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YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO HAVING A HEALTHY DOG

thehealthydogco.com

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13 Important Dog Nutrition Tips from Top Vets

14 Tips on How to Be the Best Parent to Your Dog

9 Dangerous Foods for Dogs you May Not Know About

The 25 Most Serious Dog Health Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

14 “Why Does My Dog Do That” Questions Finally Answered

CONTENTS

13 Important Dog Nutrition Tips From Top Vets Food and nutrition is a confusing subject. It’s hard to know what kind of foods are healthy for ourselves, never mind our dogs. Veterinarians are the experts on pet health though, and no one is closer to the front lines to see just what pet food does to our dogs.

That’s why the advice from veterinarians who studied dog nutrition for years is so valuable to all pet parents. They will tell you exactly how to feed a dog and what dog foods to use. We’ve gathered the best information from a number of veterinarians who’ve provided some valuable tips on feeding

dogs and dog food.

When you adopt a dog, the first and best thing that you can do is have a conversation with your vet and discuss your dog’s age, breed, energy level, weight and any health conditions he may have. This will help your vet understand your dog’s unique nutritional

needs.

Today, there are lots of different dog food diets and recipes to choose

from. But whether you decide to purchase commercial dog food brands or make your own homemade dog food meals your

vet can tell you what nutritional guidelines to follow.

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1. Dogs need moisture in their diet

Dogs are carnivores, so they need high quality protein, preferably from wet dog foods with plenty of moisture. If dogs were to hunt their own food, it would be 70 percent moisture.

If you compare that 70 percent number to the 12 percent moisture of most dry dog foods, you immediately see how a diet of kibble and pellets alone could be harmful. Dogs that only eat dry dog foods are in a constant, low state of dehydration, which damages their kidney function and may be at risk of kidney disease.

2. Dogs don’t need a lot of starch, grains or carbohydrates

Some of the most popular commercial dog food brands are all made in a very similar way. These dog foods are usually high in corn, wheat, soy and rice, but dogs have no biological need for these foods. Pet parents who focus on high quality protein-rich dog foods will have no problem avoiding starch, grains and carbohydrates in their canine’s diet.

3. Balance is important

The best way to make sure that your dog’s diet has the correct balance of vitamins, nutrients and enzymes is to make sure they’ve been tested and researched.

Nutrition deficiencies will cause dogs and cats to develop health problems with their bones, organs and endocrine system much faster than a human would – sometimes before they’re even six months old.

Your veterinarian or a canine nutritionist will be able to tell you the correct balance of nutrients that your dog’s body needs. This depends on many factors including his age, weight, and activity level.

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4. Home-made isn’t automatically healthy

Owners that cook their dog’s food or provide them with raw meat obviously have good intentions, but it isn’t easy to always provide a balanced diet for dogs strictly from cooking homemade dog food meals and using only the regular ingredients.

Getting the right Omega-3 fatty acids, calcium and a variety of trace minerals are all important to a dog’s long-term health. Here is a great resource to get you started if you are thinking of doing this.

5. Propylene glycol isn’t a healthy ingredient

Propylene glycol is a common preservative found in some dry dog food brads and semi-moist pouches. While it’s an approved ingredient by the FDA, it’s related to antifreeze, and many veterinarians consider this to be unhealthy for dogs.

Many of these suspicious ingredients cause health issues in dogs and it’s best to avoid them. Learn how to read dog food labels and check dog food recalls to see a trend of which companies would be best to avoid in the future.

6. Look for ingredients you know on the label

Avoid artificial ingredients, preservatives, flavours, and colours. The first ingredients should be a recognisable one, such as meat, grains, fruit or vegetables.

Ingredients like corn, wheat, dairy, eggs, soy and beef products are all common allergens, so we need to be aware of how our dog digest them and what they can do to pets.

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7. Know what beef and meat byproducts mean

As many as 64 percent of people don’t know what meat byproducts might include, according to a survey by Wellness Pet Food. If you don’t know what something is on a pet food label, look it up online.

Meat byproducts could include any part of a whole animal carcass like: • beaks • feathers • lungs • brain • blood • the stomach • intestines Many vets advise against giving your dog foods with meat byproducts, and recommend choosing organic dog food brands, particularly those of human-grade quality.

8. Dry food can be beneficial for dogs who overeat

Dogs love wet dog food. They’ll often eat as much of it as they can get, so it might be better to use it as a treat for overweight dogs.

Either way, work out how many calories your dog needs with your veterinarian and stick to a good dietary plan with your canine to avoid diabetes and getting your dog fat.

9. The long-term effects of different dog diets haven’t been researched

There hasn’t been any reliable studies measuring pet longevity due to raw, vegetarian, premium or balanced pet-food diets by pet-food companies. Other than we seriously need more research in this, pet parents must also use caution and common sense.

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10. Pet obesity is a growing problem

There isn’t a lot of hard data, but it was estimated in a survey of veterinarians that at least 40 percent of their small animal patients were overweight, and 19 percent were reported as obese.

11. Check if your dog is overweight

You should be able to feel your dog’s ribs, but you shouldn’t be able to see them. Look for an indentation of the waist behind the last rib or if the belly drops down.

Pads of fat over the ribs and by the base of the tail are another indication that your dog needs dietary and behavioural changes and a good dietary plan.

If you’re unsure of how to tell if your dog is overweight, bring him in to your vet’s office and they will be able to tell you just from looking at him in the waiting room. Schedule an appointment if you need to discuss dietary and exercise guidelines for your pet.

12. Know the health effects of your dog being overweight

Extra weight causes joint problems and contributes to the development of early arthritis.

Higher incidences of certain cardiovascular conditions, heart disease and high blood pressure are also common in overweight dogs, as well as a higher risk for liver disease, kidney problems and even cancer.

13. Make sure your dog gets enough exercise

Just like people, dogs shouldn’t take in more calories than they expend each day. It’s up to owners to make sure their dogs live a balanced life, don’t eat more than they need, and have the right nutrition.

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14 Tips on How to Become the Best Parent to Your Dog Every member of your family undoubtedly has a special place in your heart and your dog is no exception. Some of the shining aspects of dogs are their unwavering loyalty, companionship, and of course, their unconditional love.

When you have a hard day at work and everyone seems to be against you, your dog faithfully hangs around by the front door eagerly awaiting your return. And when you walk through the door, your dog isn’t concerned with anything else but loving on you and making you feel on top of the world.

With this in mind, don’t you want to be the best you can be for your canine companion? What does it take to be the best pet parent for your dog, and take good care of his physical and mental health and needs? What it really comes down to is ensuring the quality of his life.

1. Pick out the best veterinarian

Looking for a veterinarian in your area is not something to take lightly. This is the person that will be directly caring for all of your dog’s health needs and giving you advice on the best ways to care for your dog. Do your research, ask for recommendations from family members and friends, and interview multiple veterinarians.

Once you find the right vet, make sure your dog goes in regularly for their shots and

their annual check-ups. Preventative care is essential to your dog’s health.

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2. Give your dog flea and heart worm prevention medications

Fleas carry diseases that could weaken or even kill your dog, so prevention is a must. Heart worm in dogs is a potentially fatal disease transmitted to your dog usually through the bite of a mosquito that has bitten an infected dog. If caught early enough, it can be treated.

However, there is prevention medication available for heart worm as well. The same applies for preventing fleas and ticks on your dog. Using some of the best dog flea collars that are safe and protect your pooch can save you a lot of time, stress and money in the long-run, and it’s what most veterinarians recommend, too.

Invest in both preventative medications to keep your dog healthy and safe. Preventing is always better than dealing with it later. Your vet will give you insight on the best choice for your pet, and they may recommend other preventative medications depending on the region that you live in and the parasites that are common there.

3. Spay or neuter your dog

Spaying or neutering is vital to preventing unwanted puppy populations. But more than that, having this procedure is a good preventative to more serious diseases down the road such as uterine and testicular cancer.

Most vets recommend waiting until the dog is at least 6 months before having them spayed or neutered.

4. Get your dog microchipped

Your veterinarian will inject the microchip with a tracking number into your dog. If he should get picked up by a shelter, the tech can scan the microchip and discover that the dog belongs to you. This is an incredible peace of mind if your dog happens to escape the yard or get away from you during a walk.

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5. Bathe your dog regularly

We all need a bath sometimes – some more than others and your dog is no exception. For canine bath time, use a dog-specific shampoo and make sure you rinse the soap out of this fur thoroughly. In specific cases, you may want to use medicated dog shampoo that’s better suited for dogs with allergies, or if you need to use it due to your dog’s skin or fur complications. Discuss with a vet if you need a medicinal dog shampoo for that.

An important note: human shampoo contains chemicals that could irritate your dog’s skin, so do not use human shampoo on your dog. Always

invest in a dog shampoo that’s perfect for your pooch’s skin and fur.

Finally, dry your dog with a towel and blow dry if desired (here’s how to do that safely). Drying is necessary for several reasons we discuss in the linked article. You can use a blow drying, or

a special towel for dogs that soaks up most of the water from their fur. Dog towels are great, but

aren’t necessary as long as you have enough time to finish the job.

6. Clip your dog’s nails regularly

In order to clip your dog’s nails, you will need to purchase a special dog nail clipper designed specifically for dogs. This nail clipper can be found at just about any pet store. Clip off a little bit of the nail at a time and make sure you are careful not to hit the quick.

If you are nervous about clipping your own dog’s nails, or would like to do it but need some help, always consult your vet for a demonstration. Professional groomers may also show you the proper way to clip your dog’s nails if you ask.

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7. Feed your dog quality food

More and more doggy parents are reading the labels on commercially available dog food. This is the best way to find out exactly what is in the food you’re serving to your dog. Choosing the most healthy dog food brands isn’t always easy, and you need to do plenty of research before finding out what fits your specific canine best.

There are also great resources online that rate various brands of dog food based on several factors. Before you go shopping for the food you’ll be feeding your dog, do some quick research to make sure you’re giving your dog the best food possible to meet his daily nutritional needs.

8. Exercise

Your pup needs some kind of exercise every single day in order to stay healthy and happy. So make sure that he is walked daily – whether by you or by a hired dog walker. This is a great way to manage your pup’s weight and maintain his energy. Plus if you’re the one walking him, he gets to spend time with you!

Again, nothing makes your dog happier than spending time with you. Can you tell by that wildly wagging tail? Make sure he has the essential playthings: tennis balls, plush squeaky toys, tug-o-war ropes, etc. Be committed to setting aside at least 15-20 minutes of playtime with your dog.

9. Enrol in pet insurance

This one little item can save you a ton of money in the long run. It can also ensure that your dog is covered should any emergencies arise.

Every pet insurance policy is different in terms of coverage, so take the time to compare plans to get the best one for your dog and your situation.

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10. Enrol in obedience training

A trained dog is a happy dog – and a happy owner! Any good owner will put in the time and effort required to train their dog in basic commands.

It will strengthen the bond between you and your dog, and besides learning his “manners,” your dog will be well-equipped to socialise with other animals and people.

11.Socialize, socialize, socialize

This is one of the key things you can do to ensure a well-balanced dog. The ideal time frame for basic socialisation is between three and 12 weeks for dogs. Don’t rush things – let your pooch determine the pace.

12. Give your dog his own space

Everyone in the home needs their own special space – including your dog. It could be a crate or it could simply be a doggy bed placed at the foot of your own bed. The main idea is that your dog has a space to call his own to relax and wind down from the busy day.

Another idea, especially if your pet has a lot of dog and puppy toys, is to give your dog his own toy box. Over time, he will come to understand that the toy box belongs to him, and he’ll go in regularly to grab his toys when he feels like playing.

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13. Take him for car rides

Every dog has a different experience traveling in a car. If you find that your pooch enjoys car rides (without getting car sick that is), by all means take him on car rides – even if it’s a ride to the local coffee shop drive-thru.

It’s mostly time with you that your pup is after; that and sticking his head out the window to enjoy a fresh breeze. But, it’s mostly about the two of you spending time together.

14. Give him dog treats

Use healthy dog treats as a positive reinforcement when your dog is going through training. But you can use some treats outside of training as well. Many aspiring pet treat makers create adorable homemade “cookies” for your dog.

These cookies are available at many pet stores and are sometimes themed to match the season of the year. Consider getting a stash of these for an extra special treat for your dog. Because after all, who doesn’t love cookies?

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9 Dangerous Foods For Dogs You May Not Know About We all like to treat our pets every now and again, but sometimes our good deed can put our dog’s health in danger. In this blog post we’ll outline the top 10 foods you should never feed your dog, and why they’re harmful to your pet’s health.

Avocado

Although they are known as a super food for humans, avocados are very dangerous for dogs. They contain a toxin called Persin which is harmless to humans, but too much of it can hurt your pet. If you grow avocados, keep your dog away from the plant as Persin is also found in the leaves, seeds and bark.

Alcohol

Even a small amount of alcohol can have harmful effects on your pet. Drinks such as beer, wine and spirits will

have the same effect on your dog’s liver and brain as it does yours, although the experience won’t be as fun as it is for you! The smaller your dog is, the worse the effects of alcohol will be. The

effects can include vomiting, breathing problems and the effects can potentially be fatal.

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Onions and garlic

Any type of onions or garlic, whether raw, powdered or cooked, can kill your dog’s red blood cells and cause anaemia and food poisoning. Whilst a very small dose of onion or garlic on the odd occasion won’t do any harm, large quantities of these foods can be harmful. If your dog has ingested either of these foods, look out for weakness, breathing problems and vomiting and take them to your vet if you are concerned.

Caffeine

Caffeine may be man’s best friend, but it should be kept well away from your pet. It’s not just the freeze-dried stuff, but coffee beans and grounds can harm your dog too. Signs that your dog has

ingested caffeine include restlessness, fast breathing and muscle twitching.

Dairy

We’ve all done it – given our dog a couple of licks of our ice cream on a hot summer day, but any dairy based product can make your pet ill. Dairy foods can give your pet digestive problems, and can also trigger food allergies and potentially leave your dog with a skin infection.

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Chocolate

It’s not chocolate itself that can hurt your dog, its theobromine, a chemical found in chocolate, even dark and white chocolate. It can give your dog non-life threatening symptoms like vomiting and diarrhoea, but it can also cause seizures, heart problems and potentially even death. Make sure you keep chocolate well out of the reach of your dog!

Fruit with pips

Any seeds will cause serious issues with your dog’s digestive system. They can become lodged in their small intestines, in some cases blocking it completely. Peach and Plum pits are extremely dangerous to dogs as they contain cyanide. We understand that we shouldn’t eat the pit, but your furry friend doesn’t.

Raw eggs

There was a trend not long ago which included dog owners feeding their pet a ‘raw diet’ full of nutrients, which included raw eggs. Veterinary associations

publicly warned pet owners against this diet as raw food, especially eggs, carry the risk of bacteria such as E. coli or salmonella.

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Sugary foods and drinks

If you’re sharing your sugary foods with your dog, stop immediately. Sugar does the same thing to dogs as to humans, including inducing weight gain, teeth problems and diabetes. Even the occasional sweet treat can cause upset to your dog’s stomach. Try giving them a special dog treat instead.

Coconut

If coconut is given to your dog as a once a while treat, it

shouldn’t do much harm to them. However, if ingested

regularly, the milk and flesh of a coconut can cause

stomach pains, vomiting and diarrhoea. Coconut water is also

not good for your dog, as the high levels of potassium can cause heart problems for your pet.

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25 Most Serious Dog Health Symptoms That You Should Never Ignore Dogs can be very good at hiding illnesses from their owners. They get this from their ancestors that used to hide when they were sick, as a sick dog was vulnerable out in the wild. Sometimes the symptoms they are showing don’t seem severe enough to warrant a trip to the vet, but there are some dog health symptoms that cannot be ignored.

Our dogs are more than pets, they are precious members of our family, and we have to always be on the lookout for any symptoms and changes in our dog’s behaviour that may be cause for concern. If you’re an attentive owner, chances are you spend hours each day observing your pet without even realising it. It’s likely that you’ll notice a change in his normal behaviour almost instantly.

There are many symptoms to look out for that may indicate there’s a problem. But how do we know which ones should be checked by a veterinarian? This is largely a judgement call for you, but a quick phone call to your vet is a good starting point. There are certain dog health symptoms that cannot be ignored and should be checked immediately by your vet.

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1. Difficulty Urinating If your dog is having difficulty urinating this could mean that there is a blockage or possibly a urinary tract infection. Excessive urination or straining when trying to urinate could also be symptoms of a tumour.

2. Drinking too much If your dog is drinking excessively along with gagging, diarrhoea and tightness of the stomach this could be what’s known as bloat, which is also known as gastric torsion.

Drinking too much can also be a symptom of liver disease, diabetes and also bladder stones. When walking your dog keep an eye on just how much urine he is passing. It’s a clearly one of the dog health symptoms that cannot be ignored.

3. Lethargy There are many reasons as to why your dog may be lethargic, and these could include urinary tract infections and heart worms. These conditions will cause your dog to be sleepy, and he will be moving around a lot less than usual.

4. Scooting If your dog is scooting on the floor then this could be an indication of worms, a trip to the vet is definitely necessary. Scooting can also be a sign of fluid that may have built up in your dog’s anal sacs. Your vet will be able to drain the anal sacs for you.

5. Weight loss If your dog has lost weight, and quite quickly too, then this could be a sign of many conditions including loss of smell, a nervous system disease, digestive diseases, liver disease, cancer and also diabetes.

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6. Gum inflammation Inflammation of your dog’s gums could be a sign of gingivitis, and with gingivitis your dog is likely to have bad breath too. Gum inflammation can also be caused by diseases and infections and other conditions that involve the mouth.

7. Loss of appetite There are many reasons why your dog may have lost his appetite including a blockage of the stomach, liver disease, heart disease, nausea and also blockage of the intestines.

8. Drooling excessively Drooling is a very important warning sign as it can be a symptom of an allergic reaction. Your dog’s throat may be swelling causing him to drool more than usual.

9. Trouble breathing This is one of the most crucial dog health symptoms that cannot be ignored. There are numerous reasons as to why your dog may have trouble breathing including: • heart failure • kennel cough • bronchitis • pneumonia • allergic reactions • asthma • tumors • disease • fever • pain • reaction to medications

10. Sensitive when touched If your dog is sensitive when you touch him then this could be a symptom of bloat, which is also known as gastric torsion as already mentioned. Bloat is a very serious medical condition and your dog will have to go to the vets ASAP.

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11. Body lumps Lumps on the body can be fat pockets which are benign tumours and are common in older dogs. Body lumps can also indicate inflammation and tumour that need looking at by your vet.

12. Limping If your dog is limping he may have been injured, or something could be stuck inside his paw. It could also be a symptom of joint disease and also other diseases such as cancer. If you have an older dog then it could be a symptom of hip dysplasia and also arthritis.

13. Dull coat If your dog’s coat has suddenly become dull and rough, this could be a sign of a vitamin deficiency or also a food allergy. Hyperthyroidism could also be the cause along with kidney disease.

14. Vomiting repeatedly All dogs vomit from time to time but when your dog is continuously vomiting you know something is very wrong. There are many reasons for vomiting that include internal blockages, kidney disease and also digestive disorders.

15. Seizures Seizures in dogs can be caused by a bacterial infection, epilepsy, brain tumours and liver disease.

16. Fever If your dog has a temperature that’s over 102.5 degrees then this is a medical emergency. Fever really is a major warning sign and certainly one of the most important

dog health symptoms that cannot be ignored.

17. Coughing up or vomiting blood This is also known as hematemesis and

can be a symptom of bowel disease, oesophagus issues, ulcers, liver failure, head injuries, infections,

heart worms, tuberculosis and also pulmonary diseases.

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18. Overheating Overheating can be extremely dangerous for your dog and can be caused by temperature inside and outside. Never let your dog become too hot, as this will lead to serious health problems.

19. Pale gums Pale gums are a major dog health symptom that cannot be ignored. There are many reasons for pale gums including liver disease, heart problems, shock and internal bleeding. Your dog may also be jaundice if liver disease is the reason for his pale gums.

20. Fainting Fainting is the loss of consciousness and is a medical emergency, as there are many reasons for it including stress, imbalance of vitamins, heart tumours, heart disease and also excitement.

21. Paralysis of your dog’s back legs There are many reasons as to why your dog

may not be able to move his back legs including slipped back discs, distemper, blocked blood flow, genetic disorders, brain

infections, spinal infection, blood clots, toxins, tumours, injury and

hyperthyroidism. Your dog’s paralysis of the back legs could also be caused by ticks.

22. Enlarged Abdomen This can be a sign of a condition known as bloat and is a medical emergency. An enlarged abdomen can also be caused by fluid build up and liver disease.

23. Allergic reaction There are many reasons dogs have allergic reactions including medications, vaccines, foods, fleas and heart worms.

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24. Scratching continuously If your dog is scratching excessively then it could be a sign of skin conditions, fleas, dermatitis, mange or an allergic reaction. It may not seem like this is one of the top dog health symptoms that cannot be ignored, but if left untreated excessive itchiness could lead to something much worse.

25. Snorting and sneezing constantly There are many things that can cause your dog to sneeze and snort a lot including weeds and allergies, some breeds of dogs also reverse sneeze.

By knowing the most serious symptoms to look out for, we will be ready to help our pups get treatment as quickly as possible.

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14 ‘Why Does My Dog Do That” Questions Finally Answered Dogs do strange things, and we’ve all asked ourselves “Why does my dog do that?” Most of these questions have no answers, but some strange quirks are actually commonly seen in dogs. We’ve rounded up the top canine conundrums and found the answers you’ve been looking for.

Keep in mind that dogs with weird habits have usually had those habits their entire lives. If your pup begins exhibiting strange behaviour out of the blue, it’s best to seek the advice of your veterinarian.

You may not realise that many “quirks” can actually be signs of an underlying health issue. Licking, snorting, excessive sleeping and other seemingly harmless behaviours can actually be symptoms of very serious diseases and medical conditions.

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1. Why Does My Dog Lick My Feet?

Dogs may lick your feet for a number of reasons, the first being salt and acidity. When your dog licks the sweat on your feet he tastes the acidity and salt, a flavour and taste sensation that he finds pleasurable.

The second reason that your dog may lick your feet is scent. One way that our dogs experience enhanced scent is through taste, just like we do! So it could be that your dog is just getting a good idea of what your feet smell like by licking them!

Lastly, it could be that he may be licking your feet because he finds the process of licking them to be soothing. Behaviourists believe that the very act of licking releases endorphins for a dog, creating a calming and pleasurable sensation. So licking your feet could quite literally be the equivalent of a “runner’s high” for your dog!

2. Why Does My Dog Growl at Me for No Reason?

Dogs never growl for no reason, so if your dog is growling at you, there is a reason behind it. The overwhelming reason for most dogs growling at their owners is aggression. This aggression can be the result of a previous owner’s mistreatment, a lack of proper handling and socialisation, or learned aggression.

Occasionally, this aggression may also be biological in nature. In these instances, growling may be caused by genetic conditions or poor health.

If faced with unexplained growling in your dog, consult your veterinarian immediately. If your pet is cleared by his veterinarian for possible causes of aggression, consult a behaviourist who specialises in canine aggression. It is crucial to address any sign of aggression in your dog immediately.

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3. Why Does My Dog Sleep So Much?

The average adult dog sleeps between 12 and 14 hours a day. The average puppy sleeps between 18 and 19 hours a day. The average senior dog sleeps between 16 and 18 hours a day.

If your dog is sleeping more than this average, consider how much exercise he is getting and how vigorous that exercise is. Just like us, our dogs need time to recover following rigorous exercise, so this will increase his need to sleep.

If Fido is sleeping more than average and is relatively inactive, it may be time to consult your veterinarian. It is possible that your dog just needs more sleep than most, but there are some health conditions like anaemia, infection, heart disease, and diabetes, that can cause lethargy and sleepiness.

4. Why Do Dog’s Eat Their Own Vomit?

Why Does My Dog...Many dogs eat their own vomit and there are a few theories as to why. Primarily, when a dog eats too quickly or tries to eat larger pieces of food than can comfortably pass down the oesophagus, he will throw up.

When this happens, the food that has been thrown up is not much different than the food that your dog ate the first time since it has not been digested. In this case, the dog will re-consume the food simply because it’s food!

In other incidences, when a dog vomits, he eats the vomit to clean up the mess that has been made. Many dog

owners think that this is due to “embarrassment” or fear that they will

be in “trouble” for throwing up on the carpet. This is actually a

behaviour that stems from instinct.

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When living in a den, wild dog mothers will keep the living space clean by eating any mess inside it – yes, this includes waste from puppies! So if a dog vomits in a small living space, they may eat that vomit simply to keep their space clean.

Lastly, a dog may eat vomit because it resembles the regurgitated food that they consumed as pups. As puppies wean from their mothers, they are often introduced to “solid foods” through regurgitation. The mother dog will regurgitate partially digested food to feed the pups and the pups will consume it. Vomit isn’t much different to this regurgitated food and to dogs, it’s simply edible sustenance!

5. Why Does My Dog Keep Licking the Air?

Dogs do not only smell with their noses, they also smell with their mouths! A dog’s olfactory system includes something called the Jacobson’s Organ which plays a role in detecting and deciphering certain molecules in the air. When dogs lick the air,

they may be washing scent molecules back to the Jacobson’s organ so that they have a

better understanding of their environment.

Dogs also lick the air as a compulsive behaviour when nervous or excessively stressed, when they have dental pain

or discomfort, prior to vomiting, before seizure activity, and when suffering from canine dementia. If a dog exhibits constant air licking behaviour or shows other signs

of poor health in addition to air licking, it is important to get a health evaluation as soon as possible.

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6. Why Does My Dog Eat Sticks?

Dogs may eat sticks for a couple of different reasons. Firstly, chewing is a natural instinct for dogs. If sticks are available, then it is likely that they will become the target of chewing simply because they meet the natural desire to chew.

Secondly, dogs also chew out of anxiety and nervousness. This is more of a destructive behaviour that provides an outlet for nervous energy and can even soothe the dog by redirecting his anxiety.

Thirdly, a dog may eat sticks because he is malnourished and has nothing else to eat. Now, it is unlikely that this is the case for your dog, but if he has been malnourished in the past he may still replicate stick eating behaviour.

Lastly, just like people, dogs can suffer from pica – a medical issue in which they eat or crave eating items that are not food. If your dog eats sticks, he should be prevented from doing so in the future to avoid splinters, intestinal perforations, illness, etc. You should also have him evaluated by a vet for underlying causes for the behaviour.

7. Why Do Small Dogs Shake?

Shaking or trembling is a behaviour most commonly seen in small dogs like Chihuahua’s. Most often the cause for this trembling is coldness. Small dogs, particularly those with thin, short coats are very susceptible to chilling in cooler weather. This can be prevented by using dog clothing to keep the dog warm in cooler temperatures.

Another common cause of shaking in small dogs is fear or anxiety. Smaller dogs have a tendency to feel

fearful as a result of constantly being picked up or babied by their owners. This can be

avoided by treating a small dog just like any other dog and not carrying them

everywhere.

Shivering or trembling is also the

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result of excitement. This is not limited to smaller dogs, large dogs can also tremble with excitement and their teeth may even chatter. Lastly, shivering can be symptomatic of illness such as distemper. This is very unlikely, though, if a dog is kept up to date on vaccinations and annual veterinary exams.

8. Why Do Dogs Lick Each Other?

Dogs lick each other for many different reasons. You may be able to tell why a dog is licking another from the circumstances surrounding their meeting.

Some of the most common reasons that dogs lick each other include:

Submission – Dogs will lick each other as a sign of submission, this is usually accompanied by a submissive or crouching posture. Hunger – It is not uncommon for puppies to lick an older dog’s mouth as a prompt to be fed. Young puppies prompt the mother dog to regurgitate food for them by specifically licking her mouth. For a short period after weaning, this behaviour may still be seen. Greetings – Some dogs will lick other dog’s faces as a greeting. This is often used as a way for your dog to convey a message of a “peaceful hello”. Medical care – Anything from an open wound to a tumour that can’t be seen with the naked eye can prompt a dog to lick another dog. This can be seen as a sign of concern or as a desire to assist a friend in need. Dental trouble – A dog that licks inside another dog’s mouth may be indicating dental difficulties. It could easily be that a piece of food is hidden away in there, but if a dog continually licks inside the mouth of another, it’s time to check for dental disease, infection, or other signs of illness. Grooming – Dogs often lick each other’s ears as a means of grooming each other. This is usually a behaviour that is seen only between two dogs that trust each other, however. Ear infections – Dogs with long or pendulous ears often experience yeast infections inside their ears. This yeast emits a sweet odour that can attract another dog and cause licking behaviour. This should obviously be

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discouraged and infected ears treated immediately to avoid eardrum perforation. Pheromone attraction – Researchers have found that the skin around an adult dog’s ears may emit pheromones that make them attractive to younger dogs. The reason for this, if true, is likely to encourage social behaviour among packs and communication between individuals.

9. Why Does My Dog Lick My Arm?

There are multiple reasons why your dog may be licking your arm, the first being affection. There are only so many ways that a dog can display his affection and licking is one of them.

Another reason that your dog may be licking your arm is sweat, similar to the reasons listed above that he may want to lick your feet. The salt and acid taste of sweat can provide your dog with a pleasurable sensation that he will seek out when possible.

Your dog may also be licking your arm because it comforts him. Licking can be a sign of a stressed or anxious dog that is trying to find comfort through repetitive behaviour. Lastly is the obvious answer, it could be that you have spilled something on your arm that is attracting your dog. Even the smallest drop of barbecue sauce can’t escape your pup’s powerful nose!

10. Why Does My Dog Hump My Leg?

Dogs “hump” for a number of reasons, but when Fido humps your leg it is most often the result of a playful gesture and nothing to do with sex. Dogs will often mount each other as a playful sign, almost like a game of leapfrog without the actual leaping.

This should not be confused with the more aggressive hump that characterises a

desire for dominance.

Dogs use humping behaviour to exert power or dominance

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over each other, but this is less seen in owner-dog relationships unless the owner has no control over their dog. Dogs can also hump out of excitement. When a dog gets carried away and overwhelmed with exciting feelings he may mount or even masturbate as a way to release that emotion.

Lastly, humping may simply be that – a sexual behaviour. It may be that your dog is seeking a sexual release even if he is spayed or neutered. Fortunately, dogs usually exhibit this behaviour with toys or their bed rather than their human’s legs.

11. Why Does My Female Dog Hump My Male Dog?

Dogs hump for four main reasons – sexual urges, establishing dominance, playing, or an attempt to release their overwhelming emotional feelings over a specific situation.

When a female dog mounts and humps a male dog, however, the reason is almost always a result of needing to establish dominance or an act of play. 12. Why Does My Dog Lick His Paws So Much?

The average dog will lick his paws to groom himself, but he will not do this obsessively. A dog that excessively licks his paws is facing a veterinary concern that needs to be addressed. If left unaddressed, the licking can easily cause sores, bleeding, dry and irritated skin, redness, baldness, and lameness.

Common causes for obsessive paw licking include:

Allergies – Either environmental or food allergies can cause itching, redness, dry skin, hair loss, irritation, and excessive licking. This can only be treated through a process of elimination or allergy testing to determine the cause. Bacteria or Yeast – Bacterial or yeast infections of the paws can cause extreme redness and itching, which cause the dog to bite and chew his paws as well as lick them obsessively. Treatment

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includes the application of topical cream as well as oral steroids, anti-fungals, or antibiotics. Irritation – Stepping on a thorn, getting a splinter, burning paws on hot asphalt, etc… can all cause irritation to the paws and cause a dog to lick them in an effort to soothe his pain. Treatment includes identifying the culprit and treating its effects immediately. Compulsion – Dogs that experience nervousness and anxiety find repetitive actions like licking or chewing paws, to be comforting. This should be discouraged by providing a distraction for the dog as well as considering anxiety aids. Other Health Concerns – Some dogs have been known to lick their paws repetitively when suffering from cancer in that affected limb. Not all dogs will do this, but when other possible causes have been ruled out, an x-ray of the affected limb may be helpful.

13. Why Do Dogs Bark at Strangers?

Dogs bark as a means of communication and just like people, the environment and situation the dog is in has a lot to do with what he is saying. If a stranger is approaching the dog’s home, walking in his yard, or opening the front door, the dog will bark to alert his owner of the stranger’s approach as well as to defend his territory against the stranger.

If a stranger is standing over a dog or approaching him quickly, the dog will bark at them to warn the stranger off. This is a different bark than the “get out of my space” bark mentioned previously. It is a more severe bark that tells the stranger “I have teeth, I am dangerous, back off”.

If a stranger is passing by a dog that is tied outdoors, has been mistreated or is malnourished, barking may also be a way for the dog to get attention. This bark can quite literally be a way for the dog to say “Hey! Pay attention to me!” or “Hey! I’m hungry!”

If a stranger is passing by a dog that is overly friendly, but that stranger does not stop to greet the dog, the

dog may also bark then. This is more of an irritated bark, the dog’s way of saying “Hey! Why didn’t you

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stop to play with me?” or “Hey! Look at me!”

14. Why Do Dogs Tilt Their Heads at You?

Isn’t it so cute when your dog looks at you with his head titled to one side? Very. But why does he do this? The reason being is usually because your Fido is trying to understand what you are saying.

He might also be trying to read your face more clearly or attempt to hear your voice and commands. There are several theories on why do pets do this, but no hard proven facts.

Maybe your pooch is listening in to hear the magic words: “treats,” “walk,” “food,” “car ride.” Maybe he’s trying to figure out where a certain sound is coming from and what to do with it (with that command or word). We still can’t say for sure, but Stanley Coren, a famous dog psychologist and author, has a very interesting theory on this which he came up with after conducting a survey online.

“We know that dogs continually scan our faces for information and to read our emotional state. Hence it is likely that one reason why dogs may tilt their heads when we talk to them is because they want to see our faces better, and to compensate for the way in which their muzzles obscure part of their vision.” – Stanley Coren, PhD.

15. Why Do Dogs Pee On Each Others Pee?

Why in the world do dogs pee on other dogs’ urine? They do this because they are “over marking”. If your pet is doing this, that means he’s covering the other dogs’ urine smell with his own to show that he’s now in charge here.

Contrary to popular belief, males and females both do that; however, male dogs do this more often than female dogs.

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There are also many other reasons why dogs might be urinating over someone else’s urine. It can be a social trigger: your pal or gal is attracting another dog for interaction or mating. It can be to note something new in the environment: if you pooch has notice a new smell in the environment he’s usually in, he will mark that spot with his own smell.

Other reasons can include some medical causes too, such as anxiety, urinary incontinence, infections and other things. These need to be taken care of as soon as possible, ASPCA and WebMD warns:

“A small number of dogs urine mark when distressed or anxious. Typically, this kind of marking is prompted by some perceived threat, such as an unfamiliar person or dog in the home, or the introduction of something new, such as a pet, a baby, new furniture, suitcases, grocery bags, etc. Other events and situations that cause stress and trigger urine marking include the absence of a family member, whether human or animal, or conflict between pets or family members within the home.”

16. Why Do Dogs Roll In Smelly Things?

Last but by no means least popular among interesting dog facts for kids is the reason why dogs love to roll in things that smell bad to us. Some dog experts suggest that this canine behaviour can be blamed on your dog’s ancestors, really.

Back in those olden days when dogs were wilder, they had a dog that was the “scout” dog and he would go out looking for food, then bring information back to the rest of the dog pack. If he found something dead, like a stinky fish, then it would let the pack know that there is fresher fish

nearby the stinky fish that the “scout” dog rolled in.

Another reason for this behaviour is attributed to “bathing.” Dogs may roll in gross

smelling stuff to get rid of the smell that is on them. Perhaps you just gave

him a bath with some good dog shampoo that smells of roses,

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and your four legged friend does not appreciate this smell. Most likely it smells nice to you but not to your Fido, and the first chance that he gets, he will try and get rid of that “stinky” smell by rolling in something that smells better to your pet.

Note that VCA Hospital warns about this behaviour turning into something beyond simply being annoying and smelly. Pay close attention to your dog’s behaviour to prevent or sort out any mental or physical issues:

“Whatever the reason, pet owners must make sure that this behaviour doesn’t end up putting their canine at risk. If you see your dog not just rolling in, but eating faeces, then you have a more serious problem on your hands. According to VCA Animal Hospitals, dogs who eat faeces may be exhibiting medical issues that will require a visit to one of the nearby vet clinics.”

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Thank you for downloading this ebook form The Healthy Dog Co.

We hope this has helped you understand your dog a bit better and are more clued up on the best ways to keep your dog healthy and happy.

thehealthydogco.com

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