Elderly Dog Care Tips - FAQs - Some Questions Asked by Our Readers

Caring for an elderly dog is much different from that of a puppy.

We have gathered all emails that we have received since over a couple decades in a place, and what we have responded to them. We thought these communications can make a good post and can be of great help to our readers. We have chosen a few. This chapter, Senior Dog Caring Tips deals in some of the most important queries raised by our readers (the then owners of senior dogs) over the years and the respective answers to each of their queries.

We already have a chapter - German Shepherd Dog FAQ that offers a wealth of information. However, this chapter mainly focuses on offering tips on caring for elderly dogs, senior dog food and exercise types for older dogs.

Please note that we have made slight modifications in our responses while publishing here to give those responses a style of a post

1) My GSD is 11 years old. Should I consider him to be too old? Does it mean that my dog has reached an age of approximately 77 human years? Can my elderly dog be considered to be as safe with unknown children as he used to be three-four years back?
(Question by Ketevan lobjanidze, Tbilisi, Georgia.)

Your dog ages faster than you. Major health changes naturally occur in quite a high pace than in humans. Aging in animals vary considerably between species and breeds. In the canine kingdom aging varies from type to type. While for small and toy breeds 8 years is an old age, for a medium and large breeds (having shorter span of life) the age of 6 to 7 years may be considered geriatric stage. Your GSD, at an age of 11 years is senior dog and you have to take special care of him. We oppose the popular belief that 1 year of a dog's life is equal to 7 years of a human's life. Practically, there's no logic to consider such calculation as reliable.

At this age many dogs tend to become more aloof than before, thereby developing behavior issues. They need good amount of rest without disturbance. Behavior may become unpredictable in a senior dog, hence unknown children should not be allowed near him unsupervised.

2) I am Seaneka Nixon from Freeport, Bahamas. I have been a loyal reader of the chapters in your website since four years. I have 2 German Shepherd Dogs, named Rolley and Abey. Rolley is 12 years and Abbey 10+. Both of them are showing changes in their behaviors. Both Rolley and Abey are gradually becoming more and more dependent on me and my husband; Rolley more on me. Rolley has always been a very nice dog and even at his age of 12 years he is very friendly and docile, but he shows occasional uncharacteristic aggression, which most of the times becomes unpredictable. So far we have not noticed any kind of such aggressive behavior in Abey. What signs related to their behaviors and health should we be concerned about in our older dogs?
(Question by Seaneka Nixon , Freeport, Bahamas.)

Both your dogs – Rolley and Abey are older dogs and behavioral changes in them are quite normal and should not be surprising. There may be significant changes in behaviors in a senior dog.

Here are the few behavioral changes, some of which you may notice in your geriatric dog:

Less interested in petting
Less interested in interactions, greeting people, kids or other animals
Less interested in exploration
Less interested in exercises or play
Do not respond much to things going on around him
Becomes overly dependent.
Sometimes wanders about aimlessly.
Sleepless in the night and sleepier during the daytime
Behaves more irritably, accompanied with unpredictable aggression.
Inconsistent behavior – Not necessarily aggression, but also includes a Developing tendency to lick your face more frequently.
Noticeable increase in anxiety
Develop tendency of house soiling
Repetitive activity
Increased vocalization

Here are more medical symptoms:

If you notice any signs like the ones mentioned below or any other signs that are unusual you should get in touch with your vet instantly for checkup.

Solid-appearing lumps or bumps on your dogs’ skin
Constipation or diarrhea or inconsistency in releasing bowel
Shortness of breath
Coughing
Body stiffness
Weakness
Sudden deterioration of health
Unusual discharges
Changes in weight (getting too heavy or too thin)
Changes in appetite (tendency to eat more or less)
Changes in frequency of urination or changes urine color and smell
Changes in water intake (overly decreased or increased water intake tendency)
Stiffness or limping

General health risks that an elderly dog may get exposed to are:

Cancer
Heart disease
Hepatic (liver) disorders
Hyperglycemia (increase in blood sugar level)
Hypoglycemia (decrease in blood sugar level)
Joint or bone issues
Renal (kidney) or urinary tract disorder
Senility
Weakness

3) Hi, My name is Megan, and I live in Ashford, Kent. Wax – my lovely German shepherd is getting older. What kind of a food management should we follow for Wax? Is there any special type of senior dog food types to be followed for Wax? He has always been on homemade diet, and we have He is over 8 years and will be 9 in March 2015. We are a dog lover family. All of us in our family want Wax to stay happy and healthy all through! Waiting in the anticipation of your valued response soon.
(Questioned by Megan, Ashford, Kent. Thank you Megan)

We would not suggest you any abrupt change in Wax’s food components and diet system, as long as he gets all desired nutrients to keep healthy and happy! Since Wax is an elderly dog he should have a maintained diet with controlled amount of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Obesity in dogs happens when your dog gets an inadequate level exercise and the extra glucose that is converted by the digestion of carbohydrates gets stored as fat. Moreover, in an elderly dog indigestion may occur at any point of time due to the sudden change in food.

A good senior dog food should contain natural enzymes necessary to break down carbohydrates. You can try yogurt, broccoli, parsley, papaya, carrots. If your dog shows no unusual symptoms, you can carry on with these along with the existing food.

Yogurt is a rich source of Probiotics - beneficial bacteria that enhances digestive health, and hence this is a wise addition to your senior dog food.

Egg is rich source of protein and is directly associated with several health benefits. Boiled eggs are easier for your geriatric dog to digest.

Liver is nutrient-dense food, having all essential vitamins and trace minerals and can help your elderly dog to keep healthy. You can feed small amounts liver regularly.

Fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that support immunity. Fish such as salmon and trout can be added to your dog’s diet. Raw salmon may lead to salmon poisoning and can be potentially dangerous.

Meat - Lamb, beef are good because they are rich source of iron, zinc and other essential nutrients. Organ meat, such as liver, heart and kidney, added to your senior dog food a few times a week is a great idea. Chicken heart, liver and neck are good for your elderly dog.

4) I will be taking my elderly dog - 11-year-old girl, Cindy, to the vet in a week or so for a yearly health check-up. I know that that my regular vet will not be at her desk as she’s out of the country for a couple of months and a new vet will be there whom I do not know much.

My concern is if I should go for vaccinating my girl. As I told she’s already 11 years old, will the normal vaccination that I gave her all through her life each year (4-in-1 vaccine that covers Distemper, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus) be safe for Cindy?
(Name and Place not mentioned)

Especially when it comes to a senior dog Cindy’s vaccination requirement may be different. It is highly suggested that you should talk to your regular vet who has been checking Cindy for so many years. Also keep in mind that older dogs usually have impaired immune system that doesn’t work as good as a young dog. Also, very important to bear in mind is that the vaccines that Cindy may need may be based on where you are currently living and the environmental condition you have.

5) Hi there. My name is Jerry, owner of a small restaurant here in Jacksonville I have a 10-year-old Neapolitan Mastiff Rado. Rado seems to be in pain. He is not active as he used to be. I have talked to my vet, and he says Rado’s developed arthritis? Any suggestion?
(Questioned by Jerry from Jacksonville, Florida. Thank you Jerry)

Great that you have already talked to your vet and got Rado examined. We are sorry to hear about Rado's discomfort. Arthritis in dogs, especially in older ones like Rado, is quite common and can be managed to improve their comfort and mobility:

Medication: Your vet may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications or pain relievers tailored for dogs to manage Rado's arthritis pain.

Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for arthritic dogs. Ensure Rado stays at an appropriate weight to reduce stress on his joints.

Exercise: Gentle and low-impact exercises like short walks or swimming can help keep Rado mobile. Avoid high-impact activities that might worsen his condition.

Comfortable Environment: Provide a soft and supportive bed for Rado to rest on, especially one that eases pressure on his joints.

Supplements: Consider joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin to support Rado's joint health. Discuss with your vet for suitable options.

Physical Therapy: Techniques like massage, hydrotherapy, or physiotherapy can help alleviate pain and improve mobility.

Dietary Changes: Specialized diets rich in Omega-3 fatty acids or formulated for joint health can aid in managing arthritis symptoms.

Regular Vet Check-ups: Schedule regular visits to monitor Rado's condition and adjust his treatment plan as needed.

Remember, each dog's condition is unique, so working closely with your vet to tailor a plan suited for Rado's specific needs is essential. With proper care and management, you can help improve Rado's quality of life despite his arthritis. I would suggest a giving Rado a good diet, avoid over-feeding, avoid high protein diet. Omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA, has been found to be having high benefit in reducing arthritic inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids also prevent cardiac problems associated with old age in dogs.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) are the most common treatment for arthritis in elderly dogs and should only be administered under a strict supervision of an experienced and registered vet.

Dog Caring Check List for Elderly Dog

Medical Care - Caring becomes more crucial and harder for elderly dog. Caring for elderly dogs includes medical attention, more frequently than normal. An annual health checkup may not be a good idea for; rather for older dogs you should consider a routine health check every quarter. Most common problems in dogs associated with aging are Nuclear (Lenticular) Sclerosis, Digestive Tract Disorder, Hind Leg Weakness, Arthritis and Joint Pain etc. Human pain killers may be potentially dangerous for your dog of any age – More so for a senior dog.

Diet Management -Your senior dog may need more attention when it comes to his/her diet. Food for your old dog should be more easily digestible. Your dog will have metabolic and immunological changes as well as progressive changes in body composition. Older dogs also have their intestinal bacteria affected, which may lead to gastrointestinal issues. Your dog may need low protein-low fat food. Yous senior dogs may not be good with usual one or two big meals; Rather he/she may need several smaller meals in a day.

Activity and Exercise - You are your dog's life tie companion. He/She will do anything for you - especially when it comes to play. Do not force or encourage your elderly dog to over play. He can't take stress in the same intensity that he used to take a couple of years ago. Over-exercising older dogs may have a fatal consequence.

Read more...

Elderly or Senior Dog Caring Tips

We have been getting request for more information and help via Messages on our Welcome Dog Lovers Facebook Page. We have selected some interesting questions related to Senior Dog Caring Tips and tried to answer them in a way so as to make a nice blog post. We thought his will be of great help to our readers.

1) My Rottweiler is 11 years old. Should I consider him to be too old? Does it mean that my dog has reached an age of approximately 77 human years? Can my elderly dog be considered to be as safe with unknown children as he used to be three-four years back? We are concerned about him and keep eye on his health. We do not skip regular visit to our vet to ensure he keeps well.

(Query by Ketevan lobjanidze, Tbilisi, Georgia. Thank you Ketevan)

Your dog ages faster than you. Major health changes naturally occur in quite a high pace than in humans. Aging in animals actually vary and in the canine kingdom aging varies from type to type. While for small and toy breeds 7 years is an old age, for a medium and large breeds (having shorter span of life) the age of 6 years is considered geriatric. Your Rottie, at an age of 11 years is senior dog and you are already taking take special care for him. We oppose the popular belief that 1 year of a dog's life is equal to 7 years of a human's life. Practically, there's no logic to consider such calculation as reliable.

At this age many dogs tend to become more aloof than before, thereby developing behavior issues. They need good amount of rest without disturbance. Behavior may become unpredictable in a senior dog, hence unknown children should not be allowed near him unsupervised. It is always advised to keep children near an old dog under supervision.

2) I am Seaneka Nixon from Freeport, Bahamas. I have been a loyal reader of the chapters in your website since four years. I have 2 German Shepherd Dogs, named Rolley and Abey. Rolley is 12 years and Abbey 10+. Both of them are showing changes in their behaviors. Both Rolley and Abey are gradually becoming more and more dependent on me and my husband; Rolley more on me. Rolley has always been a very nice dog and even at his age of 12 years he is very friendly and docile, but he shows occasional uncharacteristic aggression, which most of the times becomes unpredictable. So far we have not noticed any kind of such aggressive behavior in Abey. What signs related to their behaviors and health should we be concerned about in our older dogs?  

(Query by Seaneka Nixon , Freeport, Bahamas. Thank you Seaneka)

Both your dogs – Rolley and Abey are older dogs and behavioral changes in them are quite normal and should not be surprising. There may be significant changes in behaviors in a senior dog.

Here are the few behavioral changes that you may notice in your geriatric dog:

• Less interested in petting
• Less interested in interactions, greeting people, kids or other animals
• Less interested in exploration
• Less interested in exercises or play
• Do not respond much to things going on around him
• Becomes overly dependent
• Sometimes wanders about aimlessly
• Sleep less in the night and more during the day time
• Behaves more irritably, accompanied with unpredictable aggression
• Inconsistent behavior – Not necessarily aggression, but also includes a Developing tendency to lick your face more frequently
• Noticeable increase in anxiety
• Develop tendency of house soiling
• Repetitive activity
• Increased vocalization

 

Here are some more clinical symptoms:

If you notice any signs like the ones mentioned below or any other signs that are unusual you should get in touch with your vet instantly for checkup.

• Solid-appearing lumps or bumps on your dogs’ skin
• Constipation or diarrhea or inconsistency in releasing bowel
• Shortness of breath
• Coughing
• Body stiffness
• Weakness
• Sudden deterioration of health
• Unusual discharges
• Changes in weight (getting too heavy or too thin)
• Changes in appetite (tendency to eat both more or less)
• Changes in frequency of urination or changes urine color and smell
• Changes in water intake (both overly decreased or increased water intake tendency)
• Stiffness or limping

General health risks that an elderly dog may get exposed to are:

• Cancer
• Heart disease
• Hepatic (liver) disorders
• Hyperglycemia (increase in blood sugar level)
• Hypoglycemia (decrease in blood sugar level)
• Joint or bone issues
• Renal (kidney) or urinary tract disorder
• Senility and Dementia
• General Debility (Weakness)

 

3) Hi, My name is Megan, and I live in Ashford, Kent. Wax – my beloved German shepherd is getting older. What kind of a food management should we follow for Wax? Is there any special type of senior dog food types to be followed for Wax? He has always been on home made diet and we have He is over 8 years and will be 9 in March 2015. We are a dog lover family. All of us in our family want Wax to stay happy and healthy all through! Waiting in the anticipation of your valued response soon.  

(Query by Megan, Ashford, Kent. Thank you Megan)

 

 

We would not suggest you any abrupt change his Wax’s food components and diet system, as long as he gets all desired nutrients to keep healthy and happy! Since Wax is an elderly dog he should have a maintained diet with controlled amount of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Obesity in dogs happens when your dog gets an inadequate level exercise and the extra glucose that is converted by the digestion of carbohydrates gets stored as fat. Moreover in an elderly dog maldigestion may occur at any point of time due to the sudden change in food.

 

A good senior dog food should contain natural enzymes necessary to break down carbohydrates. You can try yogurt, broccoli, parsley, papaya, carrots. If your dog shows no unusual symptoms, you can carry on with these along with the existing food.

 

Yogurt is a rich source of Probiotics - beneficial bacteria that enhances digestive health, and hence this is a wise addition to your senior dog food.

Egg is rich source of protein and is directly associated with several health benefits. Boiled eggs are easier for your geriatric dog to digest.

Liver is nutrient-dense food, having all essential vitamins and trace minerals and can help your elderly dog to keep healthy. You can feed small amounts liver regularly.

Fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that support immunity. Fish such as salmon and trout can be added to your dog’s diet. Raw salmon may lead to salmon poisoning and can be potentially dangerous.

Meat - Lamb, beef are good because they are rich source of iron, zinc and other essential nutrients. Organ meat, such as liver, heart and kidney, added to your senior doog food a few times a week is a great idea. Chicken heart, liver and neck are good for your elderly dog.

 

 

4) I will be taking my elderly dog - 11 year old girl, Cindy, to the vet in a week or so for a yearly health check-up. I know that that my regular vet will not be at her desk as she’s out of the country for a couple of months and a new vet will be there whom I do not know much.

 

My concern is if I should go for vaccinating my girl. As I told she’s already 11 years old, will the normal vaccination that I gave her all through her life each year (4-in-1 vaccine that covers Distemper, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus) be safe for Cindy?

 (Query via Email - Name: Judy Ashley as per email signature and Place not mentioned)

 

Especially when it comes to an senior dog Cindy’s vaccination requirement may be different. It is highly suggested that you should talk to your regular vet who has been checking Cindy for so many years. Also keep in mind that Older dogs usually have impaired immune system that doesn’t work as good as a young dog. Also very important to beer in mind is that the vaccines that Cindy may need may be based on where you are currently living and the environmental condition you have.

 

 

5) Hi. My name is Jerry, owner of a small restaurant here in Jacksonville I have a 10 year old Neopolitan Mastiff Rado. Rado seems to be in pain. He is not active as he used to be. I have talked to my Vet and he says Rado’s developed arthritis? Any suggestion?  

(Questioned by Jerry from Jacksonville, Florida. Thank you Jerry)

 

 

Great that you have already talked to your vet and got Rado examined. Arthritis is too common in the older dogs, especially in the large and heavy weight breeds like Danes, GSD, Mastiffs, labs etc. Other joint disorders are also common found in the elderly dog.

 

I would suggest a giving Rado a good diet, avoid over-feeding, avoid high protein diet. Omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA, has been found to be having high benefit in reducing arthritic inflammation. omega-3 fatty acids also prevents cardiac problems associated with old age in dogs.

 

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) is the most common treatment for arthritis in elderly dogs, and should only be administered under a strict supervision of a experienced and registered vet.

Related Reads

Feeding and Nutrition

Health Issues in Dogs

Dog Care Tips

Read more...

Top 10 Dog Myths You Must Read

This post talks about the commonest dog myths that people around us believe in. The deadliest myth is dogs are born biters. Don't believe in such cynophobic and baseless ideas. Apart from this there are other dog myths that most dog owners believe in. Here are the top 10 dog facts that are just myth. Believing these myth may put your dogs to problems.

Suggestion: Understand and Implement.

1. Garlic is good as flea prevention : This is the biggest myth I have ever come across! Researchers have proved that too much of Garlic in your dog food may be dangerous for your dog. Garlic contains natural chemical that affect the Red blood cells that can get ruptured and become incapable of carrying oxygen effectively. However, some dog owners have been giving garlic to their dogs without no issues, but some dogs are more sensitive to garlic toxicity than others. How much is too much for dog is not known yet. Toxicity level varies from dogs to dogs.Garlic has immense benefit to us humans, but is a NO for dogs.
Both garlic and onions contain natural Thiosulfate, which is toxic to canines.

2. Dogs that wag tails are considered happy : This is true, but not always. Even non-friendly dogs wag their tail too. It is important to study other body languages and facial expressions that are cumulatively considered as the indication of a dogs state of mind.

3. Mixed breeds are always sturdy than pure breeds : Not necessarily true.Both pure and mixed breeds can be equally healthy and unhealthy depending on breeding strategies, care and nutrition. Mutts are usually not prone to specific disorders that are typical to certain pure breeds. However, conditions like bloat, dermal problems, heart problems etc. can be seen in both mutts and pure breed dogs.

4. Dogs with warm nose are ill : This is an old school of thought that dogs with warm nose have health issues like fever. This is a myth. The only best way to know if your dog has fever is to check it by thermometer. Normally a healthy dog should have a body temperature of around 102.5 degrees F.

5. Eating grass is an indication of sickness : This is not true. Dogs have descended from the wolves that used to eat all parts of their prey. They also ate the stomach and its content which included grass that the animals ate. This ways grass was the part of the diets of any animals of canidae family. Dogs eating grass is quite normal, if they do not eat it in big volume.

6. Household pet dogs do not require to be vaccinated against rabies : Myth it is always important to vaccinate your dog. This is an indication of responsible ownership. Vaccinating your pet dog against rabies is a precautionary measure for both you and your pet.

7. Female dogs do not cock their legs while urinating : Not always true! Females can lift their legs while urinating and in certain cases they can even exhibit the half sitting-half cocking position while urinating. Check out why do female dogs cock their leg.

8. Dogs are carnivorous animals and should always be kept only on meat : Myth Dogs are actually omnivorous animals like us humans.They need veggies too. Fruits, vegetables, eggs, meat are some of the important ingredients of a perfect holistic dog food. Related Read (though not related to food): Does your dog need vitamins?


9. Dogs love tasty food : Not true. Remember your dogs taste buds are not as strong as yours. Dogs primarily loves food based on smell.

10. Dogs always need high protein diet : Big No! Your dogs diet management should be made on the basis of the amount of calorie it is exhausting each day. Obviously a working dog should be kept on higher protein and carbohydrate as compared to a domestic dog. However, low protein diet also makes low quality food. Right kind of ingredients is essential.

11. Dog understand human language : Not true. You say sit and Rex will sit. This doesn't mean your Rex understands the mean of the word in English. He only knows what to do he hears the particular sound. He acts on the sound.

Here are just a few of thousands of doggy myths. Responsible ownership also demands that you know the correct things related to dogs and not believing the hypes. Stay tuned Up next more talks about dogs.

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An Insight Into Pet Immunization

Vaccination is the safest route to ensure that your pets remain in the pink of health. Vaccines are safeguard against diseases. From grave organ damages to turning fatal the risk is immense. Even others in the pet community are prone to risking contagious diseases. A responsible pet owner always prioritize on scheduling vets appointment for routine immunization, because it bolsters future immunity for a lifetime.

Diseases Which Require A Shot of Vaccine

Diseases if not checked and prevented can turn fatal for pets. For health safety immunization is the ideal way out. In the age of advanced medical science, killer diseases like distemper, parvovirus and feline enteritis are things of the past (with the exception of unprotected dogs who keep alive the incidence of infectious diseases).

Dogs need to be immunized for:
Parvovirus
Distemper
Leptospirosis
Bordatella
Hepatitis
Para-influenza virus
Rabies


Cats require immunization for the following diseases:

Flu
Feline Enteritis
Feline Leukaemia Virus
Chlamydia


Is Vaccination A Safe Option?

Skin tumors, allergies, and other adverse effects have been linked to the process, hence there is doubt about safety of vaccination. Moreover, whether annual vaccination is a must is also a major concern. Usually older dogs who have a suppressed immune system and who mingle less with peers do not require annual shot. But, in some cases repeat or booster vaccinations are important to boost up the immunity in a better way. Routine boosters are integral to preventive veterinary medicine because the pets can undergo an annual checkup. It is all up to the age and health condition, on which the immunization schedule is decided. It is also dependent on breed, medical history, lifestyle, immediate environment and traveling habit of the animals. Small puppies get their quota of immunity from mothers milk. But with age, this immunity wears down and vaccination becomes a necessity. Vaccine schedule begins when the puppy is six to eight weeks old.

There are some side effects which bother pets, post-vaccination. All these symptoms occur within six hours of vaccination. Here\s a list of the adverse reactions that might occur, and which need medical attention:

Low fever
Allergic Outbreak
Muscle Pain
Low Energy
Sluggishness
Appetite Loss
Facial Swelling
Lameness
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Breathing Difficulty
Seizures
Swelling, redness and hair loss (at the site of injection)
Miscarriage in Pregnant Dog
Suppressed Immune System


The Way A Vaccine Works

Vaccines are classified as core and non-core vaccines. The former one is vital, while the latter depends on the exposure risk of diseases. Vaccine shots create antibodies by injecting weakened or dead bacteria into the immune system of the pet. These antibodies become warriors fighting and blocking the diseases. Modified live vaccines or MLV stimulate immune response by injecting weakened strain of disease. MLVs require less number of shots, though the effect is stronger compared to killed vaccines which require frequent administration.

The Need Of Titer Test

Antibody titer test is required for measuring the level of antibodies in the bloodstream and a pets ability for natural protection against diseases. These blood tests are helpful, but cannot replace vaccination program completely. Higher titer level does not necessarily mean that the pet has 100% natural immunity; but, when the level is low it is surely a sign that the pet lacks in inherent protection capacity.

In a nutshell, vaccines are altered microorganisms which lessens or prevents risk of diseases. Thus, it is always safe to protect your beloved pet from life-threatening diseases with vaccines.

Related Read: Read out posts from Responsible Dog Ownership and Dog Care Tips
 

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Choosing The Right Dog Shampoo

Dog Shampoo Tips

 It's all about maintaining the skin pH of your dog!

Aggressive marketing campaigns of brands tend to confuse the buyers. Often times phrases like "Premium Dog Shampoo", "Ultra Premium Dog Shampoo" influence their purchase decision. The fact be disclosed here: There's no medical standard set for a dog shampoo to be categorized as "Premium" or "Ultra Premium"! However, as a matter of fact any shampoo - especially those that are designed to be used for humans may prove to be harmful in the long run. The skin pH of a dogs is higher than that of humans, which means a dog's skin is more alkaline (basic). A human shampoo will dry out your dog's skin and create flakes. In worst situation the dog may develop irritated skin rashes.

So only a pure dog shampoo is recommended for your dog!

Here are what you need to look for while choosing a dog shampoo...

While looking for a safe shampoo for your dog, you should keep in mind that your dog's skin has a high pH and needs special care. Look for a shampoo that contains soothes the skin, while enriching the coat and skin with soft and silky texture and is pH balanced for your dogs skin. A hydrocortisone shampoo would be a great choice - especially if your dog has a itchy and dry skin. Hydrocortisone - a medication that reduces dryness of skin, swelling, itching and redness. A good dog shampoo should contain all of combination of the following:

Natural vitamins A, C and E.

Oatmeal

Organic oil (Aloe vera extract, Neem extract, Citrus seed extracts etc.)

For particularly itchy pets, ask your veterinarian if a shampoo with choice.

Avoid picking a shampoo that has the following: 

Artificial Colors
Artificial Fragrances
Cocamidopropyl
Betaine
Formaldehyde
Cocomide DEA or MEA
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Alcohol
Methylchloroisothiazolinone
Methylparaben and Parabens

 To conclude, picking the right type of shampoo for your dog is really difficult, owing to the fact that the buying intent gets greatly influenced by the marketing campaigns, as already said earlier! Hence have a very close look at the ingredients and type of shampoo that you have been offered. Not all shampoos marked as "dog shampoo" or "premium dog shampoo" may be right for your dog!

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Senior Dog Tips

Dog owners are often concerned about their aging dogs, and that is natural. However, all dogs doesn't become geriatric at any single age. It all depends on the adult size - often time determined by breed. We recommend the UC Davis Book of Dogs (published on October 25, 1995), which is the complete medical reference guide for dogs and puppies, authored by Mordecai Siegal, where you can get a more clear idea of when does your dog become geriatric. In his book, Siegal mentioned that small-breed dogs like small terriers become geriatric at the age of about 11 years; medium-sized dog breeds like larger spaniels become geriatric at an age of about 10 years, large breed like German Shepherd Dogs at about 8 years of age and and giant breeds like Great Danes become old at about 7 years of age. The famous AboutGermanShepherdDog.Com has come up with a FAQ Section for Senior Dog Care

However there are very few instances where dogs have lived for 24 years, 26 years and even 29 years. A few worth mentioning are:

Max (Terrier): Birth - 9 August 1983; Death - 18 May 2013; Life span - 29 years (United States) Bella (Labrador cross): Rescued as a puppy in 1982; Death - 6 September 2008 ; Life span - little less than 29 years (United Kingdom) Pusuke (Cross-breed): Birth - 1 April 1985; Death - 5 December 2011; Life span - 26 years (Japan) Adjutant (pure breed Labrador Retriever): Birth - 14 August 1936 ; Death - 20 November 1963; Life span 27 years (United Kingdom)

Age of a geriatric dog is often defined in terms of "human years" and "dog years". It is a popular myth that 1 human year means 7 dog years, and this has no scientific base, but just a belief that most dog owners have. There is no single and scientifically supported method of calculating the dog's age in comparison with the age of humans. However, alike humans the effects of aging in dogs are quite similar. Just like a 7 years old kid will be more energetic and playful than a 45 years old man, a puppy tends to show more agility and energy than a 8 years old dog.

Effects of aging in dogs
 
An aging dog will become physically less active and tend to sleep for a longer span of time, and eventually develop joint problems, leading to abnormal and slow movement. Aging dogs become more frequently and easily affected by environmental and climatic changes. Old age leads to dermal problems, digestive problems and mental infirmity (Senility). The most common effects of aging in dogs are as follows:

Hearing loss and even total impairment when the dog becomes too old
Vision loss and development of cataracts
Diminishing activity level
Developing joint problems like arthritis
Thickening of skin
Nails become thick and brittle
Gastrointestinal problems
Weakening of muscle
Weakening of teeth
Tumors and Mammary cysts in females
Heart murmurs
Distressed breathing
Lack of confidence (problem descending down the stairs, not eager to go to new places)
Disoriented movement

Working out a plan for treat and care for an aging dog is tougher really. An experienced veterinarian is the only best person to give you a proper guidance regarding care of an old dog. Any kind of experimentation with health and medication is highly discouraged. Remember that your dog may need a different health plan and treatment procedure.

Herbal Cure For Dogs - Natural Pet Remedies

Incorporating herbal techniques into your pet care... natural pet remedies
 
Veterinary medicines mostly include chemical drugs that treat animals well, leaving a scope for side effects as well! Certain herbs, however, have proved to be really effective in treating certain on specific ailments in animals. Although some medicinal herbs and their parts have been found to work good for canine health problems, but it is more than important to consider several factors, for instance, intensity of the condition, root of specific problem, current status of health and medicines, age etc. before administering the herbs and/or their parts.


What is most important here to keep in mind is that most herbs are NOT to be used for consumption, unless otherwise specified. Hence home remedies for your dogs can have adverse effects if you don't have adequate knowledge. It is recommended consulting a registered veterinary and/or a herbal medicine practitioner before you administer herbs on your dogs. This post has been created in order to spread awareness for natural pet remedies - especially herbal cure for dogs.

Here are a few herbs and their parts that are both safe and beneficial for dog: 

Papaya leaf sap: Extract of fresh papaya leaves helps greatly in digestion. Although not much documents have been found regarding the effects of papaya leaves on dogs’ health, but researchers have found that papaya leaf tea acts as an anti cancer agent.

Starthorn tea: Tea of starthorn leaves is immensely beneficial for treating anemia in dogs. Starthorn leaf juice also helps treating urinary discharges, diarrhoea, constipation, dysentery, inflammations, joint pain, lumbago, anuria and cough in dogs. Dogs suffering from biliousness (excess secretion of bile) because of gastric distress can be effectively treated by mixing Starthorn tea in food.

Fennel Seeds Tea: Fennel tea helps in soothing digestive problems in dogs. Dogs suffering from gastric ailments, digestive tract irritation and flatulence can be treated by administering fennel seeds tea. Because of its mint like flavor, many dog likes fennel tea. In rare circumstances dogs may develop photosensitive dermatitis because of the volatile oils in fennel. Pregnant and lactating females should not be given fennel seeds or its tea.

Hawthorn: If your dog has been diagnosed with cardio-vascular problems, you can administer Hawthorn. Hawthorn strengthens cardiac muscles and acts as a good medication for dogs that already had congestive heart failure. Hawthorn effectively promotes healthy blood circulation system and controls BP. Researches have shown that Hawthorn is quite effective in lowering arrhythmia (irregular heart beats).

Parsley: Parsley reduces the chance of any kind of cancerous growth and promotes healthy functioning of all organs. Parsley helps in flushing off toxins from the body and hence acts as an effective blood purifier. If your dog has mouth odor, feed her parsley with meal.

Calendula: Herbalists have preferred Calendula for its property of healing wounds. Calendula is highly effective in restricting infection and for treating infected wounds. If your dog has minor to medium skin infection, lesions, cuts, insect stings and burn injuries, calendula can treat them effectively.

Aloe vera: Aloe Vera has anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties and is effective in soothing discomfort due to dermal inflammation. Aloe vera sooths minor burns, insect sting, skin lesions and infections. If your dog has cuts or surgeries, you can apply aloe vera gel.

Ginger: If you dog suffers from carsickness (motion sickness), you can administer him crushed/grated ginger half an hour before the journey. You can put the some crushed ginger in a capsule and then feed your dog. Small amount of ginger is effective particularly for treating vomiting due to indigestion, loss of appetite, colitis, bronchitis, and even arthritis. Dogs that are undergoing chemotherapy as cancer treatment can be given small amount of ginger in order to check vomiting.

Ginger should be given in small amount… large amount may lead to sever discomfort, heartburn, belching and even bloat.
 
Raspberry: Particularly recommended for pregnant females raspberry acts as an effective stimulant for promoting uterine health. Many vets recommend raspberry for its unique property of promoting faster milk production by mammary glands. Raspberry aids in calming uterine spasms in pregnant females.

There are over hundreds of herbs that have been admired by herbalists for treating specific health conditions in canines. These are, however just a few most important ones. Most home remedies for dogs - especially herbal treatments work very slow, and it is advised to be patient and consistent. It is highly recommended that you consult your vet before starting off with any herbal cure for your dog.

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Insight to Organic Pet Stain and Odor Remover

Ugly, odd stains left behind by food spillover, fecal waste, urine, vomit and blood stain due to sudden pet accident and the odor associated can make your home feel and smell disgusting. But, with natural and organic solution you can fight the toughest of stains and odor. It is safe for your furry friends and for your kids too.

The Technology Behind 

The USP of organic stain and odor curbing formula lies in its habit-breaking power. The odor-removing effect is so strong that your pets will hardly be able to recognize previously soiled places and choose them for defecating and remarking. Accentuated with fresh fragrances, the organic formula breaks the re-soiling and scratching habit (bandaged areas of wound) of your best buddy beyond their olfactory senses.

The formula specifically deodorizes and cleanses with a natural wetting agent. Made out of natural ingredients, the stain fighting agent penetrates deep into the carpet or other upholstery, thereby making the surface completely odor-free by breaking down the molecular bonds of chemicals that cause odor. The agent is powered by countless high speed enzymes which effectively dissolve into the carpet or any other surface to remove the stubbornest of stains. It can erase away stains in a jiffy and is highly effective on multiple surfaces, such as upholstery, vinyl, carpet, concrete, laminate, hard wood, ceramic tile and litter pan.

Why Should You Use Organic Stain and Odor Remover?
Reasons to choose environmentally responsible formulation are:

• Nontoxicity
• Noninflammatory
• Noncorrosive
• 100% biodegradability and eco-friendly

Although not all deodorizer are made of the similar formula. It is important that the pet owners should make a brief of research before picking a brand. A genuine product (so far my experience goes), will not only keep home spic-n-span, but stop the awful remarking habit of your pets in the most natural way.

Even though an eco-friendly stain and odor fighting solution is effective as a housekeeping product, it still remains the fact that you should train up your pup or kitty to learn the perfect places for relieving and avoid soiling of carpets and upholstery by defecating.

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Non-surgical Neutering Methods For Your Dogs

Neutering your dog provides some of the most significant health benefits for him. Prevention of undesirable litters is not the only reason behind neutering a male, but it is also a precautionary measure against testicular carcinoma. Desirable age for neutering a dog is six months. However, there are a series of risks involved in surgically neutering a male. The probable risks that a dog gets exposed to in case of surgery involved in the process are as follows:

• Internal infection around the incision 
• Recovery process is sometimes is too slow that leads to several problems 
• Complications at times (however in rare cases) get severe 
• Anesthesia to some dogs leads to serious problems 
• It is sometimes difficult to keep some dogs in total rest in the post-surgery phase
• Surgery is an expensive process 

There are very effective alternative to the surgical neutering methods that keeps your dog healthy and happy. Non-surgical methods of neutering a dog involve injection.

Injecting a solution of calcium chloride dihydrate into the testicles of a male dog will cause castration that involves no surgical activities. The chemical dosage is 20% by weight of CaCl2 dissolved in ethanol - 95% ABV. This injection eventually causes sterilization of the necrosis of the testicular tissue within approximately 40 days of the day of injection. On the date Sep 8, 2012 the first International Conference on Dog Population Management that was held in the UK concluded that calcium chloride could be used as an effective and risk-free chemosterilant (chemical compound for reproductive sterility) for dogs.

Neutersol is the brand name of zinc gluconate, neutralized by arginine, is a potent chemosterilant. On injecting this cytotoxic compound into the dogs’ testicles will cause permanent infertility due to cell damage caused by chemical imbalance in the testes.

No surgery, No risk, No Worries…

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Designer Dog Crates

Are you looking for a designer private home for your dog? Wood dog crate may be a great choice for fancy dog fanatics! Whether you have a Pomeranian or poodle or a chihuahua, the wooden crate is going to be a safe and cozy shelter for you pooches, where s(he) can spend the private moments. This dog furniture facilitates the dwelling of your beloved pooch in your living room alongside enhancing the trendy look of your interior.

And guess what! These designer dog crates will prove to be hugely effective when your dog is in crate training session. I just found some info about the designer crate for dogs at www.wooddogcrate.com

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Caring for an Urban Canine

Cities are full of dogs, most of which are well cared for by loving owners, but city life is a far cry from the wild existence of our dogs’ ancestors. Limited space in urban areas means that Fido has little chance to run free; even small backyards are hard to come by. Noise is a constant factor in most bustling cities. Smells are pungent and highly concentrated, and are particularly intriguing for a sensitive canine nose. A dense urban population makes close encounters with people and all sorts of other animals inevitable. Dog owners can certainly overcome these urban challenges, but it takes dedication and consistent training to keep a city dog happy and healthy.

Without plenty of exercise and socialization many city dogs turn into urban terrors. One of the biggest problem behaviors of city dogs is excessive barking. The boredom of spending long days alone, combined with a high level of ambient noise, anxiety brought on by urban stimuli, and the frustration of pent up energy, will often cause a dog to bark incessantly for hours on end. This is no way for your dog to live, and in close city quarters it can also make you very unpopular with your neighbors. There are bark collars and other devices that you can use to deter your dog from barking. However, while these devices do have their place in training a dog not to bark incessantly, very often they treat the symptoms rather than the cause. In fact, you can even have your dog surgically debarked – this may satisfy your neighbors’ need for peace, but your dog will continue to suffer, albeit more quietly. Debarking surgery is a kind of animal abuse and is considered as an inhuman act. The best way to stop barking dogs is to address the root of the problem – boredom, stress, and frustration. The rigors of city life can become overwhelming, but you must remember that your dog needs your care, time, and attention. Dog owners in urban areas have an extra responsibility to provide for their pets’ basic needs. Develop a routine for exercising and socializing your city dog; you might be surprised by how much happier you both will feel.

The first step in caring for a dog in the city is exercise. Dogs were meant to spend each day roaming their territory in search of food and water, exploring scents, and socializing with their pack. Confining these animals to a city apartment for many solitary hours each day is going to have repercussions as energy builds up with no means of release. Walk your dog – walk him often, and walk him for long periods at a time. Keep a quick pace; this is exercise, not a Sunday stroll. Walking your dog for at least an hour each day will burn off excess energy and make a noticeable difference in behavior. You can also look for dog parks to allow your dog freedom to run and socialize, but your dog must play well with others and you must pay full attention. Dog parks are not an opportunity for owners to sit back and relax. If your dog has difficulty with other dogs, look for dog runs in your area. These are smaller enclosures meant for just a couple of dogs; in most cases other owners will ask if it is okay to bring their dog in with yours.

Draining excess energy daily will go a long way to stop barking dogs, but you can further improve behavior with regular socialization. The onslaught of stimulation a dog experiences in the city can cause a great deal of stress and anxiety. You need to spend time daily exposing your dog to a variety of potentially stressful or frightening situations, ensuring that your dog has positive experiences when exposed to these situations, and reward him for behaving correctly and for relaxing. Socialization never ends; it is an ongoing process throughout the life of your dog. If you commit to providing your dog with the exercise, socialization, and training he needs, you will enjoy a remarkable improvement in his behavior, while greatly improving his quality of life – the quality of your life, and that of your neighbors, will undoubtedly improve as well.

Author:  This information was contributed by Havahart Wireless - the registered trade mark of Woodstream Corp. Havahart Wireless have worked relentlessly with technologies that can offer animals and their owners better life. Check out this device used to stop barking dogs.

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Five Most Common Dog Skin Problems

As with human skin, it takes more than just pampering to keep your dog's skin healthy – to maintain a silky, shiny, beautiful dog skin and coat requires proper nutrition, plenty of exercise, regular brushing and shampooing, and careful and appropriate action when signs of a skin problem occur.
However, even if you follow the basics of proper dog skin care, your dog may still be susceptible to skin conditions from time to time. Here are the five most common dog skin problems and the best way to treat them.

Allergic Dermatitis
A dog can develop allergies from almost anything, including pollen, weeds, mold, dust, insect bites, food, and/or grooming products. Heredity is also a significant contributing factor. Skin allergies among dogs have become more prevalent in recent years, and consequently, have made regular visits to the veterinarian even more important. The principal symptoms of an allergy include intense itching, rashes, and/or skin inflammation, which often make the dog irritable and miserable. As with any health condition, prevention is always the best cure. Once the allergen has been identified, avoid exposing your dog to whatever is causing the allergy. Symptoms can usually be relieved with cortisone based medication.

Yeast Infection
The first sign that your dog has a yeast infection is when you notice your pet shaking or tilting their head, or rubbing their ear with their paws, against furniture, or on the floor. The overgrowth of yeast occurs on the outer ear, causing redness, swelling, scabbing, and a waxy residue around the ear opening. Other indications include unusual eye movements, and walking in circles. A yeast infection is normally caused by water or debris getting trapped in the dog's ear canal after swimming or being bathed. When left untreated, the infection can spread to the middle ear, and then the inner ear, which then affects the dog's equilibrium, and can also lead to deafness. For this reason, it is critical to catch and treat the outer ear infection as soon as possible. Once diagnosed, treatment is simple and effective, and generally involves the use of a topical cream; however, oral drugs and medicated baths may also be prescribed.

Seborrhea
If a rancid smell permeates the air every time your dog is nearby, this is a clear indication of oily seborrhea – a skin condition caused by overactive sebaceous glands that lead to the excessive production of sebum. The grease is accompanied by scales of dead skin that stick to the hair.
Seborrhea can also be dry, and cause shedding of dandruff-like flakes. Oily seborrhea can lead to hair follicles becoming plugged and infected, causing another skin condition called folliculitis.
Excessive oiliness often also causes ear wax to build up in the ear canals, resulting in ceruminous otitis. Seborrhea has no cure, but the symptoms can be treated using medicated shampoos. Your veterinarian can advise you on the best product to use, and how often you should treat the condition, depending on its severity. Oral corticosteroids may also be prescribed to treat severe itching.

Ringworm
Ringworm can be easily contracted through physical contact with soil, carpet, furniture, toys, brushes, and combs that are contaminated with the spores of the fungus. Consequently, it is a common skin condition among dogs. The infection affects the hair and hair follicles on the dog's face, ears, tail, and paws. As with a ringworm infection in humans, the condition is characterized by a circular pattern of hair loss that is scaly at the center and ringed with red outside. The fungal infection, in itself, is not itchy; the itchiness is caused by a secondary bacterial infection that also causes scabbing and crusting. Because ringworm can mimic other skin conditions, examination by a veterinarian is important to correctly diagnose the infection. Mild cases of ringworm usually go away on their own, but this generally takes between three and four months. Because the fungal infection is not just contagious to other dogs, and even cats, but also to humans, early diagnosis and treatment is very important. Topical anti-fungal creams or lotions, combined with anti-fungal shampoos, are used to treat the infection, with treatment typically lasting between four and six weeks.

Mange
Also called sarcoptic mange or canine scabies, the condition is caused by microscopic mites present on the dog's skin and in the hair follicles. Mites are the most common canine parasites. The skin condition is characterized by hair loss and bald patches that create a polka-dot appearance; scabs and sores also develop. If left untreated, secondary bacterial infections that cause itching and an unpleasant smell can occur. Effective treatment requires correct identification of the type of mites involved; a veterinarian will then prescribe the appropriate anti-parasitic, anti-pruritic, and anti-inflammatory topical, oral, or injected medication. A dog with mange should be isolated to prevent the condition from spreading to other animals and even humans.

Proper skin care is essential to prevent dog skin problems. This includes: using the right kind of soaps and shampoos; regular hair brushing; a healthy, balanced diet that includes supplements; regular flea treatment; completing the required vaccinations and getting other injections to reduce the risk for diseases; keeping the house clean; and regular visits to the vet.

Author: This information about dog skin problems was contributed by Kauffman's Animal Health, Inc. an international animal feed manufacturing company based in Lebanon, USA.

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What Are The Signs of a Healthy Dog?

Owners who truly love their dogs usually take all measures to make sure that their dogs are healthy, happy and active. The moment a pup is brought home, it becomes the owner's moral responsibility to take care of its well-being. Let us go throughout the signs which would testify your dog's health.

The sight of the healthy dog brimming with a happy face is all that a dog-loving owner wants to start his day with. Apart from a 'cold wet nose', your dog needs to show the signs of good health in various other ways to ensure his well-being. Hence, it is important to check out the indications that signify that your dog is growing healthily. 

A dog with a problem-free fur and skin, ears and nose, eyes, fitness-level, urine and feces and teeth is basically considered as having a good health. A dog coat tells a lot about his health. A shiny, bouncy, tick-free, soft-to-touch coat is the first sign of a healthy dog. The skin of a dog should also be a parameter to judge for any signs of bad-health, infection or lack of well-being in a dog.

Signs like a smooth and soft skin without sight of any open soar, infection, red-patches, allergies, scales and scab or abnormal growth are highly recommended for a healthy dog. Also, the owner should make sure that the dog's body should be free from all sorts of parasites, bugs, ticks, fleas etc which suck the nutrients from the dog's body and make the pet prone to infections and diseases. 

Clean and wax-free ears are anther attribute of a healthy dog. The owner should make sure that the dog's ears is free from any kind of bleeding, soar or redness, bad odor or swelling. 

A healthy dog reflects a set of white sparkling teeth and no loose gums and dark lining in the teeth, and this requires regular brushing and check-ups and proper dental-hygiene. 

The next thing that testifies your dog's well-being is his sparkling and moist eyes with a heart-melting twinkle in them. The area around the eyeball is supposed to have a pink border. Make sure that your dog's eyes are kept clean with no thick yellowish discharge from there. Eyes being one of the most important parts of its body reflect health and happiness of the dog's body and mind. 

Another sign of good health in a dog is the lack of any foul smell from its mouth. The gums of the dog should also be in good condition without any sort of infection and bleeding. Healthy gums appear pinkish or pink-tainted, whereas pale gums is a sign of anemia. Make sure that your dog's gums show no signs of periodontal disease like Gingivitis which include redness, soaring or inflated gums.

The nose of a healthy dog is always cold and wet to touch. However, make sure that your dog's nose is free from foul-smelling, thick or yellowish discharge, which in a young pup may mean some illness and physical ailments. 

The normal body temperature of a dog is 101 degree F. Anything less than 100 F and more than 103 F should be a matter of concern for the dog's owner as it is regarded unhealthy. 

Last but not the least; the healthy dog's urine is either white or yellow in color. Presence of blood or other harmful component can be detected from brownish or reddish colored urine. Likewise, the stool-color of a healthy dog is firm and brown without any tinge of red or black.

Still one more point...

A dog with any illness may exhibit unpredictable aggression to his pack members. His pack members includes any other pets in your house and you and you family. Any physical and psychological irritation will adversely influence the mental stability, which even holds good for you and me.   

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Conditioning Your Dog To Grooming Sessions

If you are a pet lover and have minimum idea of how to take care of your dog, you probably know that grooming tops the list of dog care tips. If u have a dog and if it is well groomed then it represents your excellence of having a pet. Everyday care keeps your dog in good health, with healthy habits that gives a significant sign of elegance. Grooming is as significant for your dog as it is for your kids, which is why dog owners are expected to consider grooming their dogs for reason just beyond beautification.

It is necessary to maintain to a regular routine for grooming your dog, that should include brushing his teeth, bathing him, shaping his nails, cleaning wax in his ears, and brushing his coat to remove dead follicles and undo mattes and tangles.

It is not worthy enough to talk about the importance of grooming here, because it is expected that you already know why dog grooming is so important. We already know that dogs used to serve as companions of kings and queens in their castles as far back as over 4000 B.C. Documentations have proved that those royal people used to keep their 4-legged companions clean and well groomed. Further documentations have been discovered that establishes the fact that in France sometimes around 17th century a female Poodle was crowned with the honor of being official dog of Louis XV's court. She had been awarded the title "French Poodle" and used to be adorned by trimming coat, and clipping the coat with continental and English saddle clips, which still most poodle owners use even today. This proves that importance of grooming had been understood long back.

The question is what is expected from your dog while grooming? Is he expected to stay quite and still when the groomer – a stranger to him approaches with instruments and apparatus making weird sounds? If he is expected to do that, there’s nothing wrong in it. But does he behave according to what he is expected to behave like? Nopes! Problem is he is not seasoned to such situation where he is expected to quite even when he is approached with sharp instruments. He should be made to believe that there is not threat from the instruments or from the groomer. This is another kind of dog socialization that most dog owners overlook. Socializing your dog with different situations includes not only smells, sounds, strangers, rushing cars, other animals, but also to situations like grooming, which is most important. This can only be done successfully if he is trained since his puppy hood to control his cool during situations like when he is given vaccine shots and grooming.

There’s nothing like putting your dog to the serious obedience training session, and carrying out constant and consistent obedience training. This is again another grooming – that can be considered as behavioral grooming that teaches the dog how to behave what is expected.

What if you are thinking of grooming your dog by yourself? There’s nothing wrong in it… probably the best thing you can do with your dog is DIY grooming. This will actually keeps your dog at least less worried than dropping by a professional groomer with him. Trick is to keep cool yourself and make him believe that grooming is basically a fun session. Maintaining a light mood and easy-going attitude is preferred most. Creating a serious environment is going to make mess of things on the spot, because it will only aggravate your dog’s anxiety and increase his stress level, thereby degrading his threshold limit (ability to tolerate situations that he doesn’t like).

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Dog Food Recommendation: Human Food for Your Dog

Responsible dog ownership demands you to be responsible from all aspects, and not just giving right quantity of food and exercise. There has always been tons of misconceptions swirling around the dog lovers' community regarding feeding dogs and dog foods. Many newbies are being misguided with an idea that human foods are always harmful for dogs. True and false both! True because chocolates that you kids love like anything are potentially dangerous for dogs, while eggs are highly beneficial for them. Here's a highlight of some of the human foods that are highly beneficial for your dogs. All you need to keep in the forefront of your mind is that if you are making an alteration in your dogs food habit, by adding any of these as additional ingredients, the change should be as nominal as 20% of the current amount of food for adult dogs and even below 15% of the current amount of food for puppies. Prior consultation with your vet is highly recommended in this regard. Remember green is very important for dogs... they are not carnivorous animals, but omnivorous. So give him green too!

Egg is one of the major sources of digestive protein, selenium and riboflavin, which are important for your dogs. One properly boiled egg adding to the food of your dog helps his digestive system, PLUS can make his food a little more nutritional due to additional percent of protein. Raw eggs may cause deficiency of biotin in dogs. Dogs that are into heavy exercise may benefit a lot from a properly boiled egg during the small break in the middle of work.

Yogurt is another great source of calcium. Non-sweet (with no sugar or no artificial sweetener added) yogurt is a perfect addition to his food during the Summer days. Just make sure that the yogurt is free of fat. Most importantly yougurt added to your dog's food will keep him cool from inside.

Oatmeal is a rich source of soluble dietary fiber, which is very important for your dogs. The Proven benefits of oat fiber include the prevention and treatment of constipation and dog hemorrhoids. Do not add sugar and sweeteners of any flavorings while cooking oatmeal for your dogs. Cooked oatmeal has immense benefits on dog health. Check out Holistic Treatment for Dog's Itchy Skin

Gourd makes another great addition. It also prevents your dog from dehydration, acidity and indigestion. Bottle gourds and bitter gourds are equally beneficial. Rather bitter gourds yield more benefits, as they are rich source for vitamin A, B1, B2 and c and contains minerals like calcium, phosphorous, iron, copper and potassium, which are all immensely helpful for your dog.

Pumpkin is rich in beta carotene, which is a source of vitamin A. Pumpkin also is another major source of fiber. Moreover giving pumpkin seeds to your dog is a natural remedy for tapeworm infestation. Check out more info on holistic treatment for internal parasite in dogs.

Sweet potatoes are major source for vitamin B6, vitamin C, beta carotene, and manganese; All of these are helpful for dogs. Sweet potatoes make the most beneficial, natural and highly adorable treat or your dogs.

Green beans are rich beneficial in plant fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K and manganese. Good amount of green beans added to your dog's food is highly recommended if he is putting on weight.

Flax seed (ground or oil) is on of the most important sources of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential fatty acids that are good for skin and coat. You ca n grind 1/5th tea cup of flax seeds before adding it to his food . Flax oil is a more concentrated form of omega- 3 fatty acids without the fiber. You should store the flax oil or seeds in the refrigerator in an air tight dark container.

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Dogs need more than just enough food and fresh water

Love is their mental nutrition!

One of the most frequent excuses that I get to face regarding keeping dogs in the backyard is that they The argument I most often hear regarding dogs in backyards is that they are most lovable member of the family and they need fresh oxygenated air, sunlight and enough open space. These are just mere excuses from irresponsible dog owners, who have never succeeded in maintaining and training their dogs. In almost all circumstances of dogs spending times in the yards, the major reason is that they behave weird, which is not the dogs' fault. Lack of training and exercises makes them behave like idiots. Dogs are after all not human beings, although they have intellects which can be put to use while training them to behave well in houses.

Dogs are social creatures. They need your companionship. They would behave better indoors with their pack, if they are well trained. Honestly, responsible dog owners would walk their dogs in the morning for fresh air instead of keeping the beloveds away in the yard unsupervised. Leaving them outside cannot be the solution. They will develop more undesirable behaviors like digging holes, chewing herbs, barking, whining, running behind cats and rolling on mud. The biggest misconception about dogs is the belief that they stay happy if they are kept in backyard.

Backyard dogs are problematic dogs! Let me repeat... Dogs are social creatures. Keeping him isolated from his pack (which includes every single member of your family) put extra stress on your dogs, which results them to exhibit hyper activities. Mental stress in dogs often leads to health issues along with behavioral problems. They may even try to escape. Well now, another funny excuse from the so-called responsible owners is that they keep their dog outside, but in an well fenced area where they cannot escape from. Poor fellas! They have not studied dog psychology. Let me unearth a fact here. Dogs staying outside in a well fenced acreage and away from their pack mates for a long period of time are bound to develop more behavioral problems over time. Fencing will trigger their territorial instincts, when they can sense activities of stranger human beings and other animals outside the fence. This will in turn increase their tendencies of barking and often these animals develop territorial aggression. For every little activity outside the fence, the dog will start barking. Over the time they will develop a tendency of continuous barking and even biting in the rage of undesirable aggression in worse situations. It becomes harder to train them further. Now what?

Another fact to be disclosed here is that keeping a dog continuously outside your house is a torture to the animal and is an illegal offense. Before bringing the puppy home, decide on how much time can you devote to lovely little pooch. People who keep their dogs away from home - in the backyard are considered irresponsible, although they insist that they are very responsible owners because they feed them good food. Dogs need more than just enough food and fresh water! Love is their mental nutrition. They need your touch, no matter what breed he is.

Spending a couple of hours a day is a big thing for your dog. Giving them good food and making water always available for him to drink in the backyard do not make him an inseparable part of your family. Training him, teaching him good behaviors and sometimes sharing him your bed, apart from giving him commercial food are very much needed. Give him a happy life!

If you are a GSD lover, get well researched information on German Shepherd Dogs

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Dog Worm Infestation - Natural Treatment for Internal Parasites in Dogs

Dog Worm Infestation and Natural Treatment for Internal Parasites in Dogs

Dogs are always at high risk to the infestation of worms of all types. As a responsible dog owner, I tend to take immense car of my dog's health and I am sure you do that too! Most people I have seen are not aware of the fact that heavy infestation of internal parasite can do harm to any extent... even Congestive heart failure in worst case, leading to death. It is doubtlessly important for all dog owners to identify the symptoms of the worm infestation and take every preventive measures. There are actually five kind of worms that can attack dogs. They are roundworms (Toxocara canis,Toxascaris leonina), hookworms (Ancylostoma caninium), whipworms (Trichuris vulpis), tapeworms (Dipylidium caninum) and heartworms (Dirofilaria immitis). Except the heart worm, all the other four kind of parasites (hook worn, round worm, tape worm and whip worm) are found in the intestine. As the name suggests, the heart worm lives within the heart and the blood vessels. Remember some worms are of the type zoonotic, which means they are easily transmitted to human beings and do the same kind of harm. How will you know that your dog has been infested with worms? All you need is to be a bit more responsible and should have a good eye. Dogs show different signs when they are infested with internal parasites.

Symptoms of Worm infestation in dogs

There are certain common symptoms that are shown by dogs when they are infested with worms. If your dog shows one or more of these signs, it is highly advisable to visit your vet.

• Pot-bellied look
• Dull or scruffy coat (rough condition)
• Weight loss
• Loss of Appetite
• Dry Coughing with or without Vomiting
• Restlessness
• Anemia
• Diarrhea
• Sluggishness with lack of activeness
• Abdominal pain
• Bloody stools
• High blood pressure

I repeat... if you notice one or more of these symptoms see your vet at once. There are many ways you can prevent your dog being afflicted to internal parasite. The treatment of dog worms depends mainly on the type of parasite the dog has been attacked with. As soon as you can suspect that your dog has infested with worms get his stool tested and give a call to your vet. There are some proved natural treatments too for the dog worms, which many experienced dog owners have been using instead of administering chemical medicines like albandazole. Continual administer of artificial drug brings in severe harm to your dog by making it resistant to the specific drug and affecting the the liver adversely, thereby wekening the immune system of your dog. Natural methods of treating the dog worm are helpful because they are really effective with very little or almost no side effects. Make your dogs life a complete package of healthy diet, proper natural remedies, fresh water and effective play. Check out some tips for natural remedies.

Garlic: With its great lot of medicinal properties, garlic has immense capability to keep your dog protected from many diseases. Moderate use of garlic can reduces the level of cholesterol and CANINE BLOOD PRESSURE, there by reduces the chance of cardiac ailments. Feeding your dog garlic with food helps expulsion of internal parasite in dogs. In tropical countries, dogs should be give garlic only during winter and comparative cool time of the year.

Fennel: Fresh fennel seeds has immense benefit! It helps in worm expulsion. It is extremely beneficial for baby dogs or a dogs with colic. You can give your dog a cup of fennel tea every day after meal to ensure proper digestion. For pregnant bitches fennel tea has immense benefit, as it enhances milk production.

Wormwood: I am sure most dog owner are not aware of this fact! Wormwood is very much beneficial to dogs - especially the dogs with poor digestive system. With its calmative properties, wormwood can be given to stimulate your dog's gastric juice and bile. By feeding wormwood to your dog, you can treat dog worm effectively.

Pumpkin Seeds: Giving pumpkin seed is a natural remedy for tapeworm infestation. Grind some fresh seeds of pumpkin and make a paste. Feed it to your dog every morning in empty stomach. This will be of good effect if your dog is infested with tape worms.

Raw Turmeric and Salt: This is again a good and effective natural remedy for intestinal parasites in dogs. Grind 5 to 6 medium pieces of raw turmeric and quarter TSP of salt to make a paste. Feed it every morning in empty stomach.

Clove: Clove is highly anti-parasite. Give your dog a clove each day after meal. This will definitely act as a good de-wormer. Do not give clove continuously for a long time. Every alternative week for a couple of months will be enough for a large dog.

Remember that the dose of the above naturally treatment will depend on a few factors. While treating dog worm naturally you must take into consideration the breed of your dog (toy, small, medium, large or giant), age your dog, body weight and most importantly the degree of infestation. Remember, if your dog is heavily infested with internal parasite the naturally treatment can hardly do magic! Prevention is better than cure. Continue treating giving your dog the above items periodically, so that he remains safe and lead a happy and healthy life. I won't ask you you to stop giving him the deworming tablets, but you can increase the gap between the shots, so that you dog doesn't become resistant to medicines easily.

Don't forget to read out ECONOMIC DOG CARE TIPS.

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Economic Dog Care Tips - Be One of The Responsible Dog Owners

Days are becoming ,more and more harsh, with the fall economy and most of the people, I hang out with, are worried about how to cut short their expenses. "Offload you headache on me", I told them. I asked too many questions to them and found that most of them spend more than they should. Loving dogs and being responsible dog owners doesn't mean you need to go beyond your capacity, breaking your piggy bank savings. Even in the tough economy, when freaking out for a weekend drive sometimes proves to be a hard nut to crack, there are loads of way outs you can still keep dogs and be one of those responsible dog owners who make things easier before they find themselves like a fish out of water.

If you are thinking of adopting a puppy, but at the same time worried about the financial situation... stop worrying any longer! Tension only breeds diseases... nothing else. Just follow these simple steps to cut down the costs without compromising your quality of care.

Save Money on Buying a dog: Wait. Don't make mess in haste. Sit back on your couch with your lappy and look for the breeders in your locality. Make sure you don't get into the traps of brokers. Talk to your pals, asking for the name of the breeders if they know someone. Contact the breeder directly. Look for some more breeders and compare the prices.

Save Money on Dog Care and Puppy Care: Pet parents are tightening up their belts as an effect of the down trodden global economy. Good news is that pet parents can continue providing their puppies with highest quality care. Low cost preventive measures are for all and everyone. Visit low-cost vaccination clinics of PETCO. Right kind of preventive care at the right time is the way to cut cost in the future. A responsible dog owner knows well that his dog can be protected from many life threatning diseases and the huge expenses thereby, simply by vaccinating, deworming and heartworm preventative. Look for the clinics that offer low-cost vaccinations. Dog owners can greatly reduce the chance of their pets contracting diseases like distemper, heartworm disease, parainfluenza, and canine parvovirus and the expenses involved in treating the diseases by taking some simple steps for prevention. Vaccinate your puppy at least against Rabies and diseases like distemper, heartworm disease, parainfluenza, and canine parvovirus. PETCO is really doing a fabulous job... I must say. "As the economy slows, we've seen an increase in the number of customers visiting our clinics nationwide. This program offers a budget-friendly solution to pet parents looking to provide a great quality preventative care to their dogs and cats," said Taylor Phillips, PETCO's vice president of pet services new growth.

Save Money on Dog Grooming: No point taking your dog to one of those dog grooming salons that charge high for their services. If you can't bathe him at home, you can take him to a do-it-yourself dog washing facility suit. Advisable is to wash him and groom him at home... that saves a lot of money.

Save Money on Pet Food: If your commercial dog food brand proves to be too expensive, you can look for a discount pet supply stores that offer varieties of specialty dog food brands - both holistic and natural, at much budgeted price. Buying larger quantities at a time will be even more cheaper, which saves a lot of average total expenses. You can make home made food for your dogs and puppies. Your vet is the best person to advice you on the ingredients you should consider, while making high quality home made foods.

Save Money on Veterinary Medicines: If you are on a tight budget constraint, certain veterinary medicines may prove to be expensive for you. Ask your vet for substitute medicines of lower cost. There are lots of brands that sell medicines of same composition at different price. Homeopathy can be more effective at minimum cost!

Online Shopping for dog stuff: Save money on purchasing dog products. This may sound weired to many dog owners, but it works! Online shopping for pet products is the best way to get the right thing at much affordable price range. You can order some of the prescription medicines and all non-prescription medicines online. Dog products like flea preventives and heartworm preventatives, dog shampoo, dog soaps and even dog foods and treats, which might prove to be expensive in pet supply stores can be found in much cheaper cost in online shopping sites.Companies like 1-800-PetMeds usually comes up with the quality range of products at almost an unbeatably low price range.

Save Money on Dog Training: Specially dogs like German Shepherd Dogs, Mastiffs, Rottweilers, Great Danes etc. are required to be obedience trained. If you are looking forward to cutting down your budget, better be a trainer yourself. Yes... it's no magic! True that training is not everyone's cup of tea, but clicker dog training kit consist of the whole manual book that can educate you to be a trainer of your dog. Some of the clicker dog training kit provides you with the video CD or DVD to help beginners to learn the foundation skills that one must possess as a trainer or handler. The guide manual and the CD will teach you the basics of clicker training. Training session should be started of as early as 8 - 12 weeks of age.

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