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Arthritis in dogs is a condition that occurs when the joints become inflamed. This can be the result of injury or disease. This condition is most common in older dogs, but can also occur in younger canines. So, what exactly causes it?

Causes

Various things can cause dog arthritis. The most common is a traumatic injury that affects the joints, such as being hit by a car. As mentioned earlier, various diseases can also affect the joints and cause this condition.

Obese dogs have a higher risk for developing arthritis. This is because their excess weight causes more force to be applied to the joints. Young dogs that have improperly developed bones are also at risk.

Symptoms

The most noticeable symptom of arthritis in dogs is limping. Your dog will be much more hesitant to walk, run, or jump around because of the pain caused by this condition. Also, your pet may not like you touching him because of the pain. Arthritis commonly causes the affected joints to swell up also.

Diagnosis

This condition is mainly diagnosed based on symptoms and medical history. The veterinarian may also palpate the joints to see if they’re swollen. Since joint changes can occur because of arthritis, it’s also useful to have an x-ray. Fluid from the affected joints can also be removed and analyzed.

Treatment

Arthritis in dogs is most commonly treated with anti-inflammatory medications. Reducing inflammation will reduce the amount of pain your dog experiences. If a traumatic injury is the underlying cause of arthritis, then surgery may be required to repair the ligaments. Dogs that are overweight will find relief once they lose weight.

The transition from a young pup to senior canine is a slow transition. Although it is natural, there are certain things you can do to help relieve or slow down some of the problems that come with your aging dog.

These are natural normal signs of elderly dogs, and are inevitable. Depending on the breed and size of your dog, the rate of aging can be quite different. For example at 10 years of age, a dog under 20 pounds is approximately equivalent to 56 human years. Compare the same aged dog (10 years old) that is over 90 pounds, and they are equivalent to approximately 78 human years.

Vets usually consider a small dog to be senior citizens around the 12th year. A large breed dog reaches the same stage around their 7th year. This is according to a report from Tuft’s University.

Using established guidelines to determine when your dog starts entering their golden years will help to understand any changes in behavior and health. Keeping regular checkups with your vet is also most important as your dog ages, as any irregularities can be found early.

Signs of aging and tips to help keep your senior pet as perky as possible are:

Difficulty getting up from lying down, or limping and difficulty moving could indicate arthritis. Your vet can help recommend supplements or proper modified exercise routines to relieve discomfort, and increase mobility. Usually the proper supplements such as glucosamine will relieve mild arthritis symptoms.

Although graying hair and drying skin are quite normal in aging canines, a nice daily massage and a regular grooming routine can help your senior pet’s skin condition improve. Also, because of the slowing down in daily routines for your senior dog, this can be your special bonding time set aside to make him/her feel special and also break up a boring day and give you both something to look forward too.

Certain breeds such a Labrador Retrievers are also known to be genetically predisposed to arthritis and hip problems. Every dog breed seems to have their own specific genetic downfalls that you should make yourself aware of when you adopt your puppy.

Excellent nutrition from puppy hood will help delay or decrease the speed of which the aging process proceeds. Your dog’s life will definitely be shortened if he is overweight because more diseases and illnesses are likely to be caused by obesity.

The dog’s environment should be kept clean and free of parasites, fleas, and ticks. This will certainly help increase the chances of a longer life.

Vision and hearing ultimately become diminished in your aging dog. Try not to startle your dog by changing his environment (moving furniture, changing the location of his bed, etc.). If his hearing is bad, using hand signals, and talking to his face so he can see you will help.

Sudden weight loss or loss of appetite needs to be checked out immediately by your vet.

Also a sudden increase in appetite, especially with no weight gain involved may indicate diabetes. Also a sudden increase in thirst is also a sign of diabetes. This also needs immediate attention from your vet.

Excessive panting in your senior dog may indicate heart disease. If this continues for more than a day this is another reason to get to the vet as soon as possible.

As with any dog, diarrhea and vomiting lasting more than a day needs to be checked right away.

And finally, and possibly the worst problems to watch out for in your aging dog are the behavioral changes. Just as when we deal with our elderly family members who have dementia or Alzheimer’s, dealing with a pet with drastic personality changes can be traumatic for both of your. Some symptoms to watch for are: Confusion, lack of attentiveness, disorientation, roaming in circles, barking for no reason, elimination accidents and being withdrawn. Also uncharacteristic aggression may start in old age. Try to keep your old dog’s environment as stable and unchanging as possible as this may help.

It is difficult to watch the deterioration slowly change our robust, vibrant and active puppy into a slow moving, tired and sometimes cranky family member. The transition to the “golden years” do not need to be traumatic if you watch carefully and notice the gradual changes. As they happen, taking care of them will minimize their severity, and your dog can be eased into senior status with minor problems. We can always enjoy our pets at any age, just as long as our expectations change with their needs.

The best way to stop dog itching is to treat the problem from the inside out. The main reason for dog itchy skin is improper nutrition. Without proper nutrition, your dog’s immune system becomes frazzled and overly sensitive. And the best way to improve nutrition to stop dog itchy skin is to provide your dog with an all-natural diet. This can be achieved in two ways. 1. Make homemade dog food 2. Use an all-natural kibble and add fresh, quality ingredients.

Either option is not all that difficult and well worth the effort to stop dog itching. It will take a little more time than just taking out a scoop of commercial dog food and putting it in a bowl. There is a little more prep time, but the prep work can be done in large batches. Then when it comes time to feed your dog, just add your wholesome, quality ingredients. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this will stop dog itching – within two weeks you’ll start to notice a difference.

Now by quality ingredients I don’t mean go out and buy your dog filet mignon for dinner. By quality ingredients I mean basically human-grade food. Most of the commercial dog foods do not use the human-grade foods, but rather what is left over from what is processed for human-grade food – the stuff we humans either don’t want to eat or is not healthy for us to eat.

For the homemade dog food option to stop dog itching just use fresh meat, fresh veggies, and some grains if you’d like. You have an open recipe to use what you have on hand. There are only a handful of ingredients that you should NOT feed your dog (such as chocolate, onions, grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, etc) and another handful that should only be fed in moderation, if at all. Veggies need to be put in a blender or food processor and grains need to be cooked, as a dog’s digestive system cannot digest these whole foods. You can also put in things like yogurt, cottage cheese, and cooked eggs.

To stop dog itching with the all-natural kibble option, there are some commercial dog foods that do provide all-natural kibble. You can tell these foods by looking at the ingredient label. You will NOT see words like “corn gluten meal” and “chicken by-product meal”. Instead you will see actual names of real food like “rolled oats”, “ground pecans”, and “sweet potato”. To stop dog itching your best bet is to find an all-natural kibble without any meat added and add your own.

If you have a larger-sized dog, you may be concerned about hip dysplasia – and rightly so. Although hip dysplasia is most commonly found in larger breeds, it is important to keep in mind that the crippling disease can affect dogs of all sizes. Therefore, it is important to know how to recognize the signs and symptoms, what you can do to prevent it and how it should be treated.

What is Hip Dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia is a serious condition that results in a weakened hip. When your pet becomes affected by the disease, the hip actually begins to deteriorate and becomes arthritic. Depending upon the severity of the arthritis, the disease can be only slightly disabling or it can be severely crippling. Regardless, the condition occurs when the ball-and-socket joint of the hip develops and the femur is unable to fit properly into the socket.

How Does Hip Dysplasia Develop?

Certain breeds of dogs are genetically predisposed to developing hip problems, particularly larger breeds such as rottweilers and retrievers. In addition, male dogs are more likely to suffer from the disease than females, but there are other factors that contribute to the development of hip dysplasia as well. These include the rate of your dog’s growth, the speed at which it gains weight and the type of diet you feed your pet.

What are the Signs of Hip Dysplasia?

The initial signs often begin to develop in dogs while they are still young puppies between the ages of 3 and 12 months, but the onset can also occur after your beloved pet becomes older. Signs to watch for include:

• Apparent lameness in one or both hind legs • Staggering or swaying when standing • Signs of discomfort when attempting to stand up or lie down • A general reluctance to jump or run • Problems with getting up • An unusual gait when running, including a bunny-hopping type of gait • Changes in running and jumping behavior

In addition to these visible signs of hip dysplasia, you may notice a clicking sound when your pet walks and gets up. You may also notice a decreased amount of muscle mass in the rear legs of your pet.

How Can Hip Dysplasia Be Avoided?

While genetics play a significant role in whether or not your pet develops hip dysplasia, and ultimately responsible breeding can help to minimize the chances your pet will develop hip problems, there are some steps you can take to help prevent the disease from manifesting in your canine friend. First, take steps to control the growth rate of your puppy by avoiding overfeeding. Follow the feeding guidelines on the food package closely and cut back on the calories if your puppy seems to be getting overweight. You should also provide your dog with plenty of opportunities for exercise throughout its lifetime in order to prevent obesity.

It is also important to keep a close eye on your canine friend and to notify your veterinarian if you notice signs of hip problems. The sooner your pet receives treatment for the disease, the better its chances of recovery and leading a long, healthy and active life.

Caring for Chihuahuas can be a lot of fun and if you do it right you can greatly increase the quality of life your Chihuahua has. Basic Chihuahua care is not difficult and with a little knowledge about what to do, you can keep them healthy for a long time.

Today Chihuahuas are the smallest breed of dog recognized by the American Kennel Club. Because of their small size when caring for Chihuahuas you have to careful when you are bathing them. Since they have such a small body mass, they have trouble maintaining their body heat when wet, so as soon as you get done bathing them be sure to thoroughly dry them off with some towels.

Also after bathing them it is a good time to trim their toenails. After bathing them their toenails are softer than normal. The best way to trim a Chihuahua’s toenails are with a guillotine type toenail clippers. You can get this type of clipper from most pet stores. Also while trimming dog nails you will want to have a bottle of Kwik Stop powder available in case you trim too far back and hit the quick. The quick is an area of the toenail where there is the blood supply to the nail. If you cut into the quick there will be bleeding. By directly applying the Quick Stop powder you can stop the bleeding rapidly.

When you first get your Chihuahua it is also a good idea to pet proof your house. To start this, survey your house, garage, and yard for anything you think might be a danger for your dog. Wrap electrical cords or hide them out of the way. Cleaners and chemicals should be stored in a closed cabinet. Plants that are toxic to dogs should be placed in an area where the dogs cannot reach them. Remember Chihuahuas are very curious animals and are constantly exploring their environment, so be proactive when pet proofing your house. Also when caring for Chihuahuas, once a month it is a good idea to give them a quick little physical exam. You don’t have to be a veterinarian to be able to do a rudimentary physical exam. Start at the head and examine the eyes, ears, nose, and mouth for signs of redness or drainage, which could be signs of infection. Run your hands all over the body to check for any lumps or masses. By doing this simple little physical exam every month you will learn a lot more about your Chihuahua.

Chihuahuas may be one of the oldest breeds of dogs but they are also one of the most delicate despite their temperament. Take caution when caring for Chihuahuas and they can live a long healthy life.

This illness is very painful for your pet. Thus, measures should be taken to alleviate pain such as medication and giving them a warm and comfortable place to rest in, especially for older dogs. Regular walks and physical exercises can reduce weight, which can decrease the dog’s discomfort. For young pups, gradual introduction of adult dog food is recommended for gradual gain weight. Fleas are parasites that feed off your dog’s blood. Flea eggs can be found almost everywhere – in your couch, carpet, etc. so the likelihood of infection is very high. To know if your dog has fleas, look for flea excrement – small, dark, curly dots that are also known as “flea dirt.”

To do this, brush your pet’s coat with a white cloth or sheet and look for these black specks, which contains digested blood that looks reddish brown when wet. If your dog has a darker coat, eggs that resemble dandruff is visible when a magnifying glass is used.

Besides really annoying your dog, fleas can also cause an allergic reaction called flea allergy dermatitis (FAD) which leads to hair loss, skin inflammation and irritation. For severe cases, your pet can experience anemia due to blood loss. This can be fatal if your pet is young or debilitated. Also, fleas are carriers of common tapeworms, which can cause cramping and gas.

Putting flea powder on your vacuum cleaner will exterminate all the fleas inside the bag. Monthly topicals is an easy and inexpensive approach to protect your house from fleas. Bio Spot or Frontline Plus are recommended topical brands available. You might also want to build a doghouse or spot for your dog that is elevated since fleas can’t jump higher than a foot. Water is a flea’s top enemy, so wash the areas that a dog might run around – like your backyard. Minimal contact with grasses and woods will lessen the possibility of infection. If you have a garden, trim leaves and clear brushes, as well as grassy and kennel areas.

If you have a home grooming kit for your dog, it is best to include a flea comb. Use it regularly on your pet. Its soft, fine bristles, it will catch the flea. Start combing around the hindquarters and the pet’s head, where flea dirt can also be seen. When you trap a flea, immediately put it in soap-water solution. Fleas thrive in warm conditions, that’s why in warmer climates, it is best to give your dog flea products the whole year. Although pupa stages can become dormant in cold climates, increasing the length of its lifespan composed of egg, larva, pupa and adult.

A flea bath is the first step to a parasite-free pet. Be careful in using a flea shampoo because most products are too harsh on puppies. Consult your veterinarian on what to use if your puppy has fleas. It can also relieve irritation and itching. Don’t stop at shampooing because it doesn’t really protect your dog after getting a bath.

One alternative is using flea dips that keep fleas at bay for some time after dipping, but it is not recommended by most veterinarians. The downside is that your dog might eat or swallow these parasites after licking, since a flea dip stays on the dog’s hair coat. Another option is a flea collar. It will only kill all the fleas in the dog’s neck and face – not the whole body. Some also dogs develop a rash when using flea collars. While flea medallions can contaminate the dog’s drinking water, since it hangs loose from the collar.

A good choice is the use of flea sprays and powders – both for your dog and your house, so be careful in reading the instructions to know which is which. Products intended for your home is too strong to use on your pet. Using two or three different flea products at the same time can be toxic for your dog.

If there are numerous fleas that infested your dog, it is recommended that you treat your home too. Methoprene and fenoxycarb, two active ingredients contained in flea sprays are efficient and safe. It stops the growth of eggs into adult fleas. As mentioned, sprays are too strong for dogs, so take them outside for a walk when you treat your home. Some products are designed to destroy adult fleas – one product is Insect Growth Regulators (IGR) can help kill flea eggs and larvae. Before applying such products, vacuum your carpet or furniture first to rouse eggs and larvae from their cocoons.

Veterinarians recommend these products to for flea control: Pyriproxyfen (Nylor, Archer), Imidacloprid (Advantage), Lufenuron (Program), Fipronil (Frontline Top Spot), Cythioate (Proban), and Fenthion (Pro-Spot).

Pomeranian dogs are what you are looking for if in case you want a small lap dog as a pet. Generally, this breed of dog have a bright personality and easy to get along with. However, they can be temperamental, commanding, and outgoing. That is why it is discouraged to have them with very young children in a house. They can snap when they are teased. On the other hand, Poms are affectionate, gentle, and loyal. Pomeranian dogs are ideal for pet lovers who live in a small house or apartment. But they can also adapt well in a wider area.

This breed is perfect for dog owners who have a small yard. Outdoor activities are okay for Poms. They may be lap dogs but do not hesitate in letting them get a good exercise. Pomeranian dogs can actually endure taking long walks since they belong to an active breed. It is easy to teach them with tricks as long as you are patient and determined enough. Looking after Pomeranian dogs requires ample time and attention from you. Their grooming requirements are quite complicated since they have two coats of fur that need special grooming. Poms have a short, fluffy undercoat and a straight topcoat.

Their coat needs to be brushed at least once a week but not too frequent because it can be damaging. In addition, Pomeranian dogs need a good dental care because they are prone to loss. That is why it is highly recommended that Poms eat dry food to help keep their teeth and gums healthy. Another distinct characteristic of Poms is that they give high value to their personal properties like food, toys, or beds. They do not want their properties to be shared with other dogs or pets. Despite of this high sense of ownership, Pomeranians are not quarrelsome dogs.

It is recommended that Pomeranian dogs be trained as early as possible. In particular, they can bark relentlessly if their barking is not controlled. They are headstrong little dogs and can become rowdy if not properly trained or disciplined. By having them trained, you can set out rules for them to follow. Your Pomeranian will show its love and appreciation to you after you have trained it well. Remember that they will not learn proper discipline if they won’t be trained. Poms are said to be quite difficult to housebreak, but if you remain consistent in training them, they will eventually learn proper potty training.

This breed of dog is especially independent and they don’t cling to their handlers. However, it is important that the owner is firm when he disciplines or deals with a Pomeranian. Otherwise, his dog will not listen or obey his commands. If not properly contained, Poms can be very demanding. Pomeranian dogs are ideal for people who desire to take care of small dogs. Poms are considered to be kind hearted pets that can easily adapt in your household. Poms are excellent little dogs. They may be fox-like in appearance but they are affectionate. If you are thinking of owning a dog, just make sure that you familiarize your self with all the information about the dog breed.

It will help you know what are to expect from your chosen breed.

1. Alcohol: can cause vomiting, difficulty breathing, as well as other problems including coma and even death.

2. Avocado: can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and heart congestion.

3. Bones: can cause choking; additionally bones can splinter and become lodged in the dog’s digestive tract (chicken bones are particularly problematic).

It is always a good idea to know what are potentially dangerous foods for your dog4. Chocolate: can cause dehydration, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythms, seizures, and potentially death.

5. Coffee/Caffeine: all sources of caffeine can cause the same problems as chocolate.

6. Corn on the Cob: pieces of the cob commonly cause intestinal blockages which can lead to death.

7. Grapes/Raisins: can cause kidney failure.

8. Macadamia Nuts (and associated products): can cause weakness, tremors and swollen limbs.

9. Medications: can cause a host of problems.

10. Milk: can cause digestive problems including, but not limited to, bloating, diarrhea, and gas.

11. Onion/Garlic/Chives: All forms can cause problems in the digestive system and large doses can damage red blood cells.

12. Raw Eggs: can cause problems with the dog’s skin and coat.

13. Raw/Rare Meat: can harbor harmful bacteria.

14. Salmon and Trout: even when cooked, contain a parasite dangerous to dogs.

15. Xylitol: can cause lethargy, loss of coordination, and vomiting which can eventually lead to liver failure.

16. Yeast dough: rising can continue in the dog’s digestive system leading to gas, pain or even rupture of the intestines (baked bread is fine in small amounts).

Keep in mind that many of these dangerous foods for your dog are ingredients in other things. There are even supplements for dogs that boast garlic as flea protection.

Make sure everyone in your household is aware of what not to feed your pets. In fact, the safest route is to avoid feeding table scraps of any sort to your dog.

Accidents do happen, however, and you should watch your dog for changes in behavior that may indicate they have eaten something poisonous, such as lethargy, frothing at the mouth, weakness or loss of coordination.

Prompt medical attention should be sought if you notice any of these problems. However, if you take care to keep these dangerous foods for your dog out of your pet’s mouth, everyone will be better off.

The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, an operating division of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), is the only animal-oriented poison control center in North America. It is a unique emergency hotline providing 24-hour-a-day, 7-day-a-week telephone assistance. The Center’s hotline veterinarians can quickly answer questions about toxic chemicals, dangerous plants, products or substances found in our everyday surroundings that can prove poisonous or fatal to animals.

ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center 1-888-4-ANI-HELP

What Causes Canine Cystitis?

Most urinary tract infections in dogs are caused by bacteria that are normally found in your dog’s digestive tract. Female canines are more prone to developing a dog urinary tract infection because their urethras are short and broad, which makes it easier for bacteria to travel to the bladder.

With canine bladder stones, the question is, which came first, the stone or the infection? Bladder stones in dogs irritate the bladder walls, which can cause a dog urinary tract infection. But certain bladder infections in dogs cause bladder stones to develop, especially struvite stones in dogs. The best bet is to try to avoid the problem in the first place.

Is There Any Way To Prevent Urinary Tract Infections In Dogs?

You can help your canine friend in a number of ways:

* She should have plenty of clean fresh water available. A 60-pound dog can drink up to three quarts of water a day, which may be more than you would expect.
* After drinking all that water, you dog needs to go outside to empty her bladder every few hours. Don’t make her hold her urine for too long.
* Boost your buddy’s immune system by feeding her a low-ph, high-quality natural diet with no artificial coloring or preservatives.
* Take her for long walks. Exercise is essential to keep her body in top shape.
* Bathe her regularly to keep the bacteria away from her urethra.

What Causes Recurring Urinary Tract Infections In Dogs?

If the infection keeps coming back, it’s possible that your dog never got rid of it in the first place. Your vet should do a urinalysis and a dog urine culture to identify which bacteria is causing the infection. A sensitivity test is also necessary to decide which is the best antibiotic to use.

Be sure to give your dog all of the antibiotic, no matter how much of a hassle it is. Then have another urine culture done to be sure all the bacteria are gone.

Can Natural Remedies For Pets Prevent Cystitis In Dogs?

Yes, they can. But it’s important to use a remedy that has been especially formulated for pets. You’ll want a remedy that contains uva ursi, barberry, and the homeopathic remedies Cantharis and Staphysagria. These treatments have stood the test of time in humans, and they’re very effective for dogs, too.

These remedies are safe to use right along with the antibiotic treatment. They don’t interfere with the drugs in any way, and regular use supports bladder health in your dog long after the antibiotic is gone.

Deal only with a company that has been in business for a long time, and that has a great reputation for providing safe, effective high-quality products for pets. Check for testimonials from other pet owners who have used the product you’re thinking of purchasing.

Now you can end the frustration of recurring bladder infections in dogs by using what you’ve learned here to keep your dog happy and healthy.

Many dog owners wonder if a raw food diet for dogs is safe. First, let’s remind ourselves that dogs in the wild eat raw food. You may wonder why dogs in the wild don’t live as long as domesticated dogs. This, it is believed, has more to do with the competition for survival in the wild. Without that competition, dogs in the wild would likely live a lot longer.

Another factor when considering a raw food diet for dogs is the lack of chronic disease in wild animals. Researchers rarely find wild animals with heart conditions, diabetes, allergies or arthritis. This leads us to believe that the better food and more exercises that dogs in the wild get is responsible for their superior health. They only die younger because of competition for food and territory.

Therefore, such a diet for dogs is indeed an ideal solution for your pet. However, we don’t see any problem with cooking meals for your dog. As long as the ingredients are fresh, the only difference between raw and cooked foods is that cooking can reduce the nutrient value of the food, but not by a whole lot.

If you are looking for organic food to feed your dog, remember that loop holes in the law make it possible for human and pet food companies to put the organic label on food that wouldn’t be considered organic by most acceptable definitions.

How Is A Raw Food Diet For Dogs Better?

A number of people who have used a raw food diet for dogs have observed some promising results in their pets. First of all, the nasty bad breath disappears. Bad breath originates in the stomach and intestine. Humans with bad breath also see an improvement after improving their diets. Likewise, skin and hair became shinier, allergy symptoms decreased or disappeared and stools looked more normal.

Foods In A Healthy Raw Food Diet For Dogs

What kinds of raw foods should you feed your dog? Almost any kind of meat is appropriate for your dog. Also, dogs are more resistant to bacteria and therefore can handle raw meats. Of course then do this in the wild. Do not feed your dog poultry or fowl bones. These bones can splinter and do damage to the stomach and intestine. Beef bones are safe, but cooked beef bones are not. They can also splinter.

A Raw Food Diet For Dogs Can Be Harmful

Any diet for dogs MUST also include vegetables, fruits and whole grain. A dog cannot live on protein alone. Vitamins and minerals found in fruits and vegetables are essential to your dog’s health. Try various fruits and vegetables are record which ones your dog likes. If you find he or she does not take to them, try and mix them in with the meat. If that still does not work, then you could try cooking meals that contain meat and vegetables.

If your dog still doesn’t eat the fruits and vegetables, then you are going to need to supplement with a good commercial dog food that doesn’t contain meat by-products and corn. Look for products with actual meat and whole grains.

Cooked meats are just as good as a raw food diet for dogs. The harm that commercial dog food does to our pets is a result of it being overly processed, not because it is cooked. Good fresh ingredients prepared on the stove are just as good as raw food. They just won’t contain the full amount of vitamins and minerals as raw food, but still a sufficient amount to promote good health.

Puppies can also eat a raw food diet for dogs. Puppies, however, don’t do as well with bones as adult dogs do. A raw diet for dogs is now seen as a viable option for insuring the health of your pet. Ever since the dog food recalls of 2007, raw or homemade dog food diets have become a popular replacement to commercial dog food.