Decoding Your Dog's Behavior

Trying to decipher your pup's every whimper and bark doesn't have to be so doggone confusing. David Alderton, author of Dog Decoder, offers some interpretations.
By MaryAnn Barone

The Best Vet for Your Pet

                                                              (Hotch and Rosie)

Developing a comfortable — and lasting — relationship with a veterinarian is just as important as finding the right doctor for yourself or your kids. Douglas G. Aspros, D.M.V., immediate past president of the American Veterinary Medical Association, shares his tips for finding the best match.
 By Sarah Bruning

Top Five Dog Grooming Basics

Dog grooming is one of your dog's basic needs and an important part of dog ownership. Just like people, dogs need physical maintenance to look and feel their best. Fortunately, dogs do not need to bathe as often as people, but you do need to learn how much grooming your dog actually needs and keep it on a schedule. Generally, a dog’s grooming needs depend on the breed and hair type. If your dog has a skin, ear or nail condition, follow your veterinarian’s instructions regarding grooming your dog. It is also important to use the appropriate grooming tools. Here are some dog grooming basics to remember.

Tetra images/Getty Images

1.  Hair Brushing

Most dogs enjoy being brushed, and sessions will strengthen the bond with your dog while maintaining a healthy coat. A dog’s brushing needs depend on hair type. Choose the right tools and follow these minimum guidelines:

• Long-haired dogs usually require daily brushing to prevent matting and tangling of hair.
• Medium-haired dogs may be prone to matting and tangles and should be brushed at least weekly.
• Short-haired dogs can typically go a few weeks in-between brushing.

Regardless of hair type, you can brush your dog daily - especially if he enjoys it. Regular brushing will keep the coat shiny and healthy. More frequent brushing during shedding season can help prevent hair build-up and excess shedding. Consider products like the FURminator deShedding tool or the Bamboo Shedding Blade.

2.  Nail Trimming

Nail trims are often detested by dogs and owners alike. Most dogs dislike even having their paws handled and know how much it hurts when nails are cut too short. Dog owners are often uncomfortable with the process for fear of hurting their dogs.
Dogs will develop an aversion to nail trimming once they experience pain from it. The best way to avoid this is to learn how to trim nails correctly and exercise caution. Ideally, a veterinary technician, vet, or groomer should teach you how to trim your dog's nails. Most dogs need monthly nail trims, but your dog may need more or less depending on the rate of growth.
An alternative to nail trimming is the use of a rotary tool to file down nails. 

Bath for a dog. Photo Getty Images / Stringer

3.  Bathing

Bath time does not mean fun to most dogs and owners. It may bring forth an image of a wet dog running from the tub, dripping all over the house. Bathing does not have to be this way if your dog can get used to it. He may not like the bath, but he’ll be easier to manage. Learn how to bathe your dog properly and make the experience as positive as you can for you and your dog.
Most dogs should be bathed monthly, but bathing as often as once a week is not considered harmful. Always use a soap-free shampoo that is intended for dogs. Depending on the condition of your dog’s skin and coat, your veterinarian may recommend a specific shampoo. In this case, be sure to follow your veterinarian’s instructions about bathing. 

4.  Ear Care

Your dog's ears can be a haven for bacteria and yeast if not kept clean. Some dogs can go their whole lives without ear problems, and the only routine ear cleaning needed is during the monthly bath. Other dogs have chronic ear disease and require multiple cleanings a day.
Ear problems can often be traced back to genetics. Dogs with floppy ears or long hair tend to be predisposed to ear problems because the ear canal simply does not have as much air exposure. Many ear problems are a sign of allergies. If your dog has excess debris or foul odor in his ears, your veterinarian will likely prescribe special ear cleaners and medications. If your dog's ears are relatively healthy, you can help keep them that way with proper ear care. 

Bill Holden/Cultura/Getty Images

5.  Haircuts

Dogs with continuously growing hair, such as the Poodle or Shih Tzu, typically need their hair cut every 2-4 weeks depending on the breed of the dog and the style of the cut. This task is often best left to professional groomers, though many dog owners are able to learn some basic maintenance haircuts. If you are interested in learning professional dog grooming skills, consider dog grooming school.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Jenna Stregowski, RVT

Dogs Expert

Grief After the Death of a Beloved Pet

Mourning the Loss of a Dog

By Jenna Stregowski, RVT

Dogs Expert 

 

Handling the death of a beloved pet is never easy, but grieving for that pet is an important part of your recovery. If you have lost a special canine companion, the emotions can become overwhelming. Take some time out to grieve for your dog. Celebrate the bond you had with your dog. Don't be afraid to cry. It takes time to heal.Because your pet was an everyday part of your life, even the most mundane tasks can be heartbreaking.
 

Keep Your Dog Healthy

All good dog owners want to keep their dogs healthy. You love your dog, and you want her to be healthy and happy. Help keep your dog on the path to wellness with these dog health guidelines.

 

How to House Train Your Puppy

                                                                     (Toro)
House training is one of the first things you will teach your new puppy. This should be started as soon as you take your dog home, but it takes patience. In general, puppies are unable to control their bladders and bowels until 12 weeks of age. If your puppy is younger than that, extra patience is required. If you have an older puppy or even adult dog, house training is still possible. It may or may not take longer depending on your dog.

Dog Weight Loss and Maintenance

Solutions for Canine Obesity

Obesity in dogs is a growing problem. As with humans, overweight pets are at a high risk for a variety of health issues such as diabetes and heart disease. Weight loss is the key to preventing these health problems or helping to treat them if they have already begun.
Weight loss for dogs is clearly not a matter of willpower for the dog. Owners, however, may need to use willpower to resist those begging eyes.

How to Choose the Right Dog for You

By Jenna Stregowski, RVT

Dogs Expert

 

Are you ready to choose the right dog for you? Bringing a new dog into your life is a major decision. First, make sure you are ready for a dog before you start the process. It is also essential that you understand the cost of dog ownership. If you have decided that the time is right, congratulations! Now it is time to figure out what type of dog is right for you. There are several factors to consider before you choose a dog.

 

Clicker Training Tips

                                                            (Destiny)
Clicker training is a method of positive reinforcement dog training. You use a small device called a clicker which you press to make a clicking sound. The clicking sound is used to mark a behavior that you like. For instance, if you tell your dog "sit," you click the clicker the minute his rear end hits the floor. Then you give him a treat. If you are just getting started with clicker training, or if you are not getting the results you hoped for from clicker training, the following tips can help:

At-Home First Aid for Pets

How to handle some common pet emergencies.

By Amanda Flores and Sheila Dougherty 

Dog Gifts

Are you looking for some exceptional dog gifts? These are not the usual suspects! This unique dog gift guide can help you pick out something special for the dog (or dogs) in your life. From toys to treats, these dog gifts are sure to make just about any dog thrilled - whether the gift is for your best friend, or your best friend's dog!