Urinary Incontinence in Dogs

When a dog passes out urine, involuntarily, then that problem is known as urinary incontinence. Urinary incontinence in dogs can occur in both males as well as females, but it is the female dogs, especially the spayed female dogs, who are more prone to this problem. Sometimes the infection might be mistaken for a bad dog behavior, hence one has to be very careful (especially, when the dog is no longer a puppy), when you see your dogs urinating quite frequently in the house or has no control over their urination. Of course, no one loves to see man's best friend suffer like this, and that is why it is important for us to know what are the various causes of this dog health problem and also what are the various remedies that are there are in order to treat it.

Causes

This infection, while sleeping, is common when (just like a small human kid wets his bed) the dog, suffering from this problem, too wets its bed. A wet spot might also be created even while the dog is walking or when it is just sitting and the hind quarters of the dog will be wet just after sleeping or lying down. So what are the various causes? Here are some of the important causes behind dog incontinence:

• One main cause of incontinence might be some sort of a bladder infection. This is a common cause specially among all the female dogs, irrespective of their ages. Due to a bladder infection the dog might have a strong urge to pass out urine or if the infection is not treated on time then it may prevent the bladder from stretching in order to hold the urine.
• If the urethra of the dog is blocked due to formation of stone or tumor, then the urine cannot pass out properly, and thus they start collecting in the bladder. The urine now exerts a pressure which forces some of it to seep out from around the blockage. If this is the cause then the dog needs to be treated soon otherwise it could be fatal.
• The sphincter muscles are the ones that controls the passing out of the urine from the bladder. When this muscle relaxes, then the urine is passed out and this is the same muscle which controls the passing out of urine in both humans and dogs. When this muscle relaxes a bit too much in dogs, then canine incontinence occurs.
• Another dog incontinence cause is spaying or neutering of dogs. After this process the estrogen hormone (in female dogs) and testosterone hormones (in male dogs) are no longer produced and these were the ones that are responsible for toning the sphincter muscles.

Natural Treatments

Natural treatments are the best treatments for treating a problem such as this. But before you start off with the treatment, it is best that you find out the cause of the incontinence and depending upon the causes the treatment can be carried out. Some of the natural remedies are grain free diet, wild yam for its anti-inflammatory properties which in turn helps in getting rid of any issues related to urinary tract. Besides these natural remedies there are several other homeopathic treatments as well such as turnera, gelsemium, and causticum. You can also ask your veterinarian for help in case your dog has this problem.

In case you notice this problem in your dog, then either start off with the natural treatments or take them to the vet to make sure what are the causes of this problem. This can happen to dogs of any age and mainly to female dogs. Hence you have to be extra cautious, especially with an old dog. With proper care, they can be cured.

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How Long is a Dog in Heat

How long is a dog in heat? This is probably one of the most popular question posed by all those pet owners who have their female pet dogs going into heat for the first time. Well, for all those pet owners who are confused by the erratic behavior of their dogs and do not know what to do with dogs in heat, here is information on the dog heat cycle and symptoms of your dog being in heat.

Dog Heat Cycle: How Long is a Dog in Heat?

Female dogs which have not been spayed enter the heat or the estrus cycle which lasts for around 21 days. This period marks the time when the sexual receptivity of the dog is high. Based on the breed and the size of the dogs, the start of the estrus cycle and duration may vary greatly. However, in general, dogs undergo their first heat cycles when they are aged six to twelve months. Usually smaller dog breeds have heat cycles when they are five months old as opposed to the larger breeds who may not have it till they are around twelve months old.

The heat cycle of a dog is divided into four stages. These are classified as proestrus, estrus, diestrus (also called metestrus) and anestrus.

Proestrus Phase: Lasting around five to twenty days, this phase of the heat cycle is the time when the dog is menstruating. During this phase the dog has bright red discharge which becomes lighter as the days go on. Since this is the phase that you would find the male dogs swarming the place, your dog would be shying around other dogs and have her tail tucked under the swollen uvula. This is accompanied by a lack of appetite and an increase in urination.

Estrus Phase: The estrus cycle in dogs lasts for around four to twenty days. This is the time when she is ready to mate and is thus more receptive to the male dogs. Most of the time, you would find your dog rubbing her rear end on walls, fences and other objects.

Diestrus/ Metestrus Phase: If the dog has mated successfully, then during this phase the fertilized eggs attach to the uterine wall. This phase then stretches on to around sixty days of pregnancy in dogs. If the eggs are not fertilized then after four to fourteen days, the female will quickly enter the anestrus phase. However keep in mind that during this phase the dog may display symptoms of false pregnancy, such as enlarged mammary glands and milk production.

Anestrus Phase: The end of the heat cycle or the period between two cycles lasts for around five to six months.

Dog Heat Symptoms

It is difficult for people to make out if their dog is in heat. Certain symptoms such as increased urination, swollen uvula and menstrual bleeding are some of the signs of female dogs in heat. If you find male dogs lurking around the place and following her all the time then it is a sure sign that your dog is now in heat.

Proper dog care and understanding how long is a dog in heat is essential for the safety and well-being of your dog during this stage. While most people find it bothersome, handling female dogs in heat is easy when you know what to do. This includes not letting her out of the house alone and ensuring that you have her on leash when you take her out for walks. It is important that you understand that even the most obedient dogs will try to run away and mate during this phase. Spaying or neutering the dog is a good idea and it can help avoid a number of dog health problems such as mammary tumors and uterine cancer. If you plan to mate her, then consult the veterinarian for proper breeding options.

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Skin Tags on Dogs

Speaking about canine skin diseases, they result either due to microbial infections or allergic reactions. Dog skin disease symptoms like itching, discomfort, and irritation are caused by the body's overactive immune response, which is associated with excess production of antibodies. Another skin disorder in dogs is development of skin tags. This particular skin condition can affect any dog, irrespective of the dog breed and age. Let's take a closer look on how to identify dog skin tags and their removal.

Identification of Skin Tags on Dogs

Majority of the pet owners have a common doubt about dogs getting skin tags. In fact, most of them are not aware about the appearance of this skin problem. That is the reason why skin tags in dogs are often confused with dog skin cancer and other cancer forms like melanoma and keratoacanthomas. It is to be borne in mind that dog skin tags are mostly benign (not dangerous) and harmless. Very rarely, these skin outgrowth causes irritations and discomfort symptoms. As of now, the exact cause of skin tags in dogs is not very clear.

As per veterinarians, both hereditary and environmental factors play a role in causing dog skin tags. Your pet may develop skin tags anywhere in his body. It is also not unusual to have more than one skin tag. For the identification part, skin tags often develop with a pendulous base. If the same case is applicable to your pet, then the slightly elongated outgrowths are nothing serious, but they are just benign lesions. One of the least concerning issues is when such skin condition is developed on the lips or mouth area. There are chances that the skin condition is malignant. Hence, it is preferable to seek advice from a vet regarding canine skin tags on the lips and mouth. Such a case is also not related to cancer.

Skin Tags Removal

As already mentioned, skin tags on pet dogs are benign and non-cancerous. Thus, they do not require therapeutic intervention. Nevertheless, if the dog is getting irritated because of the skin outgrowth, then you can consider seeking advice from a qualified veterinarian. Examine for any abnormal changes in the dog's behavior. Pain and irritation in the affected area may be resulted due to large-sized skin tags, which get bumped or crushed with hard objects. If necessary, the veterinarian may conduct non-invasive surgery for removing the skin tags on a dog.

If the dog skin tags are not removed, make sure you check them regularly for any alterations in the size and color. As a pet owner, it is very important to understand the common dog illnesses in order to keep your pet healthy and playful. You should also have proper knowledge about dog grooming tips.

When it comes to dogs' health problems, they are mostly affected by skin and ear diseases. This is due to the fact that the skin and the ears are exposed body parts, which directly encounter environmental pollutants, microbes, and other unpleasant particles. As dogs roam here and there, it is quite possible that they come into contact with allergens and disease-causing organisms. If your pet dog has the ability to fight against them, then it will recover without manifestation of noticeable symptoms. At times, it may get afflicted with certain problems based on the causal factor and the autoimmune responses. At any point of time, taking proper dog care and making him comfortable are the first priorities for every pet owner. After all, it is this caring bond and understanding that makes your dog the best companion ever!

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How to Care for a Shar-Pei

A pretty unusual looking dog breed is the Chinese Shar-Pei or simply Shar Pei. In Ancient China, it was a palace guard dog and a favorite breed for the sport of dog fighting. Nowadays, it is a rare and prized breed due to its trademark wrinkled appearance, hippopotamus muzzle and droopy face. The coat colors among Shar Peis is also quite diverse. This dog breed makes a loving family dog, active and ideal for a small house or apartment.

Basic Shar Pei information also involves its care and maintenance. Due to its unique skin and appearance, the Shar Pei does require a lot of care and grooming. In this article, learn how to care for a Chinese Shar Pei.

Caring for Your Shar Pei

The following activities constitute the main areas in looking after a Shar Pei.

Exercise
A young Shar Pei or a puppy needs to be socialized to become familiar with humans and other animals. Shar Peis are very friendly and social, if they have met people during their formative years. If cloistered, they can become shy or very aggressive and will have separation anxiety issues, if you leave them alone. Proper Shar Pei training and behavior is essential for having a well-developed, obedient and happy dog.

The Shar Pei has a possessive and territorial nature, especially when it comes to you, his owner. As such, his loyal nature can make him a tad aggressive towards other dogs, while on a walk. So keep him on a leash for walks and keep a firm hand, to prevent him from pulling on the leash.

Make sure your Shar Pei gets a walk daily, especially if you live in an apartment. While it is not very active, Shar Peis need regular exercise and walks, otherwise they can get overactive indoors and if you want a spic and span house, you do not want an excited Shar Pei.

Chinese Shar Peis are very sensitive to heat and humid temperatures due to their thick coat. So if your Shar Pei is outdoors, make sure he has plenty of shade and water, to keep him cool. If he has had an intense workout, bring him in for a while to cool down or let him rest for a bit.

Grooming
The thick wrinkles and short coarse hair require attentive grooming. Brush your Shar Pei at least 5-7 times a day. One a week, brush his coat down with a bristle brush to remove dead hair. Do not trim or cut his coat.

Shar Peis do not like water and hence do not like baths. They can be very evasive, when it comes to bathing time. Bathe them as required (once a week), especially if they have been playing around in the mud. Shampooing should be done once, every 2 weeks, not more than that. Shampoo can dry up the Shar Pei's sensitive skin. Also while bathing your Shar Pei, do not wet his ears. They are highly sensitive and could get infected.

After bathing, dry your Shar Pei properly. No moisture or water should remain in the folds of his skin or his wrinkles. You can use a hair dryer on a low heat setting, avoid aiming it at the eyes.

Nails are a key body part to groom. They need to be trimmed every 2 - 4 weeks. Do not allow your Shar Pei's nails to grow very long, as it can get very painful to walk on long nails. He may develop ingrown nails or a limp. Don't clip them very short either, you may cut the flesh instead. Your Shar Pei may not like this part of grooming and could squirm, so if you face difficulties, take him to the vet to get the nails trimmed.

Ears are another sensitive body part. Check your Shar Pei's ear canal once a week, to detect any ear infections. Redness or swollen ears with an odor is a sign of infection. The thick ear flaps can cause accumulation of wax, so you need to clean the ears with cotton buds. Do so gently.

Diet
Your Shar Pei's cute, droopy face with those soulful eyes can convince you to feed him the entire larder. But diet is one area of Shar Pei care to be especially cautious about. If you buy manufactured pet food, choose high-grade and quality products. Less vegetables and grains, more meat. Avoid soy, corn and wheat ingredient foods. The less fiber, the better.

If you make your own dog food, then ensure rich protein sources in the prepared food. Chicken, fish and beef, lightly cooked with little water will do. Minced or small cuts are good. Fish is very healthy, especially for the Shar Pei's skin. You can boil bones of mutton or beef for your pet to chew. Include some raw or cooked vegetables and rice. Eggs, scrambled are good as a variation.

Treats or snacks can be human food like yogurt, sardines and sometimes cheese. Chocolate in rare and small quantities is ok. Avoid dark chocolate completely. You can add vitamin and nutrient supplements to your Shar Pei's diet. Cod liver oil in small doses, once a week in regular food will not hurt.

A Shar Pei must be fed 2 times a day, do not overfeed him. Being a dog, he'll keep eating as long as you refill his bowl, so monitor his intake to prevent weight gain. Puppies especially, have a tendency to hog if allowed to. Shar Peis are heavy droolers, so wipe their mouths after they eat or drink, to prevent a trail of drool on your floor.

As with most dog breeds, the Shar Pei is vulnerable to inherited and breed-specific diseases and illnesses like skin, ear and mouth problems. Their eyes are highly susceptible to infections. But such health risks aside, the Shar Pei is so much more than just a fancy breed. It is loving and loyal with a touch of goofiness. It's unique appearance and look makes it stand out from the dog crowd. Kids and adults alike love it, so it makes a great family pet as well as a companion animal. Do right by your pet and invest in its health and care. With the above steps, your pooch will be healthy, happy and a joy to have around.

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How Often Should You Wash Your Dog

Bringing a pet home is certainly one of the happiest moments in life, especially if the pet is cute, loyal, friendly, and energetic. However, when it comes to bathing them, apart from the other duties of grooming and caring, there are many theories and opinions suggested. Some believe that dogs never need to be bathed, while others say that a bath once a week is compulsory. There are many others, who claim that bathing a dog once a month is beneficial and healthy. So, you see, the opinions are never-ending. So how often is too often? While some dogs require weekly baths, some might not need a bath for a whole year. The following four factors need to be considered in this regard:

1. Breed of the Dog (Type of Coat)
2. Allergies
3. Lifestyle (Habits & Activities)
4. Environment (Indoor/Outdoor)

Breed of the Dog (Type of Coat)
While some dog breeds will create a big fuss even when they are taken near the bathtub, other dog breeds, such as the Golden Retriever, love the water and are always ready to take a bath. The choice of breed plays an important role while deciding how often to bathe your dog. The purpose of bathing is not only for them to look clean, but also to protect them from skin diseases. The bathing interval depends on the coat of the dog.

Dogs with coarse, or wiry coat, like Schnauzers and Terriers need to be bathed every 4-6 weeks.
Double-coated dogs, like the Cocker Spaniel and the Pekingese, need to be bathed every 4-8 weeks.
If your dog has a smooth coat, like the Chihuahua, you will need to bathe it only once in 8 weeks.
The last category of dogs -- the non-shedding dogs, like poodles, need to be bathed every 6-8 weeks.

Dogs that have a dry skin can be bathed less frequently than dogs with an oily skin.

Allergies
If the dog is suffering from any kind of allergy, it needs to be bathed frequently. Dogs tend to absorb allergens through the skin. Weekly bathing can prevent itchiness and wash allergens away before they get a chance to penetrate into the skin. However, it is necessary to consult a vet to know the exact time interval between two baths.

Another point that you need to take into consideration is human allergies. If any member of your family is allergic to dust, dirt, or dander, you will need to wash your pet more frequently. To remove the dander that accumulates on your pet's fur, groom it every day, and give it a bath once a week.

Lifestyle (Habits & Activities)
Giving your dog a bath depends on its lifestyle as well. For instance, if you have a Labrador Retriever who loves to exercise with you, swim in ponds, and roll, or dig in dirt, you'll probably want to bathe him more often. On the other hand, if you have a Japanese Chin that rarely goes outdoors, you wouldn't need to bathe him that often.

Environment (Indoor/Outdoor)
If your dog lives indoors and sleeps in your bed, then it's a good idea to give him a bath frequently. You do not want your dog to stink and leave a heap of dirt in your house. You will obviously want a fresh-smelling dog that you can cuddle up to. Depending on the breed, the bathing interval can be anywhere between one week to a month. On the other hand, if your dog lives outside, you can increase the bathing interval.

Note.- Frequent washing is required in summer, as all dogs are likely to face the problem of tick and flea infestation. (*Frequently does not mean every day! Once a fortnight or week should be enough.)
Drying Your Dog After a Bath
This is a very important aspect that many tend to ignore. If the undercoat of the dog is not dried properly, it can lead to moist eczema spots. These spots are itchy, and the dog will chew, or scratch it, which can result in an infection if not treated. Thus, it is very important to dry your dog thoroughly after you give it a bath. Another thing to be kept in mind is, don't let your dog loose after a bath. If you do so, it might run wild, roll on the ground, rub up against furniture, and create a mess. Thus, it is advised to put him in his crate or dog house immediately, until he is completely dry.
It is recommended that you bathe your dog with natural dog shampoo, or human baby shampoo. Regular human shampoos have harsh chemicals, which strip the hair/skin of its natural oils and cause hotspots, or skin irritations. If you want to clean your dog more often, use a soap-free, or gentle moisturizing shampoo to prevent the skin from becoming dry.

No matter what the bathing interval is, groom your dog every day. This will not only keep the tangles and dander away, but also prevent mess brought about by shedding of hair. What's more? It will also strengthen the bond between you and your dog! As a general rule, if you find that the dog is smelly and/or his coat is dirty, you should go ahead and give him a bath. Remember, a clean dog is a happy dog!

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Ear Infections in Dogs

Ear infections in dogs are common and can easily go unnoticed by most owners. These infections are mostly the outcome of the buildup of microorganisms such as yeast and bacteria in the outer ear canal.

How Do You Know if Your Dog Has An Ear Infection

Intensely scratching the ear, vigorous shaking of the head and whining or crying when ear is touched, are the alarming signals of an ear infection. These symptoms may be an outcome of extensive irritation of the animal's ear canal which may be caused due to excessive flow of ear discharge. Also, unpleasant odor originating from the ears is also a probable symptom of a bacterial infection or possibly an inflammation. Other symptoms include painful or sensitive ear, thick wax build-up. Severe symptoms can take the form of tumor inside the ear canal which can further worsen to hearing loss and other serious complications.

Home Remedies

Application of essential oils has been an age-old remedy for treating such infections in dogs. Oils such as that of olive, not only treat the infections, but also help preventing any recurrences. Also, owners can make use of effective dog ear cleaning solutions to treat their pets at home. However, these solutions are best when obtained with a prior consultation from the vet. Get a cotton and moisten it with the cleaning solution. Using this, wipe off the ear as carefully and steadily as possible. This clean up must be regularly followed, so as to help your pet recuperate sooner.

It is also a good practice to trim off the hair growing from the inside of the ear canal. Doing this would curb the chances of bacteria, yeast or other parasites to make the dog's ear a host to live in and thrive. Ensure that your pet is secured properly, while you are performing this treatment. Feeding your dog a healthy, homemade diet provides a great deal of help in not only treating the present infection, but also preventing it in near future. It has to be remembered that the diet must lack the inclusion of ingredients, such as corn, additives and preservatives. The reason? These foods tend to increase the production of earwax, which further increases the risk of ear infections. Try adding vitamin C in your dog's diet. It helps the adrenal glands to produce a natural steroid which reduces inflammation. Regarding the dosage of the vitamin, a vet must be consulted.

An organic diet also helps in preventing and treating ear infections. Such a diet helps in keeping the immune system of your dog strong and prepare the dog's health against the attack of any ear pathogens. Other natural home remedies include Marigold and Tea Tree Oil (which serves as natural antiseptics), and Rosemary extracts (which functions to strengthen the dermal layer).

Ignorance towards the early signs of diseases such as ear infections is one of the dreaded mistakes, which most dog owners are susceptible to commit. All you need to do is to spend adequate time with your friend, understanding him, his humble needs and any discomfort he may be going through. Following these simple steps do save a great deal of time, money and most importantly your friend's life in some cases.

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How to Find German Shepherd Puppies for Adoption

German Shepherd dogs can be a great gift that can be given to a person whom you love. The reason for this is that, a dog is a great pet to have and considered to be human beings best friend. These German Shepherds are available in different colors and are well-known for their strength and intelligence. Adopting a German Shepherd, at times, can be a very challenging yet difficult job, as you have to be on your toes to provide your puppy safe, peaceful and comfortable atmosphere. Your German Shepherd puppy will shower you with a lot of love and a long companionship, if you dare and adopt it.

Pet Shops
You can get the details related to German Shepherd puppies that are up for adoption, if you inquire at the local pet shops which sell them. Many pet lovers are known to buy them from these pet shops which contain a wide range of variety, and the chances of you getting your desired pet are more. It may happen that a particular pet shop you visit does not have the pet you want. But, in such cases, the pet shop owner can make some arrangements, so that your German Shepherd dog adoption is possible at the earliest.

Contact an Owner
There are people who are very eager to own a dog, but don't know how to adopt one. Such people can roam around in their free time and find out a person who has the German Shepherd in their locality. Take all sorts of tips, related to the amount of money to be paid to the shop owner, how to take care of the puppy, what kind of food should it be given, etc. Choosing the right puppy is a tough job, but it has to be done just once.

Animal Shelters and Organizations
You can also take help and assistance from breed rescue organizations, for a specific type of German Shepherd puppy and animal shelter groups, and also the pet rescue groups in case you have not decided on a particular type of puppy. You can get the opportunity to adopt German Shepherds who have been neglected by people through organizations such as 'Adopt a German Shepherd' and 'German Shepherd Rescue'. Your local animal shelters too may have puppies for adoption. Another advantage of contacting a rescue group or animal shelter is that they conduct a thorough medical check up of the pet before handing it over to you. This can protect you from those people who deliberately do not inform you about the pet's health, while selling it to you.

Advertisements
Many people across the world post advertisements related to puppies for adoption on the Internet. Many of these people are dog breeders who can train you in taking care of your German Shepherd puppy apart from just selling it. Since the German Shepherd is one of the most popular dog breeds, you will definitely get to know of institutions and individuals who wish to sell them, through the advertisements.

Points to Remember

Now, even though you know the source for German Shepherd dog adoption, you should remember some vital things before actually buying one.

• When you go to see the puppies, carefully observe their behavior and decide buying the one which you really like.
• Introspect and ask yourself if you have the capacity, time and money which is required to take good care of the puppy.
• As mentioned above, ensure that the puppy is in good health. The puppy should be vaccinated against all diseases as per the set guidelines.
• At home, you should have enough space for the puppy, to help him live comfortably.
• Try and create a good environment for the puppy and collect information about what to feed it, how much to feed, maintaining general cleanliness, etc. from dog breeders.

The most important thing to ask yourself before you adopt a puppy is that do you really like animals? If the answer is yes, then you and your pet will be happy and your bond will grow strong.

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What Causes Vertigo in Dogs?

The cause of vertigo in dogs is idiopathic i.e. it is not clearly known. Intense form of vertigo or dizziness in elderly canines is known as old dog vestibular disease. The presence of this disease in dogs is marked by the following symptoms: head tilt, inability to stand properly, circling, etc. The dog is likely to stumble while walking. The rhythmic flicking movement of eyes is also one of the vertigo symptoms in dogs. Vertigo in dogs can also result in vomiting and nausea. In severe cases, dogs tend to lose their balance and fall. The brief and intermittent symptoms that result from mild vertigo often go unnoticed. The facts about what causes vertigo in dogs, symptoms and treatment measures presented in this article should help in understanding more about this medical condition.

Vertigo in Dogs: Causes

The vertigo causes in dogs, as stated earlier, are idiopathic. There are however, some causes that can be associated with vertigo. It is necessary to understand that occurrence of vertigo is a part of a larger and complex problem. Liver problems and indigestion can be the probable reasons behind vertigo in dogs. Malnutrition and even overeating can sometimes cause vertigo. Pollutants and other hazardous chemicals that are present in the environment are other causes associated with vertigo in dogs. Neurological problems like tumors are also amongst the causes of vertigo. Let us understand more about the causes of vertigo in dogs, in detail.

Ear Infection
The inner ear infection is greatly responsible for the problem of vertigo. The signs of ear infections like shaking of head, whining, irritation due to ear discharge, etc. can be observed. Prevention and treatment of ear infection is possible with antibiotics. Also, providing the dog with homemade and especially organic food is helpful in preventing the possibility of ear infection.

Vestibular Disease
Vestibular disease is one of the reasons for observance of vertigo in dogs. In this disease, the nerve that is connected to the inner part of ear gets affected. The loss of sense of balance is the main sign or symptom of this condition. This disease is therefore, an important cause of vertigo. Vestibular disease is closely related to the problem of ear infection in a sense that the infection causes damage to the nerves of inner ear; this in turn results in vertigo. Generally the dog recovers from vestibular disease within 72 hours. If the dog doesn't recover quickly, there are chances of it being affected by tumors. Tumors that invade areas surrounding the ears and brain are more likely to cause vertigo. Consulting a veterinary doctor in such cases is advisable.

Other Causes
The health problems in dogs other than those mentioned above also cause vertigo; low blood sugar is one of these causes. Medical help is necessary to overcome this problem. A special diet or supplements can help your dog to recover fast. Besides, bites/stings of bugs may also result in dizziness. Some dogs are allergic to stings or bites, which can result in dizziness. Heart diseases may also result in the problem of vertigo. Dogs that are affected with cancerous growths could also suffer from vertigo.

Vertigo in Dogs: Remedies

Observing the behavior of dogs closely is important from the point of proper treatment. Any kind of unusual behavior observed in the behavior of dogs need to be reported to the veterinary doctor; information about changes in eating habits of the dog should also be communicated to the vet. Symptoms of vertigo that are observed in dogs make it appear a serious medical condition. However, the problem of vertigo is treatable and can be cured completely.

Vertigo in Dogs: Prevention

It is said that prevention is better than cure. Keeping your dog healthy is important from the point of preventing the occurrence of vertigo. The overall health of your dog needs to be maintained. Providing the dog with a balanced diet is very important. It is also important that the dog gets enough exercise on a regular basis. Keeping the dog clean and maintaining a hygienic environment is necessary to prevent medical problems associated with vertigo.

There are many different reasons behind dogs suffering from dizziness or vertigo. It is therefore, difficult to determine a specific cause. The information that is given in this article should provide some sort of direction in determining the specific cause.

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Choosing the Diabetic Dog Food

Many of the pet dogs are at a risk of suffering from diabetes. In fact, canine diabetes is reported as an important chronic disease of dogs. This commonly reported dog health problem is resulted due to improper insulin metabolism in the body. As we all know, the beta cells of the pancreas secrete insulin hormone and are responsible for maintaining the blood sugar level of the body. Due to some metabolic problems, the blood sugar level is elevated leading to diabetes symptoms.

There are two types of canine diabetes - type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes is caused due to little or no secretion of insulin hormone, whereas type 2 canine diabetes is caused when the body's cells become resistant to insulin. In both the situations, the blood glucose level of the affected dog is higher than the normal level. Majority of the cases of diabetes in dogs are of type 2.

Tips for Choosing the Diabetic Dog Food

For a diabetic dog, controlling the blood glucose level is the first and foremost treatment approach. Usually, insulin injections are delivered under the supervision of a veterinarian. In addition, care should be taken about the oral medication and diet of the pet suffering from diabetes. Let's see some of the basic tips, which will help you in choosing healthy food for a diabetic dog.

Diabetic dog food should contain less sugar, carbohydrates, and sodium. It is to be noted that the soft and moist dog food contains higher amount of carbohydrates. So, the best option is to feed a dry and balanced, canned dog food. However, always make sure that you check the label of the contents before feeding. Don't feed a canned food that is without formulations (nutritional facts) or label.

The guidelines for selecting diabetic dog food also depend upon the fitness of the pet. For instance, if the diabetic dog is overweight, then his diet should contain low-calorie and low-fat food. However, in case of underweight dogs, the nutrient content of the meal should be balanced in such a way that it contains appropriate quantity of fats (not in excess amounts).

The dog food should also contain fiber in an appropriate amount. Since fiber is beneficial in slowing down the digestion of carbohydrates, it helps in maintaining the blood glucose level of the diabetic dog. So, check the label of the canine food for the same before adding in the shopping cart.

Feeding homemade food to a diabetic dog is a good idea, provided that you consult the vet about the ingredients and the nutrient level that should be maintained while cooking. Stringent care has to be taken while preparing food for a diabetic dog. This is to ensure that the nutrient content of the homemade food is maintained properly.

As far as the feeding frequency is concerned, a diabetic dog should be fed twice or thrice a day in smaller quantities instead of giving a heavy meal at a time. Red meat should be avoided in the food as far as possible. Thus, keeping a diabetic dog healthy comes along a lot of responsibilities for the owner. In case of any doubt regarding the food and feeding habits for a diabetic dog, it is recommended to consult a vet.

The overall health of a dog depends upon the attention of the dog owner. It is the responsibility of the owner to check for any changes in the dog's behavior so that any problem related to the health of the pet can be identified in the early stages. To sum up, proper dog care and regular medical checkup should be done without fail in order to keep the canine diabetes under control.

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Puppy Teething

Bringing home a cute puppy comes along a load of responsibilities for the owner; grooming and training him to behave well is only a part of the picture. As a dutiful pet owner, you should keep a watch over changes in your puppy's behavior that indicate teeth eruption. It is quite likely that your little friend will start chewing things that comes in his way. With this brief introduction, let's try to learn more about puppy teething that you ought to know while dealing with it.

Puppy Teething: An Overview

Unlike human babies, puppy teething occurs at a very young age. As we all know, all puppies have a naturally tendency to chew things. But at teething stages, they chew instinctively just to alleviate the discomfort symptoms of tooth eruption. This means you have to be watchful towards your pet in every step. Otherwise, by the time you notice teething signs, you may already have teeth marks in furniture and shoes. Read the following information to know more about this condition in young canines.

Timeline
The first teeth to appear is baby canine, elongated teeth on each side of the mouth in the front. These long teeth will erupt when your little companion is just 3-4 weeks old. Following this, the incisors and premolars develop simultaneously at around 4-6 weeks age. A puppy with normal teething should have 28 baby teeth by the time he turns 8 weeks old. Shedding of these milk teeth begins at the age of 4-5 months.

Symptoms
Speaking about puppy teething, biting and chewing are the most noticeable symptoms. Very often, a gentle puppy shows aggressive behavior during teething stages. Other signs and symptoms of teething in puppies are bleeding, swelling and inflammation in their gum. Rarely, puppy teething is associated with whining and diarrhea conditions.

Pain Relief
For relief, apply ice over the affected gum and feed frozen (yet healthy) foods such as carrots, apples, strawberries, sweet potatoes, etc. to the pup. Another effective way is to keep teething toys in the freezer and giving them to your pet. These cold treatment will help relieve soreness in their gum.

Toys
Offering chewable toys is a good approach to address puppy teething discomfort. You can purchase such items from your local pet stores. While selecting toys, ensure that they are safe for your pet. You can opt for rope toys and rawhide chewies, which your little friend will be interested in biting. Consider rotating the toys, so that your cuddly friend will not feel bore of them.

Puppy Teeth Care
Brushing your puppy's teeth regularly is crucial to maintain good dental health. Select a soft toothbrush and toothpastes that are specially sold for usage in puppies. It is not unusual that your pet shows reluctant signs in the first few days. Be patient with your puppy while training him and I am sure your pet will obey you promptly. If possible brush everyday or at least several times a week.

No doubt, puppy teething causes painful symptoms and makes the pet restless. But, take it in the positive way that your cute little friend is growing up. At this stage, it is very important for every owner to spend more time with the little pet and follow proper puppy care. This way, you can reduce boredom and ease the pain that he is through. Last but not the least, get your pet check by a qualified veterinarian to examine whether everything is going right or not. Most probably the vet will prescribe proper diet and remedies to ensure a good dental health.

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Dog Illness Diagnosis

A dog, the most loyal pet on this earth, who loves you more than you love yourself. Ones a dog becomes a significant member of a family, he too needs equal attention, love and care as any other member. They are capable of expressing every emotion in just one language and that is 'love'. So, it becomes our responsibility to take proper dog care.

There are many problems that a dog faces, but unfortunately he cannot tell you that in decipherable language. So, we need to find the right dog illness diagnosis based on the symptoms. In this article, the symptoms and diagnosis will be discussed. Before moving on to the diagnosis and symptoms, let us review certain dog diseases.

Diseases in Dogs
Viral Infections	Rabies Canine Distemper Canine Parvovirus Canine Coronavirus Canine Herpes virus Meningitis Symptoms in Dogs Pneumonia Symptoms in Dogs
Bacterial Infection	Clostridium Kennel cough Canine Lyme Disease Leptospirosis in Dogs Staph Infection in Dogs Bacterial Infections in Dogs Salmonella Poisoning in Dogs Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever
Fungal Infection	Pythiosis Ringworm Blastomycosis Histoplasmosis Valley Fever in Dogs Fungal Infection in Dogs
Protozal Diseases	Babesiosis Coccidia in Dogs Giardia in Dogs Symptoms
Parasites	Mites Ticks Dog fleas Hookworms Heartworms Roundworms in Dogs Intestinal Worms in Dogs Symptoms of Dog Worms Intestinal Parasites in Dogs
Dog Arthritis	Panosteitis Osteoarthritis Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Hypertrophic osteopathy Osteochondritis dissecans Arthritis Symptoms in Dogs
Cardiovascular and Circulatory Diseases	Hemolytic anemia Thrombocytopenia Heart valve dysplasia Dilated cardiomyopathy Congestive heart failure Heart Murmur in Dogs Enlarged Heart In Dogs Dog Heart Attack Symptoms Degenerative mitral valve disease
Nervous System	Wobbler disease Epilepsy in Dogs Cerebellar hypoplasia Cerebellar abiotrophy Brain Tumors in Dogs Dancing Dobermann disease White dog shaker syndrome Dementia Symptoms in Dogs Neurological Disorders in Dogs
Eye Diseases	Ectropion Lens luxation Blindness in Dogs Glaucoma in Dogs Dog Eye Infection Canine Cataracts Dog Eye Problems Progressive retinal atrophy
Ear Diseases	Deafness Fly strike dermatitis Dog Ear Problems Dog Ear Infection Dog Ear Mites Symptoms
Skin Diseases	Dog allergies Dermoid sinus Dog Skin Sores Follicular dysplasia Dog Skin Cancer Itchy Skin on Dogs Skin Tags on Dogs Skin Bumps on Dogs Dermal fragility syndrome Ringworm treatment for dogs
Dog Cancer	Osteosarcoma Testicular tumors Canine lymphoma Dog Liver Cancer Lung Cancer in Dogs Malignant histiocytosis Gastrointestinal cancer Stomach Cancer in Dogs Cancer Symptoms in Dogs Canine transmissible venereal tumor
Endocrine Diseases	Canine diabetes Diabetes insipidus Addison's disease Dog Diabetes Symptoms Canine Cushing's Disease

As the dog cannot directly convey about his illness, so the master has to closely observe the dog behavior to find out the reason for his trouble. There are certain appearances and changes in the dog behavior that can tell you about his problem. These observations can help to a great extent to figure out the exact dog health problem. Now let us look at some of the common symptoms that will help in proper diagnosis.

Symptoms

• By looking at the eye of the dog you can make out that he is not well. The dog's eyes should be bright and free of any discharge. The changes in eyes like redness is an indicator of some problem to the dog.
• Generally, the dog's nose is cold and wet. If the nose is hot or dry, then it means that the dog has fever or it is due to some changes in emotion.
• Any foul smell or discharge in the ears, foreign bodies, change in the color of the ear's skin are the indicators of some problem to the dog. It might be canine ear infection or something else.
• The decrease in weight of the dog can also be a sign of dog's illness and should be immediately taken to the veterinarian.
• If you observe the increase in the weight despite eating less accompanied with abrupt rise in the consumption of water and increased urination, then these are the signs of diabetes and need immediate treatment and control on diet.
• If you observe loss in appetite or the dog stops eating at all, then it is an alarming situation. It might be because of stomach disorder or teeth and chewing problem. Dog constipation can also be caused due to stomach problem.
• If you observe the dog coughing and gagging, then it might be because of some respiratory irritation, lung congestion, cancer or heart disease.
• Sometimes you might also observe dog coughing up white foam either in the morning or during the sleep. It might be due to bilious vomiting syndrome or reflux gastritis. It is a bile from the stomach of the dog that comes out in the form of vomiting due to irritation in the stomach.

These are some of the very common symptoms that can be helpful for the diagnosis. If you are unable to understand the problem even after observing the symptoms, it is always advisable to take your pet to the doctor and get proper treatment for him. Other than this, you should take the pet regularly to the doctor who will advice you and give tips for taking care of dog health and for the timely dog vaccines.

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Smallest Dog Breed

There are plenty of dog breeds in the world from which you can choose your pet dog. You can bring home a large dog like St. Bernard or Great Dane if you have a big house and big car. However, if you are not ready for big dogs, you can always go in for some small dog breed like a toy poodle or Bichon Frise. However, if you still aren't happy with their size, you can adopt a puppy from the smallest breed.

The Smallest Puppy Breed
The smallest breed is that which is less than 22lbs in weight or shorter than 16 inches in height. You will come across many small dog breeds that are much heavier or taller, but they are considered to be a borderline between medium and small dog breeds. However, here we will concentrate on the smallest one.

According to the American Kennel Club, Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed in the world. The toy breeds according to American Kennel Club (AKC) are as follows:

• Affenpinscher
• Brussels Griffon
• Cavalier King
• Charles Spaniel
• Chihuahua dogs
• Chinese Crested
• English Toy Spaniel
• Havanese dogs
• Italian Greyhound
• Japanese Chin
• Maltese
• Manchester Terrier
• Miniature Pincher
• Papillon
• Pekingese
• Pomeranian
• Poodles
• Pug
• Shih Tzu
• Silky Terrier Toy
• Toy Fox Terrier
• Yorkshire Terrier

The Smallest of Them All
The Chihuahua has won the title of the smallest dog breed ever, hands down. The question is what does it take to become the smallest breed? A Chihuahua needs to be less than 6 pounds to be qualified as the smallest dog breed by the AKC. They should be about 6 to 8 inches tall and have a smooth, glossy coat. Or a long shaggy coat is also considered. Any other dog breed that beats the height and weight of the Chihuahua will be considered as the smallest dog breed. The second is the miniature poodle that is about 10 inches in height and 6 to 9 pounds in weight.

The record holder of the smallest dog in the world was a Chihuahua that was living in Slovakia and measured about 5 inches. After the sad demise of this record holder, the title was won by Lake Country, Florida Chihuahua named Dancer. He lost his title to two other contenders and finally the record holder title was won by Boo Boo. He is only four inches tall and the smallest dog in the world.

Information on Chihuahuas
Here's some information about the Chihuahuas in brief. Chihuahuas are devoted dogs and will protect their masters from any threat despite their size. Do not be fooled by their tiny size, they can cause much damage to as a German Shepherd would to an intruder.

Chihuahuas love to socialize and do not like being left alone by their owners. They are not suitable for owners who work all day and cannot spend time with the dog. They also are not ideal pets for children and tend to nip and growl whenever they get a chance. Although they are small, do not underestimate the dog grooming requirements of this dog. If you are not ready to commit yourself to the dog for a considerable time of your day, do not bring home this dog.

Chihuahuas are known for their devotion and ferocity and tend to become jealous when their owner showers more attention on someone else other than them. Chihuahuas are not only the smallest dog breeds in the world, but a high energy dog in a small package.

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Depression in Dogs

Is your dog looking listless and withdrawn or is constantly whining and snuggling up to you for comfort? Well, do not just disregard these symptoms as one of the lazy or bored days for your dogs. If you find your pet dog exhibiting these symptoms, then it might signal anxiety and depression in your dog. Similar to the depression symptoms in humans, dog depression is signaled by periods of inactivity, withdrawn behavior and a change in the normal habits of the dog. Most of the time, vets are unable to find out the emotional and psychological triggers of the problems as it may vary for individual dogs. However, the most common causes of depression in dogs are environmental changes, separation anxiety, physical problems or even plain boredom.

Know The Causes

Sudden changes like the arrival of a new pet or the death or moving away of a person can result in the dog becoming depressed and sad. In fact, veterinarians believe that any kind of environmental change can trigger off the depression. The death of another dog in the family or the owner is believed to be one of the primary causes of canine depression. Sometimes a change in the scenery, moving to a new place or the arrival of a new baby or a pet can result in your dog moping away for days together as the attention is shifted to the new member.

Separation anxiety in dogs is also a common trigger of the depression. My friend's dog Winny refused to touch food for days when she went out of station for a few days. This despite the fact that the other members of the family were around to look after her.

In addition to these, certain dog health problems can cause a sudden change in the behavior of the dog and subsequently lead to depression. Extreme weather changes such as extended periods of bad weather can result in anxiety and constant sulking in dogs. Doing nothing, not being able to exercise and long periods of being alone are also some of the common causes.

Dog Depression Symptoms

Similar to humans, the signs of depression in dogs include days of bad mood and morose, listless dog behavior. Some of the common symptoms include:

• Loss of appetite
• Drastic weight loss
• Lethargy
• Constipation
• Reduction in water consumption
• Excessive sleepiness
• No desire to play
• Loss of interest in activities and toys
• Slow movement
• Hair loss
• Aggressive behavior
• Restless and anxious behavior

How You Can Treat This Depression

Although it sounds trite, but most dogs bounce back from depression and anxiety with a little love and care within a few months. Keep the dog busy, let it exercise and within a few days the dog will be fine. Spending some time with the dog while engaging in its favorite activity helps to keep it entertained and happy. Reward the dog each time it looks happy and relaxed. This reinforces the good behavior. If nothing else works and the dog starts suffering from chronic or prolonged depression, then take it for a checkup with the vet to check for any sickness or chemical imbalance that can be treated with medication. Some vets recommend anti depressant medications like Prozac, Paxil, and Zoloft on a short or long term basis.

Having said this, it is also important to note that you cannot expect miracles when dealing with a psychological problem like depression in dogs. It may take days, even months, for the dog to resume its normal activities. Meanwhile, take good care of your dog and help it recover with your love and patience.

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