to start brushing your dog’s teeth when they are young so that they become used to the routine. Young dogs also have clean healthy teeth and will get used to brushing if you start when they are young, just like nail trims. Dogs should have their teeth brushed daily or at the very least a few times a week. It is important to use a dog-safe toothpaste and not toothpaste intended for people. Dog-safe toothpaste does not bubble or foam and does not require your dog to rinse their mouth out. Routine oral exams and regular tooth brushing is the best way to prevent dental problems in your pets.
Fleas and ticks aren’t just annoying, they can carry diseases that can be harmful to your dog's health. Not only do fleas annoy their hosts relentlessly, some animals are sensitive to fleas and can develop a skin reaction called “flea dermatitis,” which can then lead to bacterial skin infections (pyoderma) also known as hotspots. Fleas can also transmit tapeworms, an intestinal parasite that can cause malnutrition. Young animals with severe flea infestations are at risk for developing anemia.
Ticks are more than a nuisance; they are an important disease vector that can pose a threat to your pets and family. Ticks can transmit Lyme disease as well as other tick-borne diseases such as Ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Anaplasmosis, Tularemia and Babesiosis.
Tick-borne illnesses are a significant cause of morbidity in people and pets. To protect your family and your dog, it is important to utilize year-round tick prevention.
Luckily there are many safe and effective medications available to protect your dog from fleas and ticks. Utilizing one of these products year-round is the best way to keep ticks and fleas at bay and your pets healthy. Your veterinarian can help you decide which medication is best for your particular pet.
Mosquitoes can carry the heartworm parasite, a dangerous and common parasite that can affect your dog's heart and other organs. Left untreated heartworm disease is fatal. Unfortunately, the current treatment options for heartworm infections have high risk of mortality and complications. The best way to treat heartworm is to prevent it. There are several safe and effective medications available to prevent heartworm. Many are also effective against other parasites.
Grooming is important for your dog's physical and mental health. Regular brushing helps remove loose hair, dirt, and debris, which can cause skin irritation if left unattended. Additionally, grooming your dog gives you an excellent opportunity to inspect your dog's skin for lumps, cuts, and other injuries. Most dogs also enjoy being groomed. Regular grooming can help prevent skin problems, promote healthy coat growth, and provide a bonding experience for you and your dog.
From wagging tails to joyful barks, dogs are undeniably social animals that thrive on interaction and connection. Dogs are pack animals by nature. In a household setting, they consider their human family as part of their pack. This is why dogs thrive in environments where they have the opportunity to interact and engage with their human and canine counterparts. Dogs are social animals and need socialization to thrive. Expose your dog to various people, animals, and environments from a young age. This helps them build confidence, adaptability, and strong social skills and can prevent behavioral problems in the future.
Dogs are curious creatures and may get into things they shouldn't. Keep toxic substances such as cleaning products, human and pet medication, and poisonous foods like chocolate, grapes and food containing xylitol safely out of reach. Also be aware of plants that may be poisonous to pets and keep these out of your house and yard. And never give your pet any medication without first checking with your veterinarian. If your pet gets into anything DO NOT wait for symptoms, call your vet or local veterinary ER right away. Time is of the essence with poisonings.
Dogs thrive on attention and love. Take your pet for long walks, take them with you to the pet store or other pet-friendly outings, and give them extra snuggles. Our furry loved ones give us unconditional love and companionship year-round and deserve a show of affection. Research has shown that oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone," is released in both dogs and humans during interactions, strengthening the emotional connection between them. This chemical reaction is responsible for the warm and fuzzy feeling we experience when cuddling with our furry friends. There is also evidence that petting your dog lowers their blood pressure as well as yours. Spending time with your dog, playing, and showing affection can help keep them happy and healthy.
In conclusion, there are many things you can do to help keep your dog healthy. Providing a balanced diet, regular exercise, routine vet visits, dental care, flea and tick prevention, heartworm preventatives, clean water, regular grooming, plenty of love and attention, socialization, and avoiding toxic substances are all important ways to keep your dog healthy and happy. By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you can help your furry friend live a long, healthy life.
Every pet parent is familiar with those irresistible puppy eyes. When our dogs stare at us, whether for a treat or some attention, their big, round eyes leave us powerless. But sometimes, these stares seem to last an eternity, and you may wonder, "Why on earth is my dog staring at me?"
Unfortunately, the answer isn’t that simple because dogs can stare at humans for a number of reasons. In this article, we’ll explore 10 such fascinating reasons why your dog can't seem to take their eyes off you.
Below we have discussed 10 of the most common reasons why a dog stares at its owner:
Dogs often need constant attention. When they see you’re busy with your own work, they can resort to staring as a way to communicate their desire for interaction. This can even go on for an extended duration if they feel a bit neglected.
The best thing you can do here is take a small break and shower them with some love and cuddles. But just a heads up, this will reinforce their behavior, leading to more stares.
A soft stare accompanied by a relaxed posture and soft expressions can be a way to express affection. This gentle and affectionate look speaks volumes about their love and admiration for you. Thus it’s important that you reciprocate the love with gentle petting, cuddles, or verbal praise.
Dogs are highly perceptive, and they often observe humans to understand our body language, facial expressions, and overall behavior. This is a sort of attentive staring that allows dogs to learn from our behavior or anticipate what might happen next.
Sometimes, dogs stare at humans for visual cues on what they should do or how they should behave in certain situations. This is especially common in dogs that are getting trained with positive reinforcement methods. They learn to associate a specific action with rewards and treats.
For example, when you’re teaching a puppy to sit, they can learn that sitting on command gives them treats. As a result, they might start staring at you, waiting for your instructions or signals that would indicate they can sit down and receive their well-deserved reward.
When a dog feels unsafe or uneasy, they might stare at their owners for protection or to seek reassurance. In such situations, they might even show more signs of anxiety or distress, such as trembling or excessive panting.
If you can spot the source of their distress, you should address it and take appropriate steps to make your dog feel safe and comfortable.
However, sometimes this can happen in an awkward situation where you can’t really do anything. For example, some dogs stare at their humans while pooping. It’s because that is a vulnerable position for them, and they look at you for protection in case something happens. This is where you may not be able to do anything about the staring, but you should just let them do their business without any unnecessary interruptions or distractions.
Another common reason why dogs stare at humans is to convey something. It can be something as simple as they want to go for a potty break or they can’t find their favorite toy. But sometimes a stare can also indicate some bigger problem like they are having some kind of pain or physical discomfort.
Thus it's important to pay attention to your dog’s body language and understand what they’re trying to communicate. If you notice some problematic signs of distress, like aggression or excessive whining, it would be best to consult with a veterinarian.
If your dog is staring at you when you’re eating something, they are probably trying to manipulate you into sharing some of your food. Dogs are always curious about what you eat, and they’re always ready to taste some table scraps. However, you need to be careful, as some human foods can be toxic for dogs.
Their soft puppy eye stare might be tempting, but you should refrain from sharing any of your food. Instead, you can keep aside a healthy treat that they can eat during your mealtime.
Furthermore, you should educate yourself about what kinds of human foods are safe and what are toxic for dogs. Also, know that feeding them table scraps isn’t good for their health because if you feed them more than 10% of their daily calories, it can lead to overfeeding or a deficiency in essential nutrients crucial for their overall health.
The other downside is that some dogs will refrain from eating a more traditional extruded diet and hold out for table scraps, which taste better and create an overly picky dog.
If you have said something while looking in their direction or you’re doing something out of the ordinary, your dog may stare at you with confusion. This look is often accompanied by head tilts and curious eyes.
You can simply engage with them and respond positively.
In older dogs, staring into space or at someone can be a sign of cognitive dysfunction or doggy dementia. It happens because they become disoriented and confused about their surroundings. They might even fail to recognize familiar people or objects. This results in prolonged stares where they try to make sense of their environment.
If you think your older dog is suffering from dementia, it's important to consult with a veterinarian. They will evaluate your dog's symptoms and provide proper guidance to help manage their condition.
If an unknown dog stares at you with an intense gaze, it can indicate aggression. It would be accompanied by a stiff body, growling, and tense facial expressions. In such situations, you should stay cautious, avoid direct eye contact, and calmly get away from the dog.
If it’s your own dog that is showing signs of aggression with intense stares, they might be scared of some new people or houseguests. They might even turn aggressive when they are guarding their food or a favorite toy. Even in this situation, you should avoid direct eye contact, keep them away from anything that triggers aggression, and seek professional help.
Pet parents are often confused about what they should do when their dog keeps staring at them. Should you ignore them, or should you stare back?
You know your dog the best and, with time, should be able to understand your dog's body language. It's important to consider the overall context when interpreting your dog's stare.
If your dog has a soft stare with no other signs of distress, then they might be just looking for your attention or expressing affection.
However, if your dog's stare is intense and accompanied by signs like tense facial expressions and growling, it could indicate aggression. This could be either because they feel unsafe in the presence of new people or they’re having some physical discomfort. It’s important to avoid eye contact in such situations and keep them away from anything that triggers aggression. If the problem persists, consider consulting with a veterinarian.
Every dog is unique, and the reasons behind their staring can also vary based on various factors. As a pet parent, you’ll most likely familiarize yourself with their behaviors and understand their body language to interpret the context and intention behind their stares.
If you feel your dog is staring at you too often or they’re exhibiting signs of distress, you can consider taking them to a veterinarian.
Let’s answer some frequently asked questions about why dogs stare at their owners:
There can be several reasons why your dog is staring at you. It could be a way of seeking your attention, expressing affection, or to communicate a specific message. Some dogs even stare at their owner to observe and learn from their behavior or to seek protection when they feel unsafe.
To figure out why your dog is staring at you, you should understand the overall context by studying their behavior and body language. If you have any concerns about their excessive staring, it's advisable to consult with a veterinarian.
If your dog stares at you when you eat, then they’re probably trying to manipulate you into sharing some of your food. Their soft puppy eyes might be tempting, but you should avoid feeding them table scraps, as some human foods can be toxic for dogs.
While pooping, a dog is in a vulnerable position, and they want you to protect them in case something goes wrong. It can sound weird, but this shows they trust you to keep them safe. And while you may not be able to do anything in such a situation, you can simply let them do their business without unnecessary interruptions or distractions.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/why-does-my-dog-stare-at-me/
https://www.insider.com/guides/pets/why-does-my-dog-stare-at-me
