Why is My Dog Not Eating His Food but Will Eat Treats? 6 Mar 7:17 PM (last month)

Reasons Why My Dog Won’t Eat Normal Dog Food

• Does your dog turn their nose up at their dry food and only want treats? Sounds like a picky eater! Refusing to eat is not always a big deal, but dog owners should first rule out any medical condition. Not eating regular food could be caused by untreated dental issues such as a cracked or infected tooth. Or they might be suffering from food allergies, especially if you have changed your dog’s diet recently. Changing routines or a dog’s environment can also mess up a dog’s appetite. And if your seemingly healthy dog is refusing to eat, their food might be expired, stale, not to their preference, or your dog is tired of the same food. They might also be in the habit of preferring to eat treats or human food over their regular food.

Is it Common for Dogs Not to Eat Their Food?

• Dog’s eating habits can be finicky, so it is not surprising that sometimes dogs don’t want to eat. However, most dogs love food! Pet parents have observed that their pups will do anything for a treat, making it very easy to reinforce good behaviors and teach tricks. They will always try to follow you in the kitchen if they think they might get a tasty treat or meal. While not all dogs are this food motivated, if you have a dog not eating their regular food, there is a chance it could be a symptom of serious health issues. Owners will know their pet’s eating habits and food preferences better than anyone else, but if you are worried you should always talk to your veterinarian.

What Factors Could Affect My Dog’s Eating Habits?

• Illness. Sudden changes to your dog’s eating habits like refusing their regular food could be a sign of a health issue. While a dog’s poor appetite or change in food preferences does not always suggest an illness, if they have other symptoms besides bad eating habits it could be indicative of something serious like infections, pain, kidney diseases, inflammatory diseases, cancer, or liver issues. You should see your veterinarian as soon as possible.
• Dental disease. If there is something in your dog’s mouth that is hurting them and eating is painful, it could be a mouth pain. Severe dental problems can be caused by a broken, loose, or infected tooth, gingivitis, or oral tumor. If your dog refuses to eat their food because of tooth pain, you might not be able to see if it is something like a tooth root abscess.
• Recent vaccination. You should always give your dog their vaccinations based on veterinary advice, as they are imperative to prevent certain contagious diseases. Over the past 100 years, vaccines have been responsible for saving millions of pet’s lives. However, they can occasionally have bad side effects. Luckily dogs usually recover quickly, but they might lose interest in their favorite food preferences temporarily.
• Travel and unfamiliar surroundings. Dogs thrive on routine, so a change in routine or a new place can lead to your pup’s eating habits changing. The stress of traveling or moving might mean your dog loses interest in their regular food, even if they still like to eat treats. Furthermore, traveling can cause car sickness and an upset stomach, making your dog lose their appetite.
• Picky Eating Habits. If you have a picky eater, they might not be comfortable with their current eating habits or like regular food. Some dogs resource guard when eating or might need their bowl at a certain height. While there are many reasons your dog’s appetite might be irregular, it is still good to check with your vet before assuming they are simply a picky eater.

What Pet Parents Can You Do if Their Dog Won’t Eat Their Food But Will Eat Treats

• It can be frustrating when your puppy or dog won’t eat even though you have offered many choices of pet food. Then after turning their nose up to every new food, they gobble up their treats! This behavior might seem worrisome, but there is no immediate cause for concern. Let’s take a look at some strategies that will help improve your dog’s appetite and condition them to be less picky.

Stop Feeding Treats

• First, stop the steady flow of treats! Rich treats and table scraps can fill a dog up making them uninterested in their regular dog food. A diet based on treats could lead to your dog missing some important nutrients they get in regular food. So give them less treats, at least until they are better about their normal eating habits. Once they know they won’t get delicious treats until after they start eating a normal meal, they will be better about their food preferences.

Monitor Their Health

• Don’t always assume your furry friend has a picky appetite when they’re not eating their favorite dog food. Not eating food could be a sign of a health issue. Pet parents should always take them to see a trusted veterinarian to rule out the possibility of an underlying health problem.

Choose One Brand of Dog Food and Stick to It

• If your dog refuses to eat, it might sound easiest to constantly change their food until you find something they like. However, this simply conditions them to be picky. Instead of trying different brands of dry or wet food that might fit their food preferences, stick to one food for your dog’s diet. If your dog thrives on this food and seems healthy, continue giving it to them every day for several weeks. Eventually, they will understand that is the only food offered and they are not getting treats if they don’t eat!

Offer Food at Specific Mealtimes

• Dogs tend to do better with a regular feeding schedule instead of grazing with a food bowl always full of kibble. They quickly learn that if there is always food, they don’t have to eat everything right away. Instead, leave their meal out at breakfast for 30 minutes, then pick it up, giving it back at their next mealtime. They will be hungrier and more likely to finish their dinner.

Consider a New Food

• Based on their food preferences, dog’s eating habits can be wildly different. Dogs can have favorite proteins or brands. Changing a dog’s food too often is not great for your dog, but if you think they might do better on a new food it could be worth your time. Remember to slowly mix their new food into their old food as sudden diet changes can be hard on your pup’s stomach.

  Many pet owners have found success with home-cooked human-grade dog food for their picky furry friend. Human food’s aroma like rice, plain cooked chicken, and chicken broth might tempt your picky dog. Research and talk to your vet to ensure your dog stays healthy and has a balanced diet if you decide to cook your dog’s meals.

  Some dogs could have a sensitivity to certain ingredients. Look out for other symptoms like itchy or excess gas. Working with a vet to eliminate certain proteins from their diet is a good place to start if you think your dog has a sensitivity or allergy to any foods. Additionally, senior dogs might suddenly turn their nose up to the food they have been eating because of dental issues. Canned food or wet food might be easier for them to eat and you should ask your veterinarian to check for a cracked or infected tooth.

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Can You Put Neosporin On A Dog? 6 Mar 7:12 PM (last month)

Is Neosporin Safe for Dogs?

Neosporin is a topical antibacterial ointment commonly used by people who have minor scrapes and cuts. It kills surface bacteria and acts as a physical barrier to environmental bacteria, while also soothing the wound. It is often used for minor skin infections as well as surface bacterial infections. Neosporin is comprised of three ingredients:

1.      Bacitracin – A polypeptide used for killing surface bacteria, such as cuts, scrapes and burns.

2.      Neomycin – This antibiotic drug is often used to treat intestinal infections. It is also used to reduce symptoms associated with hepatic coma. It does carry the possibility of side effects, such as numbness, twitching or hearing problems.

3.      Polymyxin B – This powerful antibiotic is normally used to treat urinary tract infections, meningitis, pneumonia and sepsis. It also has a long list of side effects, such as dizziness, blurry vision, hives, and rash among others.

When used together, as an ointment, they are called a Triple Antibiotic Ointment. Neosporin is one of several brand names for this product.

There is a main difference between the usage on humans versus usage on pets:

Humans don’t lick off the ointment. Dogs nearly always lick off anything foreign on their skin, especially from the dog’s wound.

What to Know Before Using Neosporin on Your Dog

Neosporin, along with other triple antibiotic ointments, kill any live bacteria on the skin’s surface, making it an ideal treatment for scrapes, shallow cuts, and mild burns. It can be a physical barrier to environmental bacteria for treating minor cuts.. It is not, however, always the ideal solution for your pet.

Patch Test Your Pet

Considering the potential of Neosporin causing more harm than good, you should begin by patch testing to ensure your dog is not allergic to the triple antibiotic compound. You should choose a spot where your dog cannot lick off the Neosporin ointment, such as at the base of their head.

Separate the fur with your fingers, then place a small dab of Neosporin there. Some dogs can take 6-24 hours before an allergic reaction is apparent, so if you intend to use Neosporin on your pet at some point in the future, do this patch test before your pet might be injured.

Factors to Consider

Not every wound should be handled the same way. Most of the time your veterinarian is the best one to handle your pet’s health care.

Veterinarians are best equipped to know how to recognize when a dog wound may be more severe than you had initially thought. What sometimes appears as a small scratch could actually be a puncture wound, requiring specific treatment protocols.

·         Size of the Wound

The type and size of a wound dictate the appropriate treatment. Where Neosporin might work well with minor abrasions, it should not be used for puncture wounds or wounds that are bleeding heavily.

·         Location of the Wound

If the wound is in an area where your pet can easily lick it, do not use the Neosporin, unless it can be bandaged. Pets often lick off any topical treatments and ingesting Neosporin can cause an upset stomach as well as diarrhea and vomiting. It can also affect your dog’s hearing as the Neomycin antibiotic carries this side effect.

·         Allergic Reactions

Dogs can have allergies just like dog owners. Though rarer, cats can also have reactions. Neosporin has documented side effects, several of which are allergic reactions. Be sure to do the patch test prior to using topical medications on your pet’s minor wounds.

When Should You Use Neosporin on Your Dog?

Neosporin can be used safely on pets who have minor abrasions, such as shallow cuts, scrapes, minor injuries or burns. After cleaning the wound with water and mild soap, place a thin layer of ointment on the wound. Then, cover the wound with a bandage. If your pet can access the bandage, use a neck cone to prevent your pet from removing the bandage and/or licking the wound.

Caring for a Minor Wound

A Triple Antibiotic such as Neosporin is a good antibacterial ointment to use for dog injuries such as minor cuts, burns or shallow wounds. But it should not be the first step in wound treatment. Veterinarians suggest the following protocols when treating minor wounds:

1.      Rinse thoroughly with water to remove debris.

2.      Pat the wound dry, with a paper towel.

3.      Apply an antiseptic such as Chlorhexidine or Povidone Iodine, using a piece of cotton. This will ensure that any existing bacteria is cleared from the wound.

4.      Next, apply the topical ointment. This can be Neosporin or another Triple Antibacterial ointment, such as Silver Biotics or Forticept, which is a Neosporin for dogs.

5.      The wound should then be bandaged.

Your Pet is Not Always a Willing Patient

Most pets do not accept bandaging. If they can reach it, the bandage will be removed, making all your efforts useless. Make sure the bandage is not too tight causing blood flow restrictions which is also not beneficial to your pet.

As most pets are not the best patients, you will need a means of keeping them still as you administer their treatment. While the best approach is early training, so your pet understands their environment and how to behave within given parameters, it is not often that you have to administer their wounds.

For dogs, giving them something to eat as you administer the wound will keep them fairly steady for long enough to finish what you need to do. While some cats would be satisfied with food to keep them steady, you may have to wrap them in a towel to protect yourself from being scratched or bitten.

Getting someone to help you by keeping your pet occupied is the best means of ensuring you can properly administer your pet’s skin abrasion. Sometimes, your pet will need to be held very still to remain safe during the procedure.

The best means of ensuring your pet will not pull off the bandaging is to use an Elizabethan collar or other type of post-surgical dog head cone. There are many choices available that offer soft sides.

‍How to Apply Neosporin on a Dog’s Wound

Once cleaned, use a cotton ball for ointment application. Place a small dab of ointment on the cotton ball. Gently, spread the ointment on the wound. Be sure to keep the Triple Antibiotic ointment away from your pet’s nose, ears, mouth and eyes.

If blood wells up after the ointment application, you’ll need to reclean the wound and press a gauze pad or clean piece of paper towel against the wound until the bleeding stops. Then reapply the topical antibiotic.

What to Do if Your Dog Gets a Wound

The first step is to discern the wound’s severity. Is it a puncture? Is it deep enough to see past thick skin layers to muscle below? Is it bleeding heavily? If any of these are the case, wrap the wound and take your pet to the closest emergency veterinary clinic. If the wound is minor, however, such as a scratch or scrape, you can treat it safely at home.

Clean and flush the wound using mild soap

Using a clean, soft cloth that has been moistened with warm water, gently wash the wound, then rinse it to ensure there are no debris left behind. Mild soap can be helpful in removing small particles prior to a final rinse. Then pat it dry with a dry washcloth or paper towel.

Consult your veterinarian

Regardless of whether, or not, you believe the wound to be minor, it is a good idea to consult with your pet’s veterinarian. Be sure to explain how the wound occurred and how you treated it.

Apply a small amount of vet-approved ointment

If you have a vet-approved ointment such as Vetrysin Plus, Aloe Care, Solocite Wound Gel, or the Triple Antibiotic ointment, place some on a cotton ball and dab the wound. Only use wound treatments where the pet cannot access it. Though these products are proven to be safe for dogs they won’t be helpful if your dog removes it.

Try covering the wound with a bandage

If the wound is in an area where your pet cannot access it, covering the wound would be a good idea to reduce the chance of infection or irritation. Should the pet be able to access the bandage you will need to remain observant to redirect their attention should they attempt to remove the bandage.

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My Dog Keeps Peeing in the House 6 Mar 7:06 PM (last month)

Nobody likes to live with a dog who urinates in the house. It’s smelly, messy and just bad manners overall.

Reasons Why Your Dog is Peeing in the House

There can be many reasons why your dog is peeing in the house. From mere lack of understanding to a physical problem, there’s always a source. The reasons could be based on age. Puppies don’t yet have a good understanding of potty training. And, senior dogs can become incontinent as sphincter muscles weaken or they have Canine Cognitive Dysfunction. Male dogs might be marking territory.

The first step is to ensure your dog is healthy, so take your dog to their veterinarian for a checkup, as illness is one of the main reasons for sudden changes in potty behavior. Health issues are also common causes of sudden indoor urination problems. Your dog’s diet can also be a reason for inappropriate urination.

As house training issues can take a long time to cure, you may want to seek the help of a professional dog trainer. They have the experience to find the source of the problem and create a means of teaching you and your dog to overcome the issues.

There can be many sources of this problem, such as anxiety, arthritis, bad weather, cognitive issues, and more. Dog behavior can be complicated, and a pet professional will help you solve this problem.

Anxiety/Fear

If your dog suddenly has an accident indoors, or is new to your home, a likely source of this behavior can be due to anxiety or fear.

Dogs can take months to acclimate to new environments. It is not uncommon for adult dogs who have been moved from place to place or moved with the family to a new home. Peeing in the house is a typical reaction to this type of anxiety.

Some dogs may feel the need to remark territory by hiking their legs on stationary objects such as furniture, walls or doors to help them feel more comfortable in their new home. This behavior is more common with male dogs than with female dogs, however.

Arthritis

Inappropriate urination is common in dogs who have arthritis. It hurts to move and can sometimes take a long time to get up and go to the door. The result is peeing in the house as they cannot contain themselves. Geriatric and senior dogs often need help getting up. While you can easily lift a small dog and carry it outside, large dogs would benefit from a sling, aiding the movement of their back legs and hips which are commonly riddled with arthritis.

As your dog learns that getting up is painful, they get to the point where they do not even attempt to do so and urinate where they lay.

There are actually many ways you can prevent house soiling in dogs who have arthritis.

Joint Supplements

You should ask your veterinarian about the appropriate joint supplements, and dosages, for your dog. These supplements improve the fluid levels within your dog’s joints, reducing the friction of the bones and thereby decreasing their pain.

Anti-inflammatory

Your veterinarian can prescribe an anti-inflammatory medication that will reduce the inflammation around your dog’s joints, also alleviating their pain levels. Your dog will need to be given the medication daily as the effects don’t build up over time.

Anti-inflammatory medications can also affect your dog’s liver. Therefore, your dog should get a yearly blood scan to ensure that doesn’t occur. If it does, the medication can be changed as there are several types of anti-inflammatory medications available.

Bad Weather

This is often the trigger for dogs to not want to potty outdoors, especially small dogs. It could be too cold or too hot or raining heavily. Or, even worse, an electrical storm. If you live in a northern climate with heavy snow, your dog may not want to wade into the tall snow drifts. Some dogs are concerned with heavy winds, as they have difficulty keeping their legs beneath them, or the wind can bring unknown odors that are frightening.

There are ways to mitigate these issues. First, regardless of weather, take your dog outside on a regular schedule. This teaches them the house rules and instills the knowledge of potty breaks. Second, if your dog is small or has a thin coat, use doggy boots and jackets to maintain their warmth and prevent their feet from being cold and wet.

It may take some time for them to acclimate to clothing, but it is worth the effort overall. If you are consistent with putting it on prior to going outside it will become part of the routine.

Cognitive Issues

Geriatric dogs commonly develop cognitive issues as they age. This can cause confusion, restlessness and sometimes aggression. Part of the confusion might involve house soiling as they forget where to go to do their business.

As their body breaks down they can also develop a lack of muscle function. This would involve the sphincter muscles that control their bowels and urethra control. The inability to control these means that they potty without even knowing that they have to.

Your veterinarian can prescribe medication that will help with urinary and bowel control so be sure to consult with them. Dietary changes can also be helpful, so discuss this as well.

Incontinence

Indoor peeing can happen with dogs of any age but is most common in young puppies, newly neutered dogs and geriatric dogs. There are many ways you can work with the younger dogs to teach them to do their business outdoors. Unfortunately, the only way you can help an aging dog who is house soiling is through medication and vigilance.

Puppies between 6 weeks and 3 months do not have much control over their bladders and tend to have urinary accidents, especially when active. You need to watch them as you would a newly mobile toddler. When you see them sniffing and circling get them outside immediately.

There are also other times to ensure you take them to their potty zones quickly:

• After meals
• After sleeping
• During play

Sometimes, newly neutered dogs have difficulty controlling their urinary sphincter muscles. Surgery can weaken them, making it difficult for them to control. Be sure to enforce the relief schedule and briefly add a few more relief times. This is temporary, but you must remain consistent to overcome the issue.

Young and Adult Dog Urine Marking

Territorial marking behavior is common in adolescent dogs – especially unneutered males. As they enter adolescence they instinctually need to mark their territory. Unfortunately, their territory is your home and everything in it.

This can be prevented through neutering between 6-8 months, or be very diligent with house training procedures. Obedience training also goes a long way toward preventing territorial behavior. Once begun, it will require a lot of hard work and time to cure.

Give your adolescent dog the opportunity to do their marking outdoors, either in a fenced in yard, or during neighborhood walks.

Metabolic/Endocrine/Other Disease

There are many health problems that can cause inappropriate urination. From kidney problems such as diabetes, kidney stones, infections and kidney failure to liver and prostrate problems, all can cause your dog’s house soiling.

Diseases such as Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism), and steroid drugs can also make it difficult for your dog to control their need to urinate.

The ingestion of toxic elements – plants, spoiled foods – can cause a sudden lack of control.

If there’s a sudden change in your dog’s house manners, this is why it is important to always make a veterinary exam a priority.

Overexcitement/Submissive Urination

Many young dogs have difficulty controlling their urinary sphincter when excited. This is called Submissive Urination. This is not a purposeful behavior.

The last thing you should do is punish this dog. Doing so will make the issue worse. Instead, lower the excitement level when in the situations that this occurs. This commonly happens when greeting people, or when the overall environment is filled with high energy. So, lower the energy and redirect the dog into another activity as soon as possible.

Setbacks in Housetraining

Setbacks in housetraining can occur when moving or when there is any change in the environment, such as visitors, a new pet or a new baby. Obedience training will go a long way toward preventing this from occurring.

This can also happen when you transition your dog from potty pads to outdoor potty times. You will need to remain observant and consistent to prevent accidents.

Urinary Tract Infection for Male and Female dogs

The most common reason for sudden house soiling is a urinary tract infection (UTI). Urinary tract issues can occur in any dog of any age. This is when bacteria enters the urinary tract via the urethra, causing pain and inflammation. It is very uncomfortable for your dog!

Puppies are prone to UTIs. They can also happen after spay surgery. Diet can also play a role in the frequency of UTIs.

How to Stop Your Dog Peeing in the House

First, be sure to use an enzymatic cleaner to reduce urine odor. This will make your dog less likely to mark in the same place. Urinary accidents often occur due to scent. It is a dog’s instinct to cover the scent with their own or to refresh the scent with their own urine odor.

If there is not a medical issue causing the indoor accidents, it is likely behavioral. Use positive reinforcement training methods to teach your dog the house rules and remain patient as they progress. It will require time and consistency, but you will be rewarded with a well behaved dog who understands where to do their business.

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How to Potty Train an Older Dog 6 Mar 7:03 PM (last month)

Reasons Why an Older Dog Might Not Be House Trained

• Here are some potential reasons why an older dog may not be house trained:
  • They were never potty trained in their previous home.
  • They unfortunately may not have lived primarily indoors in their previous house.
  • Eliminating outdoors and on the grass may be a new concept for them. The previous environment they lived in may not have allowed them much exposure to grass or pee pads.
  • Some dogs may prefer an indoor bathroom option due to age, mobility, or their level of comfortability.
  • Certain health conditions may cause a dog to lose control of their bladder or bowels. It is important to make note of any concerning symptoms, and see a veterinarian regularly in order to discuss any concerns you may have so you can keep your pup healthy.
  • Some dogs may react and be fearful of loud noises, causing them to feel threatened. As a result, they may have an accident in the house.

Adult Dog Potty-Training Routine

Establish a routine

• In order to create a strong foundation and help set your canine companion up for success, it is important to establish a routine, especially when it comes to the task of potty training. Potty training goes hand in hand with routine, so you should bring your dog outside on a leash first thing in the morning, after meals, after intense play, when you arrive home and before bedtime.
• Bring your dog to the same bathroom spot each time you go outside for a potty break. This will aid in establishing a scent mark in the yard that they can smell. A dog’s nose is highly sensitive, and they can smell areas where they or other pets have made an initial urine marking.

Reward with treats and praise

• Use positive reinforcement when they go potty outside, make it a big deal! Remember to offer tons of encouragement and reward them with praise and their favorite treat. This will help to keep your dog highly motivated and will help them progress quickly with their training.
• Remember, accidents happen!

Take frequent bathroom breaks

• Give your dog many opportunities to relieve themselves outside. While a set schedule will certainly help them learn a routine, they may need to go outdoors more often than you think, so be prepared to adjust that schedule accordingly. In their first few weeks home, it may take you a little time to learn your new dog’s schedule.
• Along with frequent bathroom breaks, make sure you allow your dog enough time outdoors, don’t rush them, and make sure your pup finishes eliminating before you go back inside.

Keep your dog leashed by your side, or in sight

• In the first few weeks, while inside, make sure your dog can’t wander off in the home to an area you or a family member cannot see. This will help to reduce the likelihood that they will wander off to another room and eliminate indoors. In addition, keeping them with you will help to ensure they don’t deposit urine in the house in a place you may not see, as they will be able to smell that initial scent mark.

Set up a restricted area for your dog when they’re unsupervised

• In their first few days to weeks in their new home, consider setting up a baby gate or pet gate in an area that allows your dog ample space but limits their access to the rest of your home when you are unable to supervise them. If your dog is crate trained, be sure to put their crate in this area so they can enter and exit as they please. Dogs are less likely to soil this designated area as they like a clean house too! If you have a pet camera, this is a great place to focus it so you can keep a watchful eye on your new friend and be sure they are safe and content.

Gradually expand the restricted area

• Once your dog is able to go several days without an accident in the house, give them more space. If they regress, decrease the area again, and work towards gradually expanding the area once again. Remember that this process will take time, all dogs can learn new tricks!

Watch for warning signs

• Pacing, whining, waiting by the door or barking may be signs that they need to be let out to go potty.
• Some pet parents elect to train their dog with a bell that is attached to the door so that their furry family member can ring the bell in order to indicate they need to go outside. There are many tricks similar to this one that you can try with your dog to see what works best for them.

Don’t punish them over mistakes

• It’s not unusual for adult dogs who aren’t potty trained to have an accident at some point. Do not punish them for it. Potty training takes time, and you are both still learning about each other.
• If your dog does have an accident in the home, be sure to use a pet-friendly enzymatic cleaner to clean the soiled area. If the spot is not properly cleaned, your dog may continue soiling the same spot due to the residual scent mark.
• If you are struggling with housetraining procedures, you might consider working with a trainer who can assist you and your adult dog in the training or re-training process. These individuals can help you to work with your pup on house soiling problems and ensure potty training is successful.

How to Know When Your Dog Has to Go

• Over time, you will learn their signals that indicate they need to go potty. You might see pacing, whining, circling, sniffing purposefully, barking, or waiting by the door. This is their way of telling you they need a bathroom break. Not every dog will give you the same signals. Dogs have their own unique personalities and tendencies, just like us humans do. If you learn to recognize the signs your dog gives you, and you respond quickly by taking them out for a bathroom break, this will help to ensure your dog continues to give you these same cues.
• Your dog may have a hard time adjusting to eliminating on grass or dirt because he or she may not have gone potty on that type of surface before. Your dog can model behavior displayed by other pets. Consider meeting up with a friend or family member and their dog so you can take your pooches for a walk together. Most dogs will usually go in a spot where other dogs have already gone.

How Long Does it Take to Potty Train a Dog?

• Most adult dogs can be potty trained within a few weeks. If you have a small or senior dog, the timeline may be a little longer. If you ever have concerns regarding potential medical problems that may be causing them to eliminate inside, it is important to schedule your dog to see their veterinarian as soon as possible. Be sure to make note of any other symptoms you observe, and bring that list with you to your appointment.

Can You Train an Older Dog to Use Pee Pads?

• Yes, you can train an older dog to use pee pads. These may be a good option if you have a small dog and live in a building without easy outdoor access, or have a dog with mobility issues. Training your canine companion to use pads is a similar process to taking them outside when they need to go. Positive reinforcement, routine, and repetition are key.

How Often Should I Take My Dog Out?

• Part of teaching a dog to eliminate outside is understanding how often dogs need potty breaks. This frequency can be influenced by their physical size (thus influencing the size of their bladder) as well as by their age. Take them out approximately once an hour at first. This should be in addition to letting them out after meals, first thing in the morning, before bedtime and after intense play sessions. After some time, once you think they’re ready, gradually extend the time between potty breaks (e.g., 90 minutes to 2 hours). If you find your dog is still having accidents with this new schedule, dial these times back to shorter durations. Eventually, the goal is for them to follow a daily routine, but even with a routine, there will be times they will ask to go out more often. Dogs need to be let out routinely regardless of their age. Consider hiring a dog walker or trusted friend to bring your dog outside for potty breaks if you need the help.

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Is it Ever too Late to Train a Dog? 6 Mar 7:00 PM (last month)

Why Age Doesn’t Matter in Dog Training

Dogs learn new tricks throughout their lives. They are always adjusting to new environments and situations. Other dogs and people come and go. Families move to new locations. New canine friends move in next door. Dog owners have changes in work schedules. Life is about change and dogs are highly adaptable.

Not all dogs adapt quickly, but those who receive training tend to do so faster and to understand their environment better. Any dog of any age can learn new behaviors and tricks. Moreover, they enjoy the process and interaction with their pet parents. Most dogs will do anything to earn treats or play.

Dogs Love a Routine

Dogs form habits and tend to fare better when on a fixed schedule. They tend to be more relaxed if they have a good understanding of what is going to happen and when. This means consistency in everyday life, from feeding times to relief times and the knowledge that they will receive daily training and exercise.

If you have adopted an older dog or never had time to work with your dog when it was younger, it is never too late to be consistent and begin obedience training. As bad behaviors are caused by a lack of training and boundaries, training is the best way to extinguish undesirable habits and create a lasting bond.

Mental Stimulation

Training simple commands is a great way to provide mental stimulation for senior and geriatric dogs, keeping their minds alert and responsive. This is important, for as dogs age, they can develop a condition called Canine Cognitive Dysfunction. It’s similar to human dementia in that their behavior patterns change, and they can become confused. Sometimes, they forget where they are or who they are causing unpredictable behavior.

Training older dogs’ new behaviors or refreshing old ones is not only fun for the dog but also helps them cope with these changes. A little training each day goes a long way toward helping your dog remain calm, have fun and be well behaved in all situations.

What is the Best Age to Start Training a Dog?

Dogs learn from the moment they are born. While instinct drives them, it’s through being rewarded for a specific behavior that teaches them. Therefore, you can begin training your dog from the moment they enter your life.

Professional dog breeders often start their puppy litters with learning how to do their potty training in a specific area, such as a large, low-sided box, filled with wood shavings or sawdust. They also begin handling the puppies shortly after birth, teaching them valuable skills such as relaxing when being examined.

Professional dog breeders who show their dogs will begin teaching 5-week-old puppies how to stack – stand still with front feet and back feet together. This helps the breeder decide which puppies should be prepared for exhibition or be sold as pets.

Some breeders will begin teaching puppies, who are being weaned from their mother’s milk, how to respond to the recall (come) cue or how to follow them. This begins their obedience training exercises, giving them a head start prior to joining the families who adopt them as it prevents bad habits from forming.

If you adopt your dog at 6 months or 6 years, training is highly beneficial and should be part of every dog’s daily routine. To be certain, however, every dog can learn at any age provided you approach the process in a positive manner.

Benefits of Training an Older Dog

Older dogs enjoy training as much as, or more so, than young dogs. As they have already been behaving in a specific manner for some time, you may want to employ the help of a professional dog trainer. Teaching basic commands to a dog who has no idea what they mean requires someone who can read the dog’s responses and guide them toward appropriate behavior on cue. It’s never too late to start training.

Training a mature or geriatric dog has advantages:

• Strengthens Your Bond: As you work with your dog you establish a deeper bond, and your dog learns to trust you.
• Improved Behavior: Training extinguishes inappropriate behavior patterns and establishes good behavior. For example, if you don’t appreciate your dog jumping on you, or your furniture, dog training teaches them to sit for attention instead of jumping up for it.
• Safety and Control: Dog training gives you better control of your dog in most situations, from crossing the street and meeting other people to learning how to behave when they meet other dogs. It is far better to have a dog who patiently sits at your side instead of pulling hard on the leash each time they see another dog or person.
  

  Steps to Successfully Train a Senior Dog

  Training an older dog or senior dog requires patience and consistency. You will have to overcome bad habits and change them into new, good habits through positive reinforcement. Do not be discouraged, however, it may be late to start training, but it is never too late to get rid of unwanted or destructive behaviors.

1. Start with Basic Commands

You should always begin with the basic foundational commands such as Heel, Sit, Stay and Come. Be sure to use clear verbal and visual cues. It is through the tone of your voice and body language that your dog will associate specific cues with a specific response.

2. Use Positive Reinforcement

Be sure to reward any behavior you want, even if it’s just a small part of the overall response you are looking for. Dogs will repeat rewarded behavior. Rewards can be praise, treats, toys or a good belly rub. As your dog learns small parts of a specific goal, such as staying for a brief time, praise as they perform and then reward when you are happy with their response. This keeps training fun for your dog.

3. Be Patient and Consistent

Dog Training requires lots of patience and consistency. Some dogs can take many repetitions to learn a new behavior, especially older dogs. If you become frustrated, consider enrolling in local classes. Sometimes, a professional perspective can be helpful in achieving dog training goals.

At all costs avoid punishment as it is not the fault of your adult dog. When a dog doesn’t respond to a cue it means they don’t understand. Break the command down to smaller portions and gradually create the behavior via positive steps.

4. Break Training into Short Sessions

 

Dogs tend to have short attention spans. Training can also be stressful, especially when your dog has no understanding of what you want. Keeping lessons short – at about 10-15 minutes, will help your dog learn without getting overly stressed. Be sure to also offer numerous short breaks along the way.

Where puppies tend to fare best with a five-minute training session between breaks, an older dog might be fine with 10 – 15-minute training sessions between breaks. Be sure your dog is allowed to do their own thing during those breaks, such as sniffing, playing with a toy or just getting some attention.

5. Address Specific Behavior Issues and Bad Habits

Old dogs, new tricks mean focusing on correcting behaviors as they occur. You should not ignore one incorrect behavior to attend to a different one. For example, you can teach your dog to not jump on you in the same day as you teach them to not pull on the leash or bark excessively.

You should be consistent with your criteria in every situation.

6. Engage in Regular Practice

Dogs of all ages, even older dogs require regular practice. You should set aside 15 minutes, or more, each day. Your older dog would greatly benefit from 2-3 short sessions throughout the day. If you have a puppy, you should do short 5-minute training sessions every couple hours each day.

To ensure your dog remains consistent in all situations, practice with them both in your yard and throughout the neighborhood. If your adult dog is error free at home, take them to new locations such as parks, pet stores or lumber stores.

Common Challenges When Training an Adult Dog

As adult dogs have behaved in a specific manner for a long period of time it will require lots of patience throughout the training process. Being late to train does not mean it cannot be done. It merely means that you will need to be more persistent and patient.

Behavioral Issues

Many adult dogs end up in shelters due to behavior problems such as destructive chewing, lack of house training skills or stealing food from counter tops. Training an older dog has many challenges, but they can be overcome.

You will need to be observant and redirect your dog when they attempt any inappropriate behaviors. For example, should your dog sniff at the counter, cue them to come and sit. Then get them involved in a tug or fetch game. This will offer a positive outlet that is associated with controlled rewards.

Should your dog engage in leash pulling, be sure to work on heeling exercises. Redirection is the best means of teaching a proper heel. When you are walking with your dog and their ears prick forward at something of interest, quickly turn in the opposite direction. The moment your dog focuses on you, praise and reward.

Socialization Issues

Early socialization is very important. It helps dogs navigate their world and reduce any chances of building anxiety. Old dogs, however, may not have been given this opportunity. Some can become fearful or anxious when placed in a new situation or environment.

An adult dog who has not received socialization opportunities may not know how to play with other dogs properly. A small disagreement could easily turn into an aggressive confrontation.

Socialization training should be done in small increments with adult and senior dogs. Always begin with training in a quiet environment. When your dog has achieved a high response rate, move to a slightly less quiet environment. Continue to increase the distractions as your dog achieves a high reliability rate. When they are able to quickly respond to your cues, allow them some freedom to interact with other dogs.

Training Anxiety

Some dogs can become anxious or fearful when experiencing new situations such as training sessions. These dogs require for you to take small steps and gradually build their skills as they develop confidence and trust.

If your dog does a lot of yawning or doesn’t want to focus on you, this is a sign that they are stressed. A better approach might be a learning game instead of strict obedience protocols. Learning games are often used when training puppies. One example is Round Robin. You and other family members take turns calling your dog to come. Your dog will enjoy running from person to person and receiving treats. This can turn into a great recall response as your dog will enjoy the process.

The post Is it Ever too Late to Train a Dog? appeared first on Sit Means Sit.

Why is My Dog Shaking? 27 Feb 9:47 PM (2 months ago)

Why Do Dogs Shiver and Tremble?

There could be several reasons your dog is shaking, trembling, shivering, etcetera. It could be that they’re so excited to see you that they can’t contain themselves. It could be that they’re in pain or the dog ingested something toxic. If your dog’s health is poor, it’s likely their shivering is a result of that. If you’re out in the cold, younger dogs, smaller dogs, senior dogs, and dogs with short hair may shiver simply because they’re cold! Make sure you keep your dog warm when you go out.

Additionally, certain dogs and certain breeds are simply prone to shivering. The only time you really need to worry about your dog shaking is if it’s new or worse than their normal shaking. It’s better to get to the bottom of things rather than leave it a mystery.

Dog Trembling and Shaking: Causes and Treatments

Let’s take a closer look at some of the reasons your dog might be shaking.

Excitement: It doesn’t take much to make a dog so happy they get excited. Just coming home after work is more than enough to make some dogs and dog breeds bark, shake, jump, run in circles, and even pee out of excitement. Some dogs will grow out of these traits, but some might not. You should help your pup stay calm by greeting them calmly and maybe even delay a greeting. This can help them view a greeting as less of an event which will help prevent some of these excessive responses.

Anxiety or Fear: Stress, anxiety, and fear are common reasons a dog will tremble or shake. You might have noticed your dog trembling during a thunderstorm or on the 4th of July when fireworks are everywhere. They might get shaky when you go to the vet or experience separation anxiety when you go to work. If you can diagnose the origin of the fear, you may be able to stop the shaking. If it comes down to it, your vet might also be able to prescribe some anti-anxiety medication.

Nausea: Dogs really aren’t that different from people. They can experience nausea for all the same reasons as a human: motion sickness, eating too much, medications, or toxic substances. They can also get nauseous from diseases on top of their other symptoms. Shaking is a common response to nausea. You may also notice them smacking their lips, salivating and swallowing a lot, yawning, hiding, vomiting, or feeling restless.

Age and/or Pain: Dogs get older and develop tremors in their hind legs, especially. This is due to muscle weakness, and it could happen in the front legs, as well. These tremors don’t usually do anything beyond inconvenience your dog, but they should affect movement. If you dog struggles to move because of the shaking, it could very well be pain-related, and you will want to get them to a vet ASAP.

Arthritis: This is a pretty typical cause of shaking, especially in older dogs. Your vet can easily and quickly treat the pain and inflammation that accompanies arthritis. They will often prescribe supplements, medications, and therapies, as well as some gentle exercise.

Poisoning: There are certain substances around your home that might not be toxic to you, but that are highly toxic to dogs. Here are some examples: chocolate, xylitol (sugar substitute in chewing gums), cigarettes, and snail bait. These items are common in many households, but if your dog gets a hold of them, they could cause shaking, tremors, or more severe illness. Dogs are resilient, but they’re also curious. they have to be watched or they’ll get into things they shouldn’t.

Seizure Disorders: For example, Epilepsy. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that affects dogs with symptoms such as jerking, collapsing, muscle tremors, stiffening, drooling, loss of consciousness, tongue chewing, chomping, and foaming at the mouth. Treatments include medications such as keppra, potassium bromide, and phenobarbital.

What is Generalized tremor syndrome (GTS)?

Generalized Tremor Syndrome (GTS) is also called steroid-responsive tremor syndrome, as well as white shaker dog syndrome (so named because it was first noticed in small white dogs like the West Highland terriers). It can happen to any dog, regardless of breed, size, or color, and no one knows what causes GTS. Take your dog to a vet to get a prescription that will help get rid of GTS.

Shaking vs. Seizures

Shivering and shaking are different than a seizure. A seizure involves the muscles seizing up so much that a dog loses both their mobility and all awareness of their surroundings. If your dog is showing seizure symptoms and they’re not already being treated for a disorder, they need to be taken to an emergency vet as soon as possible.

Most shivering is relatively harmless. However, it’s always best to reach out to your vet if you have concerns or if the problem escalates. Your vet can diagnose the problem and explain what they uncover. If something serious is going on, it’s always better to catch that early rather than letting it develop.

How to Calm a Shaking Dog

If your dog shakes because of stress or anxiety, there are several steps you can take to help calm them down and get their muscles relaxed enough to stop trembling. Let’s look at some options:

Watch for early signs

It’s always easiest to stop anxiety before it reaches the most intense point. If your dog gets anxious, you need to watch for these signs: yawning, licking their lips, and pulling back their ears. These can all be signs of anxiety that’s settling in. Once these start happening, try to remove your dog from the stressful situation or distract them from their surroundings.

Give them a safe space

A lot of owners make the mistake of associating beds, mats, and crates with punishment, but you need to associate those places with positive things such as treats, toys, and peace. Dogs need safe spaces, especially if they’re trying to calm down when they’re anxious. If your dog gets anxious going to the vet, it will be effective to have a bed that’s a safe space so that your dog stays calm and happy throughout their visit.

Distract them with toys, treats, and games

Lots of dogs soothe themselves by chewing and licking. It’s a good idea to try out some long-lasting treats, puzzle games, and chewable toys as calming efforts. This is an especially useful trick for dogs who suffer from separation anxiety.

Soothe them with touch

It sounds silly to even say it, but many pet owners forget how powerful touch is. If your dog is having an anxiety attack, the simplest and best way to calm them is to touch them. When they tremble, cuddle them. When they shake, do some massaging strokes. It works almost every time.

Stick to a routine

Dogs love routines. They love what they know. Make a daily routine that includes lots of exercise so that your dog stays physically and mentally healthy. Make sure you allow them opportunities to “earn” things through good behavior. That gives them an incentive to do well.

When to See a Vet

Here are some cut-and-dry times when you should take your dog to the vet for shaking:

• If they have had a seizure
• If they are showing signs of having been poisoned
• If they are showing signs of hypothermia
• If they are showing signs of unusual pain or illness
• If they are displaying symptoms of GTS
• If they are showing signs of an ear infection or other ear troubles
• If they are displaying extreme and/or chronic anxiety

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My Dog is Throwing Up White Foam 27 Feb 9:45 PM (2 months ago)

What Is the White Foam That Dogs Throw Up?

• According to Dr. Collins, “When we think of ‘throwing up,’ we have to determine if the dog is experiencing vomiting, coughing, or a combination of both.” Dog vomit can look different depending on the reason for throwing up and whether something is wrong with their digestive system or if it is a different medical emergency like kennel cough. Sometimes it might be chunky, sandy, or even watery, foamy vomit. Dogs treatment for persistent vomiting might also differ depending on the color of the vomit, whether they clearly ate spoiled food, or if their throw-up is somewhere between brown, yellow, or clear. Severe vomiting of watery white foamy vomit could also be a symptom of too much gas, creating stomach acid in your dog’s stomach. If your dog is vomiting white foam because of excess gas, there is a chance it is caused by acid reflux. Throwing up is forcing out the contents of the dog’s stomach or upper intestines. Sometimes it might look like partially digested food, other times it could just be bile.
• Acid reflux might not be the only cause of your dog vomiting white foam. If your dog throwing up white foam is coughing so hard that they gag up white foam, there is the possibility they have contracted kennel cough. According to veterinary medicine, throwing up white foam when coughing is caused by a build-up of liquid mixing with air in your dog’s lungs. Unlike other health concerns, if your dog is coughing so hard they gag, they probably won’t have abdominal pain and you won’t notice their stomach contracting.

What Are the Possible Causes of a Dog Throwing Up White Foam?

• Depending on your dog’s other symptoms, there are a variety of reasons they might be coughing up white foam. Coughing up white foam might be caused by respiratory infections like pneumonia, heart disease, or a collapsing trachea. If your dog is coughing up white foamy vomit, seek immediate veterinary attention. We should never procrastinate when it comes to our pet’s health and always get professional advice.

Empty Stomach

Vomiting white foam is not always a huge health scare. Sometimes it can be caused by an empty stomach. Dogs who have not eaten for a while might throw up white foamy vomit, especially when they gobble up grass or substances that cannot be digested. Putting your pup on a normal diet and consistent feeding schedule will help prevent them from throwing up because of an empty stomach.

Bilious Vomiting Syndrome

Vomiting white foam is also a symptom of bilious vomiting syndrome. Usually, this means there is something imbalanced in your dog’s digestive tract. Either they are fasting for long periods or do not have a regular feeding schedule. Feeding your furry friend a consistent two meals a day will help prevent further vomiting caused by bilious vomiting syndrome.

Gastric Irritation or Inflammation

Sometimes foamy vomit can be caused by irritation or inflammation of the stomach lining. The underlying cause depends on the individual situation. Maybe the dog got into spoiled food, human food, infections, stomach acid, or is experiencing another medical issue. Depending on your dog’s health and accompanying symptoms, it would be wise to consider blood tests to determine why they are vomiting white foam.

Gastrointestinal Obstruction

A serious underlying cause of vomiting white foam is an obstruction. A gastrointestinal obstruction happens when the digestive tract is blocked by a foreign body or substance. This is a serious medical issue that prevents dogs from eating and drinking normally. Dogs are naturally curious and might swallow a foreign object or toy they shouldn’t, causing a blockage. This could be a life-threatening condition, requiring immediate veterinary attention and in severe cases needing surgery.

Is Home Treatment Appropriate for a Dog Vomiting White Foam?

• Dr. Collins tells us that the occasional vomiting of white foam does not mean pet parents need to panic. If their behavior is otherwise normal, he suggests instead “monitor for repeated occurrences and any other signs of illness such as depression, diarrhea, or decreased appetite.” Keep an eye on your dog if they are vomiting white foam, but do not worry if their appetite, drinking, and bathroom habits appear normal. Make sure they have no problems breathing or they do not have a distended abdomen or abdominal pain.
• Do not hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian if you are worried about white foam vomiting. They might recommend not feeding for 12-24 hours, and then only feeding them a bland diet such as rice and boiled chicken. Throwing up white foam can cause dehydration, so always make sure there is fresh, clean, water available to your dog. Dr. Collins reminds us that unless your dog is already prescribed medication for a pre-existing condition, “It is not recommended to give any medications” when they are vomiting.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

• Dog owners do not always need to rush to the emergency veterinary clinic if their dog is vomiting. However, dog vomit could be one of several early signs of a more serious health problem. Here are some other symptoms that require an immediate vet visit:
  • Persistent Vomiting: It is time to go see a veterinarian if your dog continues vomiting multiple times over 24 hours.
  • Blood in Vomit: If you see blood in your dog’s vomit, regardless of whether it is fresh or digested, that could be a sign of a serious health concern. They need to be in veterinary care immediately.
  • Lethargy or Weakness: An unresponsive dog who is also lethargic or weak, needs to be rushed to the closest clinic for veterinary medicine. These other symptoms could be indicative of a major medical problem and show a rapid deterioration of the pet’s health.

Preventive Measures and Home Care

Any time you are worried about your dog’s health, you should always talk to your veterinarian. However, you can take preventive measures at home to prevent your dog from vomiting white foam in the future.

• Regular Feeding Schedule: A consistent feeding schedule will prevent your dog from having an empty stomach and keep them from building up stomach acid, causing acid reflux and vomiting white foam. Depending on the dog, pet owners might want to consider small, more frequent meals. This keeps their dog’s stomach full and prevents vomiting.
• Safe Environment: It is the responsibility of a dog owner to create a safe, pet-friendly, environment in their home. This means putting away human food, keeping toxic substances out of a dog’s reach, and making sure they have appropriate toys that will not cause a blockage if accidentally ingested. On walks, be vigilant that your pup does not eat anything that will make them sick. Additionally, ensure your yard or garden is free of dangerous plants or materials.
• Hydration and Diet: Finally make sure your dog always has access to fresh water to make sure they do not become dehydrated. If your dog has been vomiting they can easily become dehydrated, making a medical issue even more threatening. Dogs also require a properly balanced diet, customized to their activity level and nutritional needs. This will improve their digestive health and minimize the occurrence of vomiting. Plus, with the proper diet, your canine companion will always have the energy to join you and the family for all the adventures!

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My Dog Stepped on a Bee 27 Feb 9:01 PM (2 months ago)

How to Deal With Your Dog’s Bee or Wasp Sting

With dogs outside constantly for walks, potty breaks, and exercise, they’re always at risk of running into nature. If your dog does end up coming into contact with a bee, don’t worry! It’s more common than you might realize. Most dogs won’t even react beyond a sneeze or two, and you might not even know a sting happened. When you take your dog for a spin in the outside world, it’s best to stay alert. With some attention to detail, a lot of potential problems can be avoided.

Regardless of whether or not your dog has a minuscule or massive reaction to a bee sting, we want our dogs to be comfortable and have good associations with the great outdoors. A dog that doesn’t want to leave the house is a dog that’s going to be very unhappy. If you notice a sting, it’s wisest to follow these steps:

Assess the Situation

As stated above, do not panic. Mild to moderate pain is normal, and severe allergic reactions are rare. Use your best discernment to assess the situation and see how bad it is. Look for symptoms such as difficulty breathing or severe swelling.

Dogs react the way their owners react. It’s part of their insane empathetic tendencies, and it’s a large part of why we humans adore dogs so much. Your dog’s best bet at staying calm is if you stay calm. Take as many steadying breaths as you need before going on to the next step which is to…

Remove the Stinger

There is always a chance that, though the bee is nowhere to be found, the stinger remained embedded in your pup’s paw, nose, or wherever it was that they got stung. The sooner the stinger is removed, the less venom will enter your dog’s system, and the more mild the reaction will be.

Tweezers and an extra pair of hands make this step a lot easier than if you’re on your own. Don’t pinch and pull at it with your fingers, ever. If teazers and a pair of good eyes cannot be acquired, gently scrape the stinger out with a credit card. Simply place the card on your dog’s skin and slide it one way. This will ease the stinger out without the risk of deepening the wound.

Apply a Cold Compress

Once the stinger (if there ever was one) is removed, a cold compress is the best way to reduce pain and swelling. Apply the compress to the affected area for 10-15 minutes or until your dog returns to normal behavior.

It could be that your dog wants nothing to do with a cold compress, and that’s okay. Remember, this is for their comfort. If they’re happy without the compress, they might find more comfort in running a few laps rather than sitting still in an unusual position. We want to put our dog’s needs first, and, sometimes, that means letting them take the lead in non-crucial situations.

Administer Over-the-Counter Medication

If you’re concerned about the injury site, you can always consider consulting your veterinarian about administering over-the-counter medications. Antihistamines such as Benadryl are common, easily accessible options that will help alleviate itching and swelling. Those kinds of medications are also nice to have around the house in case a situation similar to this happens again. The best-case scenario involves your dog being mildly uncomfortable for a few minutes, but if their reaction is slightly more intense, some antihistamines can do a world of good as far as keeping your pup comfortable.

Observe Your Dog Closely

It’s best not to leave your dog alone for a few hours following a bee sting. If you have to go to work, for example, find someone to watch your dog. Even if they’re usually home alone, you don’t want a reaction to take place without someone around to help. If you or the dog sitter notice any signs of a severe reaction such as swelling that doesn’t subside or erratic behavior, immediately contact your veterinarian.

It is uncommon for dogs to react severely to bee stings, but you don’t want to take any unnecessary chances. Anaphylaxis can be life-threatening and, when it occurs, it requires immediate medical attention, so always keep a close eye on pups who have suffered a sting or two.

Allergic reactions

Most allergic reactions will take place within 20 minutes of the sting, but it’s important to know that they can sometimes be delayed for hours.

Some common, mild allergic reactions to bee stings include vomiting, diarrhea, and sleepiness. Other, more severe reactions could look like facial swelling, constant vomiting, or severe lethargy. If you see these symptoms ramping up, don’t wait. Get your dog to a vet or emergency facility as soon as possible to avoid a deadly progression.

What if the Dog is Stung on the Head, Mouth, or Nose?

If the sting happens around the nose, mouth, or head, breathing becomes a concern. Though most dogs won’t swell enough to cause any concern whatsoever, some will react severely. Bee stings shouldn’t be overlooked ever. Even if you just need to check for a stinger and apply a cold compress, you want your dog to be as comfortable as possible after an injury.

During the hours following a sting on the head, mouth, or nose, watch your dog carefully for several hours to ensure that any swelling doesn’t cause them trouble breathing or swelling. If swelling increases a lot over a short time, get to a veterinarian.

Anaphylactic Bee Reactions in Dogs

It’s uncommon for dogs to have an anaphylactic reaction to bee stings. It happens more often because of an injection of a medication or vaccine that they’re allergic to. Antibodies in the host react to whatever aggressive substance is causing the problem. The reaction drops blood pressure and sends the dog into shock.

Though it is rare, it’s still important to be careful. If your dog has survived a past incident, you might choose to carry an EpiPen just in case. Even if the first occurrence is overcome, the second might not be. If you know your dog reacts a certain way to bees, take all the steps to protect them.

The most common symptoms to keep watch for include collapsing, struggling to breathe, coughing, vomiting, lethargy, and diarrhea. If your dog begins to exhibit those symptoms after a bee sting, call your vet right away. Also, if you know your dog is allergic to bees and you know they’ve been stung, don’t wait to reach out.

If your dog disturbs a hive, the last thing you want to do is hang around. For both you and your dog’s sakes, collect your pet and put some distance between you and the swarm. If your dog got stung once, it’s highly possible they got stung multiple times, in which case you need to go to a vet right away. Treatment for large amounts of stings needs to happen as soon after the incident as possible to give your dog the best chance at avoiding shock and circulatory collapse.

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How To Stop A Dog From Eating Poop 14 Oct 2024 12:48 PM (6 months ago)

There’s not much that disgusts dog owners more than finding out they will sometimes eat poop. You’re not the first owner to see it happen and think, “Why on earth did my dog eat poop?”

If a dog’s diet isn’t balanced properly (or for several other reasons), not only will they eat their own poop, but they will also eat cat poop, rabbit poop, other dog poop, and basically anything they can find. Dogs don’t discriminate much when it comes to edible things because they’re naturally scavengers.

Don’t despair! Having your dog eating feces doesn’t have to be a part of your daily routine. You can break this poop-eating habit by addressing concerns such as diet, behavior, and routine.

Why Your Dogs Eat Poop

“Coprophagia” is the scientific name for when dogs exhibit the behavior of eating stool. Though it hasn’t been explored very much by scientists, we do see that this is a very common thing among dogs, and it’s not usually something to worry about.

Here are some common reasons your dog eats poop:

Vitamin or Nutrient Dietary Deficiencies

Our domesticated dogs don’t have as much variety in their diets as their ancestors did. The food you have your dog eating might be lacking in essential nutrients and enzymes, causing your dog to seek those supplements elsewhere. Some studies show a vitamin B deficiency seems to drive dogs to eat poop.

Prolonged Hunger

Prolonged hunger and/or malnutrition could cause a dog to seek nutrition anywhere they can. In many cases, this is feces. If a litter box is available, there’s nothing in your dog’s mind to tell them not to look there for food.

Another reason prolonged periods of hunger are so damaging is that your dog may develop habits that don’t go away easily. If you rescue your dog from a particularly difficult situation and you start feeding and treating them well, that doesn’t necessarily mean they will stop eating poop. At that point, in their mind, poop is a safe and reliable way to get sustenance.

Instinct

Many experts believe that the act of eating pool is an instinctual behavior that stretches back through our domesticated dogs’ wolf ancestry. We see evidence that wolves eat other wolves’ fresh stools to protect the pack from potential parasites infesting the den. This is commonly believed since it typically takes a minimum of two days for parasite ova to hatch, and our modern-day dogs almost exclusively eat poop that is less than two days old.

Boredom

Dogs alleviate boredom by discovering and exploring scents around the house or yard. It’s not uncommon for them to eat anything they come across that smells interesting. They’re not being malicious when they do this; they’re just trying new things.

This is common in dogs left at home 40+ hours a week alone. If no one can play with and talk to, they’ll find other ways to entertain themselves. Sometimes it’s playing in the trash, sometimes it’s eating poop.

Health Conditions

There are some health conditions that would lead your dog to feel like they need to eat poop. For this reason, it’s important to get your dog checked out at the vet if this becomes a regular behavior. Here are some of the issues:

• Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI): This issue prevents dogs’ systems from properly breaking down and absorbing nutrients. Even if your dog’s food is the highest quality available, this condition can lead to eventual starvation.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): When your dog’s intestines are chronically inflamed, it will prevent proper absorption of nutrients. Your adult dog may eat a lot of food, but with this condition, they will feel hungry no matter what.
• Internal parasites: The definition of a parasite is “An organism that lives in or on an organism of another species (its host) and benefits by deriving nutrients at the other’s expense.” If your dog has parasites, they won’t be able to get what they need from their food.
• Endocrine disorders: Certain diseases, such as hypothyroidism or diabetes, can make your dog feel hungry all the time, which can lead to excessive eating and/or turning to other sources (feces) for extra nutrients.
• Medications: Steriods, especially, can cause extreme hunger in your dog. It may be a sudden shift that takes you off guard. Just keep track of when medications started and when behaviors changed.

Stress or Anxiety

Sometimes, dogs eat poop as a stress response. If they’ve been left in isolation for a long time, or kept in kennels that are too small (like at puppy mills), or if they have separation anxiety, this isn’t an uncommon behavior.

They Like The Taste

It could be that your dog started eating pool because of a nutritional deficiency, for example, but then discovered that they just like the taste. Owners of multiple pets will find this particularly frustrating since there’s a constant supply of “tasty treats” just lying around.

Ways To Minimize Your Dog Eating Poop

Now, though seeing a dog eat feces isn’t often a matter of great concern, it is really gross, and most dog owners want their pets to stop eating pool. It’s just not a very pleasant behavior. In fact, it’s not uncommon for owners to rehome their dogs because they get frustrated and too disgusted with the problem to continue. Some owners go so far as to seek euthanasia!

Rather than resort to such extremes, try some easy fixes first. Here are some ways you can help stop poop-eating:

Immediately Pick Up Stool

Minimize temptation by picking up your dog’s poop as soon as it’s dropped. Even if you have several acres of land and you didn’t used to worry about it, it might be time to start taking your dog out on a leash and paying more attention. It will be a lot of hassle at the start, but it could very well correct the issue! Eventually, your dog could lose interest in their poop because it’s more trouble than it’s worth to fight you for it.

Add A Bad Taste

Create a bad association with the taste of poop by adding hot sauce or a hot spice. This does require some forethought, and it might not work for every dog, but it’s usually successful. Your dog will try something that was once good and find it repelling! Ideally, after that point, your dog will never want to test that boundary again.

Add Digestive Supplements

Digestive supplements are a great place to start! These will help your dog feel satisfied and healthy without much adjustment to their life or yours. Most supplements will include enzymes and B vitamins to help meet those nutritional needs.

If your dog suffers from digestive problems, building their diet up with supplements will support their health and improve your sanity by correcting some of these difficult (and yucky) issues you’re facing. Even if your pet’s food isn’t as balanced as it could be, a simple digestive aid can provide what’s lacking.

Training

With proper obedience training, you get get your dog to stop eating poop. One of the ways we help with that at Sit Means Sit is by teaching dogs to associate poop with something they want to move away from.

Another way training can help is by clearing lines of communication between dogs and owners. Bad habits often appear because of stress, boredom, or anxiety, all of which can often be resolved with a better relationship.

Mental and physical stimulation also always help keep the dog away from negative things that could get them the attention they’re seeking.

Advanced Dog Training

Sit Means Sit is your one-stop do-related company! Not only do we offer a variety of training programs that can remove problems such as this, but we also offer top-tier boarding services, as well!

All of our programs are designed to improve the lives of you and your dog. We want to see you with a companion who can go anywhere, do anything, and live life to the fullest. Our training revolves around the idea of fostering deep bonds between owners and dogs, encouraging clear communication, and building foundations of training that distractions can’t shake. By the end of any of our programs, you will have a pet who truly is your best friend.

Read Reviews of our program, here. 

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What Are Dog Sound Machines & How Do They Help? 23 Jul 2024 8:25 PM (9 months ago)

Does your pup sleep with you and jump at every bump in the night? Or do they anxiously wait for your arrival from work and bark at every car door shutting they hear? White noise machines are a great way for pet owners to soothe their less than restful dogs.

Whether your pooch is a scared howler of celebratory fireworks or just doesn’t fair well with outside noises, a white noise machine can be the perfect solution for creating a relaxing atmosphere.

Masks Noises For Less Barking

If you live in a neighborhood, you can likely hear your neighbors at some point of the day. Dogs have a keen sense of hearing so they are more than aware of what your neighbors are doing outside, which can cause them to bark. A sound machine will help drown out outside noises like children playing, cars, mail delivery, etc., especially if you keep your pooch in their own area with the white noise!

Soothe Your Pup With Comforting Sounds & Frequencies

If your dog is afraid of thunderstorms, you likely have experienced how much anxiety they get during storm rumbles. White noise can help drown out the storm and allow your pup to focus on the relaxing sounds of the machine. White noise sounds are shown to reduce anxiety in pups and humans!

Masks Noises From Other Animals

Dogs can easily get stimulated by the sounds of other animals, whether this is inside your home or not. White noise can help to ease overstimulation from other animals that may cause anxiety, barking, whining, scratching, etc. It can even help distract your furry friend from what they were so entranced by and bring them back to the relaxed state they were in with the white noise.

The post What Are Dog Sound Machines & How Do They Help? appeared first on Sit Means Sit.