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  • Do Dogs Get Jealous?

    Do Dogs Get Jealous?

    According to some new research by scientists, they do. Dogs do get jealous? Really?

    Personally, I don’t believe they do and I’ll explain more about that in a moment. But first let us look at the new research done in the name of science.

    The experiment consisted of taking pairs of dogs and getting them to present a paw for a reward. On giving this “handshake” the dogs received a piece of food.

    One of the dogs was then asked to shake hands, but received no food. The other dog continued to get the food when it was asked to perform the task.

    The dog without the reward quickly stopped doing the task, and showed signs of annoyance or stress when its partner was rewarded.

    To make sure that the experiment was really showing the interaction between the dogs rather than just the frustration of not being rewarded, a similar experiment was conducted where the dogs performed the task without the partner. Here they continued to present the paw for much longer.

    Dr Frederike Range from the department of neurobiology and cognition research at the University of Vienna, says this shows that it was the presence of the rewarded partner which was the greater influence on their behaviour.

    “The only difference is one gets food and the other doesn’t, they are responding to being unequally rewarded.” she said.

    The researchers say this kind of behaviour, where one animal gets frustrated with what is happening with another, has only been observed in primates before.

    Studies with various types of monkeys and chimpanzees show they react not only to seeing their partners receiving rewards when they are not, but also to the type of reward.

    The dog study also looked at whether the type of reward made a difference. Dogs were given either bread or sausage, but seemed to react equally to either. Dr Range says this may be because they have been trained.

    “It’s through the fact they have to work for the reward, this confers it with a higher value,” she said.

    Source Here

    Let’s take a look at this in smaller chunks.

    The dog without the reward quickly stopped doing the task, and showed signs of annoyance or stress when its partner was rewarded.

    Well of course. Surely we wouldn’t expect anything different here? The dog wants the food and it sees the other dog with the food and it gravitates toward the treat. This is quite logical, nothing ground breaking yet.

    To make sure that the experiment was really showing the interaction between the dogs rather than just the frustration of not being rewarded, a similar experiment was conducted where the dogs performed the task without the partner. Here they continued to present the paw for much longer.

    Yes, again this surely to be expected? Here we have a dog with no distraction, no food or other dog in the equation and it makes logical sense that most dogs will perform differently in a situation where no distraction – of any kind – is present. This, again, does not prove jealousy as we understand it.

    Dr Frederike Range from the department of neurobiology and cognition research at the University of Vienna, says this shows that it was the presence of the rewarded partner which was the greater influence on their behaviour.

    Now we’re veering in to some strange territory. Let us imagine this experiment but with some different parameters.

    We work with just one dog, no other dog in the area.

    The dog gives its paw. Then a person will come in to the room and puts some food on the floor near to where the other dog would have been positioned positioned.

    Would the dog now be less interested in giving paw and more interested in food?

    In my opinion, yes. Most likely.

    Now repeat the same scenario but don’t have anyone put food down.

    It’s my supposition that the dog would hold paw for longer.

    No other dog present, no jealousy – merely distraction causing reaction.

    The dog study also looked at whether the type of reward made a difference. Dogs were given either bread or sausage, but seemed to react equally to either. Dr Range says this may be because they have been trained.

    Dogs like different foods. And scientists didn’t know this?

    Take my own dog Mia. She loathes banana. My other dog, Chloe, on the other hand loves fruit. So if I’m eating a banana Mia will sit for a while, realise what I’ve got and then go and lie down. Chloe will stay sitting next to me, watching until I’ve finished. I’m not a scientist but I do know this – it’s……wait for it………

    ……because Chloe likes banana and Mia doesn’t!

    Given that Mia is by far the greedier of my two dogs it proves that dogs clearly have different tastes the same as we do, this is – I would guess – pretty universal. Maybe your dog loves a type of food that my dogs don’t. Maybe your dogs go mad for aniseed whereas my dogs love cheese. Just a sec, wait. Not a good comparison – aniseed and cheese are pretty much universal ‘must eats’ on the canine menu (if your dog likes neither, please let me know – in the name of science).

    So, if I set out to train Mia with bananas as my choice of reward for her, I’d achieve less impressive results – quite simply because Mia doesn’t like banana. She places a higher value on food that she likes, similarly toys and similarly different ways of being touched – Mia doesn’t like to be stroked on the head, Chloe will take a good head stroking for several hours. So we’ve still not established jealousy in canines with this research based on the report as presented on the BBC site.

    Studies with various types of monkeys and chimpanzees show they react not only to seeing their partners receiving rewards when they are not, but also to the type of reward.

    OK. Well I’m not a scientist but I do know that monkeys and chimps are NOT dogs. They can and indeed probably do have emotions much more closely aligned to the emotion we recognise in ourselves as jealousy, similarly they have different social structures and are NOT dogs. So the relevance of this is no more apt than saying: “Well humans have jealousy, why can’t dogs?”

    Why do I not believe dogs share the emotion we recognise in ourselves as jealousy?

    If we think about what jealousy is, if we are logical about what we know about this emotion it is incredibly complex and based on a whole level of social elements.

    There are humans who feel jealousy based on widely different factors – is that an innate personality trait in them or is it nurtured? – we don’t really know.

    We have humans within the autistic spectrum who simply do not and can not feel jealous and others within that same spectrum who can be wildly jealous. It’s true that even scientists themselves still haven’t universally agreed a definition for what jealously is! That’s how complex this particular emotion is. What does it take to be jealous? It takes two people very, very different reasons to be jealous, even people within the same family who share almost identical genetics. Yet put two people in a room and mimic the ‘paw test’ and we’d never get close to seeing universal results proving jealous responses in people – we’re too different and jealousy is an emotion that does not run through us all in an identical fashion. So why should it in dogs?

    I absolutely do not doubt for a single, solitary second that they display behaviour which is very easy for us to compare with the emotion of jealousy that we recognise in ourselves. It could be displayed in acts of resource guarding, it could be manifested by dogs who are particularly greedy, territorial, pack motivated, rank motivated – but jealousy it is not. It is quite possible that I want to get my bosses’ job and sit in his chair, in his office and take home his salary but I am not motivated even in the slightest by jealousy, I simply want to do better for myself. Dogs the same. So a dog going to another dog getting rewarded is absolutely not proof positive – in my view – that we’ve cracked the canine jealousy code, we haven’t even cracked ours yet – and we can SPEAK!

    Anthropomorphism is rife. Most of the time it’s harmless but sometimes it’s nothing more than us finding another way to say: “I don’t understand my dog but I’ll bracket a particular behaviour by benchmarking it against my own”. This is, plainly, crazy. And it can lead to problems.

    It will be better for dogs and better for us if we make an effort to better understand them. But always, always, always start that voyage of discovery with one overriding caveat: Dogs are no more human than we are Zebra. They are dogs. They ARE unique and we love them for it. They are masters at making us think what they want us to think. Their understanding of human body language is an art we’re not even close to mastering. Take this example:

    Person comes home. Dog has wrecked the post (again). There it is, all laid out scattered over the floor.

    Owner opens the door.

    “Huuuuhhh!!!! What have you done???”

    “Oh, look at him. Look at that face. Look how guilty he looks.”

    (wait for it)

    “He know what he’s done!”

    Sound familiar?

    Of course he doesn’t ‘know what he’s done’ and he absolutely may ‘look guilty’ but that aint guilt he’s showing, that’s him spotting body langauage and going to fear/survival mode. He’s pretty much saying: “If you want me to look guilty, if that’s the pigeonhole you want to put me in right now, so long as it means I don’t come to any harm, I’ll do a better guilty repertoire than Laurence Olivier if it makes you happy babe!”

    And makes us happy it most certainly does. We might feel guilt for chewing through our family’s latest edition of K9 Magazine (subscribe now) but that’s because we have an understanding of how our actions will have a future negative effect on the mood of our human counterparts. Our dog, however, he was just bored and he wanted something to do. Then we come home and we’re – clearly – pretty mad at him. He’s not feeling guilty, he’s feeling plain old scared. But it makes us happy to think he thinks like us. To quote the chairman of the Kennel Club: “I don’t need no scientists telling me….” that dogs do not, in fact, think like us. They think, surprisingly, like dogs. That’s what makes em’ great!

  • How To Stop Puppy Chewing

    The sense of taste is well developed even in newborn pups. This has led to the marketing of several commercial substances designed to prevent destructive chewing by pups and mature dogs. If these are used regularly from the age at which conditioned responses are possible (3 weeks), investigative chewing may be minimised or prevented in later life, especially when teething becomes a stimulus for the problem.

    What Age Do Puppies Stop Teething?

    Puppies all vary by breed and individual personality types, but as a general rule puppies stop teething once their adult teeth start to come through. This means you will have a short period in the puppy’s early life when they will seemingly want to chew everything as a result of their teething pains.

    However, because the breeder would have to begin this type of regimen, and because most litters are raised under conditions that do not expose puppies to chewing taboos, correction is usually necessary.

    Almost every owner recognizes that pups need to chew, if only to teethe properly. On the other hand, few appreciate that a dog’s mouth is somewhat similar to the human hand as an investigative tool, or that the healthy development of nervous and muscle tissue depends on hearty chewing exercise. The usual procedure is to give a pup numerous chewables, hoping these will be so attractive that electric cords, rugs, clothing and shoes will be saved from destruction – and the pet spared a possibly serious (or fatal) injury. However, furnishing many different kinds of things to chew may lead the pup to believe that everything is chewable.

    Chewing appears to be an enjoyable experience for nearly all pups and many older dogs. So, the element of fun may also be part of chewing problems. The best approach to destructive chewing involves prevention and then guidance to chewable articles, such as a ball or bone. This helps the pup to discriminate between toys and inappropriate items. Practices that risk creating an orally oriented puppy include: playing tug-of-war, allowing personal belongings (socks, shoes) to be chewed, excessive attention to pup’s mouth during teething, and punishment for chewing taboos.

    Some pups are more oral than others. When this is coupled with an excitable or extremely inhibited nervous type, minor stress produces tension that tends to be released orally (rather than vocally or physically). Some of the causes for excessive tension in pups are: emotional departures and homecomings by the owner, excessive attention to the pup, social isolation, barrier frustration, delay of feeding, and boredom.

    When 2 or more pups live together, chewing may result from competition for articles. Also, pups play games. When these involve articles of some value, the owner often attributes such chewing to spite or revenge. “Sparky’s mad at me for leaving him alone, and he’s getting even.” This is seldom the case. Usually one or more of the aforementioned conditions are involved. As diligently as one might try to be a model puppy owner, it is obvious that few people can avoid all of the causes for chewing.

  • How To Play Hide & Seek With Your Dog

    Canine hide and seek might sound like a bit of a laugh, but it stimulates an integral area of many dogs’ natural instincts such as scent tracking.

    People lost in avalanches are only too glad that the St Bernard that finds them likes a good game of hide and seek, and now you can bond with your dog indoors or out come rain or shine, in this fun, obedience orientated and stimulating activity.

    Step one.

    You’ll need a helper and a treat for this. Ensure that your dog is familiar with the stay command, otherwise this will be a very short game.

    Have your capable assistant ensure that your dog abides by the rules and stays put while you disappear just out of sight with a delicious treat tucked up your sleeve. The great thing about this game is that your dog always gets to win, a bonus for dogs that are a little low on confidence.

    Step Two.

    When you are sure that your dog is aware of your absence, he will probably be bursting to come and get his treat, have your assistant let him go.

    As you hear the sound of paws scrambling across the kitchen floor, begin issuing the command you want to use in the future. ‘Come and get me’ is as good as any.

    Your first hiding place should not be out of sight (in the bin for instance) so he gets the hang of the game sooner rather than later. If you plan to play this game a lot, make sure the treat you use is healthy.

    You will always be found and will always have to issue the treat, so avoid turning your winning hound into a ‘rolly poly’ ball of flab by keeping the meaty treats only for a spectacular performance.

    Step Three.

    When you feel the nudge of an excited nose on your face (or the whip of wagging tail depending on your position) be sure to issue lots of praise and reinforce the fact this is fun for both of you.

    You can extend the game a little at this stage by hiding the prize on your person rather than relinquishing it on sight of your pursuer. A squeaky toy tucked up the trouser leg can result in prolonged hilarity as your dog frantically tries to access it.

    Step Four.

    Return to the beginning of the process, but ensure that you hide further away, and a little more out of sight. Again, you will need the help of your assistant as you are now going to make your dog wait a painstaking two minutes before he is released.

    Issue the command before he is released this time, but ensure your assistant prevents any false starts. See how determined your dog is by hiding under a bundle of blankets. If he merely paws at you, you need to put in more work. You want your dog to be practically dragging these obstacles away from his prize.

    Step five.

    Again return to step one, but have your assistant stay at a distance from your dog, only intervening if the cheating swine tries to get a sneaky peak at you before you are properly inserted into your hiding position.

    Make sure every time you play this you challenge your dog, otherwise it will become like going through the motions for him. But he won’t tell you this as he will want his treat nevertheless. Test his loyalty by breaking a doggy biscuit in half and hiding one piece on his route to finding you and keeping the other piece on your person. If you hear a sequence of ‘gallop, gallop, munch’ sounds, you will know were his priorities lie.

    Step Six.

    Incorporate obstacles into the game by closing doors and encouraging your dog to use his initiative. Also, moving the goal posts will keep your dog engaged.

    When the weather allows, hide outside and leave him to figure it out. Challenge your dog’s obedience by extending the amount of time he has to wait before he is allowed to come and find you.

    Final Step.

    Continue the game for as long as it is fun for both you and your dog, but make it interesting for both of you by introducing new challenges each time you play.

    Remember to praise your dog each and every time he finds you, this will avoid him associating the game with merely receiving a treat. For those of you who believe they have a little dog genius on their hands, try playing this game the other way round.

  • Feeding Human Food To Dogs

    Feeding Human Food To Dogs

    Could feeding dogs table scraps and other human food be harmful?

    You may know….

    9 million people in the UK suffer from joint problems*
    44% of men and **35% of women in the UK are overweight**
    But did you know….

    40% of the UK’s large breed dogs live with joint problems too
    Similar to the human population, up to 50% of the UK’s pets are overweight.
    To a dog, one human biscuit has the same calorie equivalent as a whole packet.

    Feeding Human Food to Dogs

    Britain may be a nation of dog lovers, but new research from Eukanuba shows that over a quarter of dog owners are unaware that common dog sensitivities such as putting on weight or sensitive skin can be helped by a change in diet.

    The research, commissioned by Eukanuba to coincide with the launch of its new Special Care premium food range for dogs with special nutritional requirements, has shown just how much owners love their pets and care about their nutritional wellbeing. However, all admit they still can’t resist slipping them the odd naughty human treat:

    Scraps from a plate – 43%
    Home made gravy for dinner – 23%
    One of your biscuits – 21%
    A homemade meal – 13%
    A bite of your chocolate– 13%

    The findings point towards the emergence of a new ‘mirrored-diet syndrome’, when many owners and pets share the same health sensitivity problems, concerns and predispositions. For example,, 30% of owners admit obesity is a big pet health worry, 28% fear arthritis will also affect their dog, whilst a sensitive stomach can be a problem for both man and beast.

    So what is the answer to preventing these common dispositions from taking hold? Like humans, sensitive or overweight dogs need tailored nutrition to help bolster their immune systems and combat everyday stress and strains.

    “Diet and nutritional needs for man’s best friend have become blurred over time, as owners begin to look upon dogs as part of the family, a positive step for socialisation,  but not so helpful at meal times” says Monica Lundervold, Eukanuba’s Veterinary Consultant.

    “This blurring is a contributing factor as to why more and more dogs are developing the sort of sensitivities and predispositions that affect millions of humans across the world, but unlike humans, the treatment and warning signs are not the same. For example, being able to see a dogs waist and feel its ribs is not a bad sign, as believed by almost 50% of owners surveyed, but the sign a dog is a healthy weight.

    This is why Eukanuba, together with vets, has developed a new range of everyday diets to strengthen a dogs natural defences.  With Eukanuba Special Care, dogs with common sensitivities can begin living their lives to the max, whilst giving owners the peace of mind that they are providing healthy and nourishing food to make their dogs feel great!”

    Eukanuba Special Care’s first success story has already been achieved in a matter of days, proving the fact that natural predispositions needn’t be a problem for any dog, or owner. Eukanuba Sensitive Digestion helped turn Dave, the five year old Victorian Bulldog from a flatulent failure who was banished from the family living room due to his intense odour, into a family favourite in a matter of days. Dave’s owner Mr Highet can’t believe the change:

    “We love Dave to bits, but his sensitive digestion was gassing us all out. We hated having to keep him in a separate room every evening, but we felt we had no choice. Finding a cure seemed impossible, but Eukanuba Special Care has miraculously done the trick and literally brought Dave up smelling of roses in a matter of days. Now the whole family can enjoy evenings together without pegs on our noses!”

  • Food Intolerance In Dogs

    Food intolerance in dogs is an often overlooked factor in a wide variety of health and even behaviour problems in our canine friends. We’re all used to hearing about the link between diet, nutrition and overall health and well-being. Humans have the unique ability to speak up and, of their own volition, go see a medical professional if they feel unwell if something is just not right in their health. Dogs rely on us for everything. The food we put down for them, when they get to see the vet and so it’s down to us to be aware of issues such as food intolerance, allergies and generally ensuring our dog’s diets are complied of the proper nutritional requirements based on their age, breed and lifestyle.

    Here we’ll examine the effects of food intolerance in dogs, helping to give a solid overview of what to look for, symptoms of food intolerance and the steps to take should you suspect your dog may be intolerant to certain food types.

    If asked about food allergies and intolerance, many of us would have a friend or relative who is unable to digest wheat or dairy. In fact it is so uncommon that restaurants and retailers now cater for a wide range of intolerances and allergies, so why are we yet to consider our pets and their intolerances?

    Food Intolerance in Dogs

    Food intolerance and allergies in pets are becoming increasingly common and for one pair of dog owners a blood test led to a vast improvement in health for their much-loved pet.

    Tony and Barbara Bridger from Tring were worried about their Border Terrier Cross, Ebbie.

    For months she had been passing blood and mucus and being generally unwell. Just about everything had been tried until the vet mentioned food allergies.

    Tony said: “You don’t like to see a pet suffer in that way and you don’t know what to do.

    “It would not have occurred to us that it might be a food allergy, in fact we would have scoffed at the thought. Our pet allergic to food? We thought a test wouldn’t show anything.”

    The vet drew some blood and sent it to Yorktest Veterinary Services who carried out extensive diagnostic tests on the sample.

    The laboratory, which has carried out 12,000 tests over the past few years, specialises in finding out whether a food intolerance or an allergy may spark a pet’s problems.

    Signs of an allergy can vary from one animal to another including skin problems such as scratching and hair loss or gastrointestinal problems which includes vomiting. Some pets also show behavioural problems.

    Barbara says: “The vet said we should give the test a go before we begin to accept the symptoms as a condition or weakness.

    “Since we had the results back which highlighted which foods Ebbie was allergic to, she has been a picture of health. It’s been marvellous – well worth doing.

    “We would not have believed it would clear up so quickly. Looking at her now it’s hard to believe just how poorly she was. Her health improved in a week or two.”

    Tony added: “In similar circumstances we would definitely do it again – and we would say to other pet owners they should not hesitate to have the test too.

    “From the poorly state Ebbie was in this was like a miraculous cure.”

    Paula Peacock from Yorktest Veterinary Services, said: “An allergy is a reaction caused by either direct contact such as eating or breathing in an allergen such as food or pollen. If a dog is regularly exposed to an allergen, for example, the same food, the resistance of its immune system will weaken, often resulting in poor health.

    “Once the test results are known, pet owners can then discuss with their vet the type of therapy needed – ranging from dietary changes through to immunotherapy which is a series of vaccinations which help build up a dog’s immune system against pollens and insects.”

    Find out more about dog allergies.

  • Happy Dog’s Ostrich Meat Food Helps To Aid Projects In Rwanda

    Happy Dog, Germany’s leading and largest dried premium dog food manufacturer, in keeping with its philosophies, has recently introduced to the UK, as part of its on going programme of providing premium quality products to a discerning market, a new innovative product for dogs with sensitive digestive systems – AFRICA .

    AFRICA is one of Happy Dog’s Halo Brands, inspired by the cuisine of different countries around the world, Happy Dog’s Supreme Sensible Nutrition range not only provides wholesome and tasty food for dogs but it also provides specific solutions for feeding demanding and sensitive dogs, Lovingly prepared and developed by vets in Happy Dog’s factory in Bavaria, this range is even tastier and more easily digestible than many other foods on the market. The food is suitable for fully-grown dogs of all breeds and contains ingredients that reflect regional cuisine.

    Happy Dog’s AFRICA contains ostrich meat and is suitable for dogs with food intolerances. There is only one animal protein source in the food and it contains no cereals and only uses gluten-free potatoes so is ideal for dogs with cereal allergies and intolerances..

    Ostrich meat is becoming increasingly important for feeding dogs with demanding nutritional requirements. The meat is characterised by its special dark red colour and easy digestibility.

    The food is available in a medium kibble size, in a range of bag sizes, 300g, 1 kg, 4 kg and 12.5 kg and in small kibble in the ‘My Little Range’ in bags of 700g and 2.5Kg.

    Happy Dog is reknowned worldwide for its innovative approach to dog nutrition and continues to develop premium quality products to a discerning market and a further new ‘Halo brand product’ is planned to be launched at Crufts 2012. Further information on this new product will be released in the next few months.

    Buying Happy Dog’s AFRICA will help to fund projects in Rwanda

    The smallest country in Africa, Rwanda, is one of the poorest countries in the world. Over 60% of the population lives below the poverty line. The rate of adult illiteracy is 35%. Happy Dog donates 1.30 euro from every 12.5 kg Africa-pack sold (0.50 euro for 4 kg, 0.14 euro for 1 kg) to the SOS-Hermann-Gmeiner school and the SOS-vocational training centre in Kigali, the country’s capital. This gives young people a start in a self-determined life.

    For further information on any of the Happy Dog ranges, email: info@happydoguk.com or visit the website: www.happydoguk.com

  • How Much Exercise Should You Give An Arthritic Dog?

    How Much Exercise Should You Give An Arthritic Dog?

    Dogs with arthritis will sometimes limp in pain and as dog owners, it’s heartbreaking to watch your dog suffer. As we know, dogs themselves very rarely ‘complain’ and instead are more likely to give you extra licks when you’re trying to comfort them.

    One of the best things you can do for your dog once arthritis has been diagnosed by your vet is to modify their lifestyle and exercise routine. Changing a few small things can have a huge impact on their wellbeing and happiness.

    Exercise for an arthritic dog can help in many ways. Managing weight is the main reason, as dogs that don’t have exercise regularly do tend to put on weight. This is, in turn, increases the weight on the joints and can even cause more pain and swelling. Even if a dog is at the correct weight the constant exercise can help to keep the weight under control and thus reduce any extra pressure on the joints.

    Exercise for an arthritic dog can help to increase flexibility and this strengthens the muscles around the joint and increases the dog’s endurance. So for example, if your dog is just lying in one position, because of the pain, the joints can become stiff and this can increase the arthritic pain. Such regular exercise can also help a dog to sleep better and this, in turn, will lead to rested muscles.

    The same logic applies to everything your dog does – playing, eating, exercising.

    In the case of eating, make it easier for your dog by making the distance they have to stoop and move their neck as short as possible with raised dog bowls.  My older dog, Chloe, had arthritis in her neck and when I changed her bowls to ones which sat off the ground, it made such a difference to the pain she experienced in her neck, especially when the cold weather came.

    When you are exercising an arthritic dog, it is better to go in for more number of short walks every day instead of the one long walk that the dog may be used to in its daily routine. Two 15 minute walks a day are ideal and if the dog feels it needs to rest in between, it should be allowed to do so to recover.

    Rehabilitation specialist and ‘A Walk in the Park’ expert, David Prydie offers his top tips to readers:

    “Exercise is an important part of treating arthritis in dogs. It helps prevent muscle wasting and promotes joint health. Exercise must be tailored for each individual dog in terms of size, age and stage of the disease. Here a few simple tips and stretches that can be done to make the life of an arthritic dog just that bit better.”

    Tips:

    • Warm your dog up with some simple stretches before you go for a walk.
    • After a walk make sure you give your dog a chance to cool down, wait for the dog to stop panting and repeat the simple stretches.
    • Go for more frequent short walks rather than one big one.

    Stretches

    • Using low calorie treats encourage your dog to turn its head round toward its flank in order to encourage spinal movement. Introduce this exercise slowly and do not force your dog to move if it is reluctant to do so. Repeat 5 times on both sides
    • Encourage your dog to take a treat from above its head and then from between its front legs to encourage gentle neck movement. Repeat 5 times.
    • Ask your dog to sit and then stand and then sit again. Reward each time and repeat 5 times.

    Every dog knows its own limitations, so take a cue from the dog. Avoid any climbing or steep roads on your walks. Also consider finding your nearest hydrotherapy pool. Swimming in a warm pool can be fantastic for dogs with joint problems.

    You can also encourage the dog to play games of fetch, hide and seek or even with a football as long as you stop as soon as the dog indicates its discomfort.

  • Natural Remedies for Arthritic Dogs: Do They Actually Work?

    Dog joint diseases are very common and so are dog joint supplements which are given to elderly dogs to help retain their mobility – but do they actually work and at what point in time do you transition from over the counter supplements to veterinary medicines?

    As dogs get older, their joints will begin to weaken and their muscles become more flaccid. To remedy the situation it is very important that you educate yourself about the different dog joint problems.

    Supplements can certainly be given to help ease their arthritis and keep them pain free, but knowing when to transition can be tricky – but throughout the process remember one important fact – you know your dog better than anyone else.

    Remember, not all dogs age at the same rate, so judge your dog based on what you know is normal for them, rather than normal for their age.

    Before giving your dog supplements you need to identify the problem and to do this, you should keep a diary of changes. Monitor everything from how they cope with their normal walks, to how they react to getting up from a lying down position, to walking up stairs, to particular times of the day when they seem to feel more uncomfortable moving around.

    If your dog is overweight, that may have a negative impact on your dog’s mobility, so it’s crucial to understand what the problem is and what could have caused it, to help you give your dog the best care.

    Sometimes preservatives and food colour could induce joint problems in dogs and so it is very important to make sure your older dog’s diet is the best it can be.

    Some supplements which have received good feedback from dog owners include a supplement which includes glucosamine and chondroitin. This component basically is a hygroscopic and attracts water to keep the cartilage more lubricated.

    Marge Chandler, a clinical nutritionist offers her top tips for dog owners concerned about joint care commenting,

    “It’s best to consult your vet for a tailored treatment programme. A mixture of a therapeutic diet with appropriate supplements, weight control, pain medication and a modified exercise plan is the best course of action.

    Weight control is key in dogs with OA but bear in mind that decreasing the number of calories in a regular diet may cause a deficiency in other nutrients, such as protein, vitamins, and minerals.  Nutritional supplements or nutraceuticals such as fish oil omega-3 fatty acids may improve the signs.”

    Essentially, natural remedies for dog arthritis which work for some dogs, may work for others, but unless you understand the root cause of arthritis and discomfort, you can’t be sure that the supplements will do the job and provide the relief you’re hoping for. There are other non-supplement measures you can take though, such as new dog bowls, either ones which sit in holders, are wall mounted or raised dog bowls which sit off the ground – this means your dog will find it easier, and less stressful on joints and their neck specifically, to stoop when eating.

    For small dogs, it can be a simple choice to make because they have less distance to stoop to eat, but if you have a large dog breed, it’s essential. If your dog isn’t yet of middle age, it’s worth installing this one change to help ease them into it.

    Consulting an expert, or taking care to choose the best care program for your dog will give you a great all-round plan of action!

    Watch our video with more top tips from Sarah:

    Article Brought To You By Canine Arthritis Awareness Month


  • Living With An Arthritic Dog: How To Make Your Dog’s Life Easier

    If you have a dog that is hesitant to stand up, slow to respond, or inactive, you would probably think that these are just symptoms of ageing.  However, regardless of the age, your dog may be suffering from canine osteoarthritis.

    Veterinary care for dogs has advanced greatly in recent years which allows us as dog owners to investigate treatments that can help ease the joint pain and give your dog a better quality of life.

    Rehabilitation specialist and ‘A Walk in the Park’ expert, David Prydie, offers his top tips to dog owners who feel their dogs may be suffering from canine osteoarthritis.

    “Once your dog has been diagnosed with OA there are some simple adjustments you can do to make your dog’s life easier.  Dogs, especially those with arthritis, often find laminate or smooth floors difficult to deal with.”

    David continues, “Organise mats or runners so the dog can get around without the fear of slipping or falling.  Use ramps to help your dog when it needs to go up and down steps and or get in and out of cars.  Where appropriate consider the use of harnesses and lifting aids. Consider the use of a coat for your dog in winter, if appropriate.”

    German Shepherds are prone to joint problems

    Mac, a 9 year old German Shepherd, joined the Whiting family as an 8 week old puppy and for most of his life had been an active and energetic dog.  18 months ago Mac developed a slight limp which failed to clear up and eventually lead Fiona to take Mac to the vet.

    Acutely aware that, as a breed, German Shepherds are prone to hip dysplasia and canine OA, his owner, Fiona’s suspicions were confirmed when the vet diagnosed both ailments. Now on medication Mac’s diet is carefully monitored and he is limited to one short walk a day. Fortunately Fiona has a large garden so Mac is still able to enjoy spending a lot of time outdoors.

    What to do if you think your dog has arthritis

    If you feel your dog may be suffering from arthritis, book an appointment with your vets. It could be that medications are prescribed and help, but an all round plan at home with exercise, hydrotherapy is known to be particularly effective, or new routines around eating (for example, a raised dog bowl holder that sits off the ground could help ease your dog’s arthritis, if their neck is affected).

    After a consultation where your vet will aim to rule out alternative problems which could be causing discomfort, you can then start to plan ahead to give your dog the best quality of life possible.

     

  • Dog Arthritis: What To Expect If Your Dog Has Been Diagnosed

    Dogs can develop arthritis at any age, although generally it’s assumed if your dog is older, it’s more likely to develop through wear and tear over the years. Canine osteoarthritis can be extremely painful and can cause a lot of distress for some dogs.

    Symptoms such as limping and struggling to get up from a lying down position, or reluctance to walk up stairs can be signs.

    Although you may not think it, regular light exercise, such as short walks, rather than longer walks can be a good way to help your dog if it suffers from arthritis. If your dog does little to no exercise, then the joints will only worsen and stiffen up more. By encouraging your dog to do regular movements and stretches, as shown in the video below courtesy of www.awalkinthepark.co.uk, it will help the natural release of lubricating fluids in the joints which in turn will help with their flexibility.

    Expert Tails Case Study from Jane Alexander

    Jane is the proud owner of Oak, a female Flatcoat Retriever, who is now nearly 13 years old.  Oak has suffered from canine osteoarthritis for 5 years and has a very stiff left shoulder because of the condition.

    Being a professional vet, Jane was 99{d4f4ff813a06e2c77cbb9c6effe011ebffe2f8986e44983e90e08c54deb62f63} sure it was osteoarthritis, but because Flat-coated Retrievers also have a tendency to develop cancer, she did not immediately rule out other sicknesses.  After a complete examination, Jane confirmed Oak’s osteoarthritis and knew they needed to look for a suitable treatment that would allow Oak the same full and active lifestyle that she was used to.

    Jane noticed that Oak wasn’t able to keep up with her other younger dogs and wasn’t jumping and moving as freely and quickly as she used to which was difficult to see. However since Jane has started to manage Oak’s osteoarthritis, she has continued to run freely.

    Most dogs that have canine osteoarthritis can live a relatively pain free life when teaming treatments with a complete care program. Always consult your vet before trying new medications and remedies.

    Article Brought To You By Canine Arthritis Awareness Month

  • 5 Most Common Dog Ear Problems

    5 Most Common Dog Ear Problems

    Our dogs ears are prone to a variety of unpleasant problems. Whether it’s ear infections, debris, ear mites or damage caused by external sources. Here we outline the 5 most common dog ear problems so you know what to look out for when caring for your dog’s health…

    The following are the top 5 common dog ear problems.

    Allergies

    An allergy is often caused by environmental irritants like dust or pollen. Or it caused by food ingredients. Symptoms of an allergy can be itchiness, inflamed ears, and paws. Feeding your dog with food low in allergen will help in preventing allergies. Low-allergen foods do not contain soy, corn, and wheat. Keeping the environment free from dust would be beneficial too. Consult a veterinarian if your dog happens to experience chronic ear infections, as they are experts in determining the cause of the recurring problem.

    Ear Infections

    Dog ear infections are commonly caused by ear mites, hygiene problems, obscene or warm environment, bacterial infections, and food allergies. Floppy-eared dogs are more likely to experience ear infections and can be a recurring problem. A warm and moist atmosphere caused by the ear flaps would be an ideal place for yeast and bacterial growth. A dog with an ear infection may experience noticeable ear wax discharges. It looks rusty or yellow ear discharges which has an unpleasant odor.

    Debris in ears

    Dogs’ ear debris must be removed regularly as part of hygiene. Common debris inside a dog’s ear can be foxtails, plant awns, and others. It is advisable to inspect the inner area of the dog’s ear for any possible debris. A regular ear cleaning would be necessary for debris prevention. Debris in a dog’s ear can be bothering and may lead to ear infection.

    Parasites

    Parasites like to live on your dog’s hair, skin, and even inside their ears. Many of dogs’ diseases are caused by dog parasites. Fleas, ticks, and mites suck your dog’s blood which affects their health. If a dog is constantly itching or scratching and experiencing hair loss, it is possible that there are parasites living on the dog’s body. It must be treated as soon as possible before it leads to a serious problem.

    Trauma

    It is commonly called dog ear hematoma. It is a type of ear injury that causes swelling. An ear hematoma can be unbearable for a dog. This serious ear problem can be treated through a surgery; however, if it is untreated it can lead to disfigurement of dog’s ear and nearby areas.

    For more information on how to care for your dog’s ears, we recommend you take a look here: Ear problems in dogs.

  • Bringing Your New Puppy Home

    The fun of bringing a new puppy home and introducing him to his new family is a very special experience. He will, of course, become a well-mannered dog, staying quietly at our side, eager to follow our every command. Well, it is a long road from the cuddly puppy to the mature dog, but with some effort and understanding it can be travelled successfully. It all begins with day one in the new home.

    The first few days a puppy is in his new home can be trying for both the puppy and the new owner because both are trying to adjust to a new situation. After all, the puppy finds he has been suddenly taken from his den and litter mates and is expected to immediately accept a new, foreign way of life. However, with patience and a sense of humour on the part of the new owner, the first few days can be accomplished with good feelings on both sides.

    Breeders and behaviourists generally agree that seven weeks of age (forty-nine days) is the ideal age for a puppy to go to his new home, with six to eight weeks being the most desirable age range. The six- to eight-week old puppy still needs a lot of rest and will take morning and afternoon naps. For the first day or two, however, he might be very excited and spend much of the day in motion, checking out his new home. As long as he is not hurting himself or anything else in the environment, let him investigate wherever and whatever takes his fancy.

    If the puppy is eight weeks old when he first comes home, be very patient with him. This is the fear period and sharp noises or harsh treatment will leave him with fear which may take months to overcome. Let him take his time getting acquainted with everything and do not take him to places where he will be subjected to loud and frightening sounds or activities. If possible, trips to the veterinarian should be arranged either before or after the eighth week.

    This Article Has Been Brought To You This Month By

    If the puppy is ten to twelve weeks old when you first bring him home, he will be more rambunctious, especially if he is one of the larger breeds, and he will sleep considerably less during the day. However, he is at an age where you can get his attention quite easily and where he will want to please you and stay close to you.

    Common natural behaviours you will experience include:

    – Howling
    – Nipping / mouthing
    – Crying
    – Soiling indoors
    – Chewing

    Believe it or not, many new owners panic when their pup starts to display one or all of these behaviours. In fact, some owners get so spooked, they convince themselves they have acquired a ‘naughty’ dog and may even return it to the breeder. Relax. All of these things are normal and expected. Puppies play, the mouth, they whine, they howl, they chew. In the early days it’s simply a case of managing and minimising the risks.

    You can cure your puppy biting (www.puppybiting.co.uk).
    You can cure your puppy’s howling (www.dogadvice.co.uk)
    You can housetrain your puppy very easily (www.k9magazine.com)
    You can stop your puppy chewing (www.dogtips.co)

    Enjoy your puppy, don’t stress and be prepared to spend some time digesting high quality advice and information on how to shape their behaviours.

    Don’t forget, you’ll get even more peace of mind by insuring your pup with a reputable provider – so tick that job off as early as possible.

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  • I Found Blood In My Dog’s Urine, What Does it Mean?

    I Found Blood In My Dog’s Urine, What Does it Mean?

    To find blood in your dog’s urine can be alarming. In reality, so it should be. Blood in the urine is an early warning system that, without exception, should prompt you to take your dog to the vet for tests.

    In this guide we’ll explain what some of the potential problems blood in the urine can be an indicator of.

    • Urinary Tract Infection or UTI – These are the effects related to urinary tract infection in the dog. When a urinary tract infection already exists, it can get worse because it spreads to different areas of your dog’s urinary system. The infection can spread and can cause inflammation to the dog’s kidneys, bladder, prostate, and urethra.

    • Bladder Infections or Bladder Stones.

    • Kidney Stones. This is caused by the minerals and crystal increase which affects the dog’s urethra.

    • Urinary Tract Tumours. A urinary tumour can cause blood discharges through the urine.

    • Swallowing Toxic or Poisonous Materials. Blood in the dog’s urine can be caused by poisoning. Chemicals found in insects and rodent’s poisons are a few known causes of such poisoning.

    • Internal Bleeding.

    • External Injury or Trauma. A dog that has suffered a physical injury can be affected by trauma. Trauma can very be often almost unnoticeable to the eye. If your dog is suffering with trauma, though physically well to the naked eye, blood in the dog’s urine can be an indicator that all is not well.

    • Diseases transmitted from Ticks. Babesiosis, Lyme, and other diseases causes by ticks can result in bloody urine in your dog.

    • Prostate Gland Infection. This infection only exists in male dogs. Frequent or difficulty in urinating or pain when urinating are some of the known symptoms.

    • Uterine Infection. This infection commonly happens in female dogs. If your female dog’s urine is mixed with blood, she may have a uterine infection. It can also exist when your dog is currently on her heat cycle or if the dog has recently given birth.

    Physical examination of your dog’s stomach and kidney’s health history are the primary steps your vet will undertake when diagnosing the problem. A urine test is also essential in identifying if your dog’s kidney and bladder are working properly.

    If you suspect that your dog has kidney stones, it needs to be treated as soon as possible.

    Other diagnostic tests such x-rays and ultrasound may be carried out by the vet when checking the health of your dog’s urinary system.

    Possible Treatments

    Antibiotics – Kidney stones and urinary tract infections in dogs can be treated with antibiotics.

    Surgical Operation – Performing surgery is generally the last option in most situations, but blood in the urine is often serious enough that surgical intervention may be required if the condition your dog is suffering with has progressed.

    In all cases, should you spot blood in your dog’s urine you must get him or her examined by a vet as soon as possible.

  • Skin Allergies and Hotspots in Dogs

    Unlike humans, the first sign of discomfort usually shown by an allergic dog is itchy, irritated skin. Skin allergies in dogs can cause some dogs also get a runny nose or eyes, sneeze or even suffer from vomiting and diarrhoea. Uncovering the source of the allergy can be quite frustrating for owners and veterinarians alike.

    About Skin Allergies in Dogs

    Some dogs are allergic to components in their diet. A food allergy can emerge early in life; usually the offenders are beef or soy products. The best way to determine if diet is causing an allergic reaction is to feed hypo-allergenic food for several weeks and see if the signs regress. To be altogether certain of a food allergy, you’d need to challenge the dog with the prior food and see if the signs recur.

    Types of Skin Allergies in Dogs

    Another common allergic condition is known as atopy. Atopy refers to an inhalant allergy or a reaction to environmental components. Molds, plants, dust, even furniture stuffing fall into this category. Signs of atopy may be seasonal. The only practical way to discover what’s bothering this allergic dog is to ask a veterinary dermatologist to conduct an intra dermal skin test, much as is done with human allergy sufferers.

    Then you can try avoiding offensive material, or attempt hyposensitisation. These problems are also best discussed with a qualified dermatologist.

    A few comments about some common dog allergies: many dogs are sensitive to flea collars, flea bites or dyes in plastic food dishes. These things are easily identified and corrected. If a flea collar irritates your dog’s neck, remove it and wash the area thoroughly with a mild shampoo. Switch to another type of product. And if your dog’s red, irritated nose is caused by an allergy to dyed plastic by replacing the plastic dish with metal or glass. If it’s an allergy, the condition should be resolved.

    Hot Spots in Dogs

    One of the most common summertime complaints seen by veterinarians are hot spots – round hairless patches of tender, red, oozing skin which seem to erupt overnight. They are usually found on the rump, although they may appear anywhere on the body. Hot spots are especially prevalent in heavy-coated breeds and in any dog with skin allergies.

    Symptoms of Hotspots in Dogs

    Hot spots probably begin as a focus of irritation caused by a flea bite, impacted anal sacs or other small annoyances. However, the more the dog licks and chews at the spot, the worse it feels, so the more the animal licks and chews. A small problem explodes into a large one. These lesions need to be treated promptly before you have a dog in agony.

    If you are concerned your dog might have fleas, it’s best to investigate so you know how to treat – here’s a guide as to how to tell if your dog has fleas with photos and a video to help.

    Treatment of Hotspots in Dogs

    Treatment of a hot spot begins with clipping away the surrounding hair and cleaning the surface of the wound. The area is then covered with a soothing spray, liquid or ointment. The veterinarian will attempt to find and eliminate the source of the complaint.

    Your dog may need to wear an Elizabethan collar (a plastic contraption similar to a lampshade) around his neck, to prevent it from attacking the area further, until the skin begins to heal. Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed as well.

  • 12 Ways To Lower Your Vet Bill

    12 Ways To Lower Your Vet Bill

    Veterinary charges are one of the biggest expenses that dog owners have to deal with.  The problem with vet bills is that you can’t budget for them in the way you can for food or other more fixed outgoings. A large vet bill can come straight out of the blue and hit a dog owner for six ( or six thousand depending on the problem).

    But there are ways that every dog owner can reduce their veterinary expenses, from simple practices that you can do at home to smart money saving exercises that could be worth thousands of pounds. Holly Kernot explores the best ways to reduce that vet bill.

    There are a variety of basic health checks and routines you can adopt in order to ensure your dog stays in optimum health.

    Basic Health Checks.

    Performing a regular health check on your dog will enable you to keep on top of any new or recurring health issues. Potentially serious and costly health problems can be nipped in the bud before they escalate into something all together more sinister, which ensures that your dog will be getting a good level of health care and also, enables you to avoid costly vet bills.

    Become familiar with your dog.

    Become familiar with your dogs, and regularly check their body for any lumps which may have formed. When at the vets, as them to help you identify the signs of a dangerous lump, and what does not constitute as anything to worry about.

    Grooming.

    A healthy dog has a shiny coat, and you can help maintain this by partaking in a regular grooming exercise. Regular grooming gives you the opportunity to familiarise yourself with your dog and to carry out these checks.

    Regular grooming not only removes unwanted hair and reduces the chances of the coat becoming matted, but can also indicate to you the tell tale signs of skin conditions such as dermatitis, which can be costly to treat.

    Dermatitis is often indicated if your dog is scratching himself a lot, or if sores or rough areas appear on the skin. If this is the case, a vet should be consulted immediately.

    Bathing your dog on a regular basis can ensure your dogs coat stays healthy, using specialist dog shampoo to remove unwanted dirt and grime. Trim those nails.

    Dogs nails do need trimming, and vets and grooming parlours do offer this service, but to save money, many owners buy clippers and do it themselves. However, if you exercise your dog regularly, on the pavement, this will keep the nails short anyway.

    Dental Care.

    As your dog is a carnivore, it is vital his teeth are kept in top condition.
    Keep a close eye on your dog’s mouth and conduct basic health checks to ensure there is nothing wrong. For example, smelly breath, red gums which are swollen and teeth that are loose could all be potential indicators of gum disease. Changes in physical behaviour such as a loss of appetite or unusual chewing habits are all causes for concern. [According to Theresa James, of Dog Supplies Advisor.com.]

    Vets do conduct teeth cleaning within the surgery, but to compliment this treatment and to maintain optimum oral health, you could invest in a specialised tooth cleaning kit for dogs, consisting of a toothbrush and toothpaste [poultry flavour available!] [Seek veterinary advice before starting programmes]

    Ear Checks.

    A dog with healthy ears can be identified as having odour free ears free from dirt and grime. If your dog is shaking his head or partaking in a lot of ear scratching, it could indicate there is an infection of some kind, such as haematoma of the ear flap, which is a build up of blood in the ear area, caused often by infection or mites.

    Scratching of the ears can also indicate mites, which should be treated by a vet.

    Eye Checks.

    It is important to look out for changes in your dogs eyes. A clouded eye lens could indicate the presence of a cataract, while a an inflamed membrane covering the lining of the eye lid [and the eye’s white area] could signify conjunctivitis.

    Exercise.

    A good exercise regime is an excellent way to avoid obesity and mobility problems, which can both lead to serious and costly ailments. Ensure that the exercise regime that you provide for your dog is suitable to his situation. Over exercising a young puppy can lead to joint and ligament issues, which can last for a lifetime. Be especially aware when exercising puppies, as they will always be willing to go an extra mile despite what their bodies are telling them.

    All dogs need exercise, so why not go to the park for free! Your dog will love socialising with other dogs, going out with their pack [that’s you] and their favourite games, such as fetch.

    The benefits here are two-fold. You both get a good workout and your dog can behave in a natural way, chasing, hunting and ‘killing’ something [the ball in this case]. Providing your dog with toys does not have to be an expensive hobby, according to student dog trainer Alison. She says: ‘‘Dogs need playing with, but don’t buy expensive toys, an old T. shirt or piece of string can be a good toy.’’

    Having said that, do not over exercise an old dog as this can lead to joint problems which can be expensive to treat, so change your exercise regime so it is delivered in smaller sessions which are manageable for your dog.

    Avoid walking your dog in the height of the day, as the hot tarmac underfoot can be painful on paws!

    Food.

    A balanced and nutritionally rich diet can be the difference between good health and poor health. It is the key to your dog enjoying an optimum quality of life. But good food does not necessarily need to be expensive, all natural diets, for example, can be prepared relatively cheaply if you have the time and inclination. Life stage foods are also an excellent way for an owner to deliver the optimum nutrition to their pet.

    According to Alison: ‘‘It’s a false economy to buy cheap food, it’s full of additives which can lead to dogs chewing and digging in the house [which in turn can be expensive if anything needs to be replaced] and can ultimately lead to behaviour problems.

    She goes on to say: ‘‘Don’t be bamboozled by the food that vets sell, they can be keen to recommend food to owners which is only available from them and can be expensive- ask why they recommend it and check other good foods for ingredients.’’
    Don’t over feed your dog, as this can lead to obesity and further health related problems.

    Insurance.

    Pet insurance can be a real benefit when it comes to the long term savings on veterinary bills. Sainsbury’s Pet Insurance covers up to £7,500 vet’s fees per condition (option 2).  Plus you could get up to 25{d4f4ff813a06e2c77cbb9c6effe011ebffe2f8986e44983e90e08c54deb62f63} online discount and double nectar points on Sainsbury’s shopping for 2 years! Click here for more information.

    Flea and worm treatments.

    It is possible to buy flea and worm treatments online or from other retailers other than the vets. By regularly cleaning your dogs bedding, you can reduce the risk of fleas.

    The RSPCA website asks the following questions to determine if your pets have fleas: ‘‘Is your pet scratching? Can you see tiny brown specs in it’s fur, are there small brown insects scurrying about, do you have unaccounted for insect bites yourself?’’

    Shop around for a vet.

    Most dog owners go on recommendations from other owners as to which vets they use. If you do not know any other dog owners, ring around some local practices and see how much an initial consultation would cost, and what facilities are available at the vets. For example, some have dog grooming sessions and hydrotherapy pools available. The mistake many people make is to simply register with the nearest practice. Vets can charge what they want and there is often a large discrepancy between surgeries’ fees, so make sure you are getting value for money.

    Look out for symptoms.

    Symptoms of diabetes for example, can include your dog being more thirsty than usual, urinating more frequently, having a change in appetite and a loss in weight. If you suspect diabetes, go to your vet immediately.

    While obesity can be recognised if you cannot feel your dogs ribs through his coat, this disease can lead to heart disease and diabetes so prevention is most definitely preferable to cure.

    There are numerous ways you can ensure that you are not paying over the odds for veterinary services. By being diligent and keeping an eye on your dog’s general well being, you can ensure that any visit to the vet is justified. By ensuring that you are getting a good deal from your vet, you’ll never be in the sticky position of having to shell out more than is fair for treatment.

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