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Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD) in Dogs

By
Dr. Debra M. Eldredge, DVM
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OCD in dogs is an orthopedic problem in dogs.
Diet make a difference in the development of osteochondritis dissecans, especially in large-breed puppies like these German Shepherds, so they need to be fed a diet made for puppies that will mature to a weight of 70 lbs. or more. Credit: Natalie Fobes | Getty Images

Osteochondritis dissecans, or OCD, is an orthopedic problem in dogs. It is a defect in the joint cartilage that causes pain and lameness. Without treatment, osteoarthritis will commonly develop with age. The most common location for OCD is in a dog’s shoulder joint, but it can also be found in elbows, hips, stifles, and hocks. Shoulders are the most common spot for osteochondritis dissecans, but they have the best prognosis for a sound, full life. OCD in elbows likely has lifelong effects.

Causes of OCD in Dogs

Causes of osteochondritis dissecans are plentiful and may have more than one trigger. This defect is most often seen in young, large-breed dogs, around the ages of 6 to 12 months. Males are more commonly affected than females.

Diet is a factor, especially if the pup has been fed a diet that is high in energy and protein. The calcium:phosphorus ratio is very important for these rapidly growing dogs. Toss into the mix a genetic OCD predisposition and wild exercise like allowing the pup to jump on and off beds or furniture or run excessively, and you have created the perfect conditions for OCD to develop.

Signs of OCD

Most cases of osteochondritis dissecans start with a mild limp or pain when the affected joint is handled or manipulated. The joint may be swollen and feel warm. Although the symptoms may seem to be in just one area, multiple joints can be involved.

The clinical condition starts with a simple crack in the joint cartilage that normally acts as a cushion between the bones of the joint. This crack can progress to a flap and leave a divot type lesion behind. The diseased cartilage piece may break loose and be free in the joint. The loose piece is known as a “joint mouse,” and it can cause severe pain and lameness.

Diagnosis of Osteochondritis Dissecans

OCD diagnosis is generally made via radiographs (X-rays) and a clinical exam.

If the osteochondritis dissecans is caught very early, crate rest and exercise restriction may allow the damaged cartilage to heal. Almost always, however, surgery is necessary to remove the damaged cartilage and clean up the area to remove any fragments. Postoperative recovery includes limiting exercise to allow the cartilage to heal.

The prognosis for osteochondritis dissecans can vary with the amount of damage and how long the joint has been affected.

Can Dogs Eat Cat Food?

By
Dr. Debra M. Eldredge, DVM
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Dogs can eat cat food without adverse health risks.
Your dog will be attracted to your cat’s food, so it’s best to set the cat food bowl away from the dog’s reach. Credit: Ruslan Dashinsky | Getty Images

Yes, dogs can eat cat food. For many dogs, getting some cat food, especially canned cat food or wet cat food, is a gourmet treat. For some dogs, such as very ill or geriatric dogs without an appetite, your veterinarian may recommend trying cat food. But, you need to be cautious when feeding cat food to dogs. Canned cat food tends to have more protein and often more fat than dog foods, and that fat can make your dogs sick, causing things like pancreatitis, weight gain, liver disease.

Cat foods have a higher protein level than dog foods because cats use protein for energy and need the amino acids from meat to support their muscles and body functions. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they must eat meat to get reach their nutritional requirements, while dogs are omnivores, which means they can meet their needs with both plants and meats.

Dogs Can Eat Dry Cat Food

Dogs can eat dry cat food, too. It’s richer than dry dog food and makes nice, small, tasty training treats. Just don’t overdo it. It’s easy to do because most dogs really like cat food.

Dogs Can Eat Wet Cat Food

Wet cat food can come in handy for a dog with a poor appetite due to cancer, age, or any chronic health conditions. The added protein and fat make cat food smell better and taste better than many canine options. Used short term for these problems, it can help to turn a dog around who was not eating.

Cat food should not be your dog’s normal diet though. The higher levels of fat can lead to gastrointestinal upsets and even pancreatitis in susceptible dogs (looking at you, Schnauzers!). In addition, the extra protein can be difficult for a dog with liver or kidney problems to safely metabolize.

Cat Food Is Safe for a Dog

Still, if your dog snatches a little cat food occasionally, his biggest risk is getting a swat on the nose from your irritated cat.

The bottom line is not to panic if your dog makes a raid on your cat’s food bowl, but don’t encourage him to do so. Use cat food if you need to tempt your anorexic dog, but don’t use it as daily meals once he has recovered. If your dog is on a special/prescription diet for a health condition, avoid using any cat food at all unless you consult your veterinarian.

Dog Pain Medication: A Guide to Common Drugs

By
Dr. Jennifer Bailey
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Dog pain medication is prescribed to help dogs maintain quality of life while dealing with medical care or illness.
Not all pain medications for dogs are equally appropriate or effective. Talk to your veterinarian about your dog’s response to the medications they prescribe, so they can adjust the dosage and/or drug used if necessary. Photo by Westend61, Getty Images.

Dog pain medication can be divided into two broad categories: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which alleviate pain by reducing inflammation, and analgesics, which provide pain relief through a variety of mechanisms.

Pain medications for dogs are not interchangeable. Some pain relievers that you use for yourself can be harmful or even toxic to dogs. And an analgesic that was prescribed for another pet in the home may not be the right type or dose for the one who is currently exhibiting pain. When choosing the most effective medication for your dog, your veterinarian will weigh a number of factors, including your dog’s:

  • Age
  • Weight
  • Breed
  • Overall health
  • Kidney and liver function (based on blood test results)
  • The cause of the pain (arthritis, trauma, surgery?)
  • The part of the body that is affected (joints, musculoskeletal system, abdomen)
  • The type of pain (acute or chronic)
  • The intensity of the pain as evidenced by the dog’s behavior
  • The length of time that the dog is expected to need pain relief
Do Not Give Over-the-Counter Human Pain Medications to Your Dog

Most people have one or more NSAIDs or other pain relievers made for humans in their medicine cabinet, such as ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin, or acetaminophen. Ibuprofen and naproxen should never be given to dogs. These drugs can cause kidney damage, liver damage, gastrointestinal ulcers, and seizures, depending on the size of your dog and how much he receives. Acetaminophen (common trade name Tylenol) is an analgesic that can cause serious side effects in dogs (and is fatal at any dose in cats and ferrets).

Aspirin is an over-the-counter NSAID that is available in both human and dog formulations. It was used in veterinary medicine for many years as a pain medication but its use is not without potential side effects. Even at therapeutic doses for pain relief, aspirin can cause gastrointestinal bleeding. Safer and more effective NSAIDs made just for dogs – such as carprofen, deracoxib, and firocoxib – have phased out the use of aspirin for pain relief by most veterinarians.

Dogs who have a disease that increases their risk of developing thromboemboli (clots within their blood vessels) may be prescribed aspirin, which interferes with platelet function to lower the risk of clots. The dose used for preventing thromboemboli is lower than the dose for reducing pain. Using aspirin for pain relief may put dogs at risk for excessive bleeding if they become injured or have surgery.

Sometimes we are so desperate to provide our dogs pain relief that we give them the only thing we have in our medicine cabinet that they can have: aspirin. Unfortunately, if you give your dog aspirin in the days before taking your dog to his veterinarian to determine the reason for his discomfort, the vet will be limited in what can be prescribed for your dog’s pain. If your veterinarian recommends starting an NSAID, your dog will need to be without any NSAID for 5 to 7 days from the last dose of aspirin before starting an NSAID made for dogs.

Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Inflammation is the body’s response to an injury or osteoarthritis (the breakdown of joint cartilage). Inflammation can be identified in the dog by five clinical signs: heat, redness, swelling, pain, and loss of function. When the insult to the body is acute, the inflammatory response causes blood vessels in the troubled area to dilate and increases their permeability. This allows protein-rich fluid to flood into the interstitial spaces, causing the tissue to swell. This fluid contains a mixture of components that help repair cellular damage and helps flush away injured and damaged cells – but sometimes this immune-system response may be excessive, causing more harm than good. Prolonged inflammation can cause persistent pain or swelling. Chronic inflammation can cause tissue destruction and fibrosis (tissue thickening or scarring).

NSAIDs reduce inflammation, which will often relieve the pain caused by the inflammation.

Using an NSAID dog pain medication is not without risk, but when given at an appropriate dose and used for as short a period as possible, the risk of developing side effects is low. Giving more than the labeled dose for any length of time increases the risk of an adverse event, such as gastrointestinal ulcers, liver damage, or kidney damage. Each NSAID has a narrow dosing range; never give more than the dose your veterinarian has prescribed.

A dog who is receiving an NSAID should not receive any other NSAID or a corticosteroid (such as prednisone) at the same time. It takes several days for a dog to clear the last dose of any NSAID from his body. A washout period of 5 to 7 days is recommended between stopping one NSAID and starting a different NSAID.

NSAIDs should be used cautiously or not at all in dogs who have kidney disease or liver disease. Your veterinarian will recommend a baseline chemistry panel to check for elevated kidney values or liver enzymes before prescribing an NSAID. Dogs receiving an NSAID daily for several weeks or more should have their bloodwork checked at regular intervals to ensure that their kidney values and liver enzymes remain stable.

Acetylsalicylic Acid

Common trade names: Aspirin.

Drug class: NSAID (COX inhibitor).

Indicated for: Relief of chronic or acute pain. Rarely used in veterinary medicine because of the potential for serious adverse effects, even at traditionally recommended dosages.

Contraindications: Should not be used in dogs who have a bleeding disorder (such as von Willebrand disease). Should be used with caution in dogs who have gastrointestinal ulcers, asthma, kidney disease, or liver disease.

Potential side effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite. Can cause gastrointestinal ulceration. Can interfere with platelet function, resulting in spontaneous internal bleeding.

Formulations available: Although aspirin is available over-the-counter in formulations made for dogs, there are no forms of aspirin that are FDA-approved for use in dogs. Currently available as tablets and chewable tablets.

Carprofen

Common trade names: Rimadyl, Novox, Vetprofen.

Also known as: Zinecarp, Canidryl, Aventicarp, Rycarfa, Rimifin, Carpox, Tergive, Carprodyl, Carprieve, Norocarp, Quellin, Rovera, Levafen.

Drug class: NSAID (COX inhibitor).

Indicated for: Relief of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. Also prescribed for control of postoperative pain following surgery.

Contraindications: Should not be used in dogs who have a bleeding disorder (such as von Willebrand disease). Should be used with caution in senior dogs and in dogs who have inflammatory bowel disease, kidney disease, or liver disease.

Potential side effects: Diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, lethargy, and loss of appetite.

Formulations available: Caplets, tablets, and flavored chewable tablets. Also available as injection for veterinary use only.

(For more information about Carprofen, see “Carprofen Is an Anti-Inflammatory Drug for Dogs.”)

Deracoxib

Common trade name: Deramaxx.

Drug class: NSAID (COX inhibitor).

Indicated for: Relief of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. Also prescribed for control of postoperative pain following surgery.

Contraindications: Should not be used in dogs who have a bleeding disorder (such as von Willebrand disease). Should be used with caution in senior dogs and in dogs who have gastrointestinal ulcers, cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, or liver disease. Should not be used in dogs weighing less than 6.6 pounds or in puppies younger than 4 months of age.

Potential side effects: Diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Has been associated with causing gastrointestinal ulceration and intestinal perforation.

Formulations available: Flavored chewable tablets.

Firocoxib

Common trade name: Previcox.

Drug class: NSAID (COX inhibitor).

Indicated for: Relief of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. Also prescribed for control of postoperative pain following surgery. Is used for palliative treatment of transitional cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder.

Contraindications: Should be used with caution in senior dogs and in dogs who have gastrointestinal ulcers, cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, or liver disease.

Potential side effects: Diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Has been associated with causing gastrointestinal ulceration and intestinal perforation.

Formulations available: Flavored chewable tablets.

Grapiprant

Common trade names: Galliprant.

Drug class: NSAID (PGE2 antagonist).

Indicated for: Relief of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.

Contraindications: Should be used at lower than recommended doses in dogs who have the MDR1 (ABCB1) mutation. Should be used with caution in dogs who have cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal disease, kidney disease, or liver disease. Should not be used in dogs who weigh less than 8 pounds or in puppies that are younger than 9 months of age.

Potential side effects: Diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, and loss of appetite.

Formulations available: Flavored tablets.

Meloxicam

Common trade names: Metacam.

Drug class: NSAID (COX inhibitor).

Indicated for: Relief of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. Also prescribed for control of postoperative pain following surgery.

Contraindications: Should not be used in dogs who have a bleeding disorder (such as von Willebrand disease). Should be used with caution in senior dogs and in dogs who have inflammatory bowel disease, gastrointestinal ulcers, kidney disease, or liver disease. Should not be used in puppies younger than 6 months of age.

Potential side effects: Diarrhea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.

Formulations available: Tablets, capsules and oral suspension. Also available as injection for veterinary use only.

Robenacoxib

Common trade name: Onsior.

Drug class: NSAID (COX inhibitor).

Indicated for: Relief of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. Also prescribed for control of postoperative pain following surgery.

Contraindications: Should be used with caution in senior dogs and in dogs who have gastrointestinal ulcers, cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, or liver disease. Should not be used in dogs who weigh less than 5.5 pounds or in puppies that are less than 4 months of age. Should not be used for more than three consecutive days.

Potential side effects: Diarrhea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.

Formulations available: Flavored tablets. Also available as injection for veterinary use only.

 

Analgesic Medications for Dogs

Analgesics provide pain relief by binding to pain receptors in the body. Unlike NSAIDs, analgesics do not reduce the inflammation that causes pain. But analgesics can be used very effectively when combined synergistically with NSAIDs to provide more complete pain relief. Using an analgesic with an NSAID can also reduce the amount of NSAID required or how often an NSAID is given.

It seems logical that if analgesics only relieve pain and NSAIDs relieve that inflammation that causes pain that giving an NSAID would always be an appropriate choice. But there are health conditions in which giving an NSAID is contraindicated. Your veterinarian may prescribe one or more analgesics in these circumstances.

Some analgesics used in dogs are controlled substances – medications that have been identified by the United States Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) as having a high potential for abuse by humans. There are limits on how much of a controlled substance can be prescribed at one time. Pharmacies cannot accept a telephone request for a prescription for a controlled substance from a veterinarian; instead, a written script must be physically presented to the pharmacist filling the prescription.

Amantadine

Common trade names: Symmetrel.

Drug class: NMDA antagonist.

Indicated for: Relief of chronic pain. Used in conjunction with other analgesics; not typically used as a single agent for the control of pain. Can take up to 4 weeks of therapy to see an analgesic effect.

Contraindications: There is limited data on the use of amantadine in dogs; not much is known about any contraindications for its use.

Potential side effects: Agitation and diarrhea can sometimes be seen just after starting therapy; this typically resolves without intervention.

Formulations available: Capsules, tablets, and oral solution. Avoid the use of extended release tablets.

(For more information about Amantadine, see “Amantadine for Dogs: Now for Relief of Chronic Pain.”)

Gabapentin

Common trade names: Neurontin.

Drug class: Neuropathic pain analgesic. As of this writing, there are efforts underway in some states to add gabapentin to the controlled substance list.

Indicated for: Relief of chronic pain.

Contraindications: Should be used with caution in dogs who have kidney disease. Oral solutions made for humans that contain xylitol should be avoided in dogs.

Potential side effects: Sedation and ataxia (wobbly gait).

Formulations available: Capsules and tablets. Some oral solutions contain xylitol and should not be used in dogs. Avoid the use of extended release tablets.

(For more information about Gabapentin, see “Gabapentin for Dogs: What You Should Know.”)

Pregabalin

Common trade names: Lyrica.

Drug class: Neuropathic pain analgesic.

Indicated for: Relief of chronic pain.

Contraindications: Should be used with caution in dogs who have kidney disease. Oral solutions made for humans that contain xylitol should be avoided in dogs.

Potential side effects: Sedation and ataxia (wobbly gait). 

Formulations available: Capsules and oral solution. This is a controlled substance; prescription limitations apply and vary by state.

Tramadol

Common trade names: Ultram.

Drug class: Opioid analgesic.

Indicated for: Relief of chronic pain. More effective when combined with an NSAID or other analgesic drug. Can take up to 2 weeks of therapy to see an analgesic effect.

Contraindications: Should be used with caution in dogs who have a history of seizures.

Potential side effects: Sedation.

Formulations available: Tablets and oral solution. Avoid the use of extended release tablets. This is a controlled substance; prescription limitations apply and vary by state.

What Fruit Can Dogs Eat?

By
Kate Basedow, LVT
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Dogs can eat the majority of fruit that humans eat in moderation.
Watermelon is a great fruit treat for your dog. Credit: Luliia Bondar | Getty Images

What fruit can dogs eat? Grapes and grape derived products like raisins are not safe. Aside from that notable exception many common fruits are safe for our dogs. Some fruits can be added to your dog’s regular meals in small amounts, and many make tasty treats. Like any treat, though, don’t over feed them.

Fruit  Dogs Can Eat

Some fruits that dogs can eat safely are:

Offer your dog small pieces of fruit to find out what he likes. Some dogs enjoy many fruits, while others have more particular tastes. You can even use them to make yummy frozen treats.

Many fruits have a high sugar content, and coconut has high fat content. Stick to small amounts of these fruits, especially if your dog is prone to weight gain. Choose fresh fruits, not canned or frozen, which may have a lot of added sugar.

Can Dogs Have Grapes?

No, dogs cannot have grapes. The tartaric acid in grapes, raisins, and sultanas are toxic to dogs and can cause kidney failure.

Is That Dog Fortunate or Tragic?

By
Nancy Kerns
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Dogs who live on the streets with their people may not have much beyond love.
Many dogs who live on the streets with their people seem better adjusted and better behaved than dogs whose lives are “easier.” Photo by RichLegg, Getty Images

My father, a nonconformist from his youth to his death, frequently used to say, “Everyone has their own reality.” Since his reality was augmented by his daily intake of a certain leafy herb, I used to take the grammar and the sentiment with a grain of salt. But the older I get, the more I appreciate what he meant – even without herbal assistance.

For example, sometimes when I see a dog trotting alongside a road in my rural part of northern California, I can tell that wandering is routine to that dog – he’s not lost, he hasn’t been abandoned; he’s out doing his usual rounds. Whereas the friend sitting in the passenger seat of my car, seeing the same dog, will probably say, “Stop! We should help that dog!” She sees him as in need of immediate assistance. We’re experiencing the same visual input, but our realities are completely different. Which one of us is right? Which one is seeing things the way they really are? (Well, sometimes it’s obvious that a dog is lost and in need of assistance, and I’ve rescued more than a few of them!)

There’s a similar effect at work when one of my dogs is curled up on top of a nest he’s made of all the throw pillows and blankets on my sofa. This vision will make me coo; I am happy that my dog looks so happy and comfortable. I see a secure, happy dog. The same sight will raise my husband’s blood pressure. He’ll likely roll his eyes and say, “Get off the couch! We’ve got dog beds in every room for that!” He sees a dog who is spoiled and opportunistic. (Full disclosure: My dogs are welcome on the couch, and they know that most of the time, they can ignore my husband’s directives. We have negotiated this agreement over the 25 years we’ve been married.)

A well groomed and cared for poodle may not enjoy the stress of grooming or performing.
It takes many, many hours of grooming in order to present a dog in this condition in the show ring – and the dogs don’t particularly enjoy any part of the process. Photo by Justyna Olichwier / 500px/Getty Images

Here’s another situation where the objective truth is hard to determine. Once many years ago, I had the opportunity to attend the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Whereas many people saw fabulously well cared-for dogs with fantastic shiny coats, I saw unhappy, stressed, shut-down dogs. The area where the dogs were kept and prepared for the show rings was so hot, loud, and crowded, I started feeling like I was going to have a panic attack. I left the show after just an hour or two and changed my flight home to that evening, instead of the next day as previously planned. I am still haunted by the overwhelming impression of hopeless resignation I had from the dogs I saw there.

What about the dogs who accompany unhoused people? Some might feel sorry for them, having to spend their lives wandering the streets, sleeping in rough situations, and subsisting on a diet of whatever their owners are eating. But others may see dogs who are seemingly completely content to be with their owners 24/7, unfazed by anything and everything happening in their environment. They get plenty of fresh air and exercise and tons of attention from their people; there are plenty of family dogs who aren’t so lucky!

Here’s a classic “different realities” scenario: I see my sister’s little dogs as fat – hideously obese, even. She sees them as happy!

In this case, at least, I think we both have a fairly good grasp on reality!

What canine encounter have you seen very differently from others around you?

Help for Dog Urine Killing Grass

By
Kate Basedow, LVT
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Dog urine killing grass? Try changing things up.
Many dogs like to pee in the same grassy spot – or choose a spot frequented by other dogs – so blocking him out of that area gives the grass a chance to heal. Credit: Lorenzo Tombola | Getty Images

Dog urine killing grass happens because of the high nitrogen content in dog urine. A little nitrogen is great for plants, but a lot . . . not so much. Overdosing on nitrogen, even from dog pee, can cause plants to die instead of thrive. It can also affect the soil.

Prevent Dog Urine Killing Grass

Ways to protect your law from dog pee include:

  1. Promote good hydration. Make sure that your dog always has fresh water available, and consider adding some water to her food. Drinking more water leads to more dilute urine, which is less likely to harm your lawn. Note: You can’t force your dog to drink! Just make that water fresh and appealing to dilute the dog urine.
  2. Enforce rotating pee spots. If you have multiple yards, switch up which one your dog goes in for elimination outings or use portable fences to give certain grass areas a rest from the dog urine. This helps to spread out the urine rather than all of it being concentrated in one spot. If you walk your dog on leash, mix up the route you take for walks.
  3. Create a designated pee spot. Alternatively, you can sacrifice one part of your lawn and make it the designated urination zone. You can either accept that this area will have sad-looking grass or cover it with gravel or mulch.
  4. Consider adding tougher grasses. Seed your lawn with more resilient plants, such as ryegrass, fescue, sedges, or even clover.
  5. Rinse away the urine. Spray off areas where your dog pees to dilute the urine and spread it over a larger area.
  6. Allow your lawn to grow taller between mowing. This allows the grass to be more resistant to pee stains.
  7. Check your fertilizer. If you treat your lawn with fertilizer, use a low-nitrogen fertilizer so that it doesn’t double up on the nitrogen already deposited by your dog.

How to Freshen Dog Breath

By
Kate Basedow, LVT
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Oral care is the way to freshen a dogs breath and keep it fresh.
With practice, your dog will learn to accept having his teeth brushed and your rewards are helping prevent dental decay and fresh dog breath. Credit: LittleCityLifestylePhotography | Getty Images

If your dog’s breath makes you feel like you’re going to pass out every time your pup exhales, it’s time for an intervention. You can freshen dog breath at home, but you must be diligent.

Best Way to Freshen Dog Breath

To start, get your dog’s teeth professionally cleaned by your veterinarian. This will give you a big boost in trying to freshen dog breath at home. Just like when you get a dental cleaning, your dog’s teeth will be scaled and polished to remove the nasty plaque and tartar that contribute to bad breath. Periodontal disease is a major cause of bad breath.

If your dog has signs of infection in his mouth, your veterinarian will prescribe antibiotics to kill the bacteria. Oral infections create a particularly pungent odor.

How to Freshen Dog Breath at Home

At home, work to keep your dog’s mouth sparkly clean.

You can brush your dog’s teeth with an enzymatic toothpaste made for dogs. Introduce brushing slowly – start by just letting your dog lick the toothpaste off a toothbrush. The enzymes in enzymatic toothpaste work to break down plaque just by being in the mouth. Over time, you will be able to add brushing action to really clean your dog’s teeth, but even if that never happens, the enzymatic toothpaste will help. We like the PetSmile system, which has enzymatic toothpaste and applicators without bristles; you can rub the stuff right on the teeth and gums, and many dogs prefer this method. Homemade toothpastes may be more economical, if you’re willing to do the work (no human toothpaste, as it isn’t made to be swallowed).

Dental chews and water additives are another easy way to help prevent plaque buildup on your dog’s teeth that cause odor. A prescription dental food may help dogs with chronic tooth issues and bad breath.

If you want to naturally freshen dog breath, provide your dog with safe chew items. These include raw marrow bones (given under supervision), carrots, apples, and even celery. Chewing works similarly to tooth brushing by physically removing the bacteria that creates plaque. Note: dental sprays aren’t highly regarded as effective.

Can All Dogs Swim?

By
John Strassburger
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2
Not all dogs can swim. Some are bred for it, and others simply don't float.
Some dogs, like the Newfoundland, have an incredible combination of the ability to swim and the instinct to take care of you and become excellent water-rescue dogs. Credit: Zummolo | Getty Images

It’s a common myth that all dogs can swim.

Not all dogs have the coordination or the physique to swim. Some don’t even like to get wet. But other dogs–especially Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and Newfies–love the water and paddling around in it.

Most Chihuahuas, though, do not like water–because they have no fur and get cold– and they can’t swim– because their pads are so small. Plus, their tiny stature means they can be swept away by waves or currents. But there are exceptions in this feisty breed, individuals who love to swim once they learn.

Start With A life Jacket

Yes, that means that – although your dog might never be the canine Michael Phelps – you can teach most dogs to swim. How?  Start slowly, stay calm and confident, and let the dog tell you what he wants to do.

 

  1. Buy him a well-fitting life jacket, especially if you’re not a strong swimmer yourself.
  2. If you’re going to teach him in your pool, build him a ramp to get in and out. It’s safer for him and for people already in the pool if he doesn’t just leap in. (And be absolutely certain he cannot access the pool if you’re not watching him.) If you don’t have a pool, find a lake or a slow stream with a sandy bottom and ankle-deep water to calmly introduce him to water and to moving through it.
  3. Introduce him to swimming by either supporting his body by placing your forearms under his belly or by holding on to the handle at the top of the life jacket. Dogs will usually figure out how to swim by moving their legs in diagonal pairs if your support keeps them from fighting just to keep their heads above water. You can also touch their hind pads to make them move their hind legs.
  4. Have fun in the water! Just make sure your dog doesn’t get overtired and unable to stay afloat.

Can French Bulldogs Swim?

For other dogs, like French Bulldogs, physiology and conformation has a lot to do with being unable to swim well. Dogs with heavy bones, wide chests, and short hair – Dobermans, Rottweilers, Bulldogs – generally don’t float well, so they tend to paddle with only their front legs and not go forward through the water. Thus, they sink, hind end first, which only adds to their panic.

Dogs with thick or long coats and lighter builds – Labs and Golden Retrievers – float more easily and stay warm in cold water. And the Newfoundland has giant, webbed paws that propel him purposely through the water, helping to make the breed outstanding at water rescue.

How Most Dogs Swim

According to a 2014 article published by the Society for Integrative and Comparative Biology and by Science Daily, Dr. Frank Fish of West Chester University (Pa.) did a study of how different dog breeds swim. He used eight dogs of different breeds, from a Yorkshire Terrier to a Newfoundland, and he videotaped their nearly uniform motion in a pool.

His film showed that dogs don’t do the doggie paddle! The motion is diagonal pairs–like trotting, except faster and with much greater range of motion, which is why swimming is great exercise for them.

Dr. Fish’s research also led him to believe that water mammals – whales, walruses, and sea otters–were originally land animals with long legs and large feet that were better suited to swimming. These then, over generations, became fins.

Hookworm in Dogs

By
Dr. Debra M. Eldredge, DVM
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Hookworm in dogs is a nasty disease that spreads between untreated dogs.
Avoid hookworm in dogs by not allowing your dog to sniff around in areas heavily populated by dogs who are not tested for parasites and may not be on a heartworm preventative that also prevents hookworms. Credit: Darwin Brandis | Getty Images

Hookworm in dogs is an intestinal parasite. Your dog can be infected by eating contaminated debris, intermediate hosts, and even when larvae penetrate the dog’s skin. Puppies can be infected with hookworm via the milk of an infected mom.

Adult hookworms can live for two years inside your dog by sucking his blood. The primary species of hookworm in dogs is Ancylostoma canium, considered the most prevalent and important intestinal parasite in dogs.

The hookworm is a nasty parasite. The worms (larval and adult) attach or “hook” into the intestinal wall. Once attached, they suck blood out of the tissues. They secrete anticoagulants to stop the blood from clotting. If the hookworms move on to a new site, they leave ulcerated areas behind.

An important note is that hookworms are a zoonoses, a disease spread between animals and humans. This means you can be infected with hookworms, too. Hookworms are an important cause of cutaneous larva migrans, an infectious syndrome in people with red, twisty lesions on the feet and arms where larvae have borrowed in.

Hookworm Symptoms in Dogs

The signs of hookworms in dogs are worst in puppies, especially young puppies who got hookworm from nursing. These puppies can bleed out, becoming so anemic from a heavy load of hookworms that they die. Slightly older puppies also may show respiratory signs as immature hookworm larvae migrate through the lungs on their way to the small intestines.

Symptoms of hookworms in older dogs are less obvious, as older dogs have a bit more resistance than puppies. Healthy dogs may not show many symptoms, but they can pass hookworm eggs in their stools, which can be picked up by other dogs.

Dogs who got hookworms from infected larvae traveling through the skin of their feet will have infected and sore paws. The skin between toes will be moist, itchy, and painful.

Hookworms May Cause Black Stools in Dogs

Senior dogs, dogs with a chronic illness, and dogs who are stressed will show more symptoms. These dogs will lose weight, may stop eating, and become weak from malnutrition and anemia. Often, dogs infested with hookworms will have black stools due to digested blood.

Diagnosing Hookworm in Dogs

Hookworms are diagnosed using a fecal sample to look for eggs or antigens. Treatment must be repeated until negative fecal results are achieved. Luckily, many oral medications that kill hookworms include many monthly heartworm medications such as Heartgard, Advantage Multi, and Interceptor Plus.

Panacur C used alone is also generally effective. Unfortunately, some resistant strains of hookworm are being identified and may require a combination of drugs. This makes it extremely important that you follow your deworming with fecal checks to be sure that treatment was effective.

Reinfection of Hookworms in Dogs

This parasite can survive for months outside, although freezing temperatures kill off many larvae. It can also survive encysted in your dog’s tissues, only becoming reactivated with pregnancy or stress.

Prevention is best done via regular poop patrol of your yard and avoiding places with large numbers of dogs who are not tested for parasites (like unregulated dog parks with high traffic). Luckily, monthly heartworm medications will stop many hookworm infections before they get well established.

Is Pineapple Good for Dogs?

By
Kate Basedow, LVT
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0
Pineapple is good for dogs to eat in small amounts as an occasional treat.
Some dogs love pineapple, and pineapple is safe for dogs in small amounts, but always without the outer skin and inner hard core. Credit: Veronika Gaudet | Getty Images

You can feed your dog pineapple. To feed pineapple to your dog, cut it just like you do to eat yourself. Cut off the tough outer skin and remove the hard core. Then cut the soft, flavorful flesh of the pineapple into bite sized chunks. But not all dogs like pineapple because of its acidity, so don’t be offended if your dog declines your offer.

Is Pineapple Good for Dogs?

Not all foods for people are good for dogs, so your question is a wise one.

Pineapple has a variety of vitamins and minerals as well as fiber, all of which can be beneficial for dogs. That said, your dog doesn’t need pineapple to get any of these things, and he gets all the nutrients that he requires from his complete and balanced diet (view our Whole Dog Journal Approved Dog Foods list).

Avoid sharing canned pineapple with your dog, as canned fruits are often loaded with added sugar. Not good for your dog (or for you!).

The core and skin of pineapples are not good for dogs. These parts of the fruit are too hard, and eating them can lead to intestinal obstructions, which are a veterinary emergency.

Pineapple for Dogs Who Eat Poop: Not Worth the Hype

Pineapple juice is sometimes touted as a home remedy for dogs who eat poop. The theory is that by feeding pineapple to all the dogs in the house, it will make their stool too acidic for the culprit to enjoy.

Unfortunately, this is not a reliable solution. By far the best way to stop your dog from eating poop is to pick up all dog poop immediately and not allow your dog to have access to it.

Finding Dog Lymph Node Locations

By
CJ Puotinen
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1
Dog lymph node locations can be checked to detect infections and cancers early.
Swollen lymph glands do not always mean a dog has cancer but if a dog has swollen lymph glands, he should be examined by his veterinarian. It’s possible he’s just fighting an infection. Photo by Oleksandra Polishchuk, Getty Images

Lymph nodes are small bean-shaped glands that play a key role in the body’s immune system. Lymph, the clear or milky fluid that circulates through the nodes, contains infection-fighting white blood cells. When a dog is fighting off a virus or infection, your dog’s lymph nodes will become inflamed. A dog’s swollen lymph nodes may be the earliest sign that he has sustained an infection or has developed canine lymphoma (a cancer of the lymph glands), so know dog lymph node locations and checking their lymph nodes regularly can lead to a quick diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

There are over 400 lymph nodes in your dog but only a few are close enough to the skin’s surface to be observed. Though few, these key nodes are important indicators of infection.

Finding Dog Lymph Node Locations

The nodes you can feel through your dog’s skin and hair are:

  • In the neck and lower jaw (submandibular).
  • In the chest or front of the shoulders (prescapular).
  • In the front of the armpits (axillary).
  • Inside the groin (inguinal).
  • Behind the knees (popliteal).

You can check these dog lymph node locations while petting or massaging your dog. Gently feel under her jaw on both sides, then move to the front of her shoulder blades on both sides of the neck and on the chest, then on the inner thigh, and behind her knees on both hind legs.

For a video demonstration of locating and palpating a dog’s lymph nodes, see “Where Are My Dog’s Lymph Nodes?” with veterinarian Sue Ettinger, DVM, on YouTube.

Swollen lymph nodes can feel firm, like a grape under the skin, or like a noticeable lump. While associated with cancers such as lymphosarcoma, lymph nodes can swell after vaccinations, when your dog is exposed to bacterial or fungal infections, or when your dog is dealing with demodectic mange, parasites, or a tick-borne illness.

Lymph transports proteins and fats throughout your dog’s body while trapping and removing metabolic wastes, dead cells, and other pathogens. Because the lymph system doesn’t have a pump the way the circulatory system is pumped by the heart, it depends on your dog’s physical activity to circulate. Giving your dog regular exercise is one way to keep his lymph in motion and another is with frequent brushing, from head to tail.

Keep a record of lymph node changes

Checking your dog’s lymph nodes every month will make it easy for you to notice and document changes along with other symptoms that might be significant, such as changes in appetite, behavior, energy level, etc. To make sure your dog’s swollen lymph nodes are not cancer, bring your dated list of lymph node changes and other symptoms to your dog’s annual wellness exam. These notes can help your veterinarian make an accurate diagnosis.

For consistency, consider checking your dog’s lymph nodes every month on the same day of the month. You can keep track of observations and changes on a calendar or download a free Dog Wellness Journal at the National Canine Cancer Foundation website, wearethecure.org.

Homemade Dog Toothpaste

By
CJ Puotinen
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1
DIY dog toothpaste can make an appetizing teeth cleaner dogs love.
Most dogs will happily sign up for toothbrushing, when the toothpaste you use is homemade and full of delicious ingredients. (However, you actually need two hands to do a good job. Use one to lift your dog’s lips so you can see where you are scrubbing.) Photo by Oscar Wong, Getty Images

What’s the best way to keep your dog’s teeth clean and her breath fresh? There are dozens of canine toothpastes, but homemade dog toothpaste and other dental products you make yourself is an easy, economical way to support your dog’s oral health with natural ingredients. Whether you use a made-for-dogs toothbrush or a finger sleeve designed for canine tooth cleaning, routine brushing exponentially improves your dog’s dental health.

You can experiment to design a custom toothpaste for your pup. The basic recipe calls for some sort of edible oil, which makes the lubricating base for the dog toothpaste; I love to use high-quality unrefined or “virgin” coconut oil for this purpose. Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is used as an abrasive cleaning agent. And you can use a variety of foods as flavoring agents that will help your dog enjoy the brushing experience.

Is baking soda bad for dogs?

Baking soda is the most popular DIY toothpaste ingredient because it is widely available, inexpensive, and cleans teeth mechanically by scrubbing plaque and surface stains with mild abrasion. In addition, it helps prevent bad breath.

Some veterinarians warn that baking soda shouldn’t be used in homemade dog toothpaste because if enough is swallowed, it can upset the stomach and digestive tract (remember, dogs don’t spit out the toothpaste, but will end up swallowing much of what you use). However, according to Blackwell’s Five-Minute Veterinary Consult by G. Oseiler,et al (Wiley-Blackwell, 7th Edition, 2021), symptoms of baking soda toxicity tend to occur after a dog has ingested 10 to 20 grams of baking soda per kilogram of body weight, which equates to about 1 to 2 tablespoons baking soda per pound of weight. Dogs are unlikely to be harmed by the tiny amounts that end up in their mouths, given that the baking soda is used in a relatively small amount, combined with other ingredients, and applied in tiny amounts on the toothbrush.

Ingredients to use in homemade dog toothpaste

Dog toothpastes often employ an edible fat as the base. Keep in mind that the toothpaste should be refrigerated after mixing the ingredients together. Here are some good choices to consider for the base:

  • Coconut oil is recommended for canine tooth cleaning because its medium-chain fatty acids have antimicrobial effects. In addition, coconut oil has a soap-like consistency when it interacts with saliva, which helps prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. To melt coconut oil, place it in a measuring cup placed in hot water or briefly microwave.
  • Olive oil and other vegetable oils are attractive to most dogs and, in small amounts, they are effective flavoring agents. In addition, they help distribute other ingredients during brushing.
  • Pan drippings from roasted meat or chicken combine favorite flavors with gelatin that, when refrigerated, stays on a toothbrush and encourages dogs to enjoy the brushing process.

Candidates to use as flavoring agents for dog toothpaste have to appeal to dogs, not us. So forget the minty flavors that humans enjoy. Here are better choices for dogs:

  • Bouillon, a concentrated meat stock sold as a paste or powder, can be added to home-prepared toothpastes. Look for salt-free or low-salt bouillon, or use very small amounts.
  • Brewer’s yeast is a strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which is used in beer making, hence its name. It is sold as a nutritional supplement powder because of its high vitamin B content, minerals, and amino acids, and it is added to some dog foods to enhance their flavor.
  • Yogurt and kefir are fermented milk products known for their beneficial bacteria, which help maintain a balanced oral (as well as digestive) microbiome. Use plain, unflavored products.
  • Herbs and spices like mint, ground cinnamon, and parsley are often recommended. Try them, but let your dog decide whether they’re worth including.

To make the dog toothpaste, combine 1/4 cup coconut or other vegetable oil with 2 tablespoons baking soda, 2 tablespoons yogurt, and a few pinches of any other dog-safe flavoring agents in a small glass jar. If you want to use bouillon, stir 1 teaspoon beef or chicken bouillon into 1 tablespoon hot water and then mix into the base with the other ingredients. Stir well, refrigerate, and when ready, apply some to your dog’s toothbrush.

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