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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: Seresto Flea and Tick Collar

Flea and tick season is almost upon us, and experts are warning that Lyme disease will be especially rampant in 2017.  You have many options in the fight against fleas and ticks, and the Seresto Flea and Tick Collar will be reviewed here. The Bayer Seresto Flea and Tick collar is an adjustable rubber collar that provides 8 months of continuous protection against fleas and ticks for your dog.  This patented technology ensures slow release of pesticide to your dog’s skin.  Unlike other flea and tick collars, this product is odorless and non-greasy.  It also has a safety mechanism that will cause the collar to break should the flea collar become stuck, thus trapping your dog. There are many advantages to this product.  Some owners find that their dogs are sensitive to topical flea and tick treatments, resulting in discomfort or a rash.  The Seresto collar is milder than these...
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Product Review: Zuke’s Mini Naturals Wild Rabbit Recipe Dog Treats

Choosing the right dog treats for your pet can be difficult.  After all, dog treat quality and manufacturing ethics have come under scrutiny in recent years.  Many dog owners struggle to find high quality treats that are also budget-friendly.  Here, Zuke’s Mini Naturals Wild Rabbit Dog Treats will be reviewed. Zuke’s Mini Naturals Wild Rabbit Dog Treats (hereafter simply referred to as “Zuke’s”) are soft, miniature sized training treats that are made from real rabbit.  Each treat has only 3.5 calories, and they are free from common allergens such as corn, soy, and wheat.  Better yet, these treats are manufactured in the United States. These Wild Rabbit treats are the perfect choice as a high-value reward when training breeds with strong prey drives, such as Beagles, Labrador Retrievers, and Bloodhounds.  The scent of a favorite wild animal is far more enticing for most hunting dogs than peanut butter or chicken-flavored treats. The...
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Product Review: Kyjen Slo Bowl

Slow bowls are dog dishes that force a dog to eat more slowly in order to avoid upset stomach and gastric torsion (bloat). [amazon_link asins=’B00FPKNRF0′ template=’ProductAd’ store=’ndop-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’f4135d4b-f79b-11e6-9118-91b51c57fca2′] I first purchased a Kyjen Slo Bowl in 2014 for my dog, Sadie, who is a 30 lb beagle/chow mix.  Prior to purchasing the bowl, we had started fostering dogs.  What we did not know at the time was that when other dogs are present, Sadie will inhale her food and throw up 10 – 15 minutes later.  I was concerned she would eat too quickly and develop bloat.  The vet, on the other hand, was concerned that throwing up regularly was causing her to have a few digestive issues.  Our veterinarian strongly recommended we find a slow bowl. Why I Chose The Slo Bowl I chose the Kyjen Slo Bowl because of the value, as well as the design.  Some...
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Jobs for Dogs: Providing Boredom-Busting Activities for your Pet

Dogs behave best when their emotional, physical, and mental needs are fully met.  Many dogs require a job to perform, one which fulfills their original purpose.  For instance, if you own a sled dog breed, your pet will be happiest being given an opportunity to pull.  Specific jobs for all types of dogs are described here. Herding Dogs If your dog is an Australian Shepherd, Border Collie, German Shepherd Dog, Old English Sheepdog, or another breed from the herding group; chances are it has supreme herding skills.  These dogs excel at chasing animals, cars, or kids in an attempt to create order in their doggy brains.  One way to fulfill this need for your pet is to visit an area that is overrun with geese (with the property owner’s permission, of course).  Allow your pet to round up the geese, either off-leash or with the help a check-cord. Companion Dogs...
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Dog Training 101: Teaching Your Dog Recall

Teaching your dog recall (i.e. to come when called) is one of the most important lessons your pet can learn.  A rock solid recall can literally mean the difference between life and death, particularly if your dog escapes the house or breaks free of his collar.  Tips for teaching recall are described here. Low Distraction The first step is to start training your dog in a low-distraction area, such as a spare bedroom.  Do not attempt recall in the yard or at the park until your dog has mastered coming when called in the house.  Place a leash on your pet, ask your dog to sit, and then walk backwards (still holding the leash), while saying “come” and holding a treat.  When your dog reaches you, give your pet profuse praise. Make Recall Fun Once your dog has learned the meaning of “come,” take to the outdoors and turn recall...
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Holiday Gift Guide for Dog and Owner

Let the countdown begin.  As of today, you have 25 days to get your presents purchased, wrapped, and safely placed beneath the tree.  While 25 days may seem like a lot of time, Christmas is approaching faster than you think!  Listed here are gift ideas for the dogs – and dog owners – on your holiday shopping list! The first this you want to do is sign up for Ebates. You will find that most online stores offer real cash back through this service. They even have a browser button that will light up if the site your on offers money back. It is as easy as clicking a button. For Dogs Prey Drive Treats, $5 – $10 Does your dog alert you to every rabbit or squirrel within the vicinity?  Provide your dog an extra special high-value reward by gifting treats made of its favorite small animal.  For instance,...
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Designer Breeds: Everything you Need to Know

A growing subset of dog breeds is the so-called “designer dog,” which comprises a mix of two popular breeds.  A recent trend, for instance, is to mix everything with a poodle, to produce some sort of “doodle” dog.  The pros, cons, and a few common designer breeds are discussed. Benefits of Owning a Designer Dog Designer dogs are “in” right now, which means there is more of a supply than ever before.  Options for choosing your dog are diverse, and designer breeds are certainly adorable.  In some instances, a designer dog may cause fewer health problems for someone who experiences allergies.  Additionally, diversity of the dog’s gene pool likely means a healthier animal, as the risk of genetic disease is significantly lower in mixed breeds. Disadvantages of Designer Dogs The disadvantages of designer dogs are equally numerous.  There is less controllability in the genetics of a mixed breed dog.  For...
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