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Brachycephalic Dogs: Everything You Need to Know

Dogs with scrunched noses, cute wrinkles, and large eyes have become increasingly popular.  However, short-nosed breeds (also known as brachycephalic dogs), have additional needs versus a typical hound dog.  Here, everything you need to know about brachycephalic dogs will be discussed. What does Brachycephalic Mean? Brachycephalic generally means that an animal has a skull that is short and broad, with the width at least 80% of the length.  The general characteristics of a brachycephalic dog are a significantly shortened nasal pathway, an elongated soft palate, dramatically restricted nostrils (stenotic nares), a hypoplastic trachea (abnormal growth in the trachea that results in narrowing), and everted laryngeal saccules (i.e. saccules that grow into the airway and restrict respiration). Which Dog Breeds are Brachycephalic? There are a number of brachycephalic dog breeds.  The most common include: Affenpinscher American Bulldog Boston Terrier Boxer Brussels Griffon Cane Corso Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Chihuahua (apple-headed) Dogue...
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Product Review: Bio-Groom Natural Oatmeal Anti-Itch Shampoo

Frequently bathing your dog is the best way to remove unwanted odors, allergens, loose fur, dirt, and debris.  However, many dogs have sensitive skin that can become irritated when washed too often.  To keep your pet’s skin and fur healthy and itch-free, oatmeal shampoo is the most recommended cleanser by veterinarians.  Here, Bio-Groom Natural Oatmeal Anti-Itch Shampoo will be reviewed. Bio-Groom Natural Oatmeal Anti-Itch Shampoo is made from all natural, soap-free ingredients and is specially designed to relieve dry and irritated skin.  The main ingredient is 2% raw colloidal oatmeal USP, which is an ingredient that has been proven to relieve irritated skin in both dogs and cats.  There are no parabens or dyes, and the cleansers in this product (corn, coconut, and palm kernel oils) are from 100% renewable and biodegradable sources.  Bio-Groom Natural Oatmeal Anti-Itch Shampoo is safe to use with topical flea and tick medications, and has...
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How to Spot Eye, Nose, and Ear Disorders in Dogs

The most common health issues  – particularly for purebreds – are eye, nose, and ear disorders in dogs.  In many instances, early detection is crucial for preventing worse problems in the future.  Here, how to spot eye, nose, and ear disorders in dogs will be discussed. Ears The most common eye, nose, and ear disorders in dogs are undoubtedly ear infections among dogs.  This is especially true for pets with floppy ears or excessive hair growth.  Cocker spaniels, beagles, Labrador retrievers, and Bassett hounds are among the most likely to suffer from frequent ear infections. The best way to determine whether your dog has an ear illness is to watch his or her behavior.  Excessive head shaking and ear scratching are two telltale signs that your dog’s ears are bothersome.  Next, peer into your dog’s ear with the help of a flashlight.  If the skin appears red and inflamed, an ear infection is...
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Product Review: Burt’s Bees for Dogs Ear Cleaner

Nearly every dog requires regular ear maintenance, particularly pets with long or floppy ears.  However, many ear cleaning solutions are not gentle enough for regular use, or leave behind repugnant odors.  Here, Burt’s Bees for Dogs Ear Cleaner will be reviewed. Burt’s Bees for Dogs Ear Cleaner is a gentle ear cleansing solution made with peppermint oil and witch hazel.  The peppermint oil is designed to soothe a dog’s itchy or inflamed ears, while the witch hazel cleanses the ear canal while reducing excess moisture.  Unlike other ear wash solutions, only 1 – 2 drops of this cleanser is required, reducing discomfort for your pet.  Also unlike other products, Burt’s Bees for Dogs Ear Cleaner has a pleasant smell. There are many advantages to this product.  Perhaps most importantly, Burt’s Bees is a trusted brand for all-natural products.  High-quality, ethically sourced ingredients comprise this product, which has never been unfairly tested...
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Is an Australian Shepherd Right for You?

Australian Shepherds, also known as Aussies, are popular dogs thanks to their unique coloring, mesmerizing eyes, and trainability.  However, this breed is also one of the most commonly abandoned, due to its high energy levels.  Is an Australian Shepherd right for you? Temperament The Australian Shepherd is highly energetic, as well as highly intelligent.  This breed requires a job to perform, whether that involves learning new tricks, herding animals, running with humans, or any other outlet that provides both mental and physical stimulation.  Other traits of the Aussie include a loving, loyal demeanor, as well as being adaptable and protective. Size, Coloring, and Upkeep Australian Shepherds are medium-sized dogs, with males weighing 50 – 65 lbs and females weighing 30 – 45 lbs.  There are four colors and three markings recognized by the American Kennel Club, which are black, blue merle, red, and red merle.  Markings can be tan points,...
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Product Review: Gulpy Water Dispenser

Since dogs don’t have an efficient cooling system they require plenty of water when out on a hike, walk, or run during warm weather, in order to avoid overheating.  However, carrying water for your dog can be difficult and cumbersome.  Here, the Gulpy Water Dispenser will be reviewed. The Gulpy Water Dispenser is a 2-in-1 water bottle and water dish for your pet.  It is easy and convenient to use, and has a belt clip that allows for the bottle to be easily attached to a pocket or belt loop.  The bowl component folds against the water bottle, which minimizes the amount of space this product requires.  Simply unscrew the lid (which is attached to the bowl), fill the bottle, and go.  To use the Gulpy, unfold the bowl from the bottle, squeeze the bottle to fill the bowl, and encourage your dog to drink.  The Gulpy’s bowl can even...
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What To Do When Your Dog Has An Upset Stomach

Even though dogs can eat foods that would make most humans disastrously ill, they tend to develop digestive problems from time to time.  Vomiting, diarrhea, and loose stools are common for dogs.  In fact, even something as simple as a slight change to their dog food can invoke gastrointestinal distress.  Unless you suspect that your dog’s upset stomach is a symptom of poisoning or a severe illness, it is not necessary to take your dog to see a veterinarian when symptoms first arise.  Instead, there are a number of remedies that you can try at home when your dog has an upset stomach, which will be discussed here. Fasting The first course of action a pet owner should take when his or her dog has an upset stomach is to enforce a period of fasting.  Do not feed your dog for 8 – 12 hours (6 hours for a puppy), including...
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Product Review: You & Me Portable Canvas Crate

When traveling by car, a crate is the safest option for your pet.  However, hard-sided crates do not always conveniently fit inside vehicles, and can be difficult to transport.  A soft-sided crate, such as the You & Me Portable Canvas Crate, can make life easier. The You & Me Portable Canvas Crate is available in 3 sizes:  small (24’’), medium (30’’), and large (36’’).  The small crate is the perfect size for a 30 lb dog.  The crate is collapsible and has a carrying case, which makes travel especially convenient.  Three sides of the crate have zippered openings, including the top, which allows for your dog’s unique needs to be met.  A large pocket on the crate’s exterior is perfect for holding vet records, a leash, a water bottle, or other items.  In addition, the crate walls are partialy made of mesh, which provide breathability as well as visibility for...
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How to Perform CPR on a Dog

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was first introduced in 1946.  Since then, countless human lives have been saved.  Did you know that you can perform CPR on a dog?  Knowing what to do if your dog is found without a heartbeat or is unable to breathe can save your pet’s life. Step 1:  Evaluate the Situation If you find that your dog is unresponsive, first assess his or her condition using the steps below.  In the meantime, have a friend or family member call your veterinarian.  The vet can provide support while you administer CPR on a dog, as well as prepare for your arrival at the clinic. Is your dog breathing? The first assessment you should make is to check whether your dog is breathing.  Look to see whether your pet’s chest is moving up and down.  An alternative method is to feel for air being passed through the nose or...
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How to Clean up the Most Common Dog Stains

Dogs bring a lot of joy into our lives, but they also bring messes.  Cleaning up dog stains can be a chore, especially if the stain isn’t discovered immediately.  Listed here is a comprehensive guide to the removal of pet stains. Urine When you are potty training your dog it is important that you use an enzymatic cleaner to clean up any urine accidents in the house.  There are certain proteins within dog urine that serve as a “calling card” for your pet that will keep him or her coming back to the area.  An enzymatic cleaner uses biochemical action to destroy those proteins so that your dog cannot sniff them out with his or her super-sensitive nose.  Enzymatic cleaners such as Nature’s Miracle do a great job. If you are in a pinch and don’t have an enzymatic cleaner on hand, another option is baking soda.  This technique only works...
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