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When To Start Training a Puppy

By
Dr. Debra M. Eldredge, DVM
-
0
Immediately after they arrive home is when to start training a puppy.
Everything you do with your puppy is training your puppy. He is constantly learning. Credit: IzaLysonArts/500px Getty Images

Puppy training begins when a dog is born. Every interaction your puppy has with other dogs and people is training. Your pup’s mom supervises play, stopping pup who gets “out of hand,” encouraging cleanliness (aka potty spots), and socialization.

 

 

How to Train a Puppy

While puppies don’t need serious obedience training at 5 weeks of age, simple training should start right away. Basic lessons begin as soon as the you bring your new family member home, whether it be the 10-week-old pup from a breeder or a 6-month-old that you’ve adopted.

Positive reinforcement is key to teaching your puppy the behaviors you want. Dogs of any age appreciate praise, treats, and toys. If your new to having a puppy—or it’s been a long time—it can help to sign up for a puppy class and work with a trainer who can advise you and help with problems that might appear during your puppies training.

What Is Puppy Socialization?

Socialization is a big part of training your pup, and it starts on Day 1. The golden window for socialization is around 12 to 16 weeks, which means this is the best time to gently expose your puppy to new sounds, sights, and adventures. While socialization never ends, this timeframe is extremely important to the puppy’s development. A puppy training class gives your puppy socialization with other dogs and an experienced trainer to keep everything under control and positive.

Make Puppy Training Fun

The goal of all puppy training should be fun and build confidence including housetraining. Programs like Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) and Early Scent Introductions (ESI) start basic training right away. An Adventure Box provides some novelty as well.

Exposures to different surfaces, people, and food bowls all add to a puppy’s basket of experiences. Gentle handling gives a puppy positive associations with people. While you don’t want to overwhelm a puppy, you do want to provide options and different choices.

Many breeders get a pup started with various play gym obstacles, like low boxes to climb into or on top of, tunnels, wobble boards, etc. At least initially, these novel items are simply just there. The puppies can choose to explore them on their own with no pressure. Watching a bold sibling will often inspire a quieter pup.

When your puppy is in your home, you can start increasing his socialization by going to stores, like Home Depot, that allow dogs in to let your puppy experience new sites and sounds. Walks in quiet parks allow your puppy to watch people, dogs, and wild critters and see what’s happening around them. Never force a puppy to “deal” with something or endure a loud noise. Let the puppy make his own choices. If he’s afraid, don’t push the issue. Remember, you’re building trust.

Manding Is a Voice for the Puppy

Many owners and breeders now work on positive techniques such as “manding.” Basically, manding is where a puppy learns to use a behavior to get what the puppy wants. For example, sitting is commonly used, since it is a relatively easy thing to teach and it’s a readily identifiable behavior. Most puppies will include eye contact.

For example, puppies naturally try to jump up on you to get your attention, but if you ignore that jumping and give him attention (or a treat) when he sits and looks at you, he will learn that sitting is way to communicate that he wants your attention (or a treat).

Manding can circumvent undesirable behaviors. Puppies taught with manding principles will learn appropriate behaviors to communicate what they want. Proponents see manding as the puppy being empowered to get desired response by presenting this behavior.

No-Stress Training

An important consideration in training your puppy is not to stress him physically or mentally. Just like young children, puppies do not have long attention spans. Doing training in 10 five-minute sessions (or even shorter) over the day is preferable to doing a one-hour long marathon.

No Heavy Physical Training

Puppies mature at varying ages. Physical stress can lead to permanent bodily damage. While it is tempting to take your 3-month-old puppy on a mile run to gain a couple hours of quiet exhaustion, that is not appropriate for his age and undeveloped bones. Loose walks with plenty of food recalls are perfect as long as they’re short.

A puppy’s growth plates, which are located at the ends of his limbs, close anywhere from 8 to 18 months depending on breed. Your pup shouldn’t be jumping, running at speed, or working for long periods of time before then or you risk damaging the puppy’s limbs.

Raw Diet for Dogs: Should You?

By
Dr. Debra M. Eldredge, DVM
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6
A raw diet for dogs is notionally more nutritious, but it can have risks.
A dog chasing and eating a rabbit is not really a “raw diet.” Credit: Amir Mukhtar | Getty Images

I watch my Belgian Tervuren bitches do “natural and raw” food. While my boys prefer cooked and served on a platter, the girls will catch a rabbit, and they eat all of it. Hair, head, guts, along with muscle meat. Is this a natural raw diet? Not really.

Most raw diets concentrate on muscle meat and bones. At-home versions are heavy on neck bones, wings, and backs. And, importantly, supplements are needed to round out the diet and approach nutritional completeness.

Vital vitamins and minerals must be compensated for in a raw diet. Getting the calcium/phosphorus balance just right, especially for puppies, can be very challenging. Properly feeding raw you make yourself is not as easy as your dog catching and consuming an occasional rabbit.

Proponents of raw diets believe that raw is more natural and more nutritious. The catch is that commercial and even homemade raw diets aren’t mimicking a true natural diet for canids, which includes a variety of prey (dead and alive), as well as plants, berries, and vegetables.

Are Raw Diets Healthy for Dogs?

To be healthy, a raw diet must be balanced and complete, and there are commercial raw diets that do just that. Vegetables, fruits, and supplements may be included. Most manufacturers rely on freezing, freeze-drying, or dehydration to preserve the foods for shipping and storage.

Can a Raw Diet Safely Provide Good Nutrition?

Yes, it is possible, but it requires more expense and effort than the average dog owner can or will put in to do it correctly. If you choose to feed raw, do your research and make the effort to do it right. For some dogs, it does seem to help (anecdotally, as there are no clinical studies), probably from minimal ingredients as much as anything.

Is a Raw Diet Dangerous for Dogs?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends avoiding raw diets for pets, for both human and pet potential health problems. Many veterinarians agree.

Raw pet foods are in the news a lot due to cats dying from raw diets and raw milk infected with avian flu. Freezing and freeze-drying do not kill the avian flu virus. At this time, dogs appear to be resistant to the avian flu virus, but that could change with mutations.

In addition, an FDA study from 2014 found the risk of exposure to some foodborne bacteria (Salmonella, Listeria, or toxigenic E. coli) in frozen raw meat diets for pets purchased online is about one out of three. Remember, freezing and freeze-drying do not affect most viruses, although many bacteria and parasites will be wiped out. Any toxins present may be preserved.

While dogs in general are fairly resistant to these pathogens, many are not. Puppies with immature immune systems and seniors with weakened immune systems are at risk, along with any dog with an immunocompromising health problem, such as cancer. Also, people are more susceptible to those bacteria than dogs.

That means food hygiene while preparing these foods must be perfect. A household with human seniors, very young children, and anyone with an immune-related illness should avoid touching raw pet foods.

Then, why don’t my dogs who catch and eat rabbits get sick? These girls are eating truly fresh meat with no chance for bacterial growth or toxin production sitting on your kitchen counter thawing. (Of course, my dog could still get things like tapeworms from those “fresh” meals.)

When it comes to “natural food,” dogs have evolved to eating a wider variety of foods than their wild ancestors with domestication, such as utilizing starches better than wild canids. If you choose to feed raw, simply ensure you take all safety precautions and ensure that the food you purchase or make yourself is nutritionally complete.

Best Choices in Free Dog Training Apps

By
Dan Muse
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1
Free dog training apps offer ways for a new dog training to manage their dog's training.
The right dog training help can guide you through training steps, such as teaching fetch, but you probably should familiarize yourself with the steps before you begin training. Credit: Svetikd | Getty Images
Free dog training apps are convenient, budget-friendly, and address behavioral issues and training. They can even help you teach your dog tricks. However, with so many apps available, it can be challenging to determine which ones use only positive reinforcement to train dogs. Be careful out there! Sadly, many dog trainers still use negative reinforcement and balanced training, both of which we do not recommend.
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Why Is My Dog Licking Air?

By
Debby McMullen, CDBC
-
1
Why is your dog licking the air? The causes could range from an unusual scent to health problems like seizures.
You may find your dog licking air for reasons from a tantalizing smell in the air to communicating with you to telling you he isn’t feeling well. Credit: Agnieszka Wieczorek/500px | Getty Images

Dogs lick the air for a multitude of reasons, some medical and some behavioral. It may not make sense to us, but let’s examine some of the options:

Dogs May Lick Air to Communicate

Licking the air when directed at a canine housemate or a human can be appeasement. This action is typically offered by an insecure dog who is unsure of what may transpire in any given context. It’s usually in conjunction with appeasing body language such as a curved body to appear less threatening. Air licking can also happen because of excitement or reconnecting after an absence of either. This type of air licking can also fall under the heading of anxiety.

Dogs May Lick Air Due to Smells

Dogs may lick the air to taste the smells that their extraordinary olfactory senses give them access to try and identify them.

When you see a dog making what looks like mouthwash swishing moves after licking the air or showing the Flehman response, where they curl up their upper lip, showing their teeth. This means that they are using their Jacobson organ, also known as the vomeronasal organ. This organ, located at the roof of their mouth, allows them to process smells, especially those associated with pheromones. You may see this happen when they are smelling urine markings on a walk or in the case of a boy dog being a little rude to a girl dog, after taking a hearty sniff of their privates.

Dog May Lick Air Due to Illness or Pain

Gastrointestinal issues/acid reflux can cause air licking, along with other symptoms such as air gulping/swallowing, vomiting, nausea, etc. Reach out to your veterinarian to help you better assess the situation.

Dental issues/mouth pain is a common cause of air licking. Does your dog’s breath smell off? Is there something stuck in their mouth/teeth? If this is uncommon behavior on your dog’s part and you suspect this to be the cause, prompt attention is important.

Seizures are another possible cause for air licking. Look at the context for other signs of such, especially if this is not normal for your dog. Get a video if possible, if your dog is not in immediate danger, as it can assist your veterinarian with diagnosis.

Licking Air May Be a Sign of Doggie Dementia

Declining cognitive abilities like Canine Cognitive Disorder (doggy dementia) can be a cause for air licking, especially when it primarily happens in the evening. It may be associated with other symptoms for this condition such as confusion, pacing, barking/whining at night, etc. A consultation with a veterinary behaviorist may be in order, but start with your primary-care veterinarian.

Licking Air May Be a Behavioral Issue

A dog licking the air can be one of the signs of an obsessive/compulsive disorder (OCD) that can also include biting the air. Again, context matters so keep track of what is going on at the time. Licking or biting the air is part of an attempt to self-sooth though an unproductive one. If this describes your dog, a neurologist may need to be part of their care team as well as a veterinary behaviorist.

This potential cause for why a dog is air licking can often go hand in hand with signs of anxiety in a dog. Most dogs who have OCD propensities are also anxious to varying degrees. If you suspect that your dog’s air licking is anxiety related, it’s important to reach out to a well-qualified dog behavior consultant or a veterinary behaviorist or both.

We all know dogs enjoy licking things. Your dog may simply be enthusiastic about the idea of a soon-to-be-enjoyed treat. If this is your dog, relish that enthusiasm! Otherwise, play detective and get to the root cause of the air licking by looking at the surrounding context.

Dog Food’s Effect on Yeast Infections and Severe Allergies

By
Dr. Mary Cope, PhD
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0
Dog food can be the cause of a dog's allergies and chronic yeast infections. So which dog food is best for allergies and yeast infection.
Dog ear infections, allergies, and yeast infections can all be due to dog food. Credit: Dimarik | Getty Images

If your dog is suffering from skin irritation, ear infections, or digestive issues—often caught in a cycle of chronic discomfort—veterinary intervention is crucial. While it’s true that a growing body of evidence highlights the significant role that diet plays in either aggravating or alleviating the underlying causes of these problems, it’s not a one-for-all dog food choice.

Dog Food Allergies and Skin Infections

Among the most common concerns of dog owners are skin allergies and yeast infections, which are often interconnected. To begin with, it is essential to recognize the difference between environmental and food-related allergies. Although many pet owners suspect food allergies when their dogs display symptoms like itching, red skin, or digestive discomfort, true food allergies in dogs are relatively rare.

Research indicates that food allergies only impact about 20% of dogs. In most cases, allergies in dogs are caused by environmental triggers such as pollen, mold, dust mites, fleas, or household cleaning products. However, for the small percentage of dogs that do suffer from food sensitivities or allergies, dietary management becomes a key component of symptom control.

When dogs react to their food it means that their immune system is mistaking a typically harmless ingredient as a threat. This misidentification prompts the body to mount an inflammatory response, which may present as skin irritation, hot spots, gastrointestinal upset, or recurrent ear infections.

Animal Protein and Dog Allergies

One of the most common culprits in such food-related allergies are animal proteins. Dogs are most often allergic to proteins like beef and chicken, which are among the most widely used ingredients in commercial dog foods. Other proteins such as pork, lamb, and even fish can trigger similar responses in sensitive dogs, although these are somewhat less common.

Dairy products can also lead to issues, especially since adult dogs are lactose intolerant. Like most adult mammals, dogs lack an enzyme called lactase, which is necessary to break down lactose, the sugar found in milk. Consuming dairy that has not been treated with lactase can result in gastrointestinal discomfort and contribute to systemic inflammation, further exacerbating skin issues.

Additionally, eggs, while highly digestible, may also pose a risk to dogs that are allergic to chicken, due to the similarity in proteins between the two ingredients. While sensitivities to grains such as wheat and corn are even more uncommon, some dogs do exhibit adverse reactions to them, as well as to legumes, such as soy and peas.

Dog Food Elimination Trials

Because dog foods often contain a long list of ingredients, determining the exact cause of an allergic reaction can be challenging. Limited ingredient diets can help in this regard, as they reduce the number of potential allergens and typically feature a single source of protein. These diets are useful for dog elimination trials, which introduce new ingredients one at a time to determine if they trigger a reaction.

Novel Protein Dog Diets

Another effective strategy involves the use of novel protein diets. These diets feature proteins that a dog is unlikely to have encountered before, such as duck, venison, rabbit, bison, or kangaroo. Since the immune system has not been sensitized to these proteins, they are less likely to provoke a reaction.

Best Diet for Dog Yeast Infections

In the case of yeast infections, the connection to diet is equally compelling. Yeast infections in dogs are caused by an overgrowth of Candida, a naturally occurring yeast that lives on the skin and in the gut. Under normal conditions, Candida remains in balance with other microorganisms in the body. However, when this delicate balance is disrupted by factors such as antibiotics, corticosteroids, immune suppression, or underlying allergies, yeast can quickly grow out of control and cause infection. These infections commonly manifest as itchy skin, foul-smelling ears, constant paw licking, and digestive upset.

A diet high in carbohydrates creates an ideal environment for yeast overgrowth. This is because carbohydrates, especially those derived from grains and starchy vegetables, are broken down into sugars that the yeast then feeds on.

Many commercial dog foods contain high inclusions of these ingredients, including wheat, corn, rice, oats, potatoes, and peas. Grain-free options can be misleading, as they often rely heavily on legumes and root vegetables that are high in carbohydrates. For dogs prone to yeast infections, it is important to shift toward a low-carbohydrate diet that limits these starchy ingredients and emphasizes high-quality, easily digestible animal proteins.

Look for Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients

In addition to reducing carbohydrate intake, focusing on anti-inflammatory ingredients can help control both yeast infections and allergies. Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly those derived from fish oil, algae, or flaxseed, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can support the health of your dog’s skin and coat. Including these nutrients in the diet helps to reduce systemic inflammation, alleviate itching, and promote healing. Other beneficial nutrients include biotin and zinc, which support skin repair, and vitamin E, an antioxidant that contributes to skin health and helps to control inflammation.

Probiotics Can Suppress Yeast Growth

Supporting the health of your dog’s gut is another crucial aspect of managing both yeast infections and allergies. A healthy digestive tract plays a central role in immune function and can significantly influence the severity of allergic responses and yeast overgrowth. Introducing probiotics into your dog’s diet can help maintain a balanced microbiome and help suppress the growth of harmful organisms like Candida.

Probiotics may be found in some high-quality commercial foods and can also be added to your pet’s diet in the form of a supplement. Some pet owners also choose to incorporate fermented foods such as unsweetened kefir or yogurt, though care must be taken to avoid dairy-based products unless they have been appropriately processed to remove lactose.

Hydrolyzed and Hypoallergenic Diets

For dogs with severe or persistent symptoms, prescription hypoallergenic or hydrolyzed diets may be necessary. Hydrolyzed diets involve breaking down proteins into smaller amino acids and peptides, which are less likely to be recognized by the immune system as allergens. These formulas are often recommended for dogs that have not responded to standard elimination diets or who experience frequent relapses.

Because hydrolyzed diets are typically available only through veterinary prescription, it is important to consult with a veterinarian before starting such a regimen. Furthermore, pet owners should avoid introducing supplements or treats that could reintroduce allergens or unnecessary carbohydrates, thereby undoing the benefits of a controlled diet.

While not all cases of skin irritation, ear infections, or digestive upset can be resolved through diet alone, nutrition plays an undeniably significant role in managing these conditions. By eliminating common allergens, reducing carbohydrate intake, supporting the gut microbiome, and including anti-inflammatory nutrients, pet owners can create a dietary environment that helps their dog’s body resist infection and reduce inflammation. Alongside proper veterinary care, a well-balanced, thoughtfully selected diet can greatly improve your dog’s comfort and long-term health.

Beef and Brown Rice Homemade Dog Food Recipe

By
Ronny LeJeune, CertCN, CCFT
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0
Nutritionally complete homemade dog food can keep your dog in excellent health for a fraction of the cost of raw and other premium brands.
If you think making your own dog food is too complicated, think again! This simple beef and brown rice recipe is made with easy-to-find human-grade ingredients. Credit: nensuria | Getty Images

Providing a balanced, home-cooked diet for your dog doesn’t have to be complicated! This simple yet nutritionally complete beef and brown rice recipe follows NRC guidelines for adult maintenance and uses ingredients readily available at most supermarkets. Whether you’re new to homemade dog food or looking for a convenient, balanced recipe, this guide will walk you through the ingredients, preparation, and nutritional benefits of feeding fresh, cooked meals to you dog.

Let’s get started!

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How to Find the Best Natural Dog Food

By
Dr. Mary Cope, PhD
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3
Many brands claim to be natural dog food, but how can you know if you're getting the best dog food.
A good natural dog food is made without artificial colors, flavors, or chemical preservatives, and with recognizable ingredients that are minimally processed. Credit: Jack F | Getty Images

Many dog owners today are in search of natural dog foods—meals that avoid artificial ingredients, use whole-food sources, and have functional ingredients that support their pet’s overall health in a more holistic way. But with so many brands claiming to be “natural,” how can you tell what is truly high-quality and what is just marketing?

 

What Is Natural Pet Food?

The word “natural” can mean different things depending on who is using it, but natural dog food brands should be products made without artificial colors, flavors, or chemical preservatives, and with recognizable ingredients that are minimally processed.

Best Natural Dog Food Brands

For those wanting to feed their dog a high-quality natural diet, a few standout brands are consistently well-reviewed by veterinarians, nutritionists, and dog owners alike. Our favorites include:

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The Honest Kitchen offers human-grade dehydrated dog food made from minimally processed ingredients. This is especially appealing to pet owners who want to add water and serve fresh without having to cook diets from scratch.

Open Farm emphasizes ethically sourced meat, traceable ingredients, and environmentally conscious practices. Their recipes include responsibly raised meats, organic produce, and are free from fillers and synthetic additives.

Spot & Tango is a highly rated brand that offers fresh, pre-portioned meals with limited, whole-food ingredients. Their “UnKibble” line provides a dry food alternative for those who want something shelf-stable but still natural and minimally processed.

Stella & Chewy’s is a strong choice for raw feeders or those interested in freeze-dried options. Stella & Chewy’s is well-known for their raw-inspired diets made from grass-fed, cage-free, and wild-caught proteins. Their products offer a convenient way to feed a more biologically appropriate diet without the mess or food safety concerns of raw meat.

Natural Dog Food Ingredients

When choosing a natural food for your dog, the best place to start is with the ingredients list. Ideally, the first ingredient should be a named animal protein, such as chicken, beef, lamb, or salmon. Avoid products that use vague terms, like meals or byproducts, which can indicate less-desirable cuts or parts of the animals they are sourced from.

A quality natural dog food may also contain whole food sources or carbohydrates and fiber, like brown rice, oats, sweet potatoes, or lentils. If vegetables, fruits, or beneficial herbs are included, it is a good sign of a brand focused on nutrient diversity and natural functionality. It is also wise to look for foods preserved with natural compounds like tocopherols (vitamin E) rather than synthetic preservatives like butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), or ethoxyquin.

Look for Transparency in a Natural Dog Food

Transparency in sourcing is an indication of a trustworthy brand for natural dog food. Brands that clearly state where their ingredients are sourced—ideally within the U.S. or from countries with strict agricultural regulations—tend to take quality control more seriously. Additionally, it is worth checking into whether the company manufactures its own food or outsources production, as brands that own and operate their own facilities have the ability to maintain tighter manufacturing oversight.

Remember, natural does not always mean grain-free, and for most dogs, whole grains such as brown rice or oats offer a good source of nutrition and energy. Grain-free diets are sometimes recommended for dogs with specific sensitivities, but they are not inherently more “natural” or healthier. What is most important is how digestible and nutritious the total recipe is, and whether it fits your dog’s specific age, breed, activity level, and health needs.

Ultimately, the best natural dog food is one that uses whole, recognizable ingredients, avoids unnecessary additives, and is formulated to meet the nutritional standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

If you are unsure which product is best for your dog, your veterinarian can help guide your choice based on any allergies, sensitivities, or specific health concerns your dog may have. Feeding a natural diet can contribute to improved energy, healthier coat, better digestion, and overall wellness in your dog. By choosing quality ingredients and reputable brands, you are not just feeding your dog—you are investing in their long-term health and vitality.

Best Anxiety Meds for Dogs

By
Dr. Debra M. Eldredge, DVM
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5
The best anxiety meds for dogs treat specific anxieties with minimal side effects.
This dog is clearly anxious. While an herbal supplement may help calm him down, working with a trainer is your wisest choice. For anxiety medications, you need a veterinary assessment. Credit: Alexandra Jursova | Getty Images

If you need an anxiety medication for your dog, you need a veterinarian to assess your dog and prescribe it. However, there are over-the-counter anxiety solutions for dogs that I like. A classic example is for dogs who get nervous or car sick when traveling.

Car anxiety occurs in many dogs. Both you and your dog may be able to avoid the vomit-in-a-crate scenario or huge puddles of drool with Earth Heart Travel Calm, a plant-derived product.

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My Dog Eats Treats But Not Food

By
Debby McMullen, CDBC
-
0
If your dog isn't eating his food, but is eating treats he might be sick or he might just be a picky eater.
If your dog doesn’t want to eat, start by looking for an illness, then consider things like how many treats he’s consumed during the day. Credit: Julia Kostiuchenko | Getty Images

Why is my dog not eating is a question that I get regularly from clients. If a dog is eating treats but not his food, the first step is to check to see if he is sick. In cases where illness has already been ruled out, there are several behavioral reasons why your dog doesn’t want to eat anything but treats.

If your dog is eating treats but not food, the reason could be you! I have come across involved dog parents so dedicated to training that they are wearing a treat pouch 24/7 and reinforcing far more behaviors than necessary. In these cases, the dog has been grazing all day and is no longer interested in meals, no matter how tasty they may be. Obviously, the solution to this scenario is to stick with a scheduled training session for treat reinforcements versus an all-day thing.

Sudden Illnesses That Cause a Dog to Stop Eating

A variety of medical reasons can cause your dog to not want to eat. All would require a consultation with your dog’s veterinarian, in some cases, sooner rather than later. “Why isn’t my dog eating” can be a medical emergency if it’s a sudden change, even if the dog will still take treats, which are often more enticing than regular kibble to a dog with little appetite. Reasons for not eating that require veterinary care include:

  • Pain
  • Illness
  • Blockage
  • Bloat
  • Dental issues
  • New medication

Sometimes we need to be detectives to keep our dogs healthy and happy, just another skill we need to develop to be good dog parents.

Behavioral Reasons for Your Dog Not Eating

If your dog is eating treats but not food, the reason could be you! You may be feeding your dog so many treats he isn’t hungry at mealtimes. I have come across involved dog parents so dedicated to training that they are wearing a treat pouch 24/7 and reinforcing far more behaviors than necessary. In these cases, the dog has been grazing all day and is no longer interested in meals, no matter how tasty they may be. Obviously, the solution to this scenario is to stick with a scheduled training session for treat reinforcements versus an all-day thing.

Your Dog is Bored of His Food

At the top of the list is that the dog is bored with their food. Dogs need variety in meals, too. Your dog may eat the same food day in and day out at each meal and never complain but not all dogs want to exist this way without some sort of backlash. If your dog is refusing breakfast but eats dinner, I would suspect this cause. Your dog is eating to stay alive. I don’t think that anyone wants their dog to feel like that, right?

My suggestion to clients when this is the obvious issue, is to find three or four types of kibble (it’s always kibble that this scenario applies to) that fall in line with the kind that is already well tolerated by the dog, either protein wise or brand wise. If they can vary proteins and the dog both likes the food and digestively tolerates it well, that is even better.

Rotate meals. One thing for breakfast and another thing for dinner. Vary again the next day. Repeat. This will help prevent boredom with meals.

Your Dog is Getting Anxious at Mealtime

Another behavioral issue that can result in not eating meals is too much owner-created attention to eating meals. Basically, micromanaging meals creates anxiety on the part of the dog and results in not eating meals. Your dog won’t eat while you are anxiously waiting for him to eat. I did this with my heart dog, Merlin. It resulted in learning far more about dog nutrition and kibble than I ever anticipated, along with a future of either feeding a raw diet or home cooking for all dogs from him on. If you think that you have created a situation like this, the wonderful Applied Animal Behaviorist, Kathy Sdao has a webinar on this subject.

Other Behavioral Reasons for Your Dog Not Eating

Behavioral reasons that I hear “why is my dog not eating?” have also included:

  • Anxiety/stress over a change in routine, family dynamics, etc.
  • Recent change in food/diet.
  • Stress resulting from a vet visit/vaccinations (report this to your veterinarian if your dog received vaccinations or medications at the visit).

Can Dogs Get Sick from Humans?

By
Mary Schwager
-
0
Humans can get sick from their dogs, and vice versa with a host of diseases being shared between the species.
Can your dog catch your cold? Knowing which diseases you and your dog are at risk of sharing can help keep the whole family—human and canine alike—happy and healthy. Credit: AndreyPopov | Getty Images

Can dogs get sick from humans? Can humans get sick from dogs? The answer to both questions is yes.

Certain bacteria, viruses, and parasites are zoonotic, meaning they can spread from animals to humans. Reverse zoonosis occurs when humans transmit germs to dogs.

“We’re all mammals, and there are certain diseases that can cross over in either direction, so we have to be a little concerned about those things,” says veterinarian Will Sander, an assistant professor of preventive medicine and public health at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine.

So, what organisms and critters can spread from humans to canines and vice versa? Let’s break down these crossover contagions.

Can Dogs Get Sick from Humans?

Though it’s relatively rare, humans can pass germs to dogs. “Many of us live very closely with our dogs, and we can share diseases that way,” Dr. Sander says.

Diseases that dogs can catch from humans include:

COVID-19

The virus that causes COVID-19 is one of the most recent and headline-grabbing examples of reverse zoonosis.

“We had somewhere between 200 and 300 cases reported where dogs got sick from people,” Dr. Sander says. “A very, very small number of those dogs died. Most just got some gastrointestinal and respiratory effects.”

Tuberculosis/TB

People can also transmit bacterial infections to dogs. Tuberculosis (TB) is a highly contagious respiratory illness. It can spread from infected people to canines through close contact with a dog or even through the air inside a home. (TB is rare in dogs, but dogs can also transmit it to people.)

MRSA

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is another bacteria that dogs can pick up from humans, especially if a pooch licks the skin of an infected person.

“Dogs don’t actually have Staphylococcus aureus that much on their skin,” Dr. Sander says. “It’s more of a human bacterium, and so when we see things like MRSA, it’s usually coming from their family, and that somebody in that family has had an MRSA infection.”

E.coli

E.coli bacteria can be passed between two and four-legged family members. Dr. Sander says there have been cases where E. coli was the culprit that caused urinary tract infections, which spread throughout entire households, including the dog.

“It could happen when somebody with a urinary tract infection does not wash their hands well, or the dog licks the toilet bowl and gets infected,” Dr. Sander says.

Can Humans Get Sick from Dogs

While many infections in dogs do not pose a risk of spreading to people, there are several viruses, bacteria, and parasites that dogs can transmit to humans, both directly and indirectly.

Stopping germs from spreading is something veterinarian Stephanie Janeczko, vice president of shelter medicine services for the ASPCA, considers a top priority.

“Infectious diseases are certainly an ongoing concern, particularly in settings where dogs have close contact with many other dogs,” Dr. Janeczko says. “They are something that we absolutely spend a lot of time working to prevent in shelter settings.”

Infections that humans can get from dogs include:

E.coli, Salmonella, and Campylobacter

Dogs can also spread E. coli and other bacteria, like Salmonella and Campylobacter, to humans through their feces. But Dr. Janeczko and other veterinarians also warn about the potential indirect spread of bacteria to humans from certain dog foods.

“We know that people exposed to dogs who are fed raw diets are at increased risk of exposure,” Dr. Janeczko says. “It might be because you were handling that food that was contaminated, then you became exposed, too.”

While medical experts may have differing opinions about raw diets and the risks, these types of bacteria can cause serious infections, even death, in humans and dogs.

Leptospirosis

Another potentially dangerous organism that veterinarians urge should be on more people’s radar is Leptospira bacteria, which causes leptospirosis, also known as lepto.

For pet owners asking their veterinarians, “Is leptospirosis zoonotic?”, the answer is: It’s one of the most common and dangerous zoonotic diseases in the world.

“We’re actually seeing more leptospirosis in dogs over the last couple of decades,” Dr. Sander says.

Leptospira bacteria are spread through the urine of infected wild, farm, and domestic animals. Dogs can contract it if they come into contact with contaminated soil, other infected animals, or their remains. Lepto can also spread in floodwaters, rivers, lakes, and ponds.

Without treatment, leptospirosis can make animals and people very ill, even causing death.

Rabies

And while we’re talking worst-case scenarios, canines (and other animals) can spread the deadly rabies virus to humans.

Dogs typically contract rabies after being bitten by an infected wild animal or a domestic animal (such as a dog or cat) that has contracted the disease. The virus is transmitted through saliva, so if a rabid dog bites a human or licks a person’s open wound, they can become infected.

“It’s really serious,” Dr. Sander says. “It’s one of those few diseases we know of that’s usually 100% fatal. It’s one of those you don’t want to play around with.”

Common Dog Diseases That Don’t Spread to Humans

While serious viruses like parvo and distemper can easily spread between dogs, they are not contagious to people.

Is Influenza Zoonotic?

Can people give their dogs the flu? Can dogs give people influenza?

The short answer is “sometimes.” There are various strains of influenza, and some are zoonotic. Also, flu viruses are constantly changing and can mutate in ways that affect their ability to spread between species.

“The way the virus is set up, it’s prone to having a lot of mutations,” Dr. Sander says. “When those mutations happen, we see shifts. Things are always shifting and changing.”

It’s always a good idea to consult the latest research or seek medical advice if you have questions, but here is the current information on several strains of influenza as of this writing:

Dog Flu/Canine Influenza

Although the dog flu, or canine influenza, is highly contagious among dogs, there have been no reported cases of humans contracting the virus that causes the disease.

Avian Influenza/Bird Flu

Avian influenza, which has jumped from birds to cows to cats (cats are very susceptible) and to humans, is a hot topic these days. Right now, the risk of dogs contracting bird flu remains low. “We have been fortunate that dogs have not been impacted,” Dr. Sander says.

Of course, if a dog eats or interacts with infected animals, they run a greater risk of contracting the disease. The key is to limit potential exposure to the virus.

Human Flu (Influenza A and B)

While the flu can make most people absolutely miserable and spread easily among humans, it’s unlikely dogs will contract it.

“There have been a few cases, but it’s pretty uncommon that the flu has been able to spread from people to dogs,” Dr. Sander says.

Preventing the Spread of Zoonotic Disease

Several common-sense precautions can help prevent the spread of infections, which can help save the lives of both people and dogs.

Vaccinations

Always ensure dogs are up to date on their vaccinations.

“Vaccines are a cornerstone of the way that we seek to limit transmission for several infectious diseases, some of which are zoonotic. This includes rabies and leptospirosis,” Dr. Janeczko says.

Pet owners should consult with their veterinarian to determine the best protocol for their dog, which should include core vaccines for parvovirus, distemper, rabies, and even leptospirosis.

“There’s been a good vaccine in place for quite a while for leptospirosis for dogs,” Dr. Sander says. “It’s something that the American Veterinary Medical Association and other big national animal associations have endorsed in the last two years as being considered a core vaccine for dogs.”

Flea, Tick, and Parasite Prevention

Fleas, ticks, and intestinal parasites are among the grossest, most disease-spreading critters that canines can bring home to their humans, which can, directly and indirectly, cause health issues for both species. Using broad-spectrum dewormers can help minimize the risk of intestinal parasitic infections dogs can pick up and pass to humans.

“Most people would be giving these as part of their monthly heartworm preventive; most have a dewormer in them that will provide protection against parasites like roundworms or hookworms,” Dr. Janeczko says.

Using pet flea and tick prevention can also help limit the exposure of both dogs and humans to many potentially dangerous diseases. Some ticks carry Lyme disease, Ehrlichiosis, Anaplasmosis, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, and Babesiosis.

Fleas may harbor germs like Bartonella, typhus, and the plague.

Topical, chewable, and spray-on preventatives help stop these biting bugs from infecting dogs and people.

Hand Hygiene

One of the easiest ways people can prevent the spread of germs is to wash their hands after having contact with their dog, their dog’s food and water bowls, and after picking up their pooch’s poop.

Pet parents should also follow safe food handling protocols when feeding their dogs to help reduce the risk of bacterial transmission.

“Hand hygiene goes a really long way in helping to mitigate infectious disease risk for zoonotic diseases,” Dr. Janeczko says. “That’s an important aspect of it.”

Safeguards During Sickness

Hand hygiene is also crucial in preventing the spread of diseases, especially when a pet or person is sick. People should wash their hands immediately after any direct contact with a dog or human who is ill or after touching anything they’ve touched. It’s essential to race for soap and water after cleaning up bodily fluids, such as urine, diarrhea, or vomit.

Don’t allow dogs to snuggle, kiss, lick people, or come in close contact with other animals or humans who are sick.

Wearing a mask and avoiding coughing or sneezing around dogs if someone in the household has a respiratory illness can help prevent dogs from contracting it.

If a dog or human appears to be sick, seek medical attention, and be sure to mention any other illnesses in the household, as well as the presence of pets.

“A lot of times physicians or nurse practitioners don’t always ask that question, and it opens up other possibilities for them to think about what could be causing you to be sick, too,” Dr. Sander says. “I always tell people to advocate for themselves and let doctors know what’s going on.”

The bottom line is that while you should be aware of the germs and parasites in your environment, they should not prevent you and your dog from having a loving relationship.

“The risk is not huge, but take common-sense precautions,” Dr. Sander says. “Good hygiene and preventive measures are really what’s needed, and just not letting our guard down.”

 

Selegiline for Dogs with Cognitive Dysfunction

By
Dr. Debra M. Eldredge, DVM
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Selegeline for dogs with cognitive dysfunction can help dogs better manage their cognitive decline.
If your senior dog is becoming unusually restless at night, it may be time to discuss the possibility of cognitive dysfunction with your veterinarian. Credit: Svetlana Repnitskaya | Getty Images

Selegiline, or Anipryl, is a medication to help senior dogs with signs of cognitive dysfunction. In senior dogs, cognitive dysfunction, or dementia in dogs, often shows up as increased vocalization, sundowners syndrome (confusion and/or agitation that occurs at the end of the day), and general wandering at night.

Dogs with cognitive dysfunction often seem unaware of their world. Some dogs may start eliminating in the house and lose interest in activities they used to enjoy. Selegiline, or the brand name Anipryl, may help you and your dog cope with his mental decline.

Selegiline Worked for Dog With Cognitive Dysfunction

Kate’s Belgian Tervuren, Queezle, was 12 years old when she started on selegiline for canine cognitive dysfunction. Queezle had started nocturnal pacing and fussing, keeping Kate and her husband up at night.

“Within a week of starting on selegiline, Queezle was sleeping through the night and much brighter and happier. We hadn’t realized just how grumpy she had gotten until we had the old Queezle back,” says Kate. Queezle earned her Champion Tracker title at age 13 and went on to live to age 16.

How to Use Selegiline for Dogs

Selegiline is usually dispensed as a tablet or capsule, although you may be able to get a transdermal patch that is placed on the inside of an ear, for example. Some owners have had liquid versions compounded.

Tell your veterinarian about any other medications or supplements your dog may be on. Selegiline interacts with several other drugs, including antidepressants and pain medications, as well as some other behavior-modifying medications. Because selegiline is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), you should avoid giving your dog hard cheese or cured meat while on this drug.

Note: MAOI drugs act on the neurotransmitter called dopamine in the brain. Among other functions, dopamine helps with memory. Selegiline helps to maintain dopamine levels in the brain. Dopamine also helps to regulate levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). Selegiline can help dogs with Cushing’s disease via this metabolic pathway.

Side Effects of Selegiline

Initial side effects when using selegiline in dogs may include restlessness and some confusion, which of course, mimic what you want to treat. Most dogs adjust, but it may take a few weeks to truly evaluate if selegiline is working for your dog.

Some dogs may show gastrointestinal upset ranging from vomiting and diarrhea to a decrease in appetite. Rarely, some dogs will show aggression or a loss of hearing.

Will Selegiline Work for My Dog?

Unfortunately, some dogs don’t show much of a response to selegiline. It’s important to discuss with your veterinarian how long the initial trial should be done to see if selegiline works for your dog. While some dogs show a response to the medication fairly quickly, some will take a few weeks. And some dogs won’t show any real change.

For best results with cognitive dysfunction, discuss supplements and possible diet changes with your veterinarian along with the possible prescription of selegiline. There are prescription diets and some over-the-counter dog foods, Purina Pro Plan Bright Mind, that are made to address problems with cognitive dysfunction in senior dogs. In addition, keeping your senior dog active with walks, food puzzles, scent games, and training can all help. It’s the dog version of crossword puzzles and Sudoku for your grandmother.

What Is the Best Novel Protein Diet for Dogs?

By
Dr. Mary Cope, PhD
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Novel protein diets for dogs can help with skin and other allergies.
A novel protein diet may resolve a chronic itch that cannot be cured by traditional medications. Credit: Thiradech | Getty Images

A novel protein is often recommended when allergies or food sensitivities are believed to be causing persistent digestive upset, chronic ear infections, or ongoing skin issues like itchiness, redness, and hot spots. When traditional diagnostic methods or treatments fail to resolve these symptoms, veterinarians often recommend trying a novel protein diet or a dog elimination diet trial. These dietary approaches aim to uncover the triggers of food sensitives and offer relief through nutritional management. The result is often a significant improvement in your dog’s quality of life.

Finding a Novel Protein for Your Dog

A novel protein diet refers to foods that contain a protein source that your dog has never consumed before. The rationale behind using an unfamiliar protein is to reduce the likelihood of triggering an immune response, as allergic reactions occur when the body recognizes a benign substance as foreign or harmful.

Common protein sources such as chicken, beef, lamb, and turkey are frequent culprits for food allergies, simply because they appear so frequently in commercial dog food. By switching to a novel protein, such as rabbit, venison, duck, kangaroo, alligator or ostrich, you reduce the chance of including the ingredient responsible for the allergic response.

What Is an Elimination Diet?

Elimination diets are the gold standard for identifying food allergies or sensitivities in dogs. These diets consist of a limited number of ingredients, ideally with a single novel protein source and a single novel carbohydrate source, given exclusively to the dog over a period of eight to twelve weeks. During this time, no other foods, treats, supplements, or table scraps should be given.

The idea is to allow the dog’s immune system and gut to settle and observe whether symptoms improve or resolve completely. If improvement is observed, then individual ingredients from the previous diet can be reintroduced one at a time to try to determine which ingredient(s) trigger a reaction. This reintroduction process must be done cautiously and methodically to ensure that each ingredient’s effect is properly assessed.

Good Choices for a Dog’s Novel Protein Diet

Several reputable pet food brands offer novel protein formulas:

  • Zignature is known for its limited ingredient diets and features novel proteins such as kangaroo, catfish, and venison.
  • Natural Balance also produces a variety of limited ingredient and novel protein diets including duck, bison, and venison formulas.
  • Merrick and Instinct both offer raw-coated and grain-free recipes that include exotic proteins like rabbit, lamb, and duck.

While the availability of novel protein foods has grown in recent years due to increased awareness of canine food allergies, not all products are created equal. Some may include secondary or tertiary animal proteins that will be featured farther down in the ingredient list and can compromise the integrity of a novel protein diet. Because of this, it is crucial to carefully read labels and, whenever possible, opt for diets that are explicitly labeled as limited ingredient and contain only one clearly identified protein source.

Novel protein diets and elimination trials are invaluable tools for identifying and managing food allergies and sensitivities in dogs. By selecting less common protein sources and strictly adhering to a limited diet, pet owners can determine the root cause of their dog’s discomfort and chart a path forward that leads to long-term health and relief from symptoms. With guidance from a veterinarian, many dogs can thrive on novel protein diets and live happy, comfortable lives free from the discomfort from undiagnosed food sensitivities.

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