Category: Dog Health

It’s that time of year again when we’re all looking for ways to improve ourselves. And if you’re a pet owner, it’s never too late to start thinking about your dog. Improving their health in 2023 is as easy as swapping out an old habit with a new one—like drinking more water, brushing up on teeth-cleaning, and taking up a new hobby. We’ve got all the info you need right here!

Drinking more water.

Your dog needs a lot of water to stay healthy, but you should also make sure it gets enough exercise and rest. In fact, proper hydration is just as important for your dog as it is for you.

Dogs have higher body temperatures than humans, so they need more water to keep their bodies cool.

Drinking plenty of fresh water helps keep your dog’s digestive system running smoothly and efficiently. It also reduces the risk of constipation and bloat (when the stomach fills with gas).

Healthy teeth are important—not only because pretty teeth look nice but brushing your pooch’s teeth regularly is an easy way to prevent plaque buildup and ensure good dental health. Drinking lots of water also keep those pearly whites clean!

Brushing up on teeth-cleaning

Brushing your dog’s teeth is one of the most important things you can do for his or her health. It’s also a great way to build a bond with your pet!

Tooth brushing is often recommended by veterinarians because it helps prevent tartar buildup and other dental problems, many of which are painful for dogs. The American Veterinary Dental Society recommends brushing at least once per week, though if you have more than one dog in your home (or multiple dogs with different durations between visits), this may need to be increased.

It’s worth noting that some breeds have shorter snouts than others and therefore can’t get their teeth as clean as they would like when you brush them yourself. For these pets, make sure you’re using an appropriate size toothbrush designed specifically for their mouth shape or have a professional take care of it instead (your vet will know which option is best). You should also use toothpaste meant specifically for animals; while some brands are safe enough to swallow without any negative effects.

Play dates and park days

If you’re looking to get your dog outside and exercising, a great way to start is by taking him/her on walks at least once a day. While it may seem like just another chore for you, for your dog it can be a source of endless joy and excitement!

To make sure that both you and your four-legged friend are having fun during these adventures, here are some tips:

Make sure the park is safe before letting Fido run around wild. You don’t want to end up with an injured pet or one that has gotten into trouble because of their carelessness! There are plenty of parks in most cities where there’s room enough for both humans and dogs alike—just ask around before going somewhere new!

Taking up a new hobby

A hobby can be a great way to spend time together, especially if your dog has the energy to play. If you have an energetic breed like a husky or greyhound, take up an enjoyable activity like hiking. For smaller breeds that need less exercise, try taking them on walks through urban environments and parks so they can sniff out other dogs, which is great for their social skills!

If you want to get into something more competitive with your pup, consider agility training. This involves learning how to guide them around obstacles like ramps and jumps—it’s really fun for dogs who love chasing things! Make sure though that before beginning any new activity with your pup it’s safe for both of you; if not then it may end up causing pain or injury instead!

It’s never too late for you or your dog to establish healthy habits.

It’s never too late for you or your dog to establish healthy habits. You can begin at any age, even in your senior years. One habit at a time is best because it gives both of you time to adjust and make the habit part of everyday life before adding another one.

Dogs have skin, and dogs have hair. But what’s the difference?

Skin is a covering for the body and it helps to protect your dog from infections, injury, and parasites. Your dog’s skin is the largest organ in its body, and it absorbs everything that comes into contact with it—including what you put on it!  The skin can tell you a lot about your dog’s health—and it has a lot to say about his happiness! 

Hair is a type of protein that grows on the skin and helps with insulation, protection from sunburn and heat loss, and communication (for example, with scent glands). Your dog’s hair is not just for show; it has a purpose! 

Here 3 interesting facts about your dog’s skin and coat:

– Dogs have two layers of fur

As we mentioned earlier there is both an outer guard hair layer and an undercoat (which is made up of guard hairs that have been shed) that make up your dog’s coat. Understanding the purpose of each layer is important. Guard hairs protect dogs from sunburns and insect bites. Down hairs trap air around your dog’s body so they stay warm even when it’s cold outside—this is why dogs shake off water after taking a bath: they’re trying to get rid of all that trapped air in their coat!

– Dogs shed their undercoat once a year

Dogs shed their undercoat once a year because shedding is actually a way for your dog to regulate his body temperature! That’s right—dogs don’t shed just because they’re bored or want attention. They actually shed so they don’t overheat during the summer months.

-Dogs have sweat glands in their paws

Dogs are mammals and, like all mammals, they have a few key traits that set them apart from other animals. One of these is that they have sweat glands in their paws (which means they can cool themselves down when it’s hot). This also means that dogs don’t care about the weather because they don’t feel like it’s too cold or too hot—they just feel normal! If you’ve ever seen a dog panting in the sun, you might be confused by this because you know humans need to drink water when it’s hot outside. But dogs don’t sweat through their skin as humans do—they use their paws to cool themselves down.

While we have explored many areas of the canine body in this article, there is still a lot to learn about their skin and coat. Hopefully, this blog has piqued your interest and encouraged you to explore even more about your pup!

If you notice your dog is itching a lot more than usual or seems to have a runny nose, this can be an indication that they are suffering from allergies. Dogs will often develop seasonal allergies, which means they’re more likely to react to certain allergens in their environment at certain times of the year. This is why you can suddenly notice an increase in this activity as if it started out of nowhere. It’s important to note that while allergies are often seasonal, they can also be year-round though.

Seasonal allergies in dogs can be caused by pollen, mold, grasses, trees, weeds, and even dust mites.

If you suspect that your dog has a seasonal allergy, the first thing you should do is schedule a visit with your vet. The vet will examine the dog and determine if there are any physical symptoms present. If there are, he or she may take samples from the dog’s skin or fur for testing. Those tests will determine whether or not your dog has an allergy and what types of allergens may be causing it.

Things like fungi or mold spores can also cause allergic reactions in dogs. There are also things like bacteria – Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes – for example, that can be present.  It’s important to have the vet run these tests to figure out what exactly is causing your dog’s allergies.

Allergy symptoms in dogs can be skin rashes as well as respiratory issues. They may also have gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea and vomiting if they’re allergic to something they eat or drink regularly (like grasses).

Other signs to look for are if your dog struggles to breathe and seems to be wheezing or coughing a lot, this is a sign that they might be suffering from allergies.

Another sign that your dog might have allergies is ear infections. If a dog is constantly scratching at their ears, which is often a symptom of an allergy, it’s important to get them to a vet to rule out any other issues and help them get some relief.

If you think your dog might have an allergy, it’s important for you to take her to the vet for testing. The vet will be able to run tests and tell you what kind of allergy she has and what kind of treatment options are available for her condition.

Possible treatments could include antihistamines and immunotherapy (allergy shots).

To help alleviate some of these allergy issues for your dog, it’s important to keep a dog’s environment clean by sweeping or vacuuming regularly to remove allergens from the home or even using a HEPA filter vacuum to control what gets sucked up into the machine. For those dogs that have indoor/outdoor lifestyles, you may not be able to avoid allergens completely; however, experts do recommend at least keeping them indoors when there are high pollen warnings happening.

Physical fitness is critical. For humans and for our furry friends. Many breeds of dogs thrive off of the ability to exert the energy that comes naturally to them through play, time outdoors, and an actual fitness regimen.

First, no matter what breed or age of your dog, everyone needs physical activity for strength and for mental health as well. Short walks around the neighborhood tossing a ball or even running with your dog may be what’s needed to help them feel their best. It’s important to understand your specific pup and his needs.

For example, if you have a sports dog – one that was bred for work in the wilderness – hunting and long days of work, you want to factor this into how much exercise they’re getting. A short walk may not be enough for them to exert their full potential for the day. You may want to consider something a little more strenuous.

Large breed working dogs differ in that while they can also handle heavy workouts their preference is more task-driven and steady-paced. Instead of high-intensity jogging with your dog, think about a hike up moderate terrain for 1-2 hours. This type of activity is what allows these dogs to use what they’re born with in terms of physical strengths and energy.

For those with small breed dogs, short and interactive fun works best. These types of dogs don’t want to max out their heart rates but would rather play small games of fetch or hide and seek or take short walks.

There are many different breeds, mixes, and types of dogs and while they were originally bred to do one thing, they’ve long been doing things differently so be sure you know your dog’s limits and what constitutes an enjoyable activity for them or something that could be pushing them beyond their limit and could lead to injury.

If you want to give your pet freedom to run around and enjoy the backyard at your home, then a connected hidden fence is just what you need. The DogWatch intelligent pet containment system keeps your dog safe within the boundaries you’ve set and also offers you the ability to stay connected to them at all times.

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Spring brings showers, flowers, and nicer weather. For dogs, it can also bring parasites that cause itchy skin conditions. While all dogs need a good scratch now and then, if your dog is showing excessive scratching, it may be due to an underlying cause that requires treatment. 

If your dog is showing signs of frequent scratching, biting, licking, or shaking, it may be time to investigate for parasites – particularly fleas or ticks – as a cause. Fleas, ticks, and other parasites bite your pet’s sensitive skin, and the resulting itching (known to the medical world as pruritis) will lead to telltale behavior in your pet, particularly if the dog is hypersensitive to flea saliva. Regardless of the reason, if your dog is showing signs of excessive itching, it’s important to identify the source of the problem as quickly as possible to keep your pooch healthy. 

Fleas

Fleas are small flightless insects that survive as external parasites of mammals and birds. Essentially, they live on animals and bite to consume their blood. (And yes, humans can get fleas, too). Untreated fleas can cause health problems for your dog, so it’s important to consult with a vet and find the right flea treatment and prevention regimen. 

Ticks

Ticks are common throughout North America and often return with a vengeance in the spring. While your dog may love to snuffle about in the undergrowth or in piles of old leaves, these are the primary places dogs pick up ticks. Ticks are parasitic arachnids that are part of the mite family, and like fleas, they thrive on blood. Ticks can also carry dangerous pathogens – Lyme disease, just for starters – that can lead to illness in animals and humans. The good news is that many of the treatments for fleas in animals are also highly effective against ticks. 

Infections

Your dog’s itching problem may not always be caused by parasites. Bacterial and fungal infections of the skin can lead to itching, as well. When the dog scratches, it may open up small skin wounds, leading to scabs and discharge that can further irritate the skin. These small infection “hot spots” can make your beloved pet miserable. 

Allergies

Like humans, pets can have allergies, and these allergies often manifest as skin conditions. Dogs can be allergic to certain foods, or they can show sensitivity to pollens, molds, dust, and grass. You’ll need a vet to help you identify the cause of your dog’s allergy so you can limit its exposure to the allergen. You may also need medication, oral or topical, to reduce the itchiness. 

A vet can help root out the cause of your dog’s itchiness and guide you to the appropriate treatment to relieve the symptoms. Solving your dog’s itch means he or she is able to enjoy the outdoors without the resulting scratching. 

DogWatch of Western Mass is committed to providing the safest, most effective electronic pet fences on the market. DogWatch has proudly served the Pioneer Valley and surrounding areas since 1990 and belongs to the international DogWatch Dealer Network. We are committed, trained professionals offering years of experience in installation, training, and customer service. Being locally owned, we have a vested interest to keep our customers – and their pets — happy!

We love our animals. They’re family members, and they bring us great joy and comfort. For this reason, we have an obligation to keep them happy and healthy. Following are tips for keeping your pet – dogs and cats in this case – in top health. 

Watch your pets’ weight. While many of us are frequently trying to lose a few extra pounds, we’re far less likely to notice problems with our pets’ weight. According to the Association of Pet Obesity Prevention, about 59.5 percent of cats and 55.8 percent of dogs in the U.S. are overweight or obese. While a fluffy pet may seem “cute,” excess weight can cut animals’ lives short and lead to a host of health problems such as diabetes and cancer. Listen to your vet at your pet’s annual appointment. If the vet believes your dog or cat needs to slim down, follow her advice, and change the amount of food and the manner in which you’re feeding your pet. (And skip the high-calorie treats, or at least reduce the frequency.) It’s an important step for keeping your pet healthy for as long as possible. 

Be careful with human food. Many human foods are good for pets. For example, kale, carrots, and salmon are excellent nutritional boosts for dogs. The problem is that many human foods can be toxic to pets. Chocolate, milk, or avocado are dangerous for dogs. Onions and garlic, liver, and bread dough containing yeast are all toxic to cats. Before you give your pets any human food treats, make sure the foods are appropriate for them. (And remember…not too many!) If you plan to pursue a whole food diet for your pets, consult with a veterinarian first to make sure your pets are getting all the nutrients they need and not eating anything harmful to their health. 

Feed your pet high-quality pet food. Not all pet foods are the same. While the brand you buy may be saving you money, it may be harming your pet’s health. The food grade that is best for your pet will be determined by the animal’s age, type, and activity levels. While it’s always desirable to feed veterinary-quality food to pets, it may be cost-prohibitive for you. When you choose your pet’s food, read the ingredients label on the bag or can. The first ingredient should be something like “chicken” or “beef” instead of fillers and byproducts like corn, wheat gluten, soybean meal, etc. Ask your vet for a recommendation on good pet food that will fit your budget. 

Don’t skip the veterinary appointments. It may be tempting to put off vet appointments. They can be expensive and time-consuming, and chances are, your pet doesn’t enjoy them. But just as with humans, many health problems, if caught early, are fixable. For this reason, it’s critical that you get your pet checked out by a qualified veterinary practitioner once a year, or more often if you notice any unusual or troubling symptoms in the animal. 

Ensure exercise in your pets. Walking with your dog is one of the best ways for both dogs and humans to get the daily exercise they need. While it may not be possible every day, ensure you’re getting out for a good walk at least most days. Indoor cats also need exercise. If your cat has outgrown the “active kitten” stage, consider setting aside times to play with your cat using a laser pointer or other cat toy. Buy or build a “cat tree” that will encourage the cat to climb several times each day. 

For dogs, consider allowing the animal to roam and play in your yard freely with the help of an electronic fence. DogWatch of Western Mass is committed to providing the safest, most effective electronic pet fences on the market. DogWatch has proudly served the Pioneer Valley and surrounding areas since 1990 and belongs to the international DogWatch Dealer Network. We are committed, trained professionals offering years of experience in installation, training, and customer service. Being locally owned, we have a vested interest to keep our customers – and their pets — happy!

Did you know your pet can suffer from tooth loss pain and other common dental issues we face as humans? It’s true. Dogs rely heavily on their teeth for the things they do when eating, playing, and more. It’s important that we take care of their pearly whites, not just for oral health but also to ensure they don’t suffer from any unnecessary ailments too.

Dental disease is a pretty big issue in the dog community as it affects approximately 80 percent of dogs.

The problem is that once gingivitis sets in and is not taken care of, it becomes an infection that spreads deeper into the tooth socket. Over time the bone wears down and the tooth becomes loose and may even fall out. It’s also very painful for dogs. Just like humans, you should help remove plaque from around the teeth and gums before it becomes mineralized. Brushing with pet-friendly toothpaste, encouraging chew toys that help scrape some of the debris away can all help.

Here are some key signs to look for that could point to a dental issue occurring in your pet.

As always be sure to contact a trusted veterinarian and take the right steps to protect their teeth ahead of time.

1.                Bad Breath

Once bacteria have built up around the tooth it can lead to bad breath in your dog. If you notice a foul odor coming from your dog’s teeth, be sure you’re taking the time to examine if they have any issues like cavities, inflamed gums that should be noted to the vet. Also, take the time to have their teeth cleaned to remove the plaque.

2.                Excessive Drool

Some breeds of dogs are known to slobber more than others, but it’s important to pay attention to the drool that’s coming from your dog’s mouth. If you notice there is more happening, it could be pointing to an issue – especially a dental one that needs attention. Once there is a problem happening with their gums, dogs will start to drool as a natural response to try to help alleviate the problem.

3.                Trouble Eating

One of the best ways to tell if your dog is having issues with its teeth is to pay attention to its eating habits. Are they eating less than usual? Refusing food altogether or showing signs that they are in pain when they chew? All of this can point to a dental issue you’ll want to pay attention to.

At DogWatch, we care about your dog as much as you do! Our hidden dog fence systems and training equipment keep your pup away from dangerous areas, and safe in your yard or in the perimeters you define indoors. Get freedom and flexibility while keeping your dog safe!

Paw licking may seem like an innocent action by your pet. Isn’t that after all how cats clean themselves? But for many dog owner’s the licking can sometimes become continual and cause even greater issues for the dog. It’s important to know what if your dog won’t stop licking his paws, there could be more happening.

Here are 4 underlying reasons for your dog’s incredibly annoying and constant paw licking habit.

1. Injury or Parasite

Licking at a wound could be an issue for your dog. If they’ve returned from time outdoors they could have cut or scrapped their paw if you notice they’re suddenly licking away at it, you’ll want to check to be sure they’re not injured as the wound should be cleaned and monitored to prevent infection. Even if there are no visible cuts there could be issues like parasites or fleas making your dog super itchy and irritated and licking is the only thing he can do to try to soothe it.

2. Skin problems

Other skin problems caused by bacteria or dermatitis could also be leaving your dog in an uncomfortable situation which leads to constant licking. Even allergies to freshly cut grass or other environmental contaminants could trigger this reaction. If you know your dog has allergies or is getting dirty while outside it makes sense to keep a towel and some water to wipe down their paw and coat when they come back indoors.

3. Food allergies

Speaking of allergies, did you know food allergies could also present themselves in the form of itchy paws? According to the AKC, ingredients in your dog’s food that they are allergic to could leave to paw issues. If you recently changed food and notice this is happening it’s a good idea to check the ingredient list and try switching to a different brand to see if it alleviates the problem.

4.      Boredom or Anxiety

The final reason and most common one for your dog licking constantly at its paws is boredom. Exercise and playtime are so important for pups, older dogs, and some breeds. Without a daily walk (or two) and time spent getting tired, they can become irritated and bored and start licking at their paws to keep occupied. Make it a point to set aside time to play with your dog even if it’s just a few minutes of tossing the ball in the yard, they will thank you by remaining calm and quiet for the rest of the night.