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About Our Dogs

Categories: Pet SafetyAuthor the hoomanPosted on No comment on Should I Get My Dog a Winter Coat?

Should I Get My Dog a Winter Coat?

I’m a new fur mom, but I grew up with a lot of big dogs (my brother was a breeder), so I’m not really into putting my Yorkie into one of those costumes where they look like they’re walking in two legs (as adorable as they look). However, with the nip in the air, I did start to wonder if perhaps a winter coat might be necessary for my dog as other people seem to think. Here’s what I found out.

The real reasons people wrap up their dogs

Putting a winter poncho for your pooch is usually a case of projection for some fur parents. Because they feel cold and bundle up when walking their dog, owners feel emotional distress when they see their pets without protection. Most people decide to hedge their bets and wrap up their dogs as warmly as they can before venturing out into the cold, cruel world.

However, most people just like to see their fur babies in fashion. Pet owners in the US spent an eye-popping $1.7 billion on pet clothing alone in 2020, about 21.62% of which was for coats and jackets. Millennials are more likely to follow the trend of humanizing their pets by purchasing clothes and costumes, some even forking out the dough for designer clothing they can’t afford for themselves. Winter coats are just part of the trend.

Fashion aside, some dogs really do need a winter coat

Some fashionable fur parents will be happy to know that some dogs do need the extra layer of protection from that Moncler nylon puffer vests they bought for $500 a pop. Sheesh.

Dogs that may need a winter coat are some smaller ones because they have more surface area relative to larger dogs. Among these are toy terriers, miniature pinschers, and chihuahuas. You can also include larger but thin dogs such as Whippets and Greyhounds in the list because they have little body fat and dogs with very thin fur.  

Dogs of any breed that are mobility-challenged tend to be less active unless they use a BFM dog wheelchair to generate some heat. If they don’t and mostly sit quietly at home, it might be a good idea to drape them with a light jacket or coat when going

Some dogs may suffer from wearing a winter coat

Canines with long or thick fur often have double layers of it, so putting on a heavy winter coat might interfere with the ability of your pet to keep the heat in because the coat weighs the fur down. Dogs with dark hair also have a natural ability to absorb heat, so they will probably need a winter coat less than a light-furred one. If your dog is active, they already generate a lot of heat, so a winter coat would be superfluous and may even overheat them.

Dogs that will most likely not thank you for spending all that dough to keep them warm and fashionable are the following breeds:

If your dog’s breed is not on this list, ask your vet if you need to get a winter coat for them.

When you should put a winter coat on your dog

Aside from breed, it would be best if you considered other factors before deciding to bundle your dog into a coat. These include wind chill, the potential for getting wet (the dog, not you), and the sunniness before you go out for a walk. It might be safe not to put it on if the weather seems to be warm enough.

However, if your dog seems reluctant to go out, starts shivering, slowing down, or acting anxious, it probably means it’s too cold, mister! If your dog breed is susceptible to the cold, it might be wise to put a coat on anyway, even when it seems warm, just to be on the safe side. You can always take it off if your dog starts looking overheated.

Age, health status, and acclimation to the cold are also factors that will come into play for your winter coat conundrum. Senior dogs, puppies, and dogs with health issues may have a hard time keeping themselves warm even indoors, so a coat would be a good idea.

Ask the vet about choosing a winter coat for your dog

If you’re playing it safe or your dog really needs a winter coat, don’t get all excited and buy the cutest outfit ever. Dogs sometimes have an allergic reaction to fabrics, so ask your vet for their recommendations.

Even then, some dogs may still be sensitive to the fabric. If your dog starts scratching, sneezing, swelling, or breaking out in hives when you put on the coat, remove the coat immediately. If your dog starts vomiting, consign the darn thing in the trash.

It is also essential that you get the size right. You don’t want it to be too tight that it’s constricting your dog’s movements or breathing or too loose that they trip over it and don’t keep them warm at all. Measure your dog according to the instructions on the retailer’s site or have someone assist you.

Summary

A winter coat for your dog can be useful during the brrr months, but you must be circumspect. The goal is to keep your dog comfortable, not chic. If your dog’s breed or circumstances dictate the need for one, then go right ahead. Otherwise, let Mother Nature’s design take over.

Now, where is that catalog?

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Categories: About Our DogsAuthor the hoomanPosted on No comment on Let Sleeping Dogs Lie (And Look for Clues of Health and Happiness)

Let Sleeping Dogs Lie (And Look for Clues of Health and Happiness)

Dogs look adorable when they are sleeping. However, did you know that sleeping positions and behavior can tell you a lot about their health and happiness?

It’s true.

Dogs, like people, spend a big portion of their lives sleeping. Depending on the age, people sleep about 7 to 13 hours, while dogs need about 8 to 20 hours a day of snooze time, although dogs sleep mostly during the day, unlike humans.

However, the most important thing about the sleeping habits of dogs is what it can tell you about how they are feeling. Since dogs can’t really speak (despite what some fur parents believe), you need to look for non-verbal signs of their overall health and well-being. Here are some clues your dog is giving you by the position they choose when sleeping and other behavior.

Position

Dogs change positions when they sleep, but again, like humans, they have a preferred position under normal circumstances. Once you identify their typical position, any changes to that will tell you something new is happening to your dog. The new thing could be an injury or pain, so be mindful of these changes.

1. Side sleeping

If your dog is sleeping on its side, congratulations! It means they feel secure and safe because this position leaves their vital organs vulnerable to attack. If they’re not worried about that, you are doing a good job providing them with a great environment. Expect them to switch to a different position when in a strange place or when there are strangers around, though.

Of course, the position also gives a clue to their personality. Dogs that choose the side sleeping position tend to be relaxed and easygoing. Their limbs might move quite frequently in this position such as kicking or twitching, but they’re probably just dreaming of chasing a running porkchop or doing battle with a one-eyed cat with a cutlass.

2. Curling into a ball

Many dogs curl into a ball while sleeping. The nose-to-tail configuration is a defensive one because it keeps the vital organs protected, and common in dogs when they are in a strange place or around strangers. Dogs in that position also move less, perhaps as a way to keep a low profile.

The position might show a sense of insecurity, but it could also mean the dog feels cold and is looking to conserve heat. Some dogs, especially smaller ones, just find the curled-up position more comfortable.

3. Tummy sprawl

It might look funny, but some dogs like sleeping with their tummies on the floor and limbs akimbo because they want to be ready for action. If you see your dog in this position, chances are they are just napping, not really sleeping. Just like Superman, they can be up and running with the speed of light.

Most puppies will favor this position because they take naps between short bursts of high energy, so they just plop on the floor when tired. At the same time, they won’t miss the action because they are ready to go at any second.

4. Back sleeping

Dogs sometimes roll over on their back with their paws in the air while sleeping because they are feeling hot. You will see this behavior in puppies during summer, but some adults are not shy about doing it as well.

It seems incredible that they can sustain that position for any length of time, but they can. It is also a good sign of feelings of security because this is definitely a non-no position when in the wild. Everything is exposed, even the genitals, and it takes longer to get to their feet in an emergency.

5. Snuggling

Some dogs are very affectionate and don’t like to sleep alone, so they snuggle up to the nearest warm body they can find. If your dog snuggles up to you or another pet, they are looking to bond. It also shows a significant amount of trust.

This is common with many puppies looking to form connections. However, some older dogs will do the same thing with their owners, especially after a long separation.

Other behavior

Sleeping enough is well and good, but the quality is more important than quantity. Just like with humans, dogs sleep to health and repair. You want them to get to REM sleep where they can get the most benefit from sleeping. The following behaviors can tell you whether they are getting quality sleep and if they are experiencing health problems.

6. Reconnoitering

You have probably noticed your dog circling and even digging around the area where they intend to sleep. This is normal, a piece of genetic memory when their wild ancestors would have to trample down leaves and grass to make the surface more comfortable or dig a hole to keep out the winter chill or summer heat.

However, when your dog seems to be circling forever or has trouble settling down, it might be an sign of an incipient neurological disorder or pain such as from an injury or arthritis. If your dog does this regularly, have a vet check them out.

7. Napping

Puppies nap all the time because they get tired easily, but adult dogs typically nap when bored. A long nap is fine, but fitful napping in not very restful. If your dog’s eyes are just semi-closed or their ears perk up at the smallest movement or noise, it probably means they are waiting for something interesting to do.

If that’s the case, you might want to exercise away that excess energy by taking them for a walk or playing a round of fetch. That will help them sleep more soundly and effectively. If your dog has mobility issues, don’t let that stop you giving them the exercise they need. A dog wheelchair will be just the thing.

8. Twitching and soft barking

When dogs move around quite a bit when sleeping, that usually means they have attained REM sleep. In that case, you want to leave them alone and avoid making loud noises. You want them to get to the end of that satisfying dream and wake up refreshed and healthy.

You might notice that puppies and older dogs move around a lot more than middle-aged dogs, and there is no real explanation for it. However, if the weather is cold, the twitching might mean they are feeling cold. In that case, consider moving your dog’s sleeping area in a warmer place or supply them with a blanket. Or both.

9. Agitation, whimpering, or sharp barking

While REM sleep is great, sometimes your dog might be reliving a traumatic experience or having nightmares. You will notice agitated movements, whimpering, or sharp barking during these events. Like napping, this is not restful sleep.

You can soothe them without waking them out by stroking their back and murmuring their name. If this happens frequently, consult a vet.

10. Seizing

Excessive twitching during sleep might mean your dog is having a seizure. Try waking them up as they might just be having a particularly good or bad dream.

If the dog does not wake up when you call their name or touch them and continues to feel stiff or shake, get emergency help.

You should pay attention to your dog’s usual sleeping habits so you know the difference and can tell when something is out of the ordinary.

Summary

Dogs need sleep just like humans and if you pay close attention to their sleeping habits, you can tell a lot about their health and happiness. If you notice a big change in the length of their sleep (more than 14 hours for adult dogs) or signs of distress, it might mean something is wrong. Your dog might have a sleeping disorder. Consult a vet immediately.

Categories: Pet SafetyAuthor the hoomanPosted on No comment on Tips for Keeping Your Furry Friends Cool in Summer

Tips for Keeping Your Furry Friends Cool in Summer

Did you know that dogs don’t sweat the same way as humans? Sure, they have sweat glands, but only in their paws. This is because they are typically covered in fur, so if they sweat in areas with fur, it will not evaporate and cool dogs down like they are supposed to. Paws have very little fur, so it makes sense to have sweat glands there.

This is true even for dog breeds with very little or very short hair. Evolution, you see.

If you’re feeling a bit envious, don’t be. The inability of dogs to sweat as much as humans do means they are more likely to overheat when the weather is hot.

Dogs with mobility issues are particularly vulnerable because they might not be able to easily move to the shade or get a drink of water. It helps if they have a dog wheelchair, but not if they have overheated to the point of exhaustion.

Note: NEVER leave your dog in a car on a warm day, even in the shade and with a window cracked.

Tips to keep dogs safe in summer

It is important that you make sure your furry friends do not overheat, especially as summer days are progressively hitting higher temperatures every year. Some dog breeds tolerate warm weather, and even thrive in it, but only within reasonable limits. You still need to make sure they stay cool and hydrated. Here are some tips.

Keep water around at all times

Make sure your dog has access to drinking water at all times. Dogs can’t get it for themselves, so that’s your job. When you bring your dog out for a walk on a hot day, have a small bowl or collapsible dog dish handy to put in water.

Have good ventilation

Keeping your dog indoors is a good idea, but the ambient temperature can still set the mercury rising. Open windows for cross-ventilation and turn on fans. Alternatively, turn on the air conditioner and set it at a comfortable temperature. 

Use sunscreen

If you have a dog with very little hair or have white fur, they can get sunburn. It sounds weird, but there are sunscreen formulations specifically for dogs. Use them on any surface exposed to the sun such as bellies, ears, and noses.

Ice, ice, baby

Many dogs love to crunch on ice cubes, so use that predilection to keep their bodies cool. Give them small pieces of ice as a snack and put a few in their water bowl. You can also put their chew toys in the freezer for an hour or so and have them chew on those.

Keep an eye on them

Healthy dogs are very active, especially disabled dogs that have been given a new spell of mobility with a dog wheelchair. You need to make sure they don’t overdo the physical activity, especially outdoors. Even swimming can be a problem if they overdo it because they get too tired. Have them take frequent breaks between playing and exercising.

Test the ground

You might not notice it at once with your shoes on, but concrete pavements can get pretty toasty on a hot summer’s day. Before taking your dog out for a walk, put your hand on the surface. If you find it uncomfortably hot for your hand, then it is too hot for your dog’s paws. It might be a better idea to schedule your walks in the early morning or late evening to be on the safe side for both you and your furry buddy.

Know the signs of heatstroke

Dogs can usually regulate their body temperature by sweating through their paws and panting. However, when it is very hot, these may not be enough.

Heatstroke happens when the body’s temperature goes beyond the normal range. In dogs, that is between 100.2 and 102.8 degrees Fahrenheit, which is a pretty narrow range. It is dangerous when it goes past 104⁰, and when it reaches 106⁰, that can lead to heatstroke.

Your dog may be starting to overheat if they are breathing faster than normal even when not moving, and they are salivating much more as well. Muscle tremors, staggering, and fatigue also indicate they are in a distressed state.

Warning: Overheating CAN lead to death in dogs. If you think your dog is suffering from heatstroke, do what you can to lower the body temperature immediately before heading over to the vet.

Some of the things you can do are bringing them indoors and wrapping their bellies in towels soaked in cool water. Do not use cold water as this can bring down their temperature too rapidly and put them into shock. Take their temperature every 5 minutes until it goes down to 103⁰ then bring them to a vet.

Summary

Summertime can be a lot of fun, but it can also be dangerous. Overheating and heatstroke is a real thing, and they can have serious consequences. Following these tips will help you in keeping your furry friends cool during summer.

Categories: About Our DogsAuthor the hoomanPosted on 2 Comments on Top Tips When Adopting A Rescue Dog

Top Tips When Adopting A Rescue Dog

Due to the uptick in pet adoptions during the pandemic, we have updated this entry and added some useful links.

If you are thinking of adding a new member to your family, adopting a rescue dog could be good path to take. Adopting a rescue benefits not only you and your family, but a dog that badly needs a loving home.

Of course, adopting a rescue dog may also have some pitfalls, but if you go in knowing exactly what to expect, you can avoid the worst of them. Here are some tips when adopting a rescue dog. These will also apply to other rescue animals.

Make sure you are ready to adopt

The rescue dogs in shelters are definitely ready for adoption. The question is, are you? The first you need to consider is whether you and your family has the commitment to adopt a rescued dog. This is the first thing you need to ask yourself when thinking of getting a dog, regardless of whether it is a rescue dog or not.

Talk this over with your family and make sure you are all on board with the idea. Having a dog is a big responsibility, and if it is your first pet as a family, you may not realize how big a responsibility it really is.

We suggest that you try fostering a rescue dog first instead of adopting it outright. Think of it as a sort of test run to give you and your family some idea of what you are getting yourselves into before actually committing. It will also help you prepare better for when you do decide to adopt a rescue dog.

Do your research

It always pays to do research and get as much information as possible. This puts you in a better position to make good decisions.

A good place to start is to debunk the misconceptions about rescue dogs. The biggest of these is that rescue dogs are abused or abandoned dogs.  This means it will be very hard and problematic to take care of them.

The truth is, although some rescued dogs were abandoned and abused, most are in shelters for other reasons. Many healthy dogs in shelters, including puppies, come from happy, loving families that just cannot take care of another dog for one reason or another. They send these dogs to shelters in the hopes that others with more resources will adopt and be able enjoy their company.

Aside from researching more about rescue dogs in general, it is also very important to find out as much as you can about the history and background of the dog you plan to adopt. Do not be shy about asking as many questions as you want from the rescue organization, and expect straightforward answers.

Put yourself in their shoes

To better understand how to deal with a rescue dog, try to put yourself in their position. This will make it easier for you to understand their behavior and know how to deal with it.

The first thing you should remind yourself is that you do not know much about them. The shelter may give you some idea about their history or background but for the most part you do not know what kind of personality they have or how they will behave.

Keep in mind that most rescue dogs are scared. It does not matter if they were abandoned, abused or came from a happy family. They have just been transferred to a shelter, an unfamiliar environment where they are people and dogs that are all strangers to them. Before they can get accustomed to this environment, you come along and introduce them to yet another strange environment. This constant change of surroundings is enough to scare any dog. Or most people, for that matter.

Prepare your home

Just as you childproof your home for toddlers, you should dog proof your home for the new arrival.

  • Keep small items that a dog might swallow out of their reach.
  • Make sure there are no loose wires, cables or strings around that they might bite on or chew.
  • Keep chemicals and medicines sealed tight and out of reach.
  • Remove poisonous plants from your home, or at least out of reach.

Give them proper training

Most rescue dogs have been through different surroundings and supervised by different people, so they usually pick up a few bad habits along the way. The good news is dogs easily adapt to new environments, but you should still make sure they do so properly by giving them the right training.

You and your family can do this on your own with a little research. If you feel uneasy doing it yourself, find out from your veterinarian where you can avail of the services of a good dog trainer.

Make sure they are healthy

Most shelters give the dogs under their care regular checkups, but this is usually quite basic. It may not reveal serious or major health problems that a more thorough examination may find. It is best to bring your newly adopted dog to your own veterinarian for a more thorough examination.

Make time for them

The most important consideration for you is time. You need to have quite a bit of this, as well as patience, when you first bring home your scared arescue dog is scared. You must give them time to adjust to you, your family and your home.

They may not warm up to everyone in the family. If this happens, keep that person away initially and gradually allow them to come near. Do the same with other pets as this may also occur if you have other pets.

Give them some space to process their new circumstances. This can be as small as a basket with a pillow or as large as an entire room. This may take some time, so avoid pressuring them and  let them work it out.

For some it will take one to two days for other it could take one to three weeks. Just show them as much love and care you give to the other members of the family and soon they will feel part of the pack. The important thing to remember is for you and the other people in your family to not get frustrated with the situation as they will pick up on your emotions and this will not help in the transition to adapt.

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Categories: About Our DogsAuthor the hoomanPosted on No comment on New Kid on the Block: How to Introduce a New Pet to Your Disabled Dog

New Kid on the Block: How to Introduce a New Pet to Your Disabled Dog

Anything that disrupts the status quo is always problematic for pets. They typically thrive in a predictable environment and introducing another pet into their world can be a big concern for pet owners. This is especially true for homeowners with disabled pets from a practical as well as emotional point of view because disabled pets require a lot of care and attention. However, introducing a new member of the household to a disabled dog or other pet is not all that complicated.

Keep it compatible

The reason you might be thinking of bringing in another pet is to give your current pet a companion. If this is the case, you need to ensure that the new guy will be compatible to the current inmates. For example, if you have a dog who likes to spend a majority of his or her time just chilling, a hyperactive companion might be too much too handle.

You also want to choose the breed of a companion dog that will not clash with the breed of your current pet. In most cases, you want a second dog to be docile and friendly to other dogs. You can observe this when choosing to adopt a pet while they are in the company of other dogs.

Alternatively, if you want to rescue a disabled dog, you need to consider if your furry friend at home is likely to be too much for the rescue dog, or if it will drastically change your own routine. Remember that a disabled dog requires a lot more attention, and that can have a detrimental effect on your current pet.  

Keep it consistent

The key to introducing a new pet to any household where there are other pets is to keep the environment as close to normal as possible. As a pet owner, you will have to make big changes to your routine, but should strive to keep the setup the same as before the big event. For example, a new pet might bring with it a flurry of new things such as toys and beds, but you should place them outside your current pet’s territory, so to speak.

Letting your current pets carry on as usual with their established accoutrements (barriers, beds, toys, play area) will be a big comfort to them, and less likely to provoke any aggression towards the new member of the household. If some tension does come up in the first few days, keep them apart until the current pets get used to the new kid.

Keep it neutral

A good way to introduce two pets to each other is to do it on neutral ground, preferably outdoors. Make sure you have them on a leash so you can step in when necessary. It is also a good idea to have some treats available to encourage good behavior and create a positive experience for all parties.

If you have a deaf or blind dog, they can still smell the other guy, so this can make them feel vulnerable. Keeping the new guy in its line of visions or attaching bells to the leash can make your deaf or blind dog feel less vulnerable.

On the other hand, if you have a disabled dog in a wheelchair, the new guy might feel nervous about it. Allow the new guy to explore the wheelchair and give them treats when it does to reassure it that it is safe.

The most important factor here is still you. Dogs are quick to sense how you are feeling, so make sure you are exuding positive and happy energy when doing the introductions.

Keep it loose

Once you have made the introductions, it is important to let the new housemates get to know each other without too much supervision. Pets can keep each other company and happy while you’re busy, and this is important, especially for disabled pets. Do keep an unobtrusive eye on them for signs of aggression for the first few days, but keep it on the down low. In most cases, they will bond for life if they get past the getting-to-know-you phase unscathed.

Conclusion

The truth is most of your concerns are probably not shared by your dogs. As long as you do your homework and keep your environment an accepting one, your dogs should interact quite happily after a few days. Just make sure that you continue to provide your disabled dog with the same care and attention as before to avoid any problems down the line.

Categories: Pet SafetyAuthor the hoomanPosted on No comment on How to Spend the Holidays with your Pets

How to Spend the Holidays with your Pets

The holiday season is often equal parts stress and fun, especially these days of the pandemic when families are not encouraged to gather in big groups. Nevertheless, we still have our immediate family around with whom to celebrate Christmas, and that includes our pets. Make the season merry and not scary for our doggy friends by planning the celebrations with a little care.

Keep the Christmas tree dog friendly

Christmas trees are the penultimate symbol of the season, but it can be a minefield of problems for dogs. A real tree might be ideal, but pine needles are toxic to dogs if they chow down on it, so keep that in mind. Glass decorations can also be a problem when dogs get a little too chummy with them, especially glass balls that look too temptingly like toys to them.  There is also the problem of your dogs taking on the challenge of tearing that green thing down or claiming it as their own by peeing on it.

To address all these issues, opt for a plastic tree and spray the base with ethyl alcohol or something that will keep them from staking their claim. If you really want a real tree, keep it out of reach to your doggy friends by putting it on a small table and sweeping up any pine needles that might fall off. Place your glass balls ad baubles on the upper part of the tree and use only plastic ones for the lower branches.  In no case should you hang up anything with chocolate because they will try to get at it and they will get sick if they do.

Try to put up your tree early and gradually add decorations to acclimatize dogs to its presence. The tree would present less of an alien presence by the time you finish, and minimize the chances of an all-out invasion. It will also give you time to identify which decorations are most likely to keep them interested, and take them down forthwith.

Prepare some doggy delights

While you are cooking up a storm in preparation for Christmas dinner, you might want to look up some recipes for your dogs at the same time. Giving them their own doggy Christmas feast will discourage them from prowling the dinner table in hopes for scraps falling on the floor or downright begging for them.

Make your pets feel safe

Pets need structure and predictability to feel safe and secure, and that might get a bit shaky during the holidays when visitors come over for the holidays. This can be a bit disconcerting for your pets, so it is important that you provide them with a way to express their discomfort. Keep their toys available, and maybe a crate or two where they can hide when they feel overwhelmed. If you are planning to bring your pets to other people’s houses, make sure you take along their favorite toys and bibelots to give them comfort.

Lay down the rules

Other people tend to make a fuss over your pets whether when they visit you at home or you go to their homes, and pets notoriously take advantage of that. In advance of the visit, lay down the rules you have for your pets.

  • Do not give human food unless they get your approval first as these could contain stuff that will not be good for your pets
  • Do not feed from the table
  • Do not interact with pets when they are hiding, as this is a sign they are not comfortable and might act out
  • Keep doors closed

Capture the moment

Our pets live for a relatively short time, so it is important to capture special moments that come up during the Christmas season. Take photos or videos of your pet antics while decorating the tree, cooking up Christmas dinner, or standing at attention while opening of gifts. These make great social media uploads, and you can even slap them on Christmas cards. They will last forever, and keep your memories of the good times fresh.

Give them a break

Pets might appear to have boundless energy, but they actually need a lot of rest. Dogs sleep an average of 12 hours a day, and some breeds need even more. Make sure you let them get plenty of rest between activities to keep them from being stressed during the big day.  If you go out visiting and there is a chance of fireworks, make sure you shield them from the noise and lights by drawing the curtains and leaving the TV on to keep them calm.

Conclusion

All this preparation might seem like much ado about nothing, but they can really help you keep your pets in a holiday mood. Make your Christmas a merry one by following these tips on how to best spend the Christmas holidays with your pets.

Categories: About Our DogsAuthor the hoomanPosted on No comment on Weird Things Dogs Do and Why

Weird Things Dogs Do and Why

Dogs are great companions, and many are so intelligent, you almost think of them as human. However, some things dogs do almost universally often seem weird to us, probably because we do mistake them for humans. The thing is, they are not humans, so there is usually a reason for the things they do that we do not typically understand. Here are some of those weird things dogs do and why.

Belly Scratch = Kick Wheels

You might have had hours of entertainment scratching your dog’s belly and watching the back legs go crazy, and think it is a shared enjoyment. However, while your dog might enjoy the attention and touch of your fingers, the kick wheeling is not actually a sign of enjoyment. Much like how our knees jerk when someone hits your knee at just the right spot, the kick wheeling is a reflex.  Your tickling or scratching is interpreted as an irritation, and sets off the nerve endings on your dog’s skin to do something to get rid of that. Hence, the kick wheeling, which is an involuntary movement signifying the start of a scratch without the follow-through.

It might not be as comfortable as we think for the dog, so you might want to think about moving to another, less sensitive spot than the belly to show your affection. If your dog does present the belly, however, you could interpret that as a good spot for them, too.

Tail Biting

Another source of amusement for many dog owners is watching them chase and catch their tails with their teeth. Some people interpret it as a sign of foolishness, hence the term “chasing their own tails” for people rushing around while accomplishing nothing at all. For dogs, however, the tail chase serves an important purpose: getting rid of an itch. It could be a minor irritation, or it could be a parasite. In either case, you should check the tail for any signs. It can get so bad that the dog could actually do some serious self-harm. If you cannot figure out what’s wrong, consult your vet.

If the dog chases its tail but does not bite it, then the reasons might be less alarming. This could be a sign of boredom, especially when it is a puppy. A bit more concerning is that it is a sign of obsessive-compulsive disorder, which might be due to stress or genetics. If the behavior is excessive or results in self-harm, consult a vet.

Post-bath Madness

Many dogs invariably act crazy right after a bath, seemingly intent on undoing any cleaning you managed to do. They will streak around the house or backyard and roll around the carpet, dead leaves or even mud. While this is exasperating for dog owners, the possible reasons actually make a lot of sense.

One is the smell of shampoo, which many dogs find annoying. They will streak around trying to outrun it. Another is the instinct to be camouflaged. Rolling around in the mud or the dirt is not a massive fluff you to their owners, but a desire to make themselves less easy to spot.

Conclusion

Dogs are not humans, although they may display more intelligence than many people around you. Nevertheless, they are animals, and they do some things that might not make much sense to people. It makes sense to the dogs, however, and it is important for your dog’s wellbeing to be aware of the reasons behind the weird things they do.

For a comprehensive dive into what our dogs are trying to tell us with their crazy antics, check this article out from our friends at Fluentwoof.

Categories: About Our DogsAuthor the hoomanPosted on No comment on Causes of Dog Aggression

Causes of Dog Aggression

Dog aggression is a frightening experience, and very dangerous for both dogs and people because it can happen as if out of the blue. A very friendly dog can suddenly act aggressively, growling, snapping, and lunging at other dogs and people. At its worst, dogs may attack and cause injury or even death to other dogs and people, including their owners.

In many cases of dog aggression, owners do not know why it happened. Dog owners are usually unaware of the signs of aggression until it is too late. Knowing the potential causes of aggression can help owners see the signs and deal with the aggression before it escalates. Preventing this type of dangerous behavior is far better than dealing with the consequences.

Dog aggression may be due to the following reasons.

Illness or Injury

Pain is a common cause of aggression in dogs. It is not surprising, as people in pain frequently become irritable and aggressive as well. If your dog suddenly shows signs of aggression, it may be due to pain caused by some type of disease, illness, or injury.

Check your dog carefully for injuries. If your dog appears unusually sluggish, quiet, or inactive, starts limping, or stops moving completely, the dog may be sick or have internal injuries. If you cannot figure out the problem, bring your dog immediately to your veterinarian. Do not give your dog any kind of medication, such as pain relievers, unless prescribed by your veterinarian. Giving medication without knowing what is wrong could cause more harm than good.

Fear

A dog constantly in fear can become aggressive. Like most animals, dogs may go through freeze, flight, or fight mode when confronted by a dangerous situation.

When dogs sense danger, they will try to escape and get away. If escape is not an option, fear sets in and they will either freeze or fight. In most cases dogs will confront the situation by becoming aggressive, like a rat caught in a trap. It will resort to physical violence to escape the cause of its fear or the source of perceived danger.

Physically abused dogs almost certainly become aggressive because of this fight response to fear. This is very common with rescue dogs many of which are victims of abuse. If you have a rescue dog or if you are not aware of your dog’s history before you got them and they act aggressive, this is most likely due to fear from past abuse.

The best way to get around this situation is to reassure the dog that there is nothing to fear. Be gentle and patient with them. If they show signs of aggression in certain situations, stop immediately and remove them from the environment. Introduce them back to the same situation slowly and with care. It may also be best to consult with a dog trainer that specializes in abused dogs.

Territory

Territorial behavior is instinctive for some dogs. Also known as resource guarding, this happens when dogs become very possessive of certain objects or areas of their environment such as food, toys, sleeping area, or their owner. When a person goes near a dog that is eating, playing with a toy, or resting on its bed and the dog displays aggression, it is probably due to this territorial instinct.

The best way to avoid this situation is to respect the dog’s space when engaging in these activities. Punishing or scolding the dog for this will only confuse it.  The dog may even take it as a challenge and make the aggression worse. It will not always be easy to understand exactly what the dog is feeling territorial about, but over time it will become apparent.

Confinement

There are some cases when we need to confine dogs temporarily for safety reasons. Confinement may take the form of a traveling cage, a harness, leash, or a fenced area. Dogs not used to confinement may feel anxious or frustrated when in these situations, and these feelings may manifest as aggression. On the other hand, this may also likely occur when the dog is always in a confined situation, as its frustration from the lack of freedom can build up.

In the former case, it is important to reassure your dog about the temporariness of the confinement. You could do a couple of test runs before the day so they know what to expect. In the latter case, the best way to mitigate aggressive behavior is not to confine your dogs as much as possible. Let them have enough room to run around and burn off excess energy. They are more likely to behave better during confinement if they know they can have some freedom on a regular basis.

Conclusion

The best way to deal with aggressive behavior in your dog is to find out the cause for it. If you are at a loss, you need to consult with a veterinarian or a dog behavior professional. Misinterpreting the cause of your dog’s aggression may lead you to take action that could just make things worse for you, your dog, and those around you.

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Categories: About Our DogsAuthor the hoomanPosted on No comment on The Loyal Dachshund

The Loyal Dachshund

The Dachshund is truly a magnificent breed. They are one of the most popular choices as family companions mainly because they are small, loyal, and adorable.

People tend to think that because they are small, they are not meant for hard work, but they were originally bred to hunt down badgers and other animals that tunnel underground. The name “dachshund” actually means “badger dog” in German, which is their country of origin.

Their peculiar shape makes it easier to distinguish them from other breeds. It is also what makes them so cute and endearing. Their shape has also given them loving nicknames such as wiener dog, hot dog, and sausage dogs.

Possible Health Issues

Like all breeds, they are prone to certain diseases and health conditions for which you should be prepared if you decide to take one in to the family. It does not necessarily mean your particular wiener dog will get any of these diseases, but there is a possibility.

INTERVERTEBRAL DISC DISEASE (IVDD)

This is basically a back problem, to which dachshunds are prone to having. Some people attribute their tendency to acquire this problem to the disproportionately long torsos of dachshunds, although there is no conclusive evidence to support this. It may also be due to genetics, certain movements, or falls from height.

Initial symptoms include difficulty or inability to use their hind legs. This could eventually lead to paralysis, and in some instances, loss of bladder and bowel control.

Health professionals suggest always supporting the dog’s back and rear area when they are being carried to prevent injury. Treatment for the disease may include crate confinement, anti-inflammatory medicines, surgery, and the use of a dog wheelchair.

In some cases, rehabilitation therapy can also help before the disease completely takes over. Use of dog wheelchairs are also included as part of the therapy or rehab program.

EPILEPSY

Dachshunds are also prone to epileptic seizures. This may also be due to genetics, congenital abnormality, or severe trauma to the head. Treatment usually involves medication. Bring your dachshund to the vet at the first instance of a seizure get proper treatment.

GASTRIC DILATATION-VOLVULUS (GDV)

Also known as bloat or torsion, this disease usually affects large breed dog, but dachshunds are the exception. This may be due to their deep chest shape. It is a life-threatening condition that causes the dog’s stomach to fill up with gas. This causes the stomach to twist and get distorted. As the air or gas builds up, the dog cannot belch or vomit to remove the air because of the distortion. This blocks the normal flow of blood to the heart, causing blood pressure to go down, and eventually lead to shock.

Immediate medical attention is critical for this condition. Symptoms may include excessive salivating and dry retching. It is best to bring the dog to the vet immediately if you observe these signs.

CANINE DIABETES MELLITUS (DM)

This is common to the breed,  especially for overweight dachshunds. Symptoms may include urinating excessively, persistent thirstiness, and weight loss despite an increased appetite. Treatment may include a special diet and regular insulin medication. Keeping your dachshund’s weight in check is a good preventive measure.

Choosing Your New Best Friend

When selecting a dachshund puppy, look for a breeder that can provide you with a health clearance for both parents of the puppy. Genetics may play an important part in the eventual health of the puppy.

If you are getting a dachshund from a shelter, try to get as much health information as possible. Bring the dog straight to a vet for a complete checkup to get a rundown of existing and potential health problems. This will give you a good idea of how to provide your new best friend the best care.

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Categories: About Our DogsAuthor the hoomanPosted on No comment on Braver Hund! The German Shepherd

Braver Hund! The German Shepherd

For all you German Shepherd lovers out there, here are some facts about these awesome-looking dogs you may not know:

They are a fairly new breed. They date back to 1899 when a German Cavalry Officer, Captain Max Von Stephanitz decided to come up with a German herding dog breed better than their human counterparts.

Hollywood made them popular. During World War I an American soldier rescued a German Shepherd puppy from a bombed-out dog kennel and brought the pup back home to America. This puppy eventually became the most popular dog in Hollywood: Rin Tin Tin. This dog’s rise to fame also made his breed very popular in America and eventually the world.

They are very smart. Intelligent and capable of accomplishing almost any task, they can easily be trained to do all sorts of things.

They are very hard working. Not only are they smart,they are also very persistent. Once they are given a job to do, they will make sure it is done just the way they have been trained to do it.

They’re not just shepherds. Because of their intelligence and persistence, they eventually ended up doing so much more than just shepherding livestock. German Shepherds help in law enforcement, military, rescue, assisting the blind and disabled, and so many other jobs.

They get lonely. You cannot leave them alone for long periods of time. By long periods, we don’t mean days but hours. If you do leave them alone, they get bored, lonely, and upset. To cope they turn to disruptive and destructive acts such as constant barking, scratching or chewing on anything they can get their paws at.

They need activity. Partly because they easily get bored and lonely and mostly because they seem to generate a lot of energy, it is a must that they enjoy regular, rigorous activities to keep them preoccupied and to use up all that energy. Daily runs and park visits help as well as assigning them simple tasks to do. They can fetch the daily newspaper—if you still subscribe to print or your slippers, if you don’t—or keep the doors closed or put down the toilet seats and covers. Giving them regular training sessions will definitely keep them happily busy.

They shed a lot of fur. You’ll need to practice regular good grooming to keep their fur at bay. Plus you’ll probably need to vacuum around the house more often.

They don’t like strangers. Although they need companionship, they are very wary of people they do not know. This can be remedied by getting a German Shepherd pup adapted at an early age through regular exposure; for example, try bringing them to public places where they can be exposed to other people.

They make good guard dogs. Their wariness of strangers is what makes them good at guard duty.

They love their family. When we say family we don’t just mean their moms and puppies. When we say family we also mean their human family. They are one of the most loving, caring and loyal pets you and your family can ever have. They are very good with kids, sometimes acting like human parents would.

We’re sure you and your family will have lots of fun moments with a German Shepherd, that is if you’re not having lots of fun already.

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