Https Drmartypets - Com Dogs

https://drmartypets.
com/dogs-eat-garlic/
PET FOOD SAFETY AND TOXICITY: IS GARLIC SAFE FOR DOGS TO EAT?
Aug 21, 2019 | 0 comments
Can dogs eat garlic? Well, the evidence suggests that garlic can hurt both dogs and
cats. While you might think it’s a great herb to add to your food – and it’s a staple
ingredient in many types of dishes – it appears that garlic is bad for dogs. So no, garlic
isn’t safe for your pooch.
Here is some information on why most experts believe feeding your dog garlic is a bad
idea.
WHAT DOG OWNERS SHOULD KNOW: IS GARLIC TOXIC TO DOGS?
Garlic is a member of the onion family, so it’s related to other types of food humans eat
regularly. In addition to onions, this family also includes:
● Leeks
● Shallots
● Chives
● Scallions
All of these are considered to be toxic to dogs and cats – garlic even more so.
The toxicity of garlic is estimated to be five times that of onions. There are many health
issues associated with garlic toxicity in dogs. These include anemia, blood cell damage,
nausea, and vomiting.1
One of the reasons garlic is toxic for dogs is that their bodies metabolize garlic
differently than humans. There is a specific component in garlic, thiosulfate, that
appears to be the reason why.
UNDERSTANDING THIOSULFATE
Thiosulfate can be very harmful to a dog’s health. Toxicity caused by thiosulfate can
lead to several issues, including stomach problems, loss of appetite, dehydration,
diarrhea, and even mood issues.2
Pet owners who are proponents of garlic believe that it can actually be beneficial to
dogs – in small quantities. They claim it can, for example, help repel fleas.3
But experts say that as little as five grams of garlic per one kilogram of a dog’s body
weight can cause problems.4 Cloves of garlic are usually between 3-7 grams.
The bottom line? Most experts suggest that dog owners should steer clear of garlic
altogether when it comes to their pet. Talk to your vet before adding garlic to your dog’s
routine for any reason.
UNDERSTAND THE RISKS: BLOOD CELL DAMAGE, ANEMIA, AND KIDNEY
FAILURE
There are a lot of health issues associated with garlic toxicity. Here are just a few of
them.
BLOOD CELL DAMAGE
Garlic, onions, and related foods contain a compound known as N-propyl disulfide. This
damages a substance called hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is responsible for providing
oxygen to red blood cells.
When this happens, it can lead to severe anemia (more on this in the next section),
potentially resulting in organ damage or even organ failure. If a dog ingests garlic, it can
also irritate their digestive tract.5
ANEMIA
Anemia occurs when red blood cells are either damaged or lost. This can cause
bleeding, both externally and internally. One of the main symptoms of anemia is
lethargy.
An affected dog might find it difficult to exercise. Loss of appetite is another symptom.
Your dog’s dinner might go untouched.6
Anemia can, in some cases, lead to the formation of potentially dangerous blood clots.7
Anemia can be serious, but your veterinarian should be able to diagnose and treat it
effectively.
KIDNEY FAILURE
Kidney failure is one of the biggest threats to a dog’s health. Garlic toxicity in dogs can
affect the kidneys in such a way that it harms the rest of the body.
The kidneys play a major role in eliminating waste from the body, but they perform other
vital roles as well. For example, they help make sure that blood sugar and blood
pressure stay at safe levels. They also help produce several types of hormones.
Talk to your veterinarian if your dog has eaten garlic, as they may be experiencing
digestion or kidney discomfort. Common symptoms from garlic-induced kidney
problems in dogs include:
● A sudden loss of body weight
● Lack of interest in eating dog food
● Blood in the urine
● Vomiting
● Increased thirst
● Constipation
Your veterinarian can help manage kidney failure in your dog so they can still lead a full,
happy life.8
OTHER HUMAN FOODS THAT ARE BAD FOR DOGS
A lot of dog owners will sometimes sneak their pet human food. Some of it is typically
harmless but others can be detrimental to your pet’s health. Regardless of a dog’s
breed, there are some foods pets should never eat.
Along with garlic, two of the most toxic foods to dogs are onions and macadamia nuts.
ONIONS
Onions are known more for causing stinky breath in humans than for being dangerous,
but onion poisoning can mean bad news for your pet. As you already know, the onion is
in the same family of food as garlic. Both of them contain the toxic compound that was
covered earlier – N-propyl disulfide. 9
MACADAMIA NUTS
Macadamia nuts may seem harmless, but they can be dangerous for your pet. You’ll
find them in a lot of different kinds of food, including desserts.
Experts aren’t really sure why macadamia nuts cause problems. But even in small
amounts, if your dog eats them, they can experience symptoms like vomiting and
weakness.10,11
WHAT ABOUT PEANUT BUTTER?
Some dog owners will give their pet a little peanut butter once in a while. But even this
can be bad. The reason is that some brands of peanut butter contain an ingredient
called xylitol. This is a sweetener often added to sugar-free foods. Xylitol has been
linked to weakness and vomiting, as well as liver problems in dogs.12
If your pup loves some occasional peanut butter, just be sure to check that the label is
free from xylitol before letting them indulge.
TAKE ACTION, BUT DON’T PANIC

If you suspect your dog has ingested something toxic, call an animal poison control
center as well as your veterinarian. Your vet, or the pet poison helpline, can tell you
what to do next.
---------------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/cleaning-dog-urine/
CLEANING DOG URINE THE NATURAL WAY
Sep 10, 2019 | 0 comments
Cleaning dog urine isn’t the most pleasant experience, but if you have a pup, accidents
will happen. You can keep things green and clean by avoiding chemical carpet cleaners
and making your own urine odor eliminators naturally at home. Here’s how.
CARPET AND PET URINE REMOVAL:
SHOULD YOU BUY A CARPET CLEANER OR USE A NATURAL ALTERNATIVE?
When you’re faced with a doggie accident, prompt action is always best. You’ll want to
ensure that both the stain and the smell doesn’t linger. This is for both sanitary reasons
and the purpose of training your pet. If the mess is not properly cleaned, your pet might
think it’s fine to pee or poo again in that same spot.
As with all household cleaners, it’s always best to choose a natural alternative (if one is
available) over one filled with unknown chemicals. Thankfully, when it comes to carpet
cleaning, there are some truly wonderful natural options that are both less expensive
and healthier than carpet cleaner.
You’ll also want to avoid steam cleaning (or hot carbonating extraction) in the area. This
kind of intense heat can set the stain and/or urine odor into the carpet fibers.
CREATE A NATURAL PET STAIN REMOVER
Here are some easy, natural ways to treat pet urine stains around the house.
BAKING SODA
Is there anything that baking soda can’t do?! If your pup has an accident on the
carpet, baking soda is one of your best weapons for both the stain and the odor. Baking
soda is a natural odor neutralizer (try placing a small bowl of it in your fridge some time).
Here’s what to do:
1. First, use some paper towels covered with newspaper to absorb some of the
moisture. You can stand on this to help it absorb better if you like. Then, rinse the
area with water, and repeat the paper towels/newspaper once more.
2. Once the liquid is blotted, sprinkle baking soda evenly (and thinly) over the area.
No more than ¼ cup should be necessary.
3. Let this sit overnight.
4. The next day, vacuum the area thoroughly.
HYDROGEN PEROXIDE
Hydrogen peroxide is another great cleaning solution when it comes to dog urine stains.
Just be sure to spot test this one if your carpets are colored or new (meaning
spray a tiny bit on a carpet scrap or a corner, and check for reaction). Peroxide is a
natural bleach and will lighten some carpets.
1. Put some peroxide in a spray bottle, and spray a few squirts onto your stain. A
chemical reaction will occur, and it will start to bubble and froth. This means it’s
working.
2. Let the peroxide sit on the stain for a good 10-15 minutes, then use a rag or
some paper towels to absorb the moisture.
3. Let the area dry naturally.
DISTILLED WHITE VINEGAR

Vinegar, especially when paired with baking soda, is a fantastic all-round
household cleaner. It’s even great for cleaning your shower. Thankfully, it also works
for pet urine removal.
1. In a spray bottle, combine one cup of distilled white vinegar with one cup of water
and two tablespoons of baking soda.
2. Shake it all up and spray the vinegar solution on the stain.
3. Let it sit for five minutes, then blot with paper towels until clean.
4. Let the area dry naturally.
If you come across a pet accident much later, baking soda is your best plan of attack to
help fight the odor.
If all else fails, and your stain is still very smelly, an enzymatic cleaner is a good choice.
Enzymes are proteins that create a chemical reaction at the molecular level, attaching
themselves to the urine molecules and then breaking them down.1
Pet enzyme cleaners can be bought from the store, and many are natural, non-toxic,
bio-based cleaners.
CLEANING DOG URINE STAINS OFTEN?
WHEN TO SEE THE VET ABOUT URINARY ISSUES
Though you hope that your dog will quickly become potty trained and not make a mess
in the house, accidents can and will still happen. But as your pet ages, they shouldn’t
happen very often. If your dog has started to have multiple accidents, it’s important that
you talk to your vet.
Anxiety or illness may be causing this, and you’ll want to get to the bottom of it as soon
as possible.
Along with frequency, the odor of your pet’s urine may be cause for concern. Fresh dog
urine should actually be somewhat odorless. But sometimes that smell is really bad.
Talk to your vet if you have concerns, or if the smell is over the top.
REMOVING DOG URINE FROM CARPET, NATURALLY

If you’re faced with stains and smelly pet odor removal, it’s always best to attack the
spot as quickly as possible. These natural stain removal techniques are proven and
should work on most dog and cat urine stains.
-----------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/dog-excessive-licking/
WHY IS YOUR DOG EXCESSIVE LICKING WITH NO RELIEF?
When people mention obsessive-compulsive disorder and separation anxiety, you might
figure they’re talking about other people.
DID YOU KNOW DOGS CAN EXPERIENCE THE SAME ANXIETIES PEOPLE GO
THROUGH?
A tell-tale sign dog owners notice anxiety is excessive licking in dogs. Your pet may be
troubled by itchy skin or cognitive dysfunction. If your dog keeps paw licking or self-
grooming, it may point to stress and other problems.
Continue reading for some of the possible reasons why your pooch keeps licking one
spot — or even all over — with no relief.
LICKING AND SCRATCHING CAUSES:
SKIN IRRITATIONS, DRY SKIN, DERMATITIS, FOOD ALLERGIES, FUNGAL
INFECTIONS
Many people think of a dog lick as a sign of affection or a “kiss.” And your dog may
indeed lick to show affection. But if your puppy licks excessively, they could be
experiencing a physical or emotional problem. If you notice your pet licking or scratching
incessantly, call your veterinarian.
Once you and your vet determine the cause, you can help your pet stop licking,
scratching, and obsessively self-grooming. Here are some possible reasons why dogs
might lick themselves obsessively:
● Skin irritation
● Separation anxiety
● Dry skin
● Dermatitis
● Anxiety
● Allergies
● Fungal infections1
If your dog begins to lick obsessively, irritation could lead to hair loss or raw skin. If this
occurs, contact your vet immediately.
WHAT CAUSES EXCESSIVE LICKING IN DOGS?
1. ALLERGIES
The most common cause of excessive licking in dogs is allergies. You may notice your
dog licking in between their toes. Sometimes this causes stains on the fur due to
enzymes in your dog’s saliva. Dogs may also lick their rear end and thighs.2
IF YOUR DOG HAS ALLERGIES THEY COULD HAVE ITCHY SKIN. THE ITCHING
CAUSES DOGS TO LICK THEIR SKIN.
If your dog has been exposed to allergens, then they might lick their skin raw. Any of the
following allergens might cause discomfort for your pooch:
● Flea bites
● Environmental pollutants
● Pollen
● Fungal infections
● Certain Food3
If you suspect your pet may have an allergy, take them to the vet. The vet will be able to
do a test to determine what exactly they are allergic to.
2. FLEAS, TICKS, AND MOSQUITOS — OH MY
When your dog has itchy skin, they can relieve the sensation by licking themselves.
They might even engage in scratching, self-grooming, or chewing. Your dog’s mouth is
one of their only tools, if you think about it.
If your dog is licking and scratching to no end, your vet will likely check them for fleas,
ticks, mosquito bites, or other bugs.
Remember to treat your pet for fleas and ticks. Your veterinarian can recommend a
treatment for your pet and can answer any other questions you may have about
protecting your pet from pests.
3. SKIN PROBLEMS
Your dog may have itchy or dry skin. These problems may be the reason your dog
keeps licking their skin. Other possible skin issues that could lead to excessive licking in
dogs include:
● Skin irritations
● Mange
● Ringworm
● Hot spots
● Hives4
While some of these skin conditions can be rare in dogs, it’s important to get your pet
checked by the veterinarian. And the sooner you do so the better. If they do end up
having a skin issue, your vet can provide treatment.
4. PAIN AND INJURIES
Another reason dogs might be licking themselves to the extreme is pain. Dogs often lick
themselves to heal injuries.
YOUR DOG MIGHT LICK THEIR WOUNDS TO BOOST BLOOD FLOW.
Licking can allow your pooch to create some moisture where wounds are dry. When
your dog licks, they create topical anesthesia after the saliva when it evaporates.
Even if your pup is sore with a pulled muscle or joint discomfort, they’ll lick the sore
spot. If you notice your dog licking the same area over and over, check to make sure
there’s no swelling, bruising, rashes, or cuts.
SHOULD YOU WORRY ABOUT YOUR DOG’S EMOTIONAL HEALTH?
Yes. A dog’s life may sound glorious to you — eating, playing, and sleeping. But if your
dog is bored, or suffers from separation anxiety, they may lick themselves for comfort.
Spontaneous compulsive behaviors may present in several dog breeds. Such behaviors
can point to stress or boredom. Look for the following signs:
● Repetitive pacing
● Tail-chasing
● Destructive behavior
● Lack of interest in toys

● Excessive licking
● Chasing shadows or light
● Decrease in appetite6
If your pet seems to be engaging in some of these behaviors, they may not be feeling
well. Make sure to give them plenty of exercise and attention. Try playing a game of
fetch or taking them on a walk to relieve some of their stress or boredom. Please see
your vet if your pets mood doesn’t seem to be improving. There could be something
else going on.
POSSIBLE REMEDIES TO STOP EXCESSIVE LICKING IN DOGS?
If your dog is licking due to stress alone, there are some natural remedies you might try.
Calming herbs, like chamomile, can sometimes help reduce feelings of stress and
anxiety in dogs.
CHAMOMILE IS NOT ONLY SAFE, BUT IT CAN BE EFFECTIVE.
In fact, if you brew a cup of chamomile tea and let it cool, you can either let your pooch
lap it up or pour it in their dog food.7
Just be sure to check with your vet before giving any herbs to your pooch.
If dry skin is the reason for your pets licking, you may want to add Omega-3 fatty acids
to your dog’s diet. Salmon oil or fish oil may help your dog’s dry skin. Coconut oil may
be another great way for your dog to get their fatty acids.8
HOW TO HELP KEEP YOUR DOG FROM EXCESSIVE LICKING
Talk to your vet about your dog’s licking issues. If your dog is constantly licking paws or
paw pads, check to see if there’s a cut or bruising. Other discomforts may cause your
dog’s behavior to shift, too.
Be aware of your dog’s overall health. If your dog is experiencing any health issue or
strange behavior you’ll also want to talk to your vet.
And make sure your dog gets a good amount of playtime and exercise. This will keep
them from getting bored and licking because they think there’s nothing else to do. Your
pup is your best friend. Keep them happy by keeping them healthy.
-------------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/heated-insulated-dog-house-importance/
IS A HEATED INSULATED DOG HOUSE NECESSARY FOR WINTER?
No matter if you prefer large dog breeds, short-haired dogs, a medium-sized dog, or a
pup size dog who fits in your purse, your pet is an extra-large part of your family.
Most dog owners are prepared to do pretty much anything for their furry friend. When
winter arrives, this may mean adding insulation to a dog bed or purchasing a heated
mat to keep your pet warm. It might mean bringing an outdoor pet inside to warm up, or
even letting the pooch hop into the pet owners’ bed for extra warmth.
SOME PEOPLE, THOUGH, PREFER TO KEEP THEIR PET OUTDOORS YEAR-

ROUND. IN ORDER TO DO THIS, A HEATED OR INSULATED DOG HOUSE IS
LIKELY NECESSARY FOR THOSE COOLER MONTHS.
Read on to learn about how to choose an outdoor dog house, types of insulation you
might use, and how to best keep your pet warm year-round.
CHOOSE THE DOG HOUSE THAT BEST SUITS YOUR PET – AND YOUR CLIMATE
Not all dogs are alike. Nor is every backyard, or budget. When selecting the right pet
house with insulation for your pooch, you will want to consider these factors.
KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT IN YOUR CLIMATE
The temperatures you experience in the winter will obviously vary depending on where
you live. The average temperature in February in the United States in 2019 was 32 °F.
But, given the country’s size, regions, and climate ranges, it’s not easy to make broad
predictions about winter weather.1
Therefore, you may want to rely on your own winter weather experience in your climate.
If you are new to your area, you may want to research the climate of past winter
months. This information will help you plan for your pet house’s needed level of warmth,
bedding, heating, and insulation.
Check the weather each day and night before leaving your pet outside. Some weather
conditions just aren’t suitable for certain breeds.
KNOW WHAT LEVEL OF INSULATION YOUR DOG WILL NEED
Some dogs are better equipped for the cold than others. For example, short-haired dogs
like a labrador retriever will lose body heat more rapidly than dog breeds with two fur
coats, such as a golden retriever or Siberian husky.2 There are certain breeds that can’t
handle much cold at all.
Here are some factors that may help determine the ability of your pet to keep warm and
withstand cold climates:
● Breed
● General health
● Ability to acclimate
● Physical conditioning
● Age
● Coat type and density3
Your veterinarian can help you determine how much heat or insulation will be necessary
based on these factors.
WHAT TYPES OF INSULATION AND HEATING OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE?
There are many different types of dog houses with insulation available. There are also
many amenities and types of insulation from which to choose.
Pick from an easy to clean plastic dog house, to an outdoor dog house with foam
insulation, to a pet house with a removable roof and a self-closing door. The possibilities
are numerous, however, some pet houses may be warmer than others. Choosing the
correct dog house will depend on your pet and the type of winter to come.
HOW TO INSULATE AN OUTDOOR DOG HOUSE
As your dog’s body temperature, or a heating device, helps to keep the pet house
warm, insulating the walls, floor, and roof will help retain the structure’s warmth.
Here are some ways dog owners can insulate an outdoor dog house with durable
materials:
● Thicken the walls using insulation
● Ensure all holes in the roof, walls, and floor are sealed (unless needed for
ventilation)
● Cover the floor with insulating materials
● Raise the dog bed off the ground
● Add blankets or a heated mat
● Keep the dog house inside another shelter like a sunroom or garage4
TYPES OF INSULATION
Whether your outdoor dog house is made of plastic, wood, or some other durable
material, you can use the following types of insulation to help it retain heat:
● Foam (polystyrene foam insulation or expanding foam spray)
● Fiberglass insulation
● Carpet
● Foil
● Mulch (though other easy cleaning options may be more suitable)

● Bubble wrap5
● Soft, water-sealed wood such as kiln-dried cedar6
OK, EVERYTHING IS SEALED – BUT WHAT ABOUT THE DOOR?

Obviously, your pet needs to be able to move in and out of their durable kennel through
a door. You’ve taken all these steps to make sure your outdoor dog house retains its
heat. But you don’t want all that heating effort to vanish through a door that won’t seal or
close.
During warm months, a door flap made with rubber or plastic can be an excellent way to
keep the elements or unwanted pests out of your outdoor dog house. A door flap can
provide much-needed ventilation as well.7
HOWEVER, IN THE WINTER, YOU MAY WANT TO CREATE A BETTER DOOR
SEAL.
Therefore, a self-closing door that can shut behind your pooch, yet still allow it to exit,
may be the ticket for you. Just be sure that the dog house still allows for some
ventilation.8
THE WRAP-UP
If you prefer to keep your pet an outdoor pet, make sure you know your climate, the
types of insulation options available, and the ability to which your pet can withstand cold
temperatures.
If it’s your pets first time using an outdoor house, start by leaving them outside for
shorter periods of time. This way you can assess whether or not the dog house is
keeping your pet warm enough despite the weather conditions.
Of course, leaving your pet outside on extremely cold days and nights can be
dangerous. So if you have concerns whether or not the dog house will be warm enough,
you’re better off bringing your pet inside for the night. Lastly, never hesitate to ask your
vet for advice on keeping your pet warm during the winter.
---------------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/socialize-dog/
HOW TO SOCIALIZE A DOG: IT’S NEVER TOO LATE

Oct 28, 2019 | 0 comments
In an ideal world, every dog would be thoroughly socialized as a puppy. But that isn’t
the case. Say you decided to adopt an older dog who wasn’t properly socialized as a
pup or you weren’t able to socialize your puppy for a number of reasons. Are you
doomed? In short, no. Although it does become more difficult to socialize a dog with
age, it’s never too late. Learn how to socialize a dog at any age and get started today.
WHAT IS DOG SOCIALIZATION?
When you socialize your dog, you are essentially teaching them how to exist among
others in the world. You do this by calmly introducing new people, animals,
environments, and situations. Your goal is to create a positive experience around these
interactions.1
Two of the best ways to socialize your pup are to:
1. Calmly introduce your dog to new experiences.
2. Using positive reinforcement to help your dog form positive associations with
these experiences.
WHY SOCIALIZE YOUR DOG?

When your dog feels safe, they can calmly engage with the world. A socialized puppy
will grow into a confident dog. A socialized dog can handle new interactions and
experiences without growing overly anxious, fearful, or aggressive.
Socialization can help your pet:
● Learn how to get along with other pets
● Calmly meet new people without fear
● Get used to being handled and touched
● Learn to cope with excitement without getting overly aroused
● Feel safe in the world, which can reduce fearful and aggressive dog behavior2
● Prevent fear of things like children, riding in the car, or visiting the vet’s office3
Socialization can also support your dog’s health. A well-socialized pup will likely mean
less stress on both you and them, easier vet visits, and better overall behavior.4
WHEN TO SOCIALIZE YOUR DOG
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, it is critical to socialize your
dog as early as possible.5 Animal behavior experts have identified the window from 4-
14 weeks as the most important for early socialization.
In your puppy’s first three months of life, they are naturally curious and outgoing. They
haven’t learned to be fearful yet. It’s the perfect time to introduce them to new
things.6,7After the age of about 18 weeks, socialization becomes more difficult.8 By this
age, puppies who have not had positive experiences with a variety of people, animals,
and environments may become fearful.9
If you missed this narrow window, or you’ve adopted an older dog, don’t fret.
Socialization can (and should) continue for the rest of your dog’s life. While it might be
slightly more challenging to socialize an older pet, it can certainly be done.
SIGNS YOUR ADULT DOG NEEDS TO BE SOCIALIZED
Maybe you’ve recently adopted an adult dog and you’re wondering if they were properly
socialized as a puppy. Or maybe you adopted your dog as a puppy, but aren’t sure if
you socialized them properly. Here are some telling signs of an unsocialized dog:
● Fearful or aggressive around people or animals
● Timid when you approach
● Visibly nervous around different sights or sounds while on leash
● Shy around other dogs or people
● Behavioral problems, like excessive barking
● Anxious behavior10
If your dog shows these traits, put a socialization plan in place.

SO, HOW DO YOU SOCIALIZE YOUR DOG?
For young puppies, socialization is all about showing them the world they will live in.
You will be there with them the first time they ever do things like feel grass, meet
another dog, or hear a siren. It’s your job to make sure your puppy gets used to the
world, feels safe, and has positive interactions at a young age.
Older dogs may have already had many of these experiences. But it’s never too late to
work with your dog and make them feel safe. Adult dog socialization will focus on re-
introducing things that may cause fear in a more positive light.
WATCH YOUR DOG’S BODY LANGUAGE
No matter how old your dog is, you never want to force them into new experiences that
they may be uncomfortable with. Any time you work on socialization, check in with your
dog’s body language to see how they are feeling.
Happy, relaxed dogs will have:
● A relaxed or slowly swaying tail
● A slightly open mouth
● Head high
Fearful, stressed, or potentially soon-to-be aggressive dogs will have their:
● Body lowered
● Tail down or tucked
● Ears back
● Hackles raised11
They might also try to run and hide or make fearful sounds like whining or excessive
barking.
CREATE POSITIVE EXPERIENCES
It’s important to take things slow. Never force your pet to do anything when they are in a
state of fear or panic. This will only heighten the fear.
Positive reinforcement is the best way to help your dog make positive associations with
the world. When you introduce your dog to something new, be generous with food treats
and praise. This helps them learn that seeing something new is a fun thing.12
HOW TO SOCIALIZE A PUPPY
INTRODUCE YOUR PUPPY TO NEW PEOPLE, DOGS, AND OTHER ANIMALS
Before you pick up your puppy, make a list of all of the humans you know who have
children, dogs, or other animals. Who has a large, well-behaved dog? Who has a small
dog? Who has a calm dog and cat? Add them all to your list. Now invite friends over
and schedule a playdate.
But don’t stop there. Professional trainer and animal behaviorist Dr. Ian Dunbar
recommends that your puppy meet at least 100 other people in their first month at
home.13 These should include a diverse group of people like:
● Different heights, ages, and ethnicities
● People in wheelchairs
● People with canes or walkers
● People in large hats
You’ll also want your puppy to meet as many well-behaved, healthy dogs as possible in
the first few months.
Seek out large breeds, like a German Shepherd, and smaller breeds, like a Chihuahua.
Start by holding your pet or keeping them on a leash to make sure that the two pets are
going to get along. If they seem fine, let them play freely together. Just keep an eye on
your pup.
DON’T FORGET SIGHTS, SOUNDS, AND ENVIRONMENTS
Along with new people and animals, make sure you introduce sights, sounds, textures,
and environments. Seek out a socialization checklist on the internet, and go through it
like a scavenger hunt. Here are some ideas:
● Loud noises like vacuum cleaners
● A social environment, like a dog park
● People places, like an outdoor cafe
● Other people’s houses14
Remember, your first priority is to make your puppy feel safe, so you don’t want to throw
them off the deep end. Think of ways to make the initial encounter less intense for your
puppy. Let them sit on your lap and watch the other puppies play at a dog park, for
example. Or turn on a vacuum cleaner across the room, but not right next to them.
SIGN UP FOR PUPPY CLASSES
Puppy classes can offer a great socialization experience. In class, your puppy will
encounter other puppies, floor surfaces, people, and likely children. Studies show that
puppies who attend early socialization classes are less likely to be nervous, fearful, and
anxious later in life.15
Most puppy classes are structured around basic puppy training lessons. This can help
you get started with obedience training at a young age.
HANDLING
Part of your socialization plan should be to help your puppy get used to being handled.
Practice holding a bone for your puppy (a positive experience) while you touch their
paws, tail, ears, teeth, and underbelly. This will help when it comes time to go to the vet
or groomer.
RESOURCE GUARDING
Practice taking a bone or a food bowl away from your puppy while they are enjoying it.
You can simply take the object away and offer a treat at the same time. Then give it
back to them. You want your puppy to get used to the idea that good things can come,
go, and come back again. This may make it less likely that they will guard their food or a
bone later in life.
ADOLESCENT DOG SOCIALIZATION
CONTINUE INTRODUCING NEW PEOPLE, DOGS, SIGHTS, AND SOUNDS
Socialization shouldn’t stop once your pup gets a little bit older. Make sure you continue
to create positive experiences with animals, like the new neighbor’s dog or cat, people,
and places. Change up your pup’s environment regularly so they feel comfortable in
different places.
VARY YOUR WALKS
One easy way to change up your adolescent dog’s environment is to change up your
walks. Next time you clip on a leash, go a different direction. This allows you and your
pup to encounter different dogs, smells, and sights.
ADULT DOG SOCIALIZATION
Socializing an adult dog can be a slightly more challenging experience than socializing
a puppy. You aren’t starting with a blank slate. Your older dog may be more hesitant to
accept all of the new experiences you try to throw their way. However, there is hope.
While it’s tough to change the way your dog feels about other dogs, socializing an older
dog can change the way your dog acts.16 Your strategy here will be to introduce
potential triggers and then reward calm behavior with a mix of treats and praise. While
you can do this yourself, it may be wise to consult a professional dog trainer. If your dog
is showing signs of aggression, call a professional.
FIRST, REVIEW A FEW BASIC OBEDIENCE COMMANDS
When socializing an adult dog, it’s helpful if they first learn a few basic commands.
Review your training or teach your dog:
● Sit
● Watch Me
● Touch
These commands are helpful because they all bring your dog’s attention back to you. If
your dog tends to get anxious around other dogs, it’s helpful to have a few commands
down so you can get your dog’s attention. This takes their attention off of whatever is
stressful.
TAKE IT SLOWLY, AND WATCH YOUR DOG’S BODY LANGUAGE
Your goal with socialization is the create a calm experience, not to add more stress.
Meet your dog where they are for this. If your dog barks their head off when they see
another dog, don’t go straight to the dog park. Start at the easiest possible place.
For example, you could take your dog to a park on a leash, sit on a bench, and watch
strange dogs from afar. Give your dog treats for remaining calm, even at that distance.
Keep an eye on your dog’s body language. If your dog is showing signs of stress of
potential aggressive behavior, remove them from the situation immediately.
INTRODUCING ADULT DOGS TO EACH OTHER
● Leave your house and go to a neutral environment so your dog isn’t tempted to
protect their “territory.”
● Let your dog observe the other dog from afar.

● If your dog looks at the dog, and remains calm, give your dog a treat.
● If the experience seems to be going well, encourage short interactions. Give
plenty of treats.
● Try walking with the other dog, leaving at least 10 feet of space at first. The
distraction of walking can be helpful.17,18
INTRODUCING ADULT DOGS TO HUMANS
● Whenever someone comes over, give your dog treats.
● Ask the person to ignore your dog at first.
● Have the person throw treats on the ground to make a positive connection.
● If all goes well, have the person ask your dog to sit and give them a treat.19
CONTINUE TO SOCIALIZE YOUR DOG

To truly encourage your pup to live their best life, dog socializing should continue from
puppyhood to their senior dog days. It’s never over.
If you have an adult dog who is fearful of other dogs or people, don’t give up. Socializing
your dog is totally possible at any stage of life. You may have to be patient as you
slowly help your dog form positive associations. Ask a trainer for help. The results of a
calm, socialized dog are worth it.
---------------------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/clean-dog-vomit-carpet/
PET MESSES: HOW TO BEST CLEAN UP DOG VOMIT FROM CARPET

Nov 6, 2019 | 0 comments
Wondering how to clean dog vomit from carpet? If your pet had an upset stomach and
left you a mess to clean up, you may be feeling flustered. How do you go about cleaning
vomit in a way that avoids stains and smells later on? And how do you go about
cleaning up cat or dog vomit in the least icky way?
Like other spills, your best bet is to act quickly. When you’re cleaning up vomit on carpet
you don’t want to give it a chance to absorb. However, if you’re just discovering this pet
stain now and you’re pretty sure it’s been sitting there for awhile, all is not lost.
Follow the instructions below for your specific situation. You got this.
HOW TO CLEAN DOG VOMIT FROM CARPET
Are you dealing with a fresh pile of vomit? Hop to it and take care of the mess before it
sits too long. If you put it off, the mess could sink deeper into the carpet fibers or the
padding underneath. If that happens, it becomes much harder to get stains from the
carpet out.
HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
● Spoon
● Trash bag
● Rubber gloves (optional)
● Spray bottle
● Your cleaner of choice (more details below)
● Baking soda or corn starch
● An old towel or microfiber cloths
1. START WITH THE BULK OF THE MESS FIRST

This part can be icky, so hold your nose if you get queasy.
1. If you have rubber cleaning gloves, put them on.
2. Use your spoon to scrape up the vomit out of the carpet and into the trash bag.
3. Make sure you tie the trash bag tightly so it doesn’t tip over.1
2. SOAK UP EXCESS MOISTURE
1. Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch directly onto the stain to soak up as much
vomit as possible.
2. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
Both of these ingredients can absorb liquid and make stains easier to manage.2,3If your
stain is small or already dry, you can skip this step and go directly to step 4.
3. VACUUM OVER THE VOMIT
If you’ve used baking soda or cornstarch to help dry out your stain, go over it with a
vacuum.
4. FIND THE RIGHT CARPET CLEANER (THAT IS SAFE FOR USE WITH PETS)
Now you’re ready to start using carpet stain removal products to help you clean up. You
can go one of two ways:
1. Mix together cleaning ingredients you already have in your house.
2. Use store-bought cleaning products that are designed to remove pet vomit and
urine stains.
If you’re trying to act quickly, your choice will probably be dictated by what you have on
hand. Here are more details on each method.
MIX INGREDIENTS YOU ALREADY HAVE AT HOME
Here are a few combinations you can try for removing vomit stains:
● 1 tablespoon of hand dishwashing detergent (liquid dish soap) + 1 tablespoon of
white vinegar + 2 cups of warm water4
● 1 part white vinegar to 1 part lukewarm water
● 1 part hydrogen peroxide to 1 part lukewarm water
Read your carpet care instructions and avoid using bleach, as this can stain your carpet
further.
APPLY YOUR CARPET CLEANING MIXTURE TO THE STAIN
1. Mix your ingredients in an empty spray bottle.
2. Perform a spot test on your carpet by spraying a small, clean area. Check to
make sure the color doesn’t bleed.
3. Spray the solution over the entire area of the stain. Saturate it with your mixture.
4. Blot the area dry using your towel or cloth. Once the towel is fully saturated, trade
it out for a dry one and continue blotting until liquid is absorbed. Resist the urge
to scrub at this stage.
5. Use a damp cloth or towel to sponge up the cleaning solution.
6. Let your carpet air-dry overnight.
USE STORE-BOUGHT PET STAIN REMOVER AND CLEANER

If you have a professional carpet cleaner spray or solution on hand, use this spray to
cover the area. Then blot the liquid up in the same method laid out above.
HOW TO REMOVE VOMIT FROM CARPET IF IT’S BEEN SITTING THERE FOR
AWHILE
Perhaps your pet got sick and you didn’t realize it until a while later. Cleaning cat vomit
and dog vomit that has already dried is slightly more challenging, but not impossible.
Here’s what you’ll do:
1. Dampen the area with a wet sponge or towel before you use a spoon to scoop up
the dried vomit.
2. Repeat step 1 as many times as necessary.
3. Following the instructions above(for cleaning fresh vomit) to complete the
cleaning process.
WHAT TO DO WITH STUBBORN STAINS AND SMELLS

If you followed the above steps and you can still see (or smell) vomit, you’re going to
have to take some extra steps.
HERE ARE A FEW METHODS:
1. Repeat the process of baking soda, vacuuming, and then treating with a stain
remover.
2. Try creating a paste with 1 part dish soap + 2 parts hydrogen peroxide + 2
tablespoons baking soda.5 Apply the paste, let it sit for an hour, and then blot it up with
a damp sponge.
3. Some people swear by straight rubbing alcohol for types of stains that are difficult to
remove. Carefully pour rubbing alcohol onto the stain and blot it up with a dry white
washcloth.6 Always do a spot test first.
4. Use a steam cleaner to do a deep clean of the area. Steam kills germs and bacteria
that could be resulting in the foul odor.
5. After a deep cleaning, spray the stained area with a commercial deodorizer or a
natural combination of water and a few drops of essential oils.7
6. If you still aren’t satisfied, you can try dry cleaning your carpet. This can be done by
yourself or by a professional carpet cleaner.8
CLEANING UP DOG VOMIT REGULARLY? KNOW WHEN TO SEE YOUR PET’S
VETERINARIAN
Pet odors and stains can be inconvenient, but if you’re constantly cleaning up vomit,
you may have a bigger problem. There are many reasons why pets vomit. They may
have a mild upset stomach due to something strange they ate. No big deal there.
But frequent vomiting could be a sign of a larger problem.9 When in doubt, call your vet
and report the symptoms you’re seeing.
---------------------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/should-your-dog-sleep-in-your-bed/
SHOULD YOUR DOG SLEEP IN YOUR BED?
May 27, 2020 | 0 comments
Here’s a question for you…
Does your dog sleep in the bed with you at night?
Don’t worry, there’s no right or wrong answer here. The reason I ask is simple…
According to new research, over HALF of all dog parents share a bed with their canine
pals every night.1
Most people say it’s very comfortable and it rarely wakes them up.
On the other hand, 20% admit that while cuddling with their furry pal is nice, it’s also
disruptive to their sleep.
And I want to be sure you take your time to make the right decision about where your
fur baby sleeps.
After all, it’s easy (and wonderful) to allow your pup to hop into bed and snuggle up
close. But there are a few reasons why this might not be the best arrangement.
So, to make it easier, I made a little checklist for you. I call it…
THE BEDTIME X-FACTORS
PRO #1: CO-SLEEPING MAKES YOU BOTH HAPPY
Anytime you cuddle with your pup, BOTH of your brains release oxytocin, the “love
hormone.” It’s responsible for those warm and fuzzy feelings when you snuggle.
Not only that, it also helps reduce your stress levels and can even help lower your blood
pressure.
CON #1: CO-SLEEPING CAN BE CHALLENGING WITH SENIOR DOGS AND
PUPPIES
Let’s be frank, both age groups need lots of sleep to stay healthy and fit.
And it can be hard to get comfortable with puppies who are potty training, or senior dogs
who need space to be able to stretch their aging joints and muscles.
So age is a factor to consider. After all, there are many hours in the day when you can
cuddle. At night, it’s important everyone gets their rest!
PRO #2: PEACE OF MIND
Many dog parents report having their dog in the bed with them makes them feel safer
(regardless of the dog’s size or breed.)
One study on patients with PTSD even showed that sleeping with your dog can reduce
nightmares! 2
It makes sense — your furry pal has enhanced hearing, super smelling abilities, and
canine protective instincts. It’s no wonder you might feel safer.
CON #2: TERRITORY DISPUTES
It can be hard to draw boundaries for your pup when they sleep in your bed.
After all, why can’t they chew a toy there too? Or hide their half-eaten treats in your
pillows?
So for pups who like to “claim” their territory, it might be best to give them their own
sleeping space, to help you BOTH feel more at ease.
PRO #3: DEEPER SLEEP
Turns out, when you and your pup co-sleep, you can experience deeper sleep for
longer periods of time.
It has to do with the combination of lowered blood pressure, extra warmth, and feelings
of security. This trio can have you drifting off and falling deep asleep in no time.
In other words, your dog is like an all-natural furry sleep-aid.
CON #3: LESS SLEEP
Studies show that while your REM cycles may be deeper, you often get about 20% less
sleep with a dog in the bed.1
So for example, people who co-sleep with their pups sleep about 11 hours LESS per
week than people who don’t catch zzz’s with their dog (based on an 8-hour sleep
schedule.)
The truth is, dogs can be disruptive, even in their sleep.
But if you can sleep through the occasional tail in your face, paws in your back, or stinky
dog farts… you’ll have no problem getting your rest 🙂
As you can see, there are pros and cons to sharing a bed with your dog, but the
ultimate question is…
DOES THIS ARRANGEMENT WORK FOR YOU?
Just like us humans, every dog is an individual. And you shouldn’t feel bad about
whatever works best for you and your family.
--------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/dog-sounds/
UNDERSTANDING DOG SOUNDS – COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR POOCH
Jul 8, 2019 | 0 comments
While dogs can’t speak with humans, they’re actually great communicators. Dog sounds
– like barking, whining, growling, howling, sighing, and moaning – can give us a pretty
clear picture of their emotions. But first, you have to know what the sounds mean!
If you have a dog that barks, whines, or groans, and you have no idea why, then read
on. We’ll help you decipher all of the different types of noises your pup makes.
BARKING
One of the most common dog sounds that dogs make is the bark. Dogs bark to indicate
a wide range of emotions, from happiness to anxiety, frustration, and affection.
If a bark can mean so many things, how can you tell what dogs are trying to say? The
key is to look at:
● Context
● Pitch
● Frequency
CONTEXT
Context is key when trying to understand dog sounds and behavior. If your dog barks,
wags their tail, and runs to grab their favorite ball when you come home, they’re likely
excited. If your pet charges at the fence, growls, and barks when a neighborhood dog
walks by, they’re likely feeling territorial.1
Pay attention to the dog’s body language when they bark. Here’s a general idea of what
to look for:
HAPPY, RELAXED DOG
● Wagging tail
● Relaxed ears
● Play bow
● Squinty or blinking eyes2
AROUSED, FEARFUL DOG
● Barks mixed with growls
● Ears pricked forward
● Tail held high, frozen or quickly wagging
● Hard stare with the eyes
● Appeasement signals, like panting, lip licking, and yawning3
BARK PITCH
The tone of a dog’s bark can help you understand its meaning. Low pitched, deep barks
usually mean anger or even aggression. You might hear a low pitched “stranger danger”
bark mixed with growling if someone is approaching the house. This is meant to
intimidate – and it usually works!
A high pitched bark typically means just the opposite. Dogs usually bark in a higher
pitch when they are excited, as a greeting, or as a way to initiate play. They may also
use a higher pitch when they are insecure or fearful.4
WHAT ABOUT SMALL DOGS?
Small dogs may not hit the baritone pitch that large dogs can, but if you listen closely,
you’ll hear pitch changes. If your small dog is hitting a really high, uncomfortable pitch,
or they’re barking too much, you’ll want to call in a trainer who can address their
anxiety.5
BARK FREQUENCY
Dog sounds that are repeated rapidly usually indicate urgency. For example, a dog may
bark in a rapid string of three to four barks, and then take a pause. That dog is casually
trying to alert “the pack” of a potential intruder or threat.
If that barking picks up speed, the dog is getting more aroused, territorial, or fearful.6
A single bark may be given when a dog is surprised, or annoyed. If a dog barks once,
waits a while, and then barks once more, the dog may be feeling separation anxiety or
loneliness.7
WHINING
Whining, whimpering, or “crying” dog sounds can mean a wide variety of things. Your
dog may be feeling excited, anxious, thirsty, bored, or frustrated. Most commonly, your
dog is whining at you because they want something.8
They may want:
● a door to be opened so they can play or potty
● a toy thrown
● a bite of your dinner
● their human to come home (with separation anxiety)
In these cases, you can usually tell what they want from the context of the situation.
OOPS! YOU MAY HAVE REINFORCED WHINING
If your dog gets what they want every time they whine, you can bet that they’ll do it
again and again. This is commonly seen with dogs who whine at the dinner table. If they
see success with this tactic – even once! – they will keep it up.
If your dog whines when they want something, like a ball thrown, don’t immediately give
them what they want. Take control of the situation, and ask your dog to sit and wait first.
If this is a problem in your household, call a positive reinforcement trainer for help.
GROWLING
When a dog growls, you typically think of it as a menacing sign of aggression, right?
This is often correct, but it’s more complicated than that. A low, rumbling growl is usually
meant as a warning to “back off!” Growls like this are usually caused by fear or anxiety,
not pure aggression.9
Beyond fearful growls, dogs may find many other occasions to growl. Here are some
common ones:
● Playful growling. Your pup may growl during tug-of-war or other high energy
games. This is typically nothing to worry about. Watch their body language to
ensure that they’re being playful, not fearful or aggressive.
● Affectionate growling. You might hear your pup growl when you snuggle with
them. These dog sounds can be interpreted like a cat’s purr. Nothing to worry
about there! Again, watch their body language to make sure they are relaxed. If
your pup growls as a way to demand attention, call a trainer.
● Frustration growling. Dogs may growl if they want something, like food,
playtime, or to investigate another dog. This can be problematic if another dog
misinterprets the growl. Obedience training can help your dog learn how to
communicate better.10
HOWLING
Experts don’t fully understand why, but some dogs love to howl. It’s one of the more
common dog sounds.
Here are some reasons why you might hear your dog howl:
● For attention
● To alert their owner of something
● To contact other nearby dogs
● Some dogs (like hunting dogs) will howl to alert you to a discovery, like prey.
● To “sing along” with high pitched noises or sounds (There are YouTube videos
that encourage your dog to howl along with woodwind instruments, try it!)11,12
Howling is a primal reaction. There’s nothing to worry about, unless your dog is trying to
alert you to an underlying issue. Here’s when you should worry:
SEPARATION ANXIETY HOWLING
This dog may also pace around, eliminate in the house, and destroy things. You may
not even know that your dog is doing this until an angry neighbor calls you about
constant howling. Call a trainer to deal with this right away.13
HOWLING AS A SIGN OF INJURY OR PAIN
If your canine starts howling suddenly and frequently, call your vet to rule out medical
issues.14
SIGHING
Just like in humans, a sigh can be a sign of contentment or one of resigned frustration.
In either case, sighing signals the end of an effort or action.15
Your dog may sigh as they settle in and take a nap after a romp around the yard. That
sigh signals contentment. You may also hear your dog sigh in response to being
ignored while they whine at the dinner table. That’s more of a, “Fine, I’ll give up now”
sigh.
Sighs are great to track, especially if you’re trying to break your dog of a bad habit.
Does your dog go nuts and jump up when you pick up their leash? Try picking it up and
waiting quietly until they settle down.
Once you hear your dog sigh, you know they have truly relaxed. Then you can go on
your walk. Congrats, you’ve just reinforced calm behavior!
GROANING
Like sighing, groaning can signal contentment or frustration. Look at the context of the
dog behavior to understand the emotions behind the groan. Are you withholding their
favorite toy? That groan may signal frustration.16 Do they often groan while they curl up
next to you? They’re probably content!
The occasional groan is no big deal. But groans are one of those dog sounds you
shouldn’t ignore if you start hearing them out of the blue. It could signal an underlying
medical issue.
PANOSTEITIS, OR PUPPY GROWING PAINS
If your pup groans or moans when they lie down, they may be experiencing growing
pains. Growing pains happen when a puppy’s leg bones grow faster than they can get
used to. This can be painful for your pup!
While this can happen with any breed, it happens more often with large breeds, like
German Shepherds. This condition affects puppies and will usually go away on its own
when the pup reaches 2 years of age.17
WHAT TO DO ABOUT PANOSTEITIS
If you think your pup is experiencing growing pains, call your vet. They may want to take
x-rays or prescribe pain medication or anti-inflammatory drugs.
It’s important to feed your dog a high quality, all natural diet during this time. You may
also consider a supplement that contains omega 3’s and antioxidants – both of which
can help this condition.18
JOINT PAIN IN SENIOR DOGS

If an older dog starts to groan when they lie down, they may be dealing with joint pain.
The cartilage around the dog’s joints may be wearing down, making movements
painful.19
Call your vet. They may recommend rehab or surgery. For your part, managing your
dog’s weight is critical. That means feeding them only high quality food and controlling
portions.
Joint health supplements may help. Look for a supplement with collagen, elastin,
hyaluronic acid, and glucosamine (all of which occur naturally in healthy joints and
tissues and can be supplemented when they start to wear down.)
ASCITES, OR FLUID IN THE ABDOMEN
Ascites, or fluid buildup in the abdomen, is another common medical reason why dogs
may groan when they lie down. The trapped fluid may cause pain, and you’ll also notice
that your dog is tired, weak, or not eating. When you press lightly on their belly, they
may groan.20 Call your vet.
INTERPRETING DOG SOUNDS
Next time you’re trying to understand your dog’s behavior, listen up! Dog sounds paired
with dog behaviors can usually tell you everything you need to know about your pup’s
needs and desires.
Now that you know what to listen for, you may start to think, “Hmm, my dog sure seems
fearful!” or “I think my dog has anxiety.”
Take action on your new discoveries and call a trainer or behaviorist. Listening to your
dog can also help you know when to call the vet to check out potential medical issues.
Behavior and medical issues aside, dogs make all sorts of weird and wonderful sounds.
Listen up and enjoy their quirkiness!
-----------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/husky-health-problems/
HUSKY HEALTH PROBLEMS – CONCERNS PET PARENTS MAY HAVE TO
ADDRESS
The Alaskan Husky and Siberian Husky are both incredibly beautiful dog breeds known
for their piercing eyes and sweet, gentle dispositions. When given plenty of exercise,
mental stimulation, and attention, the Husky is a very well-behaved dog. But,
unfortunately, certain dog breeds are susceptible to certain health problems, and
Huskies are no exception.
But just because you have a Husky, or you’re thinking of getting one, that doesn’t
mean your dog’s health will be in jeopardy. As the owner of one of these dogs,
you’ll need to be alert to the signs of problems.
Here are a few of these problems Huskies might deal with and some of the symptoms.
SKIN AILMENTS
Huskies are at a higher risk of developing an autoimmune disorder known as discoid
lupus erythematosus. This may cause a loss of pigment in the skin, particularly on the
nose.1
Another type of issue that affects the skin is hyperthyroidism. When the thyroid glands
don’t work properly, this can lead to thickening of the skin, causing fur to fall out.
Thyroid problems can also lead to skin infections, resulting in crusty or oozing skin.2
Thankfully, though, there are several ways a veterinarian can successfully address
these problems.
COMMON EYE PROBLEMS FACED BY HUSKIES
Those beautiful Husky eyes are, unfortunately, prone to developing problems that can
cause pain, discomfort and, in some instances, even worse issues. These are some of
the more common eye conditions Huskies will sometimes experience.
CATARACTS
Cataracts can affect dogs as well as humans. With cataracts, a dog’s eyes become
opaque or cloudy over time. Your vet may recommend surgery to remove cataracts and
keep your pet’s vision as sharp as possible.3
GLAUCOMA
This is another issue that can cause vision problems. The front of the eye may be bluer
than normal. Other signs include watery eyes and squinting. Glaucoma can rob a dog’s
vision if not addressed as soon as possible.4
PROGRESSIVE RETINAL ATROPHY
The retina converts light into signals and sends them to the brain. The brain then
processes and interprets that light. That’s how humans see, and how our dogs see.
Huskies will sometimes develop a condition known as progressive retinal atrophy, or
PRA. This is where the cells in the retina deteriorate, causing vision loss.
This is a genetic condition that affects many breeds, including Huskies. Dogs with PRA
will often be scared to go into a dark room, or bump into objects in dimly lit rooms.5
BLEEDING DISORDERS IN HUSKIES
Dogs will often develop blood clotting problems that make them bleed. Many of them
are mild, but some are severe – even life-threatening in some cases. If a Husky or any
other dog with this problem is cut, they could lose a dangerously high amount of blood.
A clotting disorder can sometimes result in blood in the urine. This condition is known as
hematuria.6
Your veterinarian can check for any clotting disorder before performing any
surgical procedure on your Husky. Precautions can be taken to reduce the
chances of complications if your dog tests positive.
Many breeds of dogs are also susceptible to high blood pressure. If a dog’s blood
pressure gets too high, it could be due to a serious health condition. Your vet will
determine the cause of the problem and determine the best way to address the
situation.
EPILEPSY
Anytime a dog has a seizure, it’s scary. Sometimes seizures happen due to an organ
problem. They sometimes occur because of an injury or cardiovascular issue. When
there is no known reason for seizures, that is known as epilepsy.
Huskies are prone to suffering seizures. They usually hit between the ages of six
months and three years. As scary as they may be, though, there are medications your
vet can prescribe to help keep them under control.7
DENTAL PROBLEMS
While just about every type of dog can have dental issues, Huskies are a little more
prone to them. One of the biggest culprits is tartar. Tartar buildup can cause dental
issues like inflamed, red gums.
It’s very important to get dental problems addressed. The reason is they can wind up
hurting your dog’s health. Dental issues can ultimately cause damage to vital organs
such as the kidneys, liver, and heart.8
Make sure you take your dog to the veterinarian for dental cleanings regularly. Brushing
your dog’s teeth can help keep them clean between visits.
LARYNGEAL PARALYSIS
As the name implies, laryngeal paralysis results in paralysis of the vocal cords. Older
dogs tend to be at the highest risk for this condition. A common symptom is breathing
that is noisier than normal. This could happen during humid weather or after exercising.
Laryngeal paralysis can typically be successfully addressed by your vet. If you notice
signs, take your dog to the veterinarian’s office as soon as you can.9
HIP DYSPLASIA
A lot of dog breeds including the German Shepherd, Husky, and others, are susceptible
to this condition. It’s mostly associated with larger dogs, but it can also affect a medium-
sized dog.
Hip dysplasia is serious because it will usually lead to joint problems. A dog may exhibit
lameness in their hind legs, or have trouble getting back up after resting. Overweight
dogs are especially vulnerable to this problem.10
Hip x-rays will often be used for dogs that are showing symptoms. If pet hip dysplasia is
diagnosed, your vet will take the steps necessary to make sure your dog stays as
comfortable as possible.
DIGESTIVE UPSETS
All dogs, whether they’re a puppy or an adult, may get an upset tummy at some point.
Huskies and other breeds may develop a disorder that affects their intestinal lining. This
lining can become too thick for the body to be able to fully absorb nutrients. Chronic
vomiting and diarrhea are common symptoms – they may flare up out of nowhere and
then subside.
If your vet suspects a digestive problem, they may recommend changes to your dog’s
diet. Medications may also be needed.11
MYELOPATHY
Myelopathy is degenerative, meaning it occurs over time. It’s a neurological condition
that weakens the hind legs and commonly affects Huskies. Diet and exercise may help
dogs with this condition. Your vet can recommend other ways to manage myelopathy.12
PARASITES
Ear mites, fleas, and worms can affect any dog, including Huskies. Parasites can get
into a dog’s body in many ways. Drinking unclean water, mosquito bites, and even
sniffing another dog’s poop are just some of them. 13
DON’T BE DISSUADED
Don’t be scared to bring a Husky puppy home, or to adopt an older dog of this breed.
You should just be be alert for any signs of problems.
Keep an eye out for anything odd, such as strange lumps and bumps on the skin, or
changes in your pup’s behavior. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, call your vet.
Whether you have a puppy or an adult Husky, a healthy diet and lots of exercise can
help ensure that your dog’s health is as good as it can be. Your vet can give you
whatever advice you need about potential Husky health problems.
-----------------------------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/poodle-temperament/
POODLE TEMPERAMENT AND BEHAVIOR – FACTS FOR PET PARENTS
If you’ve ever had a poodle, you know they’re one of the best companion dogs out
there. This breed of dog has a great sense of humor, loves their family, and loves to be
the center of attention. If you’re thinking of bringing a poodle into your family, it’s
important to find out all that you can about the poodle temperament. This way, you’ll
know what to expect.
POODLE HISTORY
You may think of France when the poodle comes to mind. After all, you’ve no doubt
heard the term “French Poodle.” However, many researchers believe poodles are
originally from Germany.
There is evidence, though, of poodles being pictured on coins in both ancient Rome and
Greece.1
Wherever they’re from, their human parents are no doubt glad they’re around.
NOT ONLY ARE THEY FANTASTIC FAMILY DOGS, BUT THEY’RE ALSO AMONG
THE SMARTEST WORKING DOG BREEDS.
Yes, despite its image, the poodle is considered to be a breed in the working dog
class.2
You’ll see a lot of different lists of “smartest dog breeds” on the internet. But poodles
tend to make most of them. Other smart working breeds include border collies, German
shepherds and the Bernese mountain dog.3
TYPES OF POODLES
There are three main types and sizes of poodles. There’s the standard poodle, as well
as toy and miniature poodles. A miniature poodle is often referred to as a mini poodle or
a teacup poodle because they are so small.
Standard Poodle – This is the breed most think of when French poodle comes to mind.
It is the largest poodle dog, standing up to 24 inches tall at the shoulder. Many standard
poodles are quite a bit larger.
Miniature Poodle – The miniature poodle is, as the name suggests, a bit smaller than
the standard. This breed stands between 10-15 inches tall.
Toy Poodle – The toy is the tiniest of the poodles, standing no more than 10 inches.
The toy was bred in the 1700s to be a lap dog.4
You might have also heard of a “doodle.” This is a poodle bred with another breed, such
as a Labrador retriever. Doodles are often referred to as “designer dogs.”5
POODLE TEMPERAMENT
From the time they’re a puppy, poodles are known as being very cheerful and loyal.
However, the type of household has a great deal of impact on the poodle personality. If
the home is happy, the poodle will usually be happy. But these are sensitive dogs. If
there’s a lot of yelling, they might act out.
Poodles need to be with their “pack,” or their family members. They need a great deal of
socialization, so they’re not suited to be outside dogs. This pet wants to be by his or her
family at all times.
When going through obedience training, positive reinforcement will be key. Keep a
happy attitude and have plenty of healthy treats handy to reward good behavior.
Socialization will be even more important to a poodle puppy. This breed of dog will be
affectionate to strangers and other dogs if socialized properly. If training poodles is not
done properly, however, separation anxiety could be a problem.6
PHYSICAL AND MENTAL EXERCISE IS KEY
All dogs need exercise, and the poodle is no exception. It’s important for the dog’s
health. Poodles need daily walks and playtime off of the leash. Get out in the backyard
as often as you can and play. The larger the poodle, the more activity they will need.
BUT MENTAL STIMULATION IS JUST AS IMPORTANT TO THIS INTELLIGENT

BREED OF DOG. A BORED POODLE COULD WIND UP BEING A DESTRUCTIVE
POODLE.
This could mean chewing up your shoes or even your furniture. Retrieval games will
keep your poodle occupied. In fact, the Standard poodle was bred to retrieve ducks.7
There are lots of ways to keep a poodle occupied. These dogs love obedience training
drills, agility drills, and retrieving. Your city probably has a poodle club with members
who can tell you about different obedience training activities for poodles available in
your area.
If you have a hard time getting out and about with your pet, keep your poodle engaged
with puzzle-type toys.8
POODLE HEALTH CONCERNS

All dog breeds are prone to certain types of health issues, poodles included. These are
a few of the health problems that Poodles tend to develop.
SEBACEOUS ADENITIS
This condition affects the skin, but it doesn’t come from a bacterium or some other
outside source. It’s actually hereditary. It occurs when the skin becomes inflamed,
leading to hair loss. Sebaceous adenitis can strike a dog at any age, from the puppy
stage to well into adulthood. Other symptoms include skin lesions, dandruff, and an odd
odor.9
HIP DYSPLASIA
Hip dysplasia is common among the poodle, cocker spaniel and several other different
breeds of dogs. It’s also hereditary, caused by a malformation of the head of the femur.
As a result, the femur doesn’t align with the hip socket. Exercise and diet can help a dog
with this condition lead an active life.10
PROGRESSIVE RETINAL ATROPHY
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) damages the eyes. It leads to worsened vision over
time and possibly blindness. A dog with PRA will usually have trouble getting around at
night at first. As time goes on, the dog’s daytime vision will also begin to suffer.11
WILL A POODLE SUIT YOUR LIFESTYLE?
If your dog gets the right type of poodle training, they’ll be a great pet. But this people-
pleasing breed not only needs a lot of mental stimulation, but plenty of companionship.
You don’t want to board a poodle in a kennel too often, no matter how safe and clean
that kennel may be. If you can find an alternative to a boarding kennel, that’s ideal.
Also, miniature and toy poodles can be fragile. If you have a home with young children,
extremely small dogs may not be the best idea because they could be easily hurt.
IN ADDITION, A POODLE’S HAIR NEEDS A LOT OF ATTENTION. YOU’LL NEED

TO COMMIT TO BRUSHING YOUR PET’S HAIR ON A REGULAR BASIS TO
REDUCE SHEDDING.
If you’re thinking of getting a poodle, talk to a veterinarian first. Your vet should be able
to recommend the type of poodle that will be best for you and your family members.
Your vet will also be able to direct you to a reputable breeder or rescue organization.
-----------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/dog-vomiting-diarrhea/
DOG VOMITING AND DIARRHEA – WHAT EVERY PET PARENT MUST KNOW
Vomiting in dogs is bad enough. But when vomiting and diarrhea happen at the same
time, pet parents can be understandably alarmed. There are several reasons this
happens. Some causes are more serious and severe than others. If you’re concerned
about your pet’s health, please make sure to visit your veterinarian immediately.
Let’s take a look at what causes dog vomiting and diarrhea to happen, and whether or
not it’s a threat to your dog’s health.
WHAT CAUSES CHRONIC VOMITING AND DIARRHEA IN DOGS?
If your dog has sudden or acute vomiting accompanied by diarrhea, it could be for one
of many reasons.
CHRONIC GASTRITIS
This is caused by stomach irritation. It can lead to intermittent vomiting and diarrhea.
Many different things could irritate the lining of your dog’s stomach, including foreign
bodies. If a dog eats something they shouldn’t, it can cause stomach and intestinal
issues.
Other causes include illnesses or chemicals. In some cases, a dog will get into
something like a household cleaner that can lead to vomiting and loose stools. The dog
might also start vomiting blood.
You can call an animal poison control center if you suspect your pet has ingested
something harmful. And of course, get your pet to your veterinarian.
SYMPTOMS OF GASTRITIS INCLUDE VOMITING AND DIARRHEA, BLACK BOWEL

MOVEMENTS, AND BILIOUS VOMITING.
This means the vomiting of bile. Vomiting will typically increase the more that the
stomach and intestines are inflamed.1
CANINE DISTEMPER
Canine distemper is a severe contagious disease caused by a viral infection. This virus
often attacks the gastrointestinal system as well as the nervous and respiratory
systems. A dog or puppy can contract the virus when near an infected animal who
coughs or sneezes.
But that’s not the only way canine distemper can spread. A dog can also get the virus
by sharing food or water bowls with an infected animal. A mother dog can even pass it
to her puppies.
In addition to vomiting, an infected dog may have other symptoms, including:
● Loss of appetite
● Diarrhea
● Facial convulsions
● Fever
● Nasal discharge
● Coughing
● Lethargy
● Hardening of paw pads2
And again, if you notice your pet experiencing these symptoms, consult with your vet
immediately.
CANINE GASTROENTERITIS
There are many different reasons why a dog will come down with gastroenteritis. It
happens when the gastrointestinal system becomes irritated. This could be due to
bacteria or a parasite.
Diarrhea and vomiting are two of the more common symptoms of canine gastroenteritis.
In some cases, your dog may throw up a yellowish fluid if the stomach is empty. This is
because the dog is vomiting bile.
Affected dogs may also have loose stools several times a day and resist being handled
around the hind legs or stomach because the area is so tender.
Other canine gastroenteritis symptoms may include:
● Low-grade fever
● Lethargy
● A decreased appetite3
GASTRIC DILATATION AND VOLVULUS

Also known as bloat, this is a severe health problem that, unfortunately, can be life-
threatening. It occurs when the stomach dilates due to a mixture of food and gas. When
this happens, the dog can’t pass gas.
This can lead to a loss of blood flow to the stomach. In addition, blood can’t get from the
abdomen to the heart.
A DOG WITH THIS PROBLEM MAY TRY TO VOMIT BUT NOTHING COMES OUT.
DROOLING AND EXCESSIVE PANTING MAY ALSO OCCUR. IN SOME CASES, A
PET MAY BECOME SO WEAK THAT THEY COLLAPSE.4
Now, bloat doesn’t usually result in simultaneous vomiting and diarrhea. It’s included on
this list because it’s an extreme emergency requiring immediate veterinary care. The
faster that care is provided, the better the chances that a dog with bloat can survive.
WHY DOES MY DOG HAVE BLOODY DIARRHEA?
There are some cases where a seemingly healthy dog will suddenly experience
vomiting and bloody diarrhea. This is a condition known as hemorrhagic gastroenteritis,
or HGE. Other symptoms of this disturbing health issue include loss of appetite, fever,
and lethargy.
It’s not clear why HGE occurs, but there are several potential causes, including:
● Stomach ulcers
● Intestinal ulcers
● Viral infection
● Parasites or Bacteria
● HGE can affect any type of dog, however small dogs seem to be most
vulnerable.5
KEEP YOUR COOL

It can be frightening to see your beloved pet going through something as disturbing as
vomiting and diarrhea at the same time. But just because it’s happening, doesn’t mean
you need to fear the worst.
It could be an intestinal problem caused by bacteria, one that can be cleared up through
the administration of antibiotics. Your vet will determine what has caused the problem
and determine the best course of action. Once that happens, there is a very good
chance that your beloved pet will once again be happy and healthy.
------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/long-take-potty-train-puppy/
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO POTTY TRAIN A PUPPY?
by Dr. Marty Pets Team | Aug 8, 2019 | 0 comments
If you’re a new pet parent and you’re working on training your pup, you probably have
one big question: just how long does it take to potty train a puppy? If you’ve been knee-
deep in the world of potty training for a few weeks now, you may be starting to feel just
a little bit desperate.
THE GOOD NEWS IS, IT GETS BETTER. POTTY TRAINING IS TYPICALLY THE
FIRST (AND MOST CHALLENGING) THING YOU DO AS A NEW PET PARENT. FOR
THAT REASON, IT CAN BE HARD NOT TO SECOND GUESS YOURSELF.
And the not-so-good news is… it takes time. The truth is that the process can take
several weeks and up to several months or longer. The exact length of time depends on
your specific situation, technique, and dog. 1 So be patient, but don’t lose faith.
One of the biggest factors in the length of time it takes to potty train a dog is you. The
more you focus on being present and consistent, and letting your pup out (seemingly
100 times a day) whenever they may have to go, the quicker your dog will “get it.”
Follow these potty training tips to make that happen sooner.
FIRST, UNDERSTAND POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT TRAINING
Positive reinforcement is an effective and humane way to train your dog. It’s especially
effective for puppy potty training.
HERE’S HOW IT WORKS:
1. You show your dog the behavior you want.
2. Your dog does that behavior.
3. You mark the specific behavior by saying “good dog!”, “yes!” or using a clicker.
4. You reward them immediately with an affectionate pet, treat, or praise.
5. Your dog learns which behaviors get rewarded and starts offering those
behaviors more often.2
When you train your puppy, it’s up to you to show them exactly what good behavior
looks like. With potty training, this means that you want to show them again and again
that the bathroom is outside. Once they make that connection, they will start asking to
go outside to potty.
WHEN SHOULD YOU BEGIN POTTY TRAINING YOUR PUPPY?
If possible, try to take some time off of work when you pick up your new puppy. You
want to start potty training – or at least start introducing the concept – on day one. The
more present you can be, the faster they will learn.
While puppies don’t have full control over their bladders until 16-20 weeks, you want to
start showing them where to go as soon as they come home with you. 3 The earlier a
puppy starts to learn where they should go to the potty, the less likely they are to
develop bad habits.
IF YOU’VE ADOPTED AN ADULT DOG WHO WAS NEVER POTTY TRAINED, YOU
CAN ALSO START THE PROCESS AS SOON AS YOU BRING THEM HOME. IT’S
NEVER TOO LATE TO TRAIN A DOG.
For both young puppies and older dogs, you want to be realistic about how long they
can hold their bladders.4
Start the process gently, helping them get used to the crate if you plan to use one. Don’t
force your puppy into a crate on day one – or ever for that matter. Take the time to
introduce the crate slowly, and let your dog form positive associations with it before you
use it.
You want your puppy to feel at home and comfortable with you. So while you should
start “training” by gently showing them where to go and rewarding them when they do,
refrain from any punishment or scolding– especially in the first couple of weeks. 5
HOW TO POTTY TRAIN YOUR DOG
The actual process of potty training a puppy is simple – but it’s not necessarily easy.
Accidents are part of the process. They will happen. Success relies on setting a
predictable schedule, limiting your puppy’s freedom in your house, and staying
consistent.
1. CREATE YOUR DOG POTTY TRAINING SCHEDULE
Puppies thrive on regular schedules. A regular potty training schedule will teach them
that there are specific times to eat, play, sleep, and do their business. The faster they
learn this and get into a groove, the faster they will become potty trained.
● Take your puppy out as soon as they wake up.
● Feed your puppy at the same time every day.
● Pick up their food bowl after 15 minutes.
● Take your puppy out after every meal, drink of water, and playtime.
● Allow access to fresh water throughout the day, and pick up the water bowl 2
hours before bedtime.
● If you’re using one, have your pup wind down and sleep in the crate at night.
● If your pup wakes up in the middle of the night, take them directly to their potty
spot and then back to the crate.6
2. TAKE YOUR PUPPY OUT FREQUENTLY

When in doubt, take your puppy out. Your puppy does not have strong bladder control
at this age. They can’t physically hold it. If they are not given enough bathroom breaks,
they will have an accident.
THE GENERAL RULE IS THAT THEY CAN HOLD IT FOR ONE HOUR FOR EVERY
MONTH OF AGE.
So if your puppy is 2 months old, they need to go out at least every 2 hours. Once your
puppy reaches about 6 months of age, they will be able to hold it for most of the day. 7
Some puppies can hold it through the night if they are sleeping. Many will have to go out
once or twice in the night.
WHEN DOES YOUR PUPPY NEED TO GO OUT?
It’s a great idea to start a log and record every time your pet pees, poops, eats, drinks,
and sleeps. It may feel like overkill, but having this information will help you see patterns
that can help you. Being able to predict when your pup has to potty will speed up the
potty training process..
As a general rule, take your puppy outside directly after any of these activities:
● Waking up in the morning
● Eating
● Drinking
● A play session
● A training session
● Waking up from a nap
● Excitement about anything (a visitor, a new toy, a bone)
● Being in the crate8
As you get more experience with dog potty training, you’ll also start to recognize some
of the signs that your puppy needs to go to the bathroom.
IF YOU SEE ANY OF THESE SIGNS, TAKE YOUR PUP OUT IMMEDIATELY:
● Sniffing the ground
● Circling
Deliberately walking away with no other clear purpose
● Whimpering or whining
● Pawing at the door (this happens later, once they have learned to potty outside) 9
PICK A DESIGNATED POTTY SPOT

To make potty training go faster, you’ll want to pick a potty spot where your pup will
always go to the bathroom. Pick a convenient spot.
When it’s time to take your pup out:
● Put them on a leash, and take them directly to the potty spot.
● While you’re waiting, don’t make eye contact or play with them. You want this to
be a “business only” trip.
● When your puppy is going to the bathroom, say a cue like “go potty” or “time to
pee.”
● Once they go, you can reward them with some playtime. 10
Make sure you go to the potty spot with your dog rather than simply letting them
outside. If your pup runs free, uses the bathroom wherever they want, and then gets a
treat sometime later, it will take them longer to understand which behavior is being
rewarded. This can slow down the process.
REWARD THEM FOR A JOB WELL DONE

Once your pet goes to the bathroom, mark the behavior with an enthusiastic “yes!” or
“good dog!” and give them a reward. Some dogs love treats, while others prefer
affection or playtime. Pick the reward that is most motivating for your dog. You could
even do all three. You really want to show your dog how happy you are, so don’t hold
back.
ALWAYS SUPERVISE YOUR PUPPY INDOORS
To avoid bad habits, you want to prevent accidents from ever happening in the first
place. The best way to avoid accidents is to always keep an eye on your puppy. That
means your puppy is on a leash or you have eyes directly on them. This allows you to
act immediately if you see signs that they need to go.
IF YOU CAN’T SUPERVISE, CONFINE THEM IN A CRATE
For many, it’s just not realistic to always monitor your puppy. You may have other
obligations, like going to work. This is where a dog crate comes in. Dog crates are a
popular training tool that can help speed up the process.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF CRATE TRAINING A PUPPY?
● A crate will give your pup a safe, den-like space where they can relax.
● Dogs are naturally clean animals – few pups will soil their “den” or sleeping area
if they can help it.

● Because they will not go in their den, you can easily predict when they will have
to go.11
HOW CRATE TRAINING WORKS
● Pick a crate that is small enough to feel like a den and large enough for your pup
to comfortably turn around in.
● Make positive associations with the crate by feeding them and giving them
special treats only when they are in there (this is an important part of the process
and should not be skipped).
● When you can’t directly supervise your pup, keep them in the crate.
● Only keep your dog in the crate for a few hours at a time. You may have to rely
on friends or experienced dog walkers to let them out throughout the day.
● When you let your dog out of the crate, take them directly to the potty spot.
● If your pup doesn’t go potty immediately, put them back in the crate and try again
in 10 minutes.
● When you know they have gone potty outside, they can have freedom from the
crate – under your direct supervision.12
Many dog trainers swear by the crate as a potty training method. Used correctly, crate
training can help the potty training process move quickly.
POTTY TRAINING WITHOUT A CRATE
Some people don’t want to – or can’t – crate train their dog for whatever reason. The
crate takes some getting used to for all puppies. But if your dog continues to have
severe anxiety around the crate after a few weeks, you may want to train without it. 13
Here are some crate-free training methods:
● Tethering a.k.a. “umbilical cord training”: Physically tie your pup’s leash around
your waist so they are always nearby. This way, you’ll never miss a potty sign,
and you can spring into action.14

● Creating a Puppy Zone: Create an enclosed area with an exercise pen, or
designate a bathroom to be a “puppy zone.” Keep your puppy in this area when
you can’t directly supervise. This area should be lined with newspapers and
contain toys, water, and a potty pad.15
HOW DO PUPPY PEE PADS AND POTTY PADS WORK?

Having your dog go to the bathroom outside is ideal, but potty pad training can
sometimes work too. Potty pads (also called pee pads or puppy pads) are layers of
absorbent material with plastic on the underside. They are meant to soak up a dog’s
pee and poop.
Using puppy pads can be useful for people who:
● Are elderly
● Have mobility issues
● Live in high rise apartments
● Can’t let their dog outside during the day or can’t find someone who can help 16
PAPER TRAINING WITH PEE PADS USES THE SAME TECHNIQUE OF TIMING,
CREATING A CONSISTENT SCHEDULE, AND STAYING DILIGENT.
When it’s time to take your pup to their potty spot, take them to a pee pad. You can also
set up a litter box with potty training pads and ask them to do their business there.
After your dog has learned to go to the bathroom on pee pads, you will need to start
moving them closer and closer to the door and re-train them to go outside.
DO’S AND DON’TS OF POTTY PADS

DO:
● Restrict your puppy’s access to the entire house if you are leaving them alone.
● Set up an exercise pen, or a designated bathroom, where they can do their
business.
● If they have an accident, clean it up with a paper towel and place this on the pee
pad so it will smell like their pee.

● When you’re home, take them to the pee pad on a leash and reinforce good
behavior.
● Celebrate every time they go on the potty pad – you want to make it clear that
this is the place to go.
DON’T:
● Expect them to automatically know how to use the pee pads without any training.
You’ll have to take them to the designated area and reward them when they go.
● Line your entire floor with pee pads. Just use one or two to start.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE AN ACCIDENT

When you potty train your puppy, accidents are inevitable. Perhaps your timing was off,
or your puppy just couldn’t hold it any longer. If you have a mistake, here’s what to do:
IF YOU CATCH YOUR PUP IN THE ACT…
● Run over, clap or say a word of interruption, and pick your dog up.
● Carry your dog out directly to the potty spot.
● Never yell or physically hit your dog. Dogs who are scared of their owners won’t
learn faster. In fact, they may start doing their business where you can’t see them
(like underneath a bed or behind a couch). 17
IF YOU CATCH YOUR PUP AFTER THE FACT…
● Oops! Clean it up, and tell yourself that you’ll do a better job of watching your dog
next time.
● Do not rub your dog’s nose in it, hit your dog, or scream. Your dog won’t
understand what you are reacting to, and they may start to fear you.
In both cases….
● Thoroughly clean up the mess with an enzyme cleaner that removes the smell to
prevent your dog from returning to that spot.
● Make sure you are restricting your pup’s freedom until they have earned it.
● Make sure you aren’t asking your dog to hold it for too long. 18
WHY MISTAKES SET YOU BACK

While it’s not the end of the world, you want to limit mistakes from ever happening in the
first place. Dogs can easily develop bad habits if they are allowed to get away with
something. In addition, soiling inside the house can act as a form of “marking” that a
puppy will return to again and again. 19
HOW LONG WILL THIS TAKE?
Aha… the golden question: how long will potty training take? As stated above, it
depends. The toilet training process can take anywhere from several weeks to several
months. Here are some factors that can determine the length of potty training time.
REASONS WHY IT COULD TAKE LONGER
● Certain medical issues could extend potty training time. 20
● Puppies who live in unsanitary environments early on in life (like puppy mills)
may not hold back from soiling their crate. If this is the case, a crate shouldn’t be
used.
● Some small dog breeds may take longer to potty train. 21
● Dogs who have anxiety may not do well with crates, which can lengthen potty
training time.
● Older dogs who are in the habit of going inside may take longer to train.
THINGS THAT CAN SHORTEN THE PROCESS
● Constant supervision
● The use of a crate when you can’t supervise
● Being diligent
● A strict, reliable schedule
● Getting everyone in the family on board 22
YOU GOT THIS

If you stay on top of your potty training, you will get there. If you can’t be home during
the day, many people find it helpful to ask friends, family members, or professional dog
sitters to help out. Sometimes, it takes a village to potty train a puppy.
-----------------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/diy-dog-crate/
DIY DOG CRATES: HOW TO MAKE A COZY CUSTOM DOG BED
A DIY dog crate is a great idea. Whether you’re looking for a home project or you just
want to save a little money, it can be a fun and creative activity.
If you’re creative and know how to use certain tools (like a kreg jig and electric circular
saw), you can build a custom dog crate your pet will love.
Here are some tips on preparing to build a cozy pet crate, as well as some easy
instructions on putting one together.
DIY DOG KENNELS AND CRATES: PLANNING, PREPARATION, STEPS, TIPS,
AND TRICKS
The key to any successful project, whether it’s building a wooden dog crate, a dog bed,
or anything else, is good planning. You’ll need to do a bit of prep before diving into the
building of the crate.
First of all, determine how big the pet crate should be. Of course, this depends on the
size of your puppy or adult dog. Your pet will need enough room to be able to easily turn
around in, sleep, and eat food comfortably. Let’s say your dog is three feet long from
nose to tail. In this case, the crate would need to be four feet long, about 3.5 feet wide,
and two feet high.
Next, you’ll want to determine what kind of material you want to use. Some pet owners
like to use wood while others prefer a steel chain mesh. You’ll want some portability so
you can move the crate around your home. So make sure the material you choose isn’t
too heavy. 1
OTHER IMPORTANT FACTORS TO CONSIDER: VENTILATION, PORTABILITY,
STORAGE, AND AESTHETICS
Now, you’ll want to make sure that the crate offers sufficient ventilation for your
companion. It should also be easy to store. And don’t forget how it looks – the aesthetic
quality of the crate will be important as well if you plan on keeping it inside for an
extended period of time.
MAKE YOUR OWN DIY DOG CRATE: EASY CUSTOM DOG KENNELS YOU CAN
BUILD AT HOME
Here’s a quick look at how to build a crate for a medium-size dog. When it’s done, it will
be 36 inches long, 24 inches wide, and 27 inches high. The first thing to do will be to
gather all the materials from your local hardware store, as well as the tools you’ll need.
These include the following:
Materials:
● 8-foot long 1X3 boards (5)
● 8-foot long 1X2 boards (4)
● One ¼ inch plywood sheet (24 in. X 36 in.)
● One ¾ inch sheet of plywood (24 in. X 36 in.)
● One latch
● One set of hinges
● Pocket hole screws (1 ¼ in.)
● ¾ in. brad nails
● Wood glue
● Wood filler
● Sandpaper (120 grit)
● Primer
● Paint and paintbrush
● Wood conditioner
Tools:
● Brad nailer
● Circular saw
● Drill
● Drill bits
● Ear protection
● Kreg jig
● Pencils
● Safety glasses
● Sander
● Square
● Tape measure
WHERE TO BEGIN WITH YOUR DIY DOG CRATE

The first step will be to cut down the wood(using the circular saw) into the pieces you
will use to build the crate.
Here’s what you’ll need.
Rails – Cut the 1X2 boards into 21 pieces (6 inches each)
Sideboards – Cut the 1X3 boards into 6 pieces (30 ½ inches each)
Side legs – Cut the 1X2 boards into 4 pieces (26 ¼ inches each)
End legs – Cut the 1X3 boards into 4 pieces (26 ¼ inches each)
Sides of crate – Cut the ¼ inch plywood sheet into a piece measuring 17 ¾ inches by
33 ½ inches
Door frame and backboards – Cut the 1X3 boards into 5 pieces (18 inches each)
Door (top and bottom) – Cut the 1X3 boards into 2 pieces (17 ½ inches each)
Door sides – Cut the 1X2 boards into 2 pieces (15 ¾ inches each)
Door rails – Cut the 1X2 boards into 3 pieces (15 ¾ inches each)
ONCE YOUR PIECES ARE CUT…
The next thing to do will be to drill all of the pocket holes using the Kreg Jig. You could
fill each hole with a dowel, but screws will
work better for this particular project.
Building the side rails – Fasten eight of the 6-inch slat pieces into one of the 30 ½-
inch pieces using wood glue and pocket hole screws. Then take another of the 30 ½-
inch pieces and attach to the top of the 6-inch pieces. Do this twice.
Build the sides of the crate – Take one of the rails you just built and attach one side to
one of the 26 ¼-inch pieces you cut earlier for the sideboards. Do the same thing to the
other end of the rail.
Take another of the 30 ½-inch pieces and attach to the bottom of the 26 ¼-inch pieces.
Take the 17 ¾-inch by 33 ½-inch piece of plywood and attach to the area just below the
rails using brad nails and wood glue. Do this twice.
Build the ends of the crate – Attach two of the 18-inch 1X3 boards to five of the 6-inch
pieces of 1X2 boards using wood glue and pocket hole screws. Then attach one end of
this piece to one of the 26 ¼-inch pieces of 1X3 board. Do the same to the other end.
Take another of the 18-inch 1X3 boards and attach each end to the 26 ¼-inch pieces.
This will serve as the bottom of the end piece. Take the 17 ¾-inch by 33 ½-inch piece of
plywood and attach to the area just below the rails using brad nails and wood glue. Do
this twice.
Build the inside portion of the door – Take one of the boards for the top of the door
and attach it to the pieces you cut for the door rails. Do the same for the board you cut
for the bottom of the door. Attach using wood glue and pocket hole screws.
Build the door frame – Attach two of the 18-inch 1X3 boards to two of the 26 ¼-inch
pieces of 1X3 boards using wood glue and pocket hole screws.
Attach the inside portion of the door to the door frame – Place the inside portion of
the door inside the frame. It should fit flush, with no gaps. Add the hinges and latch.
Assemble the crate
So you should now have all four walls of the crate built. All you have to do is put them
together. You won’t need any gaskets to do this. You can fit them together simply using
wood glue and pocket screws, or you can use corner brackets for portability. That way,
once the walls are attached you can lay the crate flat if needed for storage purposes.
Sand the assembled crate to create a smooth surface and then paint.
Add the top cover – Attach the 24X36 piece of plywood to the top using pocket
screws. 2
You probably don’t need a bottom piece if your dog is housebroken. If you like, put
down a piece of Perspex. This is a piece of material similar to Plexiglas that is resistant
to shattering.
This wooden dog crate should be large enough to include a foam dog bed so your pup
can sleep comfortably, as well as a food bowl.
If you’re creative, you could add your own special touches to make your crate look nice.
You can add crossbars, mesh or just leave it as is. You can also paint the wooden crate
to match the decor of your home or even spell out your pup’s name on the front.
---------------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/use-clicker-train-dog/
HOW TO USE A CLICKER TO TRAIN A DOG
When it comes to animal training, there are lots of different methods. Clicker training
can be a helpful and effective method for teaching commands and tricks.
Wondering how to use a clicker to train a dog? It can be fun and easy. Clicker
training is a form of positive reinforcement that rewards your dog for their
actions. If you’re thinking about training your dog with a clicker, here are some
helpful tips.
TRAIN YOUR PET WITH SOUND: USING A CLICKER FOR DOG TRAINING
In a nutshell, the success of clicker training hinges on your dog’s association with the
sound of the clicker and getting a reward. When your dog hears the clicker, they come
to expect a reward. Because of this, they might be more willing to follow your
commands.
As with all forms of dog training, there are pros and cons to clicker training. Some dogs
might not take to it right away, or they might not be motivated by food or treats as much
as other pups. That said, this kind of training has been tried and tested and found to
work well. In fact, it’s so successful that marine mammal trainers and other animal
trainers often use it.1
STARTING CLICKER TRAINING
You’re going to want to start with a couple of clicker training basics. By
associating the sound of the clicker with a reward, such as small treats of food,
your dog will be more willing to learn and be obedient.
Keep a treat pouch full of tasty treats for your dog. When you click your clicker, give
your dog the food right after. Repeat this until your dog beings to associate the noise
with a reward.2
PUTTING THE CLICKER TO THE TEST
Once your dog associates the clicker with a reward, you can start trying out tricks that
your dog already knows. For example, practice the ‘sit’ command. Press on the clicker
as soon as your dog’s behind touches the ground. Follow the click up with a treat, pet,
or praise. By doing this, you reinforce good behavior and obedience.
Clicker training can be a simple, effective way to teach your dog or puppy good
behavior versus bad behavior.3
CLICKER TRAINING DOGS FOR BEGINNERS: IT’S ALL ABOUT POSITIVE
REINFORCEMENT
Clicker training a dog means you don’t need to use dog trainers. That said, it may not
always go smoothly at first. Don’t get discouraged. Look at the training as a learning
experience for both you and your animal counterpart.
Whether you’re trying to train your German shepherd or your Chihuahua, if you feel like
you need more help, consider watching a clicker training video. All breeds of dogs can
use the mental stimulation. Stick with it: you’ll soon find that your furry friend is listening
to your commands when you tell them to “sit” and hit the clicker.
Positive reinforcement truly is everything when it comes to clicker training. Your
pet will be more willing to respond with obedience when food or affectionate pets
are involved. Make sure your pup is rewarded as soon as the clicker button
makes its noise.4
INTEGRATING THE CLICKER BUTTON WITH OTHER VERBAL AND NONVERBAL
CUES
Clicker training can do much more than just teach your dog basic commands. Though
these are typically the focus of clicker training, the
clicker button can be used with both verbal and nonverbal cues.
● Use your clicker as an attention-grabber: Click the button and see if your dog
reacts to it. If you have been training them consistently, they’ll likely look in your
direction or even come towards you. Then, you can click and make sure you
have their undivided attention before getting to training.
● Use your clicker as a step-by-step tutorial for a behavior/trick: Click the
button to get your pup to successfully complete every small step of a behavior
you’re after (such as “sit, stay, and rollover”). As you click, speak each
command.5
The clicker can work with both verbal and nonverbal cues, making it an efficient tool for
any type of training. Depending on your training style and relationship with your dog,
you can experiment with different cues.
CLICKER TRAINING PUPPIES VS OLDER DOGS: CAN AN OLD DOG LEARN NEW
TRICKS?
It’s typically easier to clicker train a puppy compared to an older dog simply because the
older dog may not be as mentally or physically stimulated. Let’s take a closer look at
puppy training and training for older dogs.
CLICKER TRAINING PUPPIES
Since puppies are coming into the world with no knowledge or training, they are
often the most receptive to clicker training. This is a good time to teach them how
to walk on a leash, where and when to use the bathroom, and easy commands
like “sit” or “lay down.”
Keep your puppy motivated with plenty of treats, physical affection, and praise. Don’t
forget that the clicker should always be followed by some type of reward to keep your
puppy interested.6
CLICKER TRAINING OLDER DOGS
Since older dogs may not be as mentally or physically stimulated as their puppy
counterparts, they may have a harder time adjusting to clicker training. This can
be especially true if they grew up with a different training method. Still, it is
possible to use the clicker to teach older dogs.
And don’t forget to praise your older dog. Clicker training is all about being rewarded, so
you don’t want to forget the treats or affection. Just because they’re older doesn’t mean
they can’t learn new tricks.7
IS CLICKER TRAINING THE RIGHT METHOD FOR ME AND MY DOG?
If you’re still on the fence about training your dog (or other animals) with clicker training,
consider the potential benefits. By using clicker training, you’re conditioning your dog to
associate the clicker with positive behavior. This kind of training may even help your
pup learn new tricks, like putting a toy away in their toy box.
If you need help clicker training your pup, try watching instructional youtube videos or
asking a dog trainer for help.
The bottom line is this: clicker training can be beneficial for both you and your dog. Isn’t
it worth trying?
-------------------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/white-dog-poop/
WHAT DOES WHITE DOG POOP TELL ABOUT YOUR PET’S HEALTH?
White dog poop – is it harmless or should it cause alarm? Regularly keeping tabs on
your dog’s feces – as weird as that sounds, is a great way to get a read on your dog’s
health. Different colors, textures, and smells can all mean different things. So keep
paying attention.
If you randomly see white dog poop once, and then never again, you may not have
much to worry about. But you’ll still want to keep an eye out while you’re poop scooping.
If you’ve started seeing white dog feces regularly, you may be wondering what’s going
on. In all cases, if you’re worried about it, call your veterinarian.
WHY IS MY DOG PASSING WHITE STOOL?
If you’ve recently spotted white dog poop, chances are that it came out of a dog’s body
at least a few hours earlier. Sometimes poop will lighten and turn to white when it dries
out in the sun. If you spot a new white poop, calcium is a likely culprit. 1
1. CALCIUM IN THE DIET
The most common cause of white dog poop is a high level of calcium in the diet. If
you’re feeding your dog a raw food diet that contains calcium-rich bones, this may be
the cause of the chalky white stool color. Minerals from undigested food can also cause
the white color.2
Raw food diets are great for bone, joint, and coat health. As long as your dog is on a
balanced raw food diet, changes in color are nothing to worry about. 3If your dog is
getting too much calcium, however, this may be an issue. 4
HOW MUCH CALCIUM IS TOO MUCH CALCIUM?
Too much calcium in a dog’s diet may lead to constipation. Beyond white dog poop,
here are some symptoms to watch out for:
● Infrequent defecation
● Straining while pooping
● Hard, dry stools that feel like pebbles when you pick them up 5
If you believe that your dog is suffering from constipation, call your vet. If left untreated,
fecal matter can back up in the intestines or GI tract and cause problems. 6
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO ABOUT THIS?
If you believe your pup may be suffering from constipation, take a look at your dog’s
diet. If your dog is on a raw food diet that you are preparing yourself, you may be
including too many calcium-rich bones.
Consider switching to high quality, freeze-dried raw diet that has a balance of vitamins
and minerals.
Always make sure your dog is getting plenty of water and exercise. 7 If this is an ongoing
issue, call your veterinarian.
2. THEY ATE SOMETHING THEY SHOULDN’T HAVE
Another potential explanation for a white dog stool is that Fido simply ate something he
shouldn’t have. If your pup has a penchant for garbage, their white poop may be caused
by paper towels, toilet paper, or tissues.
If you suspect this could be the cause, do your best to keep your dog away from the
trash. If this is an ongoing problem, you may want to consult a positive reinforcement
trainer. Garbage eating can be a dangerous hobby. If you’re not sure WHAT trash your
pup ate, it might be worth calling the vet.
3. THERE MAY BE WORMS IN THE STOOL

If the stool you’ve spotted looks like it has white specks, you may be looking at worms
or intestinal parasites. This can be caused by a dog eating other dogs’ poop or coming
into contact with infected food or water. Worms, such as tapeworms or roundworms, will
look like short white segments in the stool. When dry, they will look like small white
specks.8
If you think you see worms or parasites in dog waste, call your veterinarian immediately.
They will examine your pet, potentially request a stool sample, and suggest treatment
options.
WHAT ARE THE INDICATORS OF HEALTHY DOG POOP?
Now that you’re committed to regularly checking out your pup’s stool and bowel
movements, it’s helpful to review what healthy poop looks like. Here’s what to look for in
normal dog poop:
COLOR:
While the exact shade of dog poop color will vary according to your dog’s diet, in
general, healthy dog poop should be medium brown. Bile in the gastrointestinal tract is
what gives your dog’s stool this brown color.9
Anything that varies drastically from this, such as black dog poop, grey dog poop, yellow
dog poop, or white dog poo may be a sign of a bile-related or another health issue. Call
your veterinarian. They may examine your pup for intestinal tract issues, bile issues, or
other health issues.10
COATING:
If your dog’s poop has a coating of any sort, such as mucus, fatty substances, or blood,
call your vet. This could be a sign of a health issue, like exocrine pancreatic
insufficiency.11
CONSISTENCY:
The feel of fresh dog poop should be soft and slightly pliable. Watery stool, loose stool,
or poop that is hard-as-a-rock may be a sign of a health issue in the small intestine or
digestive tract. Call your veterinarian.12
CONTENT:
Healthy dog poop should be free of foreign objects, roundworms, or parasites. If you
notice anything unusual, call your vet.
HOW CAN DOG FOOD HELP IN MAINTAINING REGULAR BOWEL MOVEMENTS?
Your dog’s diet plays a huge role in their digestive health. If you’ve noticed something
like white dog poop, yellow poop, or black poop – or you just want to make sure you’re
doing everything you can to promote good health, take a close look at the diet you’re
feeding Fido.
Poor quality dog foods can contain contaminants and fillers that can cause:
● Obesity
● Diarrhea
● Digestive issues13
By contrast, high-quality dog food can give benefits to the digestive system and beyond.
THE BENEFITS OF A HIGH QUALITY, RAW DOG FOOD
Many experts extoll the benefits of feeding your pup a raw, all-natural diet. 14 Freeze-
dried raw foods combine the convenience of kibble with the benefits you get from a raw
food diet.
High-quality, balanced dog food may help:
● Make poops smaller and more regular

● Strengthen your dog’s immunity
● Promote skin and coat health
● Ensure your dog builds and maintains strong muscles and bones 15
WHAT SHOULD YOU LOOK FOR IN A DOG FOOD?

Quality, whole ingredients. When you pick your dog’s food, look for one that contains
whole foods like salmon, spinach, and pumpkin.
A whole protein as the first ingredient. Your dog should get most of their calories from a
real, whole protein. This will not be hard if you opt to feed your dog a healthy raw food
diet. Don’t forget to look at the other ingredients too. 16
BETTER FOOD FOR BETTER POOPS
How concerned should you be about white dog poop? It depends. If you’re feeding your
dog a raw food diet that you’re creating yourself, you may be going too heavy on the
bones. This is mostly an issue if your pup is also showing signs of constipation. Opt for
a more balanced diet. Freeze-dried raw diets may be a good option for you.
If you suspect your pup has a worm or parasite, call your vet right away. If your pup is
likely going through the trash, well, you know what to do about that.
----------------------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/new-puppy-things-avoid/
JUST PUPPY THINGS: WHAT TO AVOID WITH YOUR YOUNG POOCH
When you bring a baby furry friend into your home, they’ll depend on you for everything
right away. You’ll need all sorts of puppy things, like puppy supplies, a dog bed, a dog
crate, and food ready to go. Your pup will also need plenty of attention, socialization,
proper veterinary care, and gentle training from the very start.
If you’re a first-time dog owner, this can all be a little intimidating. Supplies are
straightforward enough, but how do you remember all of the things you’re supposed to
be doing with your young puppy? To help you make sense of it all, here’s an easy-to-
follow list of things to avoid in the first couple of months with your new puppy.
AVOID TAKING YOUR (UN-VACCINATED) PUPPY TO THESE PLACES
When you bring home your puppy, you may be eager to introduce your new pet to the
world. Watching your little furball experience things like grass, treats, squeaky toys, and
other puppies for the first time is a true joy.
This period of socialization is fun – and it’s also key to raising a well-behaved, happy
dog. Providing positive and diverse experiences will help your dog become a confident,
relaxed pet.1
One potential problem? Your pup’s vaccination schedule. During this same time
frame, your young dog will not yet be fully vaccinated against a host of illnesses.
For this reason, your vet may recommend you keep your pup away from public
places and environments where they’ll meet other dogs.
It’s a Catch-22. You’re supposed to introduce your puppy to as many things as possible,
but until they’ve had all of their vaccinations, it’s not quite safe to do so. In the
meantime, in an effort to balance these two interests, many vets and dog trainers
recommend you socialize your dog but avoid places like:
● Dog parks
● Doggie daycare centers
● Busy public sidewalks
● Pet stores2,3
WHAT TO DO INSTEAD
Find a socialization-based puppy class for your puppy. Puppy training classes are
designed to help dog owners socialize their puppies in a safe environment. The area
should be disinfected and disease-free. Training your puppy early is always a good
idea, but allowing your pup to tumble and run around with other puppies is priceless. 4
You’re also free to take your puppy out and about to friend’s houses and places where
you are certain the dogs are vaccinated. If that makes you squeamish, invite a steady
stream of friends and friendly dogs(that you know are vaccinated) over for socialization
time.
AVOID THESE DOG GROOMING ACTIVITIES
When you first bring your puppy home, you may be tempted to draw a nice bath for
them right away. But some breeders and vets recommend you hold off on bathing them
for the first few weeks. Bathing your puppy too soon or too frequently can:
● Mess with your dog’s internal temperature, which might make them sick 5
● Strip the natural oils from your pet’s coat and cause skin irritation 6
● Interfere with your puppy’s vaccination schedule. Veterinarians recommend
waiting to bathe your pup for 1-2 weeks after a vaccine.
WHAT TO DO INSTEAD
Check your pup’s vaccination schedule and make a plan for the puppy’s first bath. You’ll
want to make sure the water and the room are warm. But be careful not to make the
water too hot. Use a gentle dog shampoo. Avoid using any shampoo made for humans
or babies. After the bath, make sure you completely dry your pup before you set them
loose on their own.
You can dry them gently with a towel and then if you need to, use the cool setting on a
hairdryer. If they seem frightened by the hairdryer, let them be.
Keep in mind that this first bath will set the tone for future baths. Do your best to make it
a calm, relaxing, stress-free experience. Don’t forget to reward your puppy with plenty of
treats and praise throughout the bathing/drying process. 7
AVOID HARSH DOG TRAINING METHODS
It’s smart to get started on training a puppy as early as possible. Using positive
reinforcement to show your puppy how to do things like “sit” and “stay” is a great
relationship-builder. In the case of a young puppy, treats and praise are great. Harsh
corrections, like finger-pointing, or yelling, however, are not.
While your puppy is young, building trust and a positive relationship is the most
important thing to focus on. If your puppy can’t figure out how to sit 100% of the time,
it’s not the end of the world. The last thing you want to do is make your puppy afraid of
you.
WHAT TO DO INSTEAD
The best way to train a puppy is to show them exactly what you want them to do and
give them a reward when they do it. This is the basis of positive reinforcement training.
Remember, your puppy doesn’t know anything you haven’t taught them yet. There’s no
use in getting mad and yelling about something that they don’t yet understand.
It can be hard to remain calm and use only positive reinforcement, especially when
you’re working on things like leash or potty training. Seeing your puppy poop inside can
make even the most zen person raise their voice. Resist. Set up a crate training plan,
and limit your puppy’s environment to avoid accidents until they can be trusted.
If you have any concerns or just want some help training your puppy, reach out to a
professional dog trainer or join puppy training classes. Check to see if your local pet
store has puppy classes or ask your vet to recommend a good trainer.
AVOID THESE FOODS AND DRINKS
When you first get a puppy, you may be tempted to feed it your favorite foods to see
what they might like. As a new dog owner, you’ll have to learn the dos and don’ts of
feeding your dog people food. Here’s a partial list of foods you should never feed a
puppy or adult dog:
● Alcohol
● Apple seeds
● Avocado
● Candy
● Cat food
● Chocolate
● Cooked bones
● Corn on the cob
● Fat trimmed from meat
● Garlic
● Grapes or raisins
● Milk and dairy products
● Onions
● Peppers
● Salt
● Sugar
● Xylitol8
WHAT TO DO INSTEAD
Avoid giving your pup any people food. Instead, get them high-quality dog food
that contains all-natural ingredients and is free from chemicals and fillers. Look
for real ingredients that you recognize, like turkey, beef, salmon, and sweet
potatoes. Better quality food will lead to a better quality of life for your pup. 9
YOU GOT THIS
When you’re a new dog owner, the number of things you need to learn can feel
overwhelming. Just remember to be gentle, kind, and attentive to your new baby. After
all, they are just that – babies who are growing and learning.
And if you ever have concerns or questions about raising your new pup, don’t hesitate
to contact your vet or dog trainer.
-----------------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/dog-grooming/
DOG GROOMING TIPS FOR THE INFORMED PET PARENT
Is there anything better than snuggling up with your furry friend right after a trip to the
dog groomer? Most pet parents would say no! But for some of us, professional dog
grooming can be too expensive or too inconvenient to keep up on a regular basis.
What’s a well-meaning pet parent to do? DIY, of course! While some pet grooming is
better off left to professionals, there are a lot of ways you can maintain your dog’s
cleanliness and hygiene at home.
Read on for the best tips and tricks.
WHY SHOULD I GROOM MY DOG?
Pet grooming helps dogs look and feel their best. Regular grooming will also get you
into a routine of examining your dog’s nails, ears, skin, teeth, fur, and paw pads for any
potential problem spots.1
Regular grooming also gives these healthy benefits:
● Brushing your dog’s teeth can help protect against tooth decay, gingivitis, and
periodontal issues.2
● Regular ear cleaning helps keep your pup’s ears healthy. 3
● Nail clipping can help prevent joint injuries. 4
● Brushing your dog’s coat spreads out the natural oils and helps keep the fur free
of external parasites.5
And perhaps best of all – grooming is a great bonding opportunity for you and your dog.
A grooming session allows you to focus your energy entirely on your dog, something
they probably consider a dream come true!6
Whether you’re clipping nails, brushing, or ear cleaning, handling your dog in a calm
and steady way is a great way to build trust.7 This will benefit your relationship beyond
your grooming sessions.
If you’ve never groomed your dog before, it may take a few sessions for your pup to get
used to your touch. Take it slow and be gentle – you may find that you and your pet
both find it very relaxing.
HOW TO BRUSH YOUR DOG AT HOME
Regularly brushing your dog is one of the easiest ways to keep up with grooming at
home. Brushing helps remove dead hair, spread their coat’s natural oils, and keep fur
looking its best.
DIFFERENT TYPES OF DOG BRUSHES, EXPLAINED
To the uninitiated, the sheer number of dog brushes on the market can seem
overwhelming. What is the best grooming equipment for your dog? Should you just buy
one of everything?
Hold your horses, animal lover! Read on to learn about each brush type and discover
which grooming tools you actually need.
SLICKER BRUSH
A brush with tightly-packed wire bristles designed to remove dead hair, dirt, mats, and
tangles. Best for dogs with long hair, curly hair, or double coats. 8
WIRE PIN BRUSH
Gentler than a slicker brush, this brush has widely-spaced wire bristles with protective
rubber balls at the end. Made to remove dead hair and dirt. Best for medium to long-
haired dogs and dogs with silky hair.
NATURAL BRISTLE BRUSH
A brush with tightly-packed natural bristles that is made to remove dead hair and
stimulate the skin. For use on short-haired, smooth-coated dogs. Can be used on all
coats to smooth fur after brushing.
BRISTLE GLOVE
Gloves with bristles, usually made of silicone, that help remove loose hair and smooth
coats. A good choice for fearful dogs.
CURRY COMB
A brush with plastic or rubber teeth that loosens and removes dead hair. Ideal for
animals with short, dense coats.
RUBBER COMB
A comb made entirely of rubber. Great for use with shampoo in the bath.
DEMATTING TOOL
Combs, usually made of metal, designed to remove mats from a dog’s undercoat.
WHICH BRUSH SHOULD I USE ON MY DOG AND HOW DO I USE IT?
Okay, now that you know the main types of brushes, it’s time to decide what gear you
need for your specific situation. First, determine what type of coat your dog has. You’ll
want to consider the length, thickness, and the texture of their fur.
Is it short and smooth like a Doberman? Silky and long like a Yorkshire Terrier? Wiry
like a Fox Terrier? Your dog may have curly hair that doesn’t shed, like a Poodle, or
long, thick hair that does shed, like a Golden Retriever.
Some dogs, like Siberian Huskies, have a double coat which is made of a soft
undercoat and tougher topcoat. Other dogs, like Irish Setter, have feathery coats with
no undercoat.
If you can’t tell what type of coat your dog has, ask your vet or groomer. Here are
recommendations for major coat types:
SHORT AND SMOOTH COATS
Short-haired dogs with no undercoat, like Pugs, are relatively low maintenance.
Brush: bristle brush
Frequency: At least once a week.9
Technique: Run a natural bristle brush through their coat in the opposite direction of
hair growth.This helps loosen dead hair. Then brush in the direction of hair growth to
smooth and spread oils.10
SHORT, DENSE COATS
Dogs with short, thick coats, like Labrador Retrievers, aren’t likely to get tangles in their
fur. But they are likely to shed without regular brushing, so commit to brushing them at
least twice a week.11
Brush: slicker brush, wire pin brush
Frequency: Twice a week. More frequently during shedding season in the spring or
summer.12
Technique: Run a natural bristle brush through their coat in the opposite direction of
hair growth. This helps loosen dead hair. Then brush in the direction of hair growth to
remove the dead hairs and help with future shedding. 13
LONG AND SILKY COATS
Dogs with silky coats, like Yorkshire Terriers, have no undercoat. Their long hair is likely
to tangle without regular care.
Brush: wire pin brush, bristle brush, dematting tool
Frequency: Three to four times a week to prevent mats from forming.
Technique: First, remove any tangles with a dematting tool. Then brush in long strokes
with a wire pin brush to remove loose hair. Finish with a bristle brush to polish the
coat.14
Recommended: See a professional dog groomer every other month.
LONG WITH A WOOLY UNDERCOAT

Dogs with long silky hair on top and an undercoat beneath, like Lhasa Apsos, need
regular brushing.
Brush: wire pin brush, bristle brush, dematting tool
Frequency: Three to four times a week to prevent mats from forming. 15
Technique: First, remove any tangles with a dematting tool. Then brush in long strokes
with a wire pin brush to remove loose hair. Finish with a bristle brush to polish the coat
Recommended: See a professional dog groomer every other month.
LONG, DOUBLE COATS
Lots of fur means lot of shedding – so don’t forget to brush regularly! Dogs with long,
double coats, like Chow Chows, are likely to experience matting in their undercoat.
Brush: De-matting tool, slicker brush
Frequency: Two to three times a week.
Technique: Go over the coat with a slicker brush in both directions, using short, gentle
strokes.16 Continue until you’re pulling out less and less hair. If you run into a tangle,
stop brushing and pick it out using a steel comb or a de-matting tool. 17
Recommended: See a professional dog groomer every other month. 18
CURLY-HAIRED COATS
Dogs with curly coats, like Poodles, don’t shed easily, but they can develop mats
without regular brushing.
Brush: Dematting tool, slicker brush
Frequency: About twice a week.
Technique: Go over the coat with a slicker brush in small sections, removing mats as
you go. If you see a large tangle, stop brushing and pick it out using a steel comb or a
de-matting tool.
Recommended: See a professional pet groomer every other month.
WIRE-HAIRED COATS
Since wire-haired dogs are not likely to shed on their own, make sure you brush them
regularly to remove dead hair.
Brush: wire pin brush19
Frequency: Twice a week.
Technique: Go over the coat from head to tail in long, even strokes. If you see a mat,
stop brushing and pick it out with a dematting tool. Finish with a slicker brush for a shiny
and smooth look.20 Don’t forget to brush your pet’s beard, mustache, and eyebrows if
they have them!
Recommended: See a professional dog groomer every 6 to 8 weeks.
HOW TO REMOVE A MAT
If you spot a mat in your dog’s undercoat:
1. Push the topcoat aside.
2. In one hand, gently pull the mat perpendicular to the skin so you can see what
you’re working with.
3. With your other hand, use your dematting tool in quick, short strokes – starting
from the end of the hair and working toward the skin as you go. 21
HOW TO BATHE YOUR DOG AT HOME

While some pet owners take their dog to a professional when it’s time for a bath, many
people bathe their dogs at home.
Taking this task on yourself requires some preparation, equipment, and (if your dog
doesn’t like bath time) mental toughness. No one likes to see their buddy suffer! Read
through this guide first, so you can bathe your dog with minimal drama.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU BATHE YOUR DOG?
Vets used to warn against bathing Fido too frequently. When you wash your dog, they
said, you strip the natural oils from the coat. 22 But times have changed!
Since ingredients in shampoos and conditioners have improved, you can feel good
about washing your dog once a week if you’d like. 23 As long as you’re using the highest
quality products, you can clean your dog without drying out their skin or coat. 24
But is a weekly bath necessary? It depends on your dog’s breed type, coat,
environment, and activity level.25 It’s also a great way to keep fleas in check.
Here are some helpful guidelines:
● Dogs with medium to long hair need a bath about every 4-6 weeks. 26
● Short-coated dogs can go longer without a bath. Once every other month should
suffice.
● Oily-coated breeds, like Basset Hounds, may need a bath once a week. 27
● Thick or double-coated breeds, like Siberian Huskies, should be bathed less
frequently, but brushed often.
Regardless of coat type, if Bella just had a romp around a muddy field, or she’s visibly
dirty, throw her in the bath!
All that said, the most reliable method for figuring out if your dog needs a bath is the
tried-and-true smell test. If your dog is starting to smell like… well, dog, it’s time for a
bath.
WHAT PRODUCTS TO USE WHEN YOU BATHE YOUR DOG
When you’re bathing your dog, you need the proper gear. Don’t use human products on
your dog! They don’t have the right pH level for your dog’s skin. 28 Here’s what you need:
● Dog shampoo: read reviews and look for one that contains ONLY natural,
organic ingredients. If you shop for natural or organic products for yourself,
consider doing the same for your dog.
● A bathtub or portable wash basin
● A container that holds water, like a large pitcher. You can skip this if you have
a detachable shower nozzle.

● A leash or tether if you have a dog who is likely to hop out of the bath
● Clothes that can get wet
● And of course, plenty of treats!
HOW TO GIVE YOUR DOG A BATH

Set aside an hour, put on clothes that can get wet, and cross your fingers. Let’s do this!
1. Before you start, brush your dog to get rid of any tangles, surface-level dirt, or
matting.
––Make sure you get out any mats before you get your dog wet. Water makes
them nearly impossible to remove!29
––If you have a long-haired dog, use a slicker brush at this stage.
2. Decide where you’ll wash your dog.
––Inside: Most people will want to use their bathtub if they have one. Close the
door to your bathroom to contain the mess.
––Outside: If you have a heavy shedder, long-haired breed, or extra large dog,
you may want to do this outside with a wash basin or a hose.
3. Run the water and fill the bath before you bring in your dog. The running water
might cause anxiety.
––If you’re using an indoor bath, fill it up with warm, but not hot, water.
––If you’re using a hose, but make sure the pressure isn’t too high.
4. Leash your dog (optional) and lead them to the bath.
––If you have a dog who hates baths and is likely to bolt, you may need a friend
who can help hold the leash.
––If your dog is okay with baths (lucky!) or small enough to hold, you won’t need
the leash.
––In both cases, calmly lead your dog to the tub and encourage them to get in
with little drama. Don’t raise your voice, it will add to the stress.
5. Get your dog wet.
––A detachable nozzle makes this easy. If you don’t have one, pour water over
them with a large container.
6. Apply shampoo.
––Lather up and rub shampoo all over your pup, making sure to reach spots like
the belly, under the tail, between toes, and around the ears.
––Make sure the shampoo reaches all the way through the coat to the skin. For
dogs with thick hair, a rubber comb can help with this.
––For dogs with long hair, massage the shampoo in with your fingers, following
the way the fur naturally grows. This will help avoid tangles.
7. Optional step: Distract!
––If your dog hates baths, consider having a friend give your dog small pieces of
treats throughout this process.
––Another trick is to hold out a spoon with peanut butter and have your dog lick it
as you wash him. Distracting and delicious!
8. Rinse.
––Use a nozzle or a container to rinse.
––Make sure you remove all the shampoo residue – it can be irritating to skin. 30
––When you’ve rinsed off all the shampoo, take a clean, wet washcloth (no
soap!) and gently wipe the area around your dog’s eyes to clear away any eye
gunk.
9. Dry
––Use a towel and dry them off, taking care to dry their paws. Paws can get cold
quickly if wet!
––If your dog has long hair, rub the towel in the direction of hair growth to avoid
matting.
––If you choose to blow dry your dog’s coat, be sure to use the lowest heat
setting. Hold the blow dryer at least six inches away so you don’t burn their skin.
10. Grab a colorful bandana to accent your dog’s new clean look. Give your dog
some love for a job well done!
SHOULD YOU GIVE YOUR DOG A HAIRCUT?

Alright, you’ve learned how to brush and bathe your dog! Next up: haircuts and trims. Is
this DIYable? Well, yes and no. First off, you should keep in mind that not all dogs need
haircuts.31 So, if you have a short-coated dog, there may be no need to trim the hair.
Some dogs, like Poodles and Shih-Tzu’s, have hair that continuously grows. These
breeds need regular hair trimming. For breeds like these, it is best to see a professional.
And if your dog has a specific hairstyle and needs professional styling, you’re probably
better off going to the salon.
If you want to give it a go at home, the safest way is to use a set of electric clippers. 32
Comb your dog thoroughly first. Using the clippers, start with the head, and work your
way down in the direction of hair growth. Do the legs last.
Note: Unless you’re skilled in all things dog grooming, avoid using scissors. You do not
want to slip up and injure your best bud!
HOW TO TRIM YOUR DOG’S NAILS
Regular nail trimming is essential for your dog’s hygiene and health. Grown out nails
can be painful for dogs. Long term, they can cause the joints in their legs to fall out of
alignment.33
This particular grooming routine can stir up anxiety in some animal parents. There’s a
chance you could trim too far and hit their quick – a blood vessel in their nail – and
make them bleed.34
Is there anything more stressful than knowing you could accidentally make your dog
bleed? Probably not.
But fear not! This doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. Many nail trimmers on the
market today have special safety guards to make sure you don’t cut down too far. 35
The best advice? Take it slow. Do everything you can to ensure that your dog is calm –
not squirmy – when you’re trimming their nails. This is the best thing you can do to
prevent accidents. Follow these tips to desensitize your dog to nail trimmers so they’re
more likely to be calm.
● Take a whole week to introduce the nail trimmers to your dog before you use
them.
● For the first couple of days, show your dog the trimmers, give them a treat, and
put the tool away.
● After that, you can show them the trimmers, touch their paw with them, and put
them away before you do any trimming. Give them treats for remaining calm.
● Once your pup is used to the trimmers, start trimming a nail or two at a time and
show your dog that you aren’t going to hurt him.
● Use plenty of treats, words of encouragement, and a calm attitude throughout the
whole process.
WHEN YOU’RE READY TO TRIM, THE AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB HAS THESE
RECOMMENDATIONS:
● Pick up a paw. Place your thumb on a toe pad and your forefinger on top, right
above the nail.
● Use your thumb and forefinger to extend the nail away from the skin.
● Clip only the tip of the nail. Cut straight across.
● Stop trimming before you reach the curve of the nail. This will help you avoid the
quick.36
WHAT ABOUT CLEANING YOUR DOG’S EYES?

Just like humans, dogs occasionally get gunk in their eyes that should be wiped away.
To clean, wet a washcloth or cotton ball with warm water and gently wipe them. 37 Never
use your fingers.
If your dog’s eyes are excessively wet, gunky, or dry – there may be an underlying
health problem. Don’t attempt to clean them yourself. If you notice a pus-like discharge
that crusts over, call your vet. Your pup may have conjunctivitis. 38
Small dogs with white fur – like Maltese, Bichon Frise, or Havanese – may develop
staining around their eyes and mouth. Apply a tear stain remover for those areas. If this
problem persists, you may want to look at the food they are eating and make sure it is
the highest quality.39
HOW TO BRUSH YOUR DOG’S TEETH
Regularly brushing your dog’s teeth is the best way to prevent tooth and gum
problems.40Here are the best tips for keeping Fido’s pearly whites clean:
● Find a pet-safe toothpaste. Never use human toothpaste, ONLY use pet-safe
toothpaste made with natural, organic ingredients. Or, you could make your own
pet-safe toothpaste by blending coconut oil with parsley and mint leaves.
● Pick up a dog toothbrush with soft bristles – a kid’s toothbrush will work too.
● Before brushing, help your dog get used to the toothpaste and the toothbrush by
letting them sniff and lick it. Work to create a positive association with both. You
may want to slowly introduce the toothbrush over a period of several days.
● When you’re ready to brush, gently lift your dog’s lip so you can see the surface
area you’re working with.
● Gently brush your dog’s teeth in small circles, just like you would your own.
● Don’t forget to reach your dog’s back upper molars and canines – these areas
tend to build up tartar.42
● When you’re finished, reward your dog with playtime, some treats, or an
affectionate scratch on the head. Good dog!
WHEN TO SEE A PROFESSIONAL GROOMER

Although there are many grooming techniques you can easily tackle on your own, you
still may want to visit a professional groomer or doggie salon from time to time.
GROOMERS CAN GIVE YOUR DOG A FANCY SKIN OR HAIR TREATMENT
Professionals can do things like give your dog a blueberry facial treatment, feather their
coats, and blow dry their fur in the proper way.
Can you do those things? Well, maybe. But you’d have to invest some money in buying
the proper grooming equipment and products. You’d also have to learn how to give
these treatments.
GROOMERS HAVE THE RIGHT TOOLS FOR THE JOB
Visiting a professional can end up saving you time and money simply because they
have the grooming equipment that most people don’t. This is especially true is your dog
requires specialized equipment – like a large wash basin, professional clippers, or a
doggie blow dryer.
Groomers have the appropriate shampoos, toothpastes, brushes, clippers, and scissors
for the job.
GROOMERS CAN HANDLE GROSS STUFF YOU DON’T WANT TO THINK ABOUT
Do you know about your dog’s anal glands? They are the reason why your dog
sometimes smells fishy.43
Most dogs squeeze out fluid from these glands when they pass a bowel movement. But
sometimes they need to be manually expressed to remove build up. 44-45
While you could do this yourself when you give your dog a bath, many people prefer to
leave it to professionals. Some dogs, especially small breeds, need their anal glands
expressed regularly.46
PROFESSIONAL DOG GROOMERS ARE MORE CONVENIENT THAN EVER
Many groomers now have mobile salons that will come right to your house. You really
can’t beat the convenience of that.
WHERE CAN I FIND A GOOD DOG GROOMER?
If you’re looking for a groomer, start by asking your vet, friends, or neighbors if they
have any recommendations. Your dog’s breeder might have a list of people who work
with that breed.
However, we advise avoiding commercial pet store groomers as their employees may
not always have sufficient animal care training.
The American Kennel Club maintains a directory of trusted breeders that you can find
through their website.47
THE BOTTOM LINE
Many grooming techniques – like brushing your dog’s hair and teeth – can and should
be done at home. If you do them yourself, you’re more likely to do them frequently. And,
you’ll have the added benefit of bonding with your dog.
Washing, hair trimming, nail trimming, eye and ear cleaning, and anal sac expressing
may all take more effort – it depends on your dog. If you’re able to comfortably take care
of these grooming essentials at home, go for it! If you think you’d benefit from a
professional, decide which activities you need help with, and schedule a visit to a
doggie salon.
Whether you choose to do it yourself or get help from a pro, keep up with a regular
grooming schedule. Maintaining your pup’s hygiene can prevent all sorts of health
problems. Plus, nothing can beat that extra pep in their step when they look and feel
great!
------------------------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/ginger-for-dogs/
GINGER FOR DOGS? 4 WAYS IT CAN IMPROVE YOUR DOG’S HEALTH
If you’re a dog parent and your pup is feeling sick, you want to do whatever you can to
make them feel better. But when your pooch has an upset stomach, for instance, you
may want to look for a natural remedy. In these instances, consider reaching for fresh
ginger. After all, when you’ve got an upset stomach, a bit of ginger ale or ginger tea is
your go-to to feeling better.
For centuries, different societies have relied on ginger not only for what it adds to food
in terms of aroma and flavor, but for its reported health-related benefits.1 Because it
could help alleviate symptoms from inflammation to nausea, this amazing root plant
may hold the key to your pooch feeling more like themselves in no time.
1. HELPS FIGHT NAUSEA

If your dog has ever vomited on a road trip, there’s a chance they suffer from motion
sickness. Yes, dogs can get carsick! And a dog with an upset stomach occurs more
than you’d think, so you’re not alone. If you’re afraid Fido may get motion sickness the
next time you hop in the car, consider giving him some powdered ginger with his meal
before you hit the road.
In a study conducted with Naval cadets, 1 gram of ginger might be effective in reducing
sea-sickness’ severity.2 Now, your dog may not be going to sea anytime soon, but some
fresh ginger 30 minutes before you hit the road may just be your dog’s best motion
sickness prevention.
2. AIDING UPSET STOMACHS
If your dog seems a bit more lethargic than normal, or if they’re having frequent upset
stomachs, they might be having gas and digestion issues. Unmonitored and excessive
built-up gases and stomach pain in dogs can be incredibly painful for them, and in some
cases, even fatal.3
How do you know if your dog is experiencing a gassy buildup or excessive stomach
pain, though? A few signs of an upset stomach to look for are an enlarged stomach, or if
they whine or whimper when you pet their belly. 4 These may be indications that a lot of
gas has built up.
Thankfully, ginger can be added to your dog’s regular mealtime to help alleviate some
of this gas. In various studies, ginger has been shown to successfully “break up and
expel intestinal gas.”5
3. ANTI-INFLAMMATORY
Watching a dog get older is a bittersweet thing. They may have lost a spring in their
step, but a touch of gray around their nose and eyes gives them the look of the elder
statesmen they are. It can also be tough watching our best friends experience the pains
of growing older. One of the more common ailments in aging canines is joint pain and
swelling. Yes, just like humans, dogs can get arthritis.
Fortunately, ginger has been heavily studied to gauge its impact as an anti-inflammatory
agent for joints. In fact, one study shows that ginger, and its active compounds, can
prevent joint inflammation before it even starts. 6 Not only can it prevent joint
inflammation, but if your pooch is already experiencing pain from joint discomfort and
swelling, giving them powdered ginger with their meals can help with pain relief and
management.7
4. REDUCING HEARTWORM RISK
Having a dog means that you need a way to mitigate heartworm and its risks. While
heartworm isn’t contagious from dog to dog, it is spread by mosquitos, which leave the
immature worms behind after biting your dog. 8 If left unchecked, these parasitic worms
eventually make their way to the dog’s heart by way of the bloodstream, and over time,
they mature and create offspring of their own, posing a big health risk for your dog. 9
As a preventative measure, consider supplementing them with an all-natural treatment
for heartworms, like ginger. In one study, ginger showed promising results of eliminating
the heartworm larvae between 83 to 98 percent.10
HOW TO GIVE YOUR DOG GINGER
The ginger can be given to your dog in a number of ways. While you can give it to them
in its root form, they may not be too keen on it, so consider pill alternatives or ginger
powders. Another way in which you can give your pup ginger is via ginger tea. You can
either mix it in with their kibble or see if they’ll drink it from a bowl. Just make sure it isn’t
too hot for them!
The Ginger Factor
Finding the right natural remedy to improve your dog’s quality of life and increase their
comfort isn’t always easy. Thanks to ginger’s long history of being linked to holistic aids,
supplementing your dog’s diet with this excellent root plant may just give them the extra
pep in their step they need to keep being your best friend for years to come.
-----------------------------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/shih-tzu-temperament/
SHIH TZU TEMPERAMENT INSIGHTS – WHAT YOU MUST KNOW
Jun 3, 2019 | 0 comments
If you’re thinking of bringing a Shih Tzu into your family, you probably have some
questions about things like the Shih Tzu temperament, grooming requirements, and
trainability. We got you! In this article, you’ll find all of the information you need to
decide if this is the right breed for you.
If you already know you love Shih Tzu dogs, you’re in good company! In addition to
having one of the most fun names to say, the Shih Tzu is one of the most beloved small
breeds in existence.
According to the AKC, these adorable little dogs are in the top 20 most popular dog
breeds.1 And they seem to be a celebrity favorite – Shih Tzu dogs can be seen on the
laps of celebrities like Beyonce, Katherine Heigl, and Bill Gates. 2
WHAT ARE THE SHIH TZU BREED’S ORIGINS?
The Shih Tzu is an ancient breed. Nobody knows exactly how old, although they’ve
been spotted in paintings that date all the way back to 624 CE! 3 As with most ancient
breeds, it’s tough to pinpoint exactly how they originated, but there are some theories.
THE TIBETAN MONK THEORY
One popular theory states that the breed originated with Buddhist monks in Tibet. The
Tibetan lamas bred dogs to look like tiny replicas of lions, an important symbol in
Buddhist mythology. These various “lion dogs” served as companions for the monks. 4
It is said that the Dalai Lama traveled to China in the early 20th century and gave the
Chinese empress Tzu-hsi several of these Tibetan lion dogs. She fondly referred to
them as her “Shih Tzu Kou” or “lion dogs” in Chinese.
After this introduction, only members of the Chinese imperial family could own Shih Tzu
dogs. Special gardens and pavilions were created in the palace to give them a place to
play. While Pugs, Pekingese, and Shih Tzus all lived in the palace, only Shih Tzus were
allowed to wander in certain sacred territories. 5
When Chinese imperial rule came to an end, the breed almost disappeared completely.
At one point in history, only 14 Shih Tzus survived. All of today’s Shih Tzus can be
traced back to these 14 dogs.6
WHAT ARE THE TRAITS OF A SHIH TZU’S PERSONALITY?
True to their royal roots, this small breed can act like the world revolves around them.
Contrary to how that might sound, Shih Tzus are rarely pushy. They just love being
loved and expect that you’ll always want them by your side. And look at their little faces,
they aren’t wrong, right?
Shih Tzus are “companion dogs” through and through. They don’t have a tendency
to guard, hunt, or dig, like working dogs. And they weren’t bred to be watchdogs, so
they typically aren’t suspicious or yappy like some small breeds (like the Yorkshire
Terrier, Lhasa Apso, or Chihuahua mix).7
Like any good companion, Shih Tzus love to hang out and do whatever you’re doing. If
you’re putting away groceries, your Shih Tzu puppy is happy to sit and watch. If you’re
bingeing on Netflix, your Shih Tzu will quietly cuddle up next to you. 8
Also, because of their calm, easy-going demeanor, they make great service dogs.
COMMON PERSONALITY TRAITS
HERE ARE A FEW COMMON POSITIVE PERSONALITY TRAITS OF SHIH TZU
DOGS:
● Likes to cuddle and be held
● Outgoing and friendly with strangers
● Devoted, loyal companions who like to stay close to their owners
● Able to bond with multiple people
● Usually good with children and other dogs
● Feisty and fun! 9-11
AND HERE ARE A FEW NOT-SO GLAMOROUS TRAITS:
● A stubborn, “What’s in it for me?” attitude
● Notoriously hard to housebreak
● Can be stubborn and occasionally hard to train 12,13
While this breed is typically delightful, any dog can become pushy, aggressive, or
destructive without proper training.
Make sure you start a routine of socialization and positive reinforcement training as
soon as you bring home your Shih Tzu puppy or rescue dog.
ARE SHIH TZUS GOOD FAMILY DOGS?
The Shih Tzu is a wonderful family pet with lovable personality traits. They readily bond
with all family members. They rarely have an aggressive side.
But while Shih Tzus are sturdy little dogs, their small size may not make them a great
option for homes with toddlers. It’s always a good idea to supervise young children with
small dogs to make sure they don’t pick them up and drop them.
PHYSICAL TRAITS OF SHIH TZUS
The Shih Tzu is a sturdy, spirited, small breed with a long, silky double coat, a short,
upturned nose, and short legs. True to its royal roots, the Shih Tzu has a proud,
sometimes arrogant look. They often carry themselves with their heads held high and
tails curled over their backs.14
Shih Tzus are sometimes called chrysanthemum dogs because of the way their hair
grows up from the nose and around the face in all directions, like a flower. 15
SHIH TZU CARE
Shih Tzus are highly adaptable dogs – they’ll be equally happy in an apartment or a
mansion as long as their beloved humans are close by.
But this is no outdoor dog. This breed is too small, heat sensitive, and human-oriented
to live outside.16 They need affection and mental stimulation. Shih Tzus belong inside on
the laps of the people they love.
EXERCISE
Shih Tzus have fiery little personalities and love to play, but a good romp around the
backyard is usually quite enough! This breed needs a moderate amount of exercise. 17
Short, daily walks are great. Long hikes? They’ll probably pass.
NUTRITION
Your Shih Tzu should be fed a high quality, all natural dog food that has all of the
nutrients they need for proper health. Look for a dog food that has whole, raw
ingredients like salmon, flax, and beef liver. You’ll also want to make sure your food
contains pre and probiotics for intestinal health.
Choosing the right dog food will give your dog a happier, healthier life. Proper nutrition
can help with everything from behavior problems to skin and coat health.
GROOMING
These little dogs require a lot of grooming! Shih Tzus have long, double coats that can
get tangled if they aren’t properly taken care of. Daily brushing is recommended to help
with shedding. Take them to a professional groomer every month or so. Brush their
teeth regularly to prevent dental issues.
Many Shih Tzu lovers ask their groomer for a low maintenance puppy cut or kennel cut,
where your puppy’s hair will be cut the same length all over.18 The hair is usually
clipped to about 2 inches, which makes it easy to brush and keep clean between
grooming sessions.
Bonus: this cut also makes Shih Tzus look like little teddy bears, which is just adorable.
SHIH TZU HEALTH PROBLEMS

Shih Tzus are a typically healthy breed with a long lifespan of 12-16 years. 19
Understand the common health issues that may arise so you can notice them and call
your vet right away:
Eye Issues – some Shih Tzus may suffer from cataracts; inadequate tear production;
progressive retinal atrophy, which can cause blindness; and proptosis, where an eyeball
temporarily pops out of the socket.20
Hip Dysplasia – If a dog’s hip joint isn’t configured properly, it can cause pain and
limited mobility. Shih Tzus love to jump around, and hip injuries may develop into hip
dysplasia later in life. Call your vet if your Shih Tzu is having difficulty walking. 21
Respiratory Issues – Like all short-nosed, or brachycephalic breeds, Shih Tzus may
experience breathing problems.22
Liver Problems – Shih Tzus are more likely than other breeds to be born with, or
develop, a liver disorder called portosystemic shunt (PSS). If your dog has “stunted
growth” or often seems disoriented, this may be an issue. Call your vet. 23
Renal Dysplasia – Some Shih Tzus may inherit genetic kidney issues 24
TRAINABILITY OF THE SHIH TZU BREED
Training a Shih Tzu can be an amusing and sometimes frustrating experience. One
thing to remember is that Shih Tzus are people-oriented dogs, so positive reinforcement
training tends to work well. Many Shih Tzus will happily learn commands in exchange
for an enthusiastic word of praise or an affectionate snuggle.
● Shih Tzu puppies should be enrolled in a socialization course and puppy
kindergarten as soon as possible. This breed has a tendency to be bold and
could grow to be bossy if this is unchecked.
● Set yourself up as the leader of the household – ask them to sit before meals,
and make them wait whenever you open a door – to prevent potential behavior
issues.
● Potty training a Shih Tzu can be notoriously hard. Be patient. Consistently reward
your pup for going in the right place with positive reinforcement. They’ll catch
on.25
HOW TO FIND A RESPONSIBLE BREEDER

Before you seek out a Shih Tzu breeder, first consider checking your local animal
shelter or a rescue organization that specializes in Shih Tzus. This is an especially great
breed to rescue – Shih Tzus love companionship and are quick to bond with new
owners.
Reach out to shelters and rescue organizations, introduce yourself, and tell them
you are hoping to rescue a Shih Tzu.
They may be able to notify you when they find the perfect match. Be patient and check
in regularly.
If all else fails, you may want to seek out a responsible breeder. Do your due diligence
to make sure your breeder follows responsible breeding practices. The American
Kennel Club keeps a directory of recommended breeders. 26
HERE ARE A FEW TIPS WHEN YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A BREEDER:
● Don’t rely on the phone or email. Visit the breeder in person so you can observe
the puppies’ living conditions. Is it clean and odor free? Do all of the puppies look
healthy?
● Ask for references. Be wary of breeders who claim to have “designer dogs” that
are really just mixed breeds.
● Ask to meet at least one of the Shih Tzu puppy’s parents. This will give you a
sense of your dog’s breeding, and their temperament, size, and personality.
● Ask about the health of your puppy and the parents. Your breeder should be able
to provide you with a full medical history.
● Watch the breeder interact with the puppies, and don’t be afraid to ask questions!
27
BOTTOM LINE
Shih Tzus are loyal, feisty, fun-loving pups that are sure to put a smile on your face. As
with any dog breed, make sure you have the time to exercise, groom, and love up on
your pup before you bring one home. You may have a lot of other things going on, but
to your Shih Tzu, you are their entire world.
Going to a responsible breeder – and never a puppy mill – will help support the humane
treatment of this beloved breed. And rescuing a Shih Tzu from a shelter or rescue
organization is a great option! Shih Tzus are quick to bond with new owners and they
will love you forever if you save their life.
----------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/slippery-elm-for-dogs/
SLIPPERY ELM POWDER: A SOOTHING HERB FOR DOGGIE TUMMIES
| Jun 7, 2019 | 1 comment
If you have a dog, you’ve probably had to deal with diarrhea or other digestive tract
problems at one time or another. Dogs tend to get into things they shouldn’t, like the
garbage, outdoor plants, etc. When they eat something that doesn’t agree with their
stomach, the results are often messy.
The next time this happens to your pooch, you might want to consider an herb known as
slippery elm. Here’s some information on what it is and how it might help provide your
pet some relief.
WHAT IS SLIPPERY ELM?
Slippery elm is an herb made from the bark of the Slippery Elm tree, also known as the
Red Elm tree. The scientific name of the tree is Ulmus fulva. It’s called “slippery”
because of the gel that forms when slippery elm bark powder mixes with water. 1
You’ll find a wide variety of important nutrients in slippery elm bark. These include not
only vitamins A, B, C, and K, but also vital minerals, such as sodium, calcium, and
magnesium.2
GI RELIEF
This herb is renowned for its ability to help soothe a dog’s gastrointestinal, or GI, tract. It
contains compounds known as tannins, which can help reduce inflammation. Slippery
elm bark also contains an oily substance that helps provide lubrication to the GI tract.
This, in turn, helps a dog’s digestive tract eliminate waste more efficiently. 3
The herb works directly on the digestive tract. 4 Slippery elm powder is often used to
coat the membranes that line your dog’s digestive tract. In addition, it’s also rich in fiber.
As a result, it may help relieve symptoms of constipation as well as diarrhea.5
OTHER POTENTIAL USES
Slippery elm bark might also help if your dog is coughing due to a respiratory problem. It
not only coats the membranes in the digestive tract, it also lubricates the upper
respiratory tract, reducing inflammation. If your dog is coughing due to conditions such
as bronchitis or kennel cough, this herb could help. 6
Slippery elm bark powder can also be used if your dog has a skin problem. It’s
particularly effective for smaller wounds, such as rashes, small ulcers, hot spots, and
insect bites. The challenge will be keeping your dog from licking the area. Try using toys
or other distractions to keep this from happening. Then, moisten the area after a few
hours. The powder will come off easily.7
HOW TO USE SLIPPERY ELM POWDER
You should be able to find slippery elm in powder or capsule form at your local health
food store. But it’s best to stay on the safe side and speak with your veterinarian first
before purchasing any Ulmus fulva supplement product.
If you choose to purchase slippery elm bark powder, you’ll need to mix it with water
before you give it to your pet. Again, your vet can tell you exactly how to prepare the
powder, and the exact dosage that will be right for your dog.
Mix the powder with cold water to make a gruel. You can give it before mealtime by
using an eyedropper or syringe. Alternatively, you can add it to your dog’s canned food.
Dogs will typically tolerate slippery elm powder well when you mix it with their food.
Continue to administer until your dog’s symptoms clear up. 8
If your pet is having digestive issues, take one teaspoon of slippery elm bark powder
and pour it into a cup of cold water. Then pour the mixture into a pot and bring to a boil.
Keep stirring as the mixture boils, then turn the heat down to simmer and continue to
stir. This will thicken the mixture. Once it’s thickened, remove the mixture from the heat
and stir in one tablespoon of honey. Once it cools, your slippery elm bark mixture will be
ready for your pooch.
Here’s a quick guide to make sure you give the right amount for your dog’s size:
● Under 20 pounds: ½ to 1 teaspoon
● 20-40 pounds: 2 teaspoons to 2 tablespoons
● 40 pounds and up: 3-4 tablespoons
Try to give the mixture to your dog four times each day until symptoms clear. Keep the
mixture covered and stored at room temperature between doses. 9
Again, before giving your dog any medicines, herbal or otherwise, please consult your
veterinarian.
WRAPPING IT UP
Slippery elm is an incredible herb that can be used to address a variety of conditions.
Try it the next time your dog has an upset tummy, and you’ll very likely be amazed by
the results. Again, however, talk to your veterinarian first, to make sure it will be safe for
your dog.
-------------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/the-bone-broth-slushie/
THE BONE BROTH SLUSHIE
Sep 9, 2020 | 1 comment
We’re in the “dog days” of summer!
That means these are the HOTTEST days of the year — which makes it more important
than ever to help your furry pal stay hydrated.
If your pet spends time outside, they’re at risk of overheating…
And indoors, their body temperature can spike with just a nap in their favorite sunny
spot.
At the very least, the heat can sap your dog or cat’s energy and put them in a bad
mood.
But not to worry!
Today I’ve got a very special treat for your furry best friend. It’s hydrating, health-
boosting, and it couldn’t be easier to make.
I call it my Bone Broth Slushie.
This frozen treat is so tasty and refreshing, your furry pal will be licking their chops!
Here’s how to prepare it:
I can’t wait for you to see how much your fur baby loves this! It’s going to be a huge hit.
Not only that, but there are TONS of vitamins and minerals they can get from hearty
organic bone broth.
There’s calcium, of course, but also other nutrients like:
● Vitamin K, which supports healthy joints
● Manganese, which can help your furry pal absorb nutrients quickly and easily
● Collagen and omega-3’s, which are fantastic for skin and coat health
In other words, my Bone Broth Slushie is a triple-whammy treat: It’s refreshing,

nutritious, and your pet is going to LOVE the flavor.
Now, while you’re working on your furry pal’s slushie…
I think you should treat yourself to one, too!
Just substitute the bone broth with your favorite healthy fruit juice and follow the recipe
above.
Then you can BOTH enjoy a yummy late-summer treat together.
------------------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/dog-anxiety/
WHAT CAN I GIVE MY DOG FOR ANXIETY?
“What can I give my dog for anxiety?” is a question that veterinarians get all the time
from well-meaning pet parents. It’s common because so many dogs suffer from anxiety.
Anxiety in dogs can be tricky to navigate. For one, we humans feel awful when we know
our dogs are suffering. On top of that, many anxious dogs do “bad” things, like urinate
inside the house, nip at strangers, and bark for hours on end.
These behaviors make dog anxiety even more difficult to deal with. So what can you do
if your dog has anxiety? Read on to find out.
WHAT CAUSES ANXIETY IN DOGS?
Just like with humans, canine anxiety can be triggered by a number of things. The four
most common causes are:
● SEPARATION
● FEAR
● AGING
● ILLNESS
SEPARATION ANXIETY IN DOGS

You may be dealing with a case of separation anxiety if your pup…
● Stresses out when you leave
● Destroys stuff when you’re gone
● Follows you from room to room when you’re home
● Is over-the-top excited when you come back
● Seems to be watching you suspiciously (even before you leave)

Of all the types of anxiety, separation anxiety is the most common. According to the
American Kennel Club, separation anxiety affects 14 percent of all dogs. 1
Most dogs don’t love it when their human leaves, but separation anxiety goes beyond
the occasional mournful bark or deep sigh. Dogs with separation anxiety are acutely
stressed when pet parents leave.
Here are some signs and symptoms of separation anxiety:
● Excessive barking or howling. Dogs with separation anxiety may bark the entire
time their owner is gone.
● Destructive chewing
● Desperate attempts to escape, including scratching, digging, or chewing by
windows and doors.
● Intense pacing
● Excessive salivation, drooling, or panting
● Urination or defecation when left alone 2
Watch your dog’s behavior and pay attention to when they are acting out. Dogs with
separation anxiety will panic every time their human leaves them alone. If your pet is
destroying your house while you’re home, you’re dealing with a different behavior issue.
WHY DO SOME DOGS GET SEPARATION ANXIETY?
Experts agree that dogs can develop anxiety issues from things like:
● A change in owner, or the loss of an important person in a dog’s life.
● An abrupt change in schedule or routine.
● A change in residence.
● A change in family dynamic, either due to death or someone moving away. 3
FEAR-RELATED ANXIETY
Another common cause of anxiety in dogs is fear. Fear is a normal emotion and in some
cases, it’s perfectly rational! If a huge, snarling dog charges at your dog when they walk
by, your dog may hide behind you or tuck their tail between their legs. Nothing weird
about that!
Fear becomes a problem when your dog’s reaction is abnormal or inappropriate given
the situation.4 If a dog goes berserk when they see a vacuum cleaner, or runs and hides
when the mailman comes to the door, they may have fear-related anxiety.
TRIGGERS THAT CAN CAUSE FEAR-BASED ANXIETY
According to the Merck Vet Manual, here are some of the common causes of fear-
based anxiety:
● Unfamiliar dogs
● Unknown people, especially ones that look, act, or smell different than people
they are used to
● Unfamiliar loud noises, like construction
● Unfamiliar sights, like umbrellas
● New environments, like an unknown house
● Unfamiliar surfaces, like wood floors or stairs
● Certain stressful situations, like the vet’s office
● A combination of stimuli, like car rides5
Some anxious dogs may react specifically to just one thing: like thunderstorms. Other
dogs may have generalized anxiety and seem to always be on edge. If your dog is
anxious, you’ll want to seek out remedies, as this can lead to destructive behavior.
WHY IS MY DOG ANXIOUS?
If your dog has fear-based anxiety, it may be because of:
● A lack of proper socialization
● Trauma early in life, like being separated from their mother too early
● A previous unpleasant encounter, like a dog fight
● Genetics6
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF FEAR-RELATED STRESS IN DOGS?
● Mild fear reactions: trembling, tail tucked, hiding, lethargy
● Panic: actively trying to escape, abnormally hyperactive activity
● Diarrhea
● Peeing inside
● Licking or biting their own body, which could lead to skin lesions on the dog’s
body7
If your dog is showing signs of anxiety, continue reading for ideas that might help.
AGING-RELATED ANXIETY
As dogs age, they can become more anxious. Your dog’s health is changing. Their
senses of hearing, sight, and smell may be weakening. And they can start to feel less
secure in their bodies.
SYMPTOMS OF AGING-RELATED ANXIETY
Older dogs may show signs of anxiety like:
● Panting
● Licking
● Shaking
● Pacing
● Changes in appetite or sleep
● Clingy behavior
● Urination in the house8
To help your senior dog, maintain their regular routine. A predictable schedule can be
calming for your furry friend. Don’t force them to do things that make them anxious, like
meet new people or dogs. Allow your older dog to approach strangers on their own if
they choose to.
ANXIETY CAUSED BY ILLNESS
If your dog suddenly becomes anxious and fearful, first rule out a medical condition.
Certain thyroid issues or internal inflammation can trigger anxiety in an otherwise calm
dog. Your vet can help determine if there is a medical issue.
You’ll also want to make sure your dog’s gut health is in tip top shape. The bacteria that
live in your dog’s gut can affect their mood and behavior. Gut bacteria produces
different chemicals. Some of these chemicals have calming effects and others can
cause stress and anxiety. When your dog’s gut is imbalanced, their mood typically is
too!
WHAT CAN DOG OWNERS GIVE THEIR PETS FOR ANXIETY?
If your pet suffers from anxiety, naturally you’ll want to help them! There are many
natural remedies you can try. We recommend going the natural route, unless your dog’s
anxiety is so severe that your vet is worried about their well-being.
NATURAL REMEDIES FOR ANXIETY
If you go to a conventional vet to treat anxiety, their first solution might be to prescribe
an anti-anxiety medication. Tell your vet you’re interested in trying natural remedies first.
They may even give you great recommendations.
Don’t be afraid to ask around and get a second opinion if your vet prescribes something.
Always speak with a vet you trust before you try medicating your anxious dog in any
way.
HERE ARE SEVERAL IDEAS FOR NATURAL, SAFE ANXIETY REMEDIES:
Probiotics can balance the bacteria in your dog’s gut, improve mood, and strengthen
the immune system.
CBD treats and oil have been shown to reduce anxiety by boosting serotonin. CBD
can also help reduce inflammation and pain – which can cause anxiety. It’s important to
note that CBD (cannabidiol) comes from the hemp plant, but it contains no THC or
psychoactive properties.17
Herbs like chamomile, valerian, and St. John’s Wort can act as mild sedatives that
might help calm your dog. These herbs can be made into a tea and added to your dog’s
diet, used as a tincture, or given in capsule form. 9
Homeopathic remedies, like aconitum, ignatia, or nux vomica can help with fear-based
phobias. If you’d like to go this route, ask your vet what they’d recommend. 10
Essential oils can help dogs calm down. Grab a diffuser and try oils like lavender,
cedarwood, and frankincense. You can also put a few drops in your hands and give
your anxious dog a calming massage.11 Many essential oils can be harmful to dogs, so
always do your research first and choose a dog-safe oil.
Hydrosols, or water infused with therapeutic flowers, stems, or leaves may help with
your dog’s anxiety. You can make these yourself, or order them. Add it to your dog’s
shampoo, spritz it on their coat, or sprinkle it onto their food. 12
Dog Appeasing Pheromone (DAP) is a synthetic chemical that mimics the hormone
produced by female lactating dogs. You can put this in a diffuser. 13
The Thundershirt is a popular solution for anxious dogs who get stressed around loud
noises. It’s a garment that fits tightly around your pet and can help calm them down.
ANXIETY MEDICATION FOR DOGS

If your dog is suffering from severe anxiety, you and your vet may decide that
prescription medication is the best solution. Medicating your dog will be a process. Dogs
typically need to be treated for at least a few weeks before you’ll be able to know if the
medication is effective.14
After that, some dogs can be weaned off the medication. Others may require lifelong
treatment. Prescription medications should only be considered as a last resort for your
pet.
Your veterinarian will recommend a medication based on the type of anxiety your dog
suffers from. Pet parents can help by closely observing their dogs and sharing their
triggers with the vet.
Some medications your veterinarian might prescribe are:
● Alprazolam, common for dogs with anxiety around thunderstorms
● Amitriptyline, an anti-depressant for dogs with separation anxiety
● Buspirone, a medication for dogs who get anxious around other dogs
● Clomicalm, another medication that can be calming for dogs with separation
anxiety
● Sileo, a medication for dogs with noise aversion
Before you go with prescription medication, your vet might also try an over-the-counter
remedy like Benadryl. Benadryl for dogs can make Fido drowsy, which might help with
anxiety.
THE IMPORTANCE OF TRAINING FOR ANXIOUS DOGS
Dog anxiety medication is not a magic bullet! Some remedies can treat symptoms of
anxiety. But to truly help your dog, you also need to address the cause. If your dog is
showing anxious behavior, we recommend you also bring in an experienced positive
reinforcement trainer.
ONCE YOUR TRAINER IS ABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF YOUR DOG’S
ANXIETY, THEY’LL WORK ON THINGS LIKE:
● Desentization for fear-based anxiety. Your trainer will help your pup get
comfortable with the things that stress them out.
● Counter conditioning. Your trainer will help your dog “unlearn” some of their
phobias and form positive associations with their triggers.
● Separation anxiety training. The trainer will work with you to help your dog learn
to be alone.
If a professional dog trainer isn’t in your budget right now, you can always pick up a
book or watch YouTube videos and try it yourself. Make sure the trainer you learn from
is reputable and experienced. Always go with force-free positive reinforcement when
dealing with an anxious dog.
STAY CALM AND LOOK AT THE BIG PICTURE
Whether you try natural remedies, probiotics, CBD, or prescription meds, make sure
you understand the source of your dog’s stress and anxiety. Medication alone may not
solve the problem.
If your dog has an underlying medical issue, like imbalanced gut bacteria, you’ll want to
address this first. Many times, improving your dog’s health through better food and
supplements can make behavior problems go away on their own.
Find an experienced behavior modification dog trainer who can help you get to the root
of the problem.
MANY PHOBIAS ARE LEARNED. WITH PROPER TRAINING, THEY CAN BE
“UNLEARNED.”
Stay positive. Harsh punishments can only make the situation worse.
Above all else, approach the situation with love and understanding. Living with anxiety
is tough for your dog – and it’s no picnic for you, either. It can be hard to remain calm,
especially if your furry friend is destroying your house. But remaining calm can help set
a positive example.
-----------------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/dog-coughing/
WHY IS MY DOG COUGHING – IS IT KENNEL COUGH?
Dog coughing is typically nothing to worry about when it happens sporadically. But if
your dog’s cough is persistent, or it sounds strange – listen up. It may be a sign of a
mild to severe underlying health condition.
TYPES OF COUGHING IN DOGS
When your dog is coughing, pay close attention to what the cough sounds like. If you
can identify specific environmental triggers, make a note of that too. Your vet will use
this information, along with factors like your dog’s health, breed, age, and typical activity
level, to help treat your dog’s condition.
1. KENNEL COUGH
Kennel cough in dogs (also known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis) is a highly
contagious upper respiratory infection. With kennel cough, the trachea airway and
bronchial tubes are typically infected.1 It’s similar to the common cold in humans. Unlike
the common cold, though, kennel cough is rarely spread to humans. 2
Several viruses and bacteria can cause kennel cough in dogs, often at the same time.
These include:
● Bordetella bacterium
● Bordetella bronchiseptica
● Adenovirus type-2
● Canine coronavirus
● Canine parainfluenza virus3
Dogs with this condition typically have bursts of a harsh, dry hacking cough, which may
be followed by retching or gagging. 4 Kennel cough symptoms are usually accompanied
by other cold-like symptoms.
OTHER SYMPTOMS OF KENNEL COUGH IN DOGS
● A strong, “honking” cough – the most obvious symptom
● Watery nasal discharge
● Sneezing
● Lethargy
● Loss of appetite
● A low fever5
If your dog was recently in daycare, a dog park, or a training class, they may have
contracted bacteria or viruses that cause kennel cough there.
The infection spreads fast, but it’s also highly treatable. Be sure to call your vet right
away. Other conditions, like canine distemper, can have similar symptoms. You’ll want
to know for sure what you’re dealing with. 6
2. COUGHING FROM ALLERGIES
Just like humans, dogs are susceptible to seasonal, environmental, and food allergies.
They can also have respiratory allergies or asthma. If your dog is reacting to allergens,
you may notice a wheezing, sneezing type of cough. It likely won’t be the only
symptom.7
OTHER SYMPTOMS OF DOG ALLERGIES TO WATCH OUT FOR
● Red, inflamed, itchy skin – the most common symptom
● Sneezing
● Diarrhea
● Vomiting
● Itchy, runny eyes
● Licking or nibbling at the skin
● Swelling of the face, ears, lips, eyelids, or earflaps 8
If you think your dog has allergies, call your vet. They can determine what allergens
your dog is reacting to so you can help your dog avoid them.
3. GAGGING COUGH
If you notice that your dog has a high-pitched, gagging cough, they may have a sore
throat or tonsillitis (which is fairly uncommon). A sore throat cough is usually
accompanied by repeated swallowing and lip-licking.
There’s also a chance that your pet swallowed something that is stuck in their throat
and blocking the airway. If you think this could be the case, call your vet immediately.
Foreign bodies in your dog’s throat can make breathing difficult. 9
4. WET COUGH
If your dog’s cough sounds wet and phlegmy, it may be a sign of mucus in the lungs. If
your dog has a wet cough, breathing will be difficult, even when they aren’t coughing.
This is typically a sign of pneumonia. Call your vet right away.
OTHER SYMPTOMS OF PNEUMONIA
● A high fever
● Difficulty breathing
● Lethargy, lack of endurance during exercise
● Nasal discharge
● Weight loss
● Dehydration10
Pneumonia can be caused by a bacteria, virus, parasites, fungi, or inhalation of a

foreign material. Older dogs, puppies, and dogs with weakened immune systems are at
a higher risk.11
5. CHRONIC COUGHING
If your dog seems to be coughing non-stop, they may be suffering from chronic
bronchitis. Chronic bronchitis occurs when the tubes that move air from the trachea to
the lungs become inflamed. Bronchitis can be acute or chronic. 12
OTHER SYMPTOMS OF BRONCHITIS
● Rapid breathing, difficulty breathing, or shortness of breath
● Gagging or retching
● Anorexia
● Lethargy
● Fever
COUGHING IN SMALL BREED DOGS

If your toy breed is coughing and it sounds weirdly like a goose honk, they may have a
collapsed trachea. This happens when the cartilage around the trachea weakens, the
trachea collapses on itself, and the large airways become blocked. Small breed dogs
are more likely to experience this than large breeds.13
OTHER SEVERE SYMPTOMS OF COLLAPSED TRACHEA & AIRWAY COLLAPSE
● Blue-tinged gums
● Shortness of breath
● Retching
● Exercise intolerance
EASING YOUR DOG’S COUGH

The occasional cough is no cause for alarm. But if your dog has a persistent, hacking
cough with additional symptoms, you’ll want to call your vet. Before your veterinarian
examines your dog’s body, they might ask you questions, like:
● What does the cough sound like?
● How long has it been going on?
● Are they experiencing any other symptoms?
● Is your dog allergic to anything?
● Is your dog up to date on the bordetella vaccine? Heartworm medication?

If the cough is severe, your vet might recommend cough suppressants. If your dog has
kennel cough, a sore throat, tonsillitis, or pneumonia, your vet will likely prescribe
antibiotics. For a viral infection, like chronic bronchitis or canine influenza, your vet
might advise you to make your dog comfortable and wait it out.
HOW TO SUPPORT YOUR DOG’S RECOVERY
While your dog recovers, feel free to baby them! Create a healing environment at home
to give your pet the best possible chance for improvement.
● Provide excellent nutrition from high quality, all-natural dog food.
● Provide a clean, warm, sanitary environment free of irritants, like cigarette
smoke.
● Make sure your dog has a quiet place to rest.
● Avoid all known allergens in the environment and food.
● Help your dog lose weight if they are obese.
● A natural daily supplement may help boost their immune system.
● Natural remedies, like manuka honey and coconut oil, may help ease symptoms.
MAKING SURE THE COUGH STAYS AWAY

Once your pet has recovered, the best thing you can do for your furry friend is to help
them get strong so they’re less likely to get sick again.
Your vet may offer an intranasal vaccine to prevent future cases of kennel cough. For
your part, you’ll want to keep them healthy with all natural, balanced diet. Including a
natural supplement may help boost their immune system, making it less likely they’ll
catch a cold or the flu virus in the future.
And all that babying you did to help them recover? Well, no one says you have to stop
doing that now that their cough is gone. It just may become your new routine.
----------------------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/dog-red-eyes/
WHAT ARE SOME POSSIBLE CAUSES OF RED EYES IN DOGS?
If your dog has red eyes, should you be concerned? It depends. Sometimes, red eyes
will clear up on their own within a few hours. If the redness lasts for more than a day,
and your dog is showing other symptoms, like eye discharge, obvious eye irritation, or
tear stains, call your vet.
When it comes to your dog’s vision, you don’t want to mess around. Even the
most minor eye injury should be attended to. If discovered right away, eye drops can
help clear up many eye problems.
But if left untreated, eye issues can escalate and lead to vision loss or blindness. When
in doubt, always call your vet!
WHAT CAUSES RED EYES IN DOGS?
If you notice that your dog has red eyes, it may be due to one of these causes:
● Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
● Corneal issues
● An injury caused by trauma, fighting, or rough play
● Dry eye
● Glaucoma
● Chemical burns
● Allergies
● Viruses
CONJUNCTIVITIS IN DOGS (PINK EYE)

If one or both of your dog’s eyes are red, there’s a chance they have conjunctivitis, aka
pink eye. Conjunctivitis is common in dogs. If you’ve ever contracted pink eye, you’ll
recognize the redness, mucusy discharge, and crustiness around the eye. 1
Pink eye can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection, allergies, or an injury that
becomes infected. If it’s caused by a bacteria or virus, use caution – it’s contagious.
Experts are split on whether or not humans can catch it from dogs. 2
More commonly, dogs get conjunctivitis from allergies.3 Allergic conjunctivitis is not
contagious, but should still be treated by a veterinarian. Check for other symptoms of
pink eye, and call your vet.
OTHER SYMPTOMS OF PINK EYE
● Eye discharge that resembles mucus or pus
● Swelling and irritation around the eyeball and eyelid
● Pawing at the eye4
VETERINARY CARE FOR ANIMAL CONJUNCTIVITIS

Your vet will examine your pup and ask you questions in an attempt to determine the
cause of conjunctivitis. They may prescribe antibiotic eye drops for a bacterial infection,
artificial tears for a viral infection, or antihistamines for allergies. 5
CORNEAL INFLAMMATION (KERATITIS) & ULCERS
Keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea. 6 This can lead to corneal scarring, dry eye,
and very commonly, ulcers. An ulcer develops when part of the cornea is eroded or
scratched. Keratitis and ulcers can lead to loss of vision if untreated. 7
SYMPTOMS OF CORNEA ISSUES
Beyond dog red eyes, you may see:
● Visible blood vessels in the cornea
● Eye discharge, mucus-like or white, in the corners of the eye
● If ulcers are present, you’ll notice watery eyes and a lot of blinking 8
WHAT TO DO ABOUT CORNEA ISSUES

Call your vet. They’ll want to do a thorough examination to see if there are underlying
health issues or any ulcers. Brachycephalic breeds, like pugs, boxers, and Pekingese
are more likely to develop ulcers.
AN INJURY CAUSED BY FIGHTING, TRAUMA, OR ROUGH PLAY
Did your pet recently have an over-enthusiastic romp around the dog park? Playing or
fighting with other dogs can lead to eye injuries. Eye injuries can be damaging on their
own. But they can also become infected and lead to a condition like conjunctivitis. 10
OTHER SYMPTOMS OF EYE INJURY
In some cases, you’ll be able to plainly see that your dog’s eye is injured. You might
notice a scratch on the eyeball, a torn eyelid, or bruising around the eye. In other cases,
you won’t see the injury, but you’ll notice them holding their eye closed, squinting, or
light sensitivity.11
Eye injuries can range from tame to severe. Seek treatment from your vet right away.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT AN EYE INJURY CAUSED BY TRAUMA
If you can see a scratch on the eyeball or a tear in the eyelid, cover the area with a cold
compress and call your vet. If you have an Elizabethan collar on hand (aka a cone), put
it on to prevent further damage.12
Your vet may also recommend that you flush the eye with water.
DRY EYES
Tears help lubricate and protect a dog’s eyes. When their tear ducts aren’t working
properly, their eyes can dry out. This dryness, called keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS),
can cause the cornea and other eye tissues to become inflamed and red. 13
SYMPTOMS
A pet with keratoconjunctivitis sicca may show these symptoms:
● Redness, pain, and irritation of the eyeball
● Frequent blinking
● Excessive squinting
● Holding the eyes shut
● A thick, yellowish, mucus-like discharge14
WHAT TO DO ABOUT DRY EYES

Call your veterinarian as soon as you notice a problem. Your vet will want to diagnose
your dog and may need to do a few tests. They will likely recommend eye drops,
artificial tears, a saline solution, or an eye ointment. 15
GLAUCOMA
Dogs get glaucoma when their eye fluid doesn’t drain properly and pressure builds up.
This can be caused by something that blocks the eye’s drainage system, like debris or
scar tissue caused by an injury like anterior uveitis.
Glaucoma can also be genetic. Some dog breeds are more likely to have drainage
problems that cause glaucoma.16
BREEDS MORE LIKELY TO GET GLAUCOMA
● Cocker Spaniels
● Fox Terriers
● Great Danes
● Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, Akitas
● Poodles
● Chow Chows17
SYMPTOMS OF GLAUCOMA
● Eye pain
● Watery discharge from the eye

● Redness in the blood vessels in the whites of the eyes
● Swelling and bulging of the eyeball
● Lethargy or unresponsiveness
● Cloudy appearance
WHAT TO DO IF YOU SEE THESE SYMPTOMS

Call your vet immediately, as glaucoma can lead to blindness if left untreated. They may
recommend pressure-reducing medications, beta blockers, or surgery. 18
CHEMICAL BURNS
Dogs can get chemical burns fairly easily by eating or exposing themselves to toxins
like:
● Bleach
● Laundry detergent
● Other household cleaning products
● Fertilizer or pesticides
The severity of the burn depends on the strength of the toxin, whether it was inhaled,
ingested, or absorbed into the skin. If one of these chemicals got in or near your dog’s
eye, that could be the cause of the redness. 19
WHAT TO DO ABOUT A CHEMICAL BURN
If you suspect your dog has a chemical burn, call your vet immediately. They may
advise you to flush their eyes with clean water before you bring them in for an exam. 20
ALLERGIES
It’s quite common for dogs to get red eyes from breathing in environmental allergens
like dust, pollen, and mold.21 They can also get red eyes from diet-related allergens, like
some types of protein, corn, wheat, soy, or dairy.22
SYMPTOMS OF ALLERGIES
Along with red eyes, if your pet is having an allergic reaction, you may also notice:
● Itchy skin
● Intense scratching or nibbling at the skin
● Coughing, sneezing, or wheezing
● Runny discharge from the eyes or nose23

ALLERGY RELIEF
If you suspect your dog is suffering from allergies, call your vet for advice. You might be
able to ease allergies at home with natural histamine-balancing supplements and
omega-3 supplements. That, along with avoiding the allergen in question, may be all
you need.
Your vet may prescribe antihistamines or corticosteroids, or recommend a cream or
spray that can help.
VIRUS
A virus, like canine distemper, hepatitis, or canine influenza may also cause redness in
your dog’s eyes. If a viral infection is the cause of your dog’s red eyes, other symptoms
will likely be more pronounced.
OTHER SYMPTOMS OF A VIRUS
● Coughing or sneezing
● Eye discharge
● Weakness, lethargy
● Fever
● Vomiting or diarrhea24
In the case of a virus, call your vet. If possible, you’ll want to address the underlying
cause of the sickness as soon as possible. Some viruses must pass on their own. If this
is the case, make sure you feed your dog the best possible diet while they recover.
OTHER CAUSES OF RED EYES
● Objects in the eye. Unlike humans, dogs have a third eyelid that can easily trap
debris. You may not be able to see it, but your dog will squint and paw at their
eye if something is in there. Call your vet. 25
● Cherry Eye. Cherry eye is the common term for prolapse of the third eyelid
gland. You’ll see a red, swollen mass on your dog’s lower eyelid. 26 Call your vet.
● Uveitis. This painful inflammation of certain parts of your dog’s eye causes red
eyes and discharge. Call your vet.27
● Optic Nerve Swelling. This rare condition can cause blindness. Call your vet if
you think your pet is having a hard time seeing.28

WHAT YOU CAN DO ABOUT YOUR DOG’S RED EYES
You may have noticed a common refrain here and it’s this: call your vet! There are so
many potential causes of red eyes in dogs that you’ll want to be sure you identify the
right one. In many cases, your dog’s red eye will clear up on their own. But if there’s an
underlying health condition, you’ll be glad you called your vet as soon as you noticed it.
PREVENTING RED EYES
Eye problems can be difficult to prevent, as many come from bacteria or viruses in the
environment.
Your best defense is to focus on strengthening your dog’s overall health. Feed your dog
a high quality, all natural dog food. Include the right supplements.
Stay on top of exercise and grooming. A healthy dog can fight infections so they
don’t take over, and they can bounce back if they do.
DIET AND SUPPLEMENTS
Never underestimate the power of strengthening your dog’s immune system with a
balanced, nutritious diet. This can be one of the best ways to help keep red eyes (or any
other dog health issue) from occurring.
In addition, a daily natural supplement that contains ingredients like Juvecol, Quercetin,
and Nettle Leaf can help regulate histamine production, reduce inflammation and
promote better eye health.
EXERCISE
Your dog needs regular exercise to stay healthy. As a rule of thumb, your pup should go
out on a walk with you every single day. Every dog is different, of course. Seek out
recommendations for your breed, or ask your vet.
GROOMING
Yes, grooming can help keep infections away! Dirt, debris, fleas, ticks, and mites –
which can all cause infections, can be kept at bay with regular washing.
Grooming your dog also allows you to stay in tune with your dog’s health so you can
alert your vet right away if something is amiss.
-----------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/whale-eye/
WHAT IS WHALE EYE AND WHAT DOES IT MEAN?
Have you ever heard the term “whale eye” and wondered what the heck it means?
Whale eye is that look your dog gives you when they’re looking away with their face and
making eye contact with their eyes.
It’s kind of like side eye for humans. When a dog is giving you the whale eye, you can
see the whites of their eyes.
DOG COMMUNICATION 101
Okay, but what does it mean? To understand whale eye, you should know that dogs
have an entire system of “secret signals” that can help us understand them. It’s true!
Dog communication cues like yawning, lip licking, and looking away all mean specific
things for dogs.
Dogs use body language to communicate with each other all the time. But when they try
those same expressions on humans, we often miss the memo. If we want to better
understand our pets and predict dog behavior, we need to study up on dog
communication.
Here’s a perfect example of why. Whale eye looks adorable, right? Without knowing any
better, you might just snap a photo and post it on Instagram.
BUT WHALE EYE IS USUALLY A SIGN THAT YOUR CANINE FEELS

UNCOMFORTABLE, ANXIOUS, OR STRESSED.
It some cases, it happens right before a dog growls and bites. 1

THE MEANING OF WHALE EYE
YOUR DOG IS FEELING THREATENED
Dogs’ eyes will appear more white in stressful situations (or situations that they deem
stressful). If they feel threatened – either by you, another person, or another dog, you
may see them make eye contact and give you whale eyes. If the situation escalates,
they may growl or even bite.
WHEN YOUR DOG IS NOT FEELING THREATENED
● YOU REINFORCED THE BEHAVIOR
If your dog makes this face while you’re playing, and you smile and give them attention,
you may have reinforced this dog behavior. In this case, your dog is just being a ham.
Expect to see it again and again – many dogs will repeat behaviors that get a good
reaction.
● IT’S NOT REALLY WHALE EYE
Sometimes, the whale eye look is by accident. Say you’re playing with your pup, and
you throw a toy to one side. Your dog might face the toy and then look up at you to see
if you’re going to grab it. By default, they’re giving you the side-eye.
But if you see your canine’s tail wagging and their face is relaxed with their mouth open,
rest assured, that’s a happy, playful pup! 2
HOW TO INTERPRET WHALE EYE
If you’re trying to understand the emotions behind the whale eye facial expression, look
for other signs of stress and fear.
● Stiff, tense, “frozen” body and tail
● Tucked tail
● Ears out, to the side or back
● Appeasement signals (like lip licking or yawning)
● Dilated pupils
● Indirect staring or direct eye contact
● Hair standing up along the spine
● Closed mouth
● Growling3
WHEN YOU MIGHT SEE WHALE EYE…

Here are a few common situations that might lead to whale eye.
1. IF YOU YELL AT YOUR DOG
If your pup chews something up and you run over yelling, your dog may give your whale
eyes. Humans often mistake this for a look of “guilt.” It’s not.
What your dog is actually reacting to is your aggressive energy and eye contact – both
things that make them feel stressed. They are doing their best to appear submissive to
try to calm you down. Look for other appeasement signals like lip licking, yawning, or a
full body shake.4
2. IF SOMEONE IS HUGGING YOUR DOG
Many dogs don’t like to be hugged in the way that people do. 5 If someone – especially a
child who might have less boundaries – is hugging your dog and you see whale eyes,
break it up. Best case scenario? The dog is uncomfortable. Worst case? The dog might
snap and bite.
Remember to look for other telling stress signals, like a closed mouth or low growl.
3. IF THEY ARE “PROTECTING” SOMETHING
If a person or dog is getting too close to your dog’s favorite thing – a bone, a toy, or
even you – they might make whale eyes.
Look for other signs of stress, like a closed, tense body, and tucked tail. This is called
resource guarding, and it’s a common cause for whale eyes.6
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO WHEN YOU SEE WHALE EYE?
IF YOUR PUP IS PLAYING…
If you’re pretty sure your dog is being silly or playing, there’s really nothing to worry
about.
IF YOUR PUP IS REACTING TO SOMETHING IN THE ENVIRONMENT…
If your dog is reacting to something stressful in the environment (like that
aforementioned hugger), do what you can to make the situation less stressful for your
dog. Often it’s as simple as moving your dog away from the thing that is making them
anxious.
You may want to practice desensitization if you notice that your dog has
developed a fear of something. Pay attention to what’s causing the fear, and slowly
introduce it in a low-pressure way.
For example, you could very lightly hug your dog, let go, and give them a treat as a way
to prepare for unwanted hugs. Call a positive reinforcement trainer for help with this.
IF YOUR PUP IS RESOURCE GUARDING…
If your dog regularly makes whale eyes around food, a bone, or a toy when you
approach, don’t ignore it. They may have a resource guarding issue.
In the moment, you can deal with this by redirecting your dog’s attention to something
else and removing the object when they are distracted. If another dog, or a child, comes
over to play, remove all bones, toys, and food bowls.
YOU’LL WANT TO WORK WITH A QUALIFIED POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT

TRAINER ON RESOURCE GUARDING ISSUES.
Dogs with this issue are likely to show aggression and bite (yes, even your sweet dog!)
so do not delay.
A good trainer will work with your dog over a few sessions and then show you how to
continue the training on your own. Your dog is still a very good dog, they may just need
a little help!
---------------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/plants-poisonous-dogs/
MOST COMMON PLANTS THAT ARE POISONOUS TO DOGS
Do you know what plants are poisonous to dogs? When it comes to keeping your dog
safe, you’re likely vigilant about chocolate, grapes, and xylitol. But have you looked at
your garden? Plants poisonous to dogs are everywhere – English ivy, Oleander, and
oak trees, for example, may already be in your backyard.
Some of these toxic plants can cause mild symptoms, like vomiting and diarrhea, but
others can do extreme liver and heart damage. To keep your dog safe, make sure you
learn about poisonous plants for dogs and avoid planting them where your dog roams.
ALOE VERA
Humans can use aloe vera to soothe everything from sunburns to irritable bowel
syndrome. Even though this is an organic, natural remedy, it is not considered entirely
safe for animals.
Some uses are okay – apply it topically to treat your dog’s hotspots or wounds, for
example. But if you apply it as a salve, make sure your dog can’t lick the area. 1
Turns out, aloe vera leaves contain a chemical called saponin, which is toxic to both
animals and children if ingested. Aloe also contains latex, which is a powerful laxative
that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and extreme dehydration. 2
Level of toxicity: mild to moderate3
SYMPTOMS:
Soon after ingestion, you may see these signs of irritation:
● Gastrointestinal upset
● Abnormal heart rate
● Difficulty breathing
● Refusing to eat
● Dark urine
● Depression
● Diarrhea
● Vomiting
● Dilated pupils
● Lethargy
● Skin irritation (bumps, flaky skin, and hair loss)
AZALEAS
Azaleas are vibrant flowering shrubs that can be extremely toxic to dogs and other
animals if ingested. Its leaves and stems contain a cardiovascular toxin called
grayanotoxin that’s capable of weakening your dog’s heartbeat to the point of coma or
death.4
While pretty, azaleas and other varieties of rhododendrons are toxic to dogs and should
be avoided in any garden where the family has pets.
Level of toxicity: Extremely poisonous to pets. Should be considered an emergency. 5
SYMPTOMS:
● Vomiting
● Diarrhea
● Weakness
● Cardiac failure6
DAFFODIL
Every part of the sunny, yellow daffodil, including the petals, stems, leaves, and bulbs,
is toxic if ingested.
Daffodils contain lycorine, an alkaloid that can trigger vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain,
and even heartbeat irregularities. The bulbs contain the most concentrated amount of
lycorine. As such, they’re the most dangerous part of the plant.
If you have daffodils in your garden, and your dog likes to dig, you might consider
getting rid of them. These poisonous plants for dogs can cause harm if your pup digs up
the bulbs, bites the leaves, or even brushes up against the plant. 7
Level of toxicity: mild to moderate
SYMPTOMS:
● Excessive drooling
● Nausea
● Vomiting
● Diarrhea
● Increased heart rate
● Abdominal pain
● Abnormal breathing
● Tremors and cardiac arrhythmias8
PHILODENDRON
Philodendron is a large genus of tropical plants that are popular because they have
interesting foliage and they’re easy to care for. Unfortunately, these indoor plants
contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can’t be digested by the body. 9
If your pup chews or swallows a philodendron, these sharp crystals can cause extreme
irritation and pain. Ouch! Because it’s immediately painful, your pup likely won’t swallow
a large amount of the plant. But if they do, you’ll need to call your veterinarian right
away.
Level of toxicity: mild to moderate
SYMPTOMS:
● Pain and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips
● Excessive drooling
● Vomiting
● Diarrhea
● Hoarse barking
● Tremors10
SAGO PALM
The Sago Palm is often kept as a houseplant for its exotic, tropical vibe. All parts of the
Sago Palm are poisonous, but the seeds are the most toxic to pets. 11 The Sago Palm
toxin, called cycasin, can cause severe liver damage.
Level of toxicity: severe
SYMPTOMS:
As soon as 15 minutes after ingestion:
● Vomiting
● Diarrhea
● Decreased appetite
● Blood in feces (black tarry stools)
● Nose bleeds
● Lethargy
● Icterus (yellow coloration of skin and gums)
● Ascites (accumulation of fluid in the abdomen)

● Abdominal pain
● Increased thirst and urination
● Bruising
● Neurological signs (depression, circling, paralysis, seizures, coma) 12
OTHER POISONOUS PLANTS FOR DOGS

Over 500 plants are recognized as toxic to dogs. The ASPCA also notes that the
consumption of any plant can cause vomiting and gastrointestinal upset. 13 Here’s a list
of some of the most popular plants poisonous to dogs.14
Visit the ASPCA Animal Poison Control website for a more complete list.
HERBS, VEGETABLES, & EDIBLE PLANTS
● Chamomile
● Chives
● Garlic
● Hops
● Leeks
● Marijuana
● Onions & Shallots
● Rhubarb
● Tomato Plants
FLOWERS, VINES, & FERNS
● Amaryllis
● Asparagus Fern
● Autumn Crocus
● Begonia
● Laceflower
● Bleeding Heart
● Buttercup
● Castor Bean
● Chrysanthemum
● Clematis
● Cyclamen
● Foxglove
● Geranium
● Gladiola
● Hosta
● Iris
● Ivy
● Larkspur
● Lily
● Lily of the Valley
● Monkshood
● Morning Glory
● Periwinkle
● Primrose
● Star of Bethlehem
● Sweet Pea
● Tulip/Narcissus
● Wisteria
● Yarrow
TREES & SHRUBS
● Apple Tree
● Apricot Tree
● Bead Tree
● Burning Bush
● Cherry Tree
● Hydrangea
● Oleander
● Peach Tree
● Plum Tree
● Winterberry Holly
● Yew
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR DOG EATS PLANTS POISONOUS TO DOGS

If your dog is showing any symptoms of poisoning from a toxic plant, like vomiting,
difficulty breathing, or tremors, take action right away. Your dog’s health depends on it.
Either call your veterinarian or the 24-hour emergency ASPCA Animal Poison Control
Center: (888) 426-4435.
-----------------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/dog-constipation-symptoms/
SYMPTOMS OF DOG CONSTIPATION
Dec 10, 2018 | 0 comments
Dog constipation, just like human constipation, is an extremely frustrating condition.
Fortunately, it’s usually pretty easy to tell if this is happening to your beloved
companion. What can you do if your pup is constipated?
These are just some of the symptoms of dog constipation, and ways you can address
the problem so your dog can get back to normal as fast as possible.
WHAT IS DOG CONSTIPATION?
Dog constipation occurs when your pet is unable to produce stool normally. Just like
people, dogs often have a typical schedule of when they poop, and it usually happens
one or two times each day. When your dog is constipated, this schedule gets
completely out of whack.
While dog constipation is normally associated with a lack of stool production, it can
actually occur when there is too much stool in the bowel. A condition known as
“obstipation” occurs when there is so much stool in the digestive system that the dog is
unable to pass it at all.1
WHY DOG CONSTIPATION OCCURS
Fecal matter usually moves smoothly through your dog’s digestive tract. Once it
reaches the colon, your dog’s body absorbs electrolytes and water from stool. The
material then moves through the colon, a process known as peristalsis.
IF SOMETHING HAPPENS TO EITHER SLOW OR DISRUPT PERISTALSIS, FECAL
MATTER BECOMES HARD AND DRY BECAUSE IT LOSES TOO MUCH
MOISTURE.
It then becomes difficult, or even impossible, for your dog to pass it. That’s when the
symptoms of dog constipation start to show up. 2
There are several different causes behind the symptoms of dog constipation. If dog
constipation is the result of a blockage occurring inside the colon, that is known as
intraluminal constipation. Extraluminal dog constipation refers to an obstruction that
develops outside of the colon. If the condition occurs due to a nerve injury or disease,
that is known as intrinsic constipation.3
One of the more common reasons why the symptoms of dog constipation develop is a
dog’s diet. Not getting enough fiber may increase the likelihood of your dog becoming
constipated. And certain sources of calcium, such as bones or bone meal, can
sometimes contribute to the problem. Additionally, dogs are well known for ingesting
non-food items, such as small toys. This can lead to a blockage that makes it
impossible for your pup to poop. But the main cause of constipation is typically diet. 4
Other factors can lead to the development of constipation symptoms. Older dogs, for
instance, are at more of a risk. If dogs don’t get enough exercise, that can slow down
peristalsis. Dehydration and certain medications can also cause symptoms to occur.
Stress can sometimes bring on symptoms as well. 5
SIGNS YOUR DOG IS CONSTIPATED
Again, the symptoms of dog constipation are usually obvious. One of the more common
symptoms is the production of small, dry stools that are very hard. 6 Other common
symptoms of dog constipation include lack of a bowel movement for a day or two and/or
straining to poop with hardly anything to show for it. If your dog does this, they may
have a problem known as tenesmus. Some dogs with tenesmus will only be able to
produce a small number of liquid feces. In some instances, blood may be mixed in with
the feces.7
There are other signs to watch out for as well. If your dog scoots their bottom along the
ground, walks in circles, or cries out, that could mean your pet is having a hard time
passing feces. Other signs include vomiting, a lack of appetite, and weight loss. In some
cases, a dog will growl or cry if you press on the abdomen or lower portion of their
back.8
ADDRESSING YOUR DOG’S SYMPTOMS
If your pet is showing symptoms of dog constipation, you’ve got several options to help
offer relief. Not all dogs are alike. What might reduce symptoms in one dog might not
work for another. But as long as you talk to your vet, and they say it’s safe to do so,
there are a few things you might be able to try at home.
Try giving your dog some pumpkin. Pumpkin not only helps dogs with constipation, it
also helps dogs that have diarrhea and go too much. Dogs love the taste of pumpkin,
and it has the fiber and moisture content they need to get back to being regular. 9
Another method of dealing with a constipated dog is to try to make sure they get more
exercise. This will help promote normal bowel movement. It could even provide a
psychological boost. Additionally, if your dog is walking in areas where other pets have
defecated, this could help trigger their urge to poop. Remember to keep your dog well
hydrated before and after the walk.10
THE BOTTOM LINE
If your dog is showing the signs of being constipated, don’t panic. This is a normal
occurrence that happens to a lot of pets. If, however, you can’t fix the issue at home,
and your dog’s symptoms last for more than a few days, get them to a veterinarian. A
vet will perform tests to get to the cause of the issue and then determine the best
course of action. This could mean medications, supplements, or recommending a
different type of diet for a little while. If need be, your vet can perform more involved
medical intervention.
--------------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/dog-game/
PLAY THIS GAME FOR A SHARPER DOG
Jan 10, 2019 | 0 comments
I want to share my 3 pups’ favorite game.
They go absolutely crazy for this game — plus it’s made them more alert and more
focused.
As you know, active playtime is key to keeping your pup mentally enriched…
And for strengthening your bond even further.
That’s why, when it comes to playtime, we always go for one game in particular…
It’s a game I like to call: Hidden Treasure.
Hidden Treasure is similar to that sleight-of-hand magic trick that we humans like to play
— but it’s a lot more fun.
To get started, you’ll need 5 empty containers (like old Tupperware you don’t mind your
dog playing with) and a healthy treat.
HERE’S HOW TO PLAY:
1. Place your containers upside down on the ground.
2. Hide a bit of treat underneath one of the containers — and make sure your dog is
watching! I recommend making a big show of rearranging them.
(It may be helpful to have them “sit” while you do this.)
3. Encourage your pup to sniff around the containers to find the hidden treat.
4. Once your furry friend finds the right container, give them the treat and a ton of praise
so they know they’ve won.
(A little love and a few ear scratches will help them learn the rules faster and give them
even MORE motivation to play!)
5. Once your dog learns the rules, try making it even more challenging for your clever
pup by placing the containers further and further apart.
(TIP: I LIKE TO BREAK A SINGLE TREAT INTO MULTIPLE PIECES TO KEEP MY
DOGS FROM FILLING UP… AND TO KEEP OUR PLAYTIMES LONG.)
You see, games like this challenge your dog’s focus and stimulate their hunting and
tracking skills…
Which provides the mental enrichment needed to strengthen your pup’s brain…
And helps make the MOST of the time you spend together.
As a busy dog dad myself, I know how bad it feels when you finally get home to your
pup… but by then, it’s too late in the day for proper playtime.
So while I always recommend walking your dog (depending on their energy level) for 15
minutes at least twice a day…
This game is great for sneaking in a session of active playtime that you can do
indoors, using items you already have in your house.
After all, active playtime is essential to keeping your dog sharp and focused — so why
not make it fun for you too?
OH, AND HERE’S ONE MORE “BONUS BENEFIT”…
This game also sparks the amazing canine abilities your dog inherited from their
ancestors…
Which is very cool to see.
But most importantly, games like this strengthen the unique bond you share…
And add some fun to both you AND your pup’s daily routine.
After your dog masters that game…

HERE’S A BONUS GAME FOR YOU.
It’s something you can add to your daily walks to not only exercise your dog’s body, but
invigorate their mind…
And SPARK their natural hunting instinct too.
To get started, you’ll need a dog-safe item that has your scent (such as a knotted t-shirt
or balled-up sock — anything that’s safe for your dog to play with) and a healthy treat.
HERE’S HOW TO PLAY:
As you walk your dog, drop the item you’ve been carrying and continue walking.
Walk a few more feet, stop, and look around like you lost something…
Then say something along the lines of, “Where is it? Can you find it?”
Start to walk back to the spot where you dropped the item, and encourage your dog to
“find it.”
For the first few rounds, your pup will probably need some help — so give your best boy
or girl a clue by pointing to the item.
When your dog finds it, get excited and reward them with a treat so they pick up on the
rules.
Pretty soon they’ll rely solely on their sense of smell to find the dropped item…
And they’ll love you even more for adding this fun “twist” to your usual walks.
-------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/can-dogs-eat-avocado/
HUMAN FOOD FOR DOGS: CAN DOGS EAT AVOCADO?
Jan 28, 2019 | 0 comments
Avocados are known as a human superfood – they’re packed with healthy fats,
vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber.1 So, naturally, if there’s a super healthy food that you
love, you want to share its benefits with your dog. But, can dogs eat avocado?
Many human foods are surprisingly toxic for pets, so this is always an important
question to ask.
Let’s explore.
CAN DOGS EAT AVOCADO?
You should always do plenty of research to find out whether any human foods are safe
for your pet to eat. Some foods are actually quite toxic for dogs, including garlic,
chocolate, and macadamia nuts.2 That’s why it’s essential you’re vigilant about what
gets dropped on the floor around your pets.
So, can dogs eat avocado? Is this human food dangerous for dogs?
Well, it turns out the answer to this question isn’t as straightforward as you might think.
THE REAL ISSUE: THE SEED
According to the Pet Poison Hotline, the large seed inside the avocado poses the
greatest danger to dogs. As you can imagine, this is because it can get stuck in the
esophagus, stomach, or even the intestinal tract. 3
Any item that can create an obstruction issue is bad for dogs. So a pup rummaging
around an avocado tree for a treat isn’t a good thing.
UNDERSTANDING PERSIN
Persin is a substance found in avocados that can be a toxin to some animals, and it’s
the most common reason people cite for not letting their dogs have avocado. But as you
just read, persin is considered to be much less of a problem than the large pit within the
avocado. Now, humans and dogs tend to have a high tolerance for persin, but the
substance is considered toxic for other animals like rabbits, birds, goats, horses, and
cattle.4
Persin is found in the leaves, skin, and flesh of the avocado, but it is much more
concentrated in the leaves. And ingesting persin could actually cause gastrointestinal
upset for your dog, even if it’s not toxic. This is still a good reason not to allow your dog
to grab an avocado that’s fallen from a tree.5,6
A POTENTIAL ISSUE: FATS
Of course, humans love the avocado because of its great wealth of healthy fats. But
high fat foods aren’t great for some dogs. So, it’s important you speak to your vet before
adding any high-fat foods to your pup’s diet as they can ultimately lead to pancreatitis in
fat-intolerant pooches. This includes the avocado. 7
THE BENEFITS OF AVOCADOS

All of this aside, some people love to serve their dog an occasional avocado treat (if it’s
well tolerated). Why? Because of those same wonderful benefits that humans indulge in
them for.
For starters, avocados are high in healthy, monounsaturated fatty acids, omega-3 fatty
acids, anti-inflammatory phytonutrients, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. 8 And
healthy fats are good for dogs (just as they are for their human pals). For example, they
can help relieve a pup’s dry, itchy skin and dull coat. 9
Interestingly, there are now some dog foods on the market that even include avocado
as an ingredient.
THE BOTTOM LINE: CAN DOGS EAT AVOCADO?
Turns out, if your dog eats a little avocado (free of pits, skin, and leaves), there’s likely
no real obstruction issue and no reason to panic. Can dogs eat avocado? Some can. At
worst, some dogs may end up with an upset stomach.
Other dogs will tolerate small amounts of avocado well, so they can enjoy an occasional
slice. What’s most important, especially for your own piece of mind, is talking to your vet
about your own pup. This way, you can make an informed decision about whether the
avocado is safe for your dog.
If you do decide that your dog can have avocado, organic is always the preferred
choice. Make sure the avocado is nice and ripe. Remove the pit, skin, and stems just as
you would for yourself. And don’t add anything to the avocado (no guacamole). Serve
the avocado slice plain or mix it in with your dog’s regular food.
If this is the first time your dog has tried avocado, start with a small amount. Watch
closely to make sure your dog doesn’t have any stomach issues. 10
And again, talk it through with your vet before serving your pup this treat.
-------------------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/puppy-cut/
WHAT IS A PUPPY CUT AND WHY IS IT SO POPULAR?
Feb 11, 2019 | 0 comments
The puppy cut is one of the more popular haircuts for dogs. But it can mean different
things to different groomers. If you simply ask for a “puppy cut,” the groomer will likely
want to learn more before they get out their scissors and shears.
Let’s take a look at what this type of style is and some of the advantages it provides for
your pooch.
PUPPY CUT 101
The puppy cut is originally associated with poodles. It’s the name given to the type of
haircut many show poodles receive before a contest. 1
Many groomers believe the puppy cut means cutting fur at the same length over the
entire body. But what about your pup’s ears, tail, and head? Is it all one length, or does
a groomer leave a few inches of length?
TALKING TO YOUR GROOMER
When you go to your favorite groomer and tell them you want a puppy cut, you’ll need to
realize there’s no one way to define it.
In most cases, a groomer will interpret this type of cut to mean trimming the fur about an
inch or two throughout the entire body – including the tail, ears, and head.
Some people view a puppy cut as being a short cut, while others believe it should leave
a dog’s fur looking fluffy and full.
DISCUSSION TIPS
So, before you bring your dog in for a puppy haircut, it’s important to make sure both
you and the groomer have the same idea of how you want your pooch to look. Here are
a few tips on what to discuss before the groomer breaks out the shears.
1. First, take into consideration the texture of your dog’s coat. Haircuts for dogs with
thin coats will look shorter than dogs with thicker coats – even if the length of the clipper
blade is the same.
2. Be specific as to how you want the fur on your pet’s head to be cut.
3. Let the groomer know how much fur you want to be left on your dog’s feet, legs, tail,
and body.
4. If your dog’s ears are floppy, talk about the length you want them to be.2
As you can see, it’s not enough to simply say you want a puppy cut. You want to make
sure you and your groomer are completely in sync before the haircut begins.
BENEFITS OF A PUPPY CUT
Now, a puppy cut can be performed on just about any breed. And it does have its
advantages.
● A shorter coat is easier to maintain.

● Shorter hair means less shedding, so you won’t have to worry as much about fur
accumulating in your home.
● It helps eliminate mats that can leave your dog uncomfortable.
BENEFITS FOR SPECIFIC BREEDS

Certain breeds may benefit even more from a puppy cut. For example, it can help a
Shih Tzu puppy’s fur from tangling – which can lead to overheating during hot weather.
The Shih Tzu puppy cut can help you avoid having to brush your pet several times a
week.3
If you have a Yorkshire Terrier, a Yorkie puppy cut is a great way to keep your pooch
cool and comfortable when the weather turns warm. This helps to ensure a good
amount of air flow around your dog’s skin. 4
A poodle puppy cut usually results in the dog’s face, neck, and throat being clean-
shaven. This is a popular cut for poodle owners because of the way it looks. A poodle
cut will usually involve shaving the tail (except for the tip). This gives the “pom-pom”
look characteristic of poodles.5
THE “TEDDY BEAR” LOOK
A Havanese puppy cut is beneficial, even though this breed doesn’t shed a whole lot. A
short puppy clip will help you avoid having to brush your Hava’s fur as often. When
done correctly by a professional, this Havanese cut can make your pooch look like an
adorable teddy bear.6
WHY YOU SHOULD REGULARLY GROOM YOUR DOG
Whether you choose a puppy cut or any other kind of hairstyle, it’s important that you
have your dog groomed on a regular basis. Grooming not only helps your dog look
great, but it can also help protect their health as well.
Grooming can help make sure your dog’s paws don’t have any sort of thorns that can
lead to cuts or even an infection. It can also alert you to any potential problems, such as
rashes, bleeding, lumps, or discolored skin.
Having your dog groomed regularly can also reveal any kinds of parasites that might be
on your dog’s skin, such as fleas or mites.7
PAMPERING YOUR PUP
Now, there are a lot of reasons why you should consider a puppy cut for your beloved
pet. It will not only keep your pooch looking their best, but it will also provide other
benefits you might not have even considered.
Just make sure you take the time to thoroughly spell out exactly what you want before
the groomer begins. If you and the groomer are both on the same page, that greatly
increases the chances that everyone’s happy once the haircut is complete.
----------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/obese-dog-exercise/
WALKING YOUR OVERWEIGHT DOG TOWARD WEIGHT LOSS
Mar 11, 2019 | 0 comments
One of the greatest things you can do to ensure that your pup lives a long, happy life, is
to take care of their health – as you would any family member. And, if that means
putting an obese dog on a diet and exercise regime, so be it.
Obesity is not just a modern human epidemic. Unfortunately, many pets are also
carrying around excess weight. And if your dog is carrying around extra weight, you
should be concerned.
Walking is one of the easiest ways you can help your obese dog lose excess fat. Grab
that leash and get Fido ready to enjoy the power of walking to aid weight loss. But first?
Read on…
WHAT’S THE KEY TO LOSING “PUPPY FAT” THROUGH EXERCISE?
Whether you have two legs or four, the formula for weight loss is the same:
ENERGY IN < ENERGY OUT
The calories you (or your overweight dog) expend through exercise must be greater
than the calories you put into your body. 1
Dietary considerations aside, if you truly want your obese dog to shed weight through
walking, then you’ve got to plan your dog walking routine out. How often will you walk?
How long will you walk? How fast will you walk? How often should you weigh your pet?
So, let’s get to the bottom of all this.
1. GET THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT
If you were going to embrace your own new exercise routine, you might invest in a pair
of sturdy, new, exercise shoes. Likewise, your pup should be suitably attired for their
workout.
A leash and collar might be useful for a quick walk up the street, or a potty break, but for
real walking, these collars can put too much pressure on a dog’s windpipe if they pull
too hard. Instead, you should look at getting a walking harness, which sits much lower
down on their torso.
GO FOR SOMETHING WITH WIDE, PADDED, COMFORTABLE STRAPS THAT
WON’T DIG INTO YOUR DOG’S SKIN.
You also don’t need a long leash, as you and your dog will be keeping pace together.
Don’t let winter scare you off puppy exercise, either. The elements will always change,
but an exercise routine should power on through every season. That said, if you live in a
high snowfall area, you’ll need to invest in some protective dog booties or a dog coat.
Finally, don’t forget to carry a water bottle for both you and your pup. It’s important that
you both stay hydrated when exercising.
2. SET GOALS
Provided your overweight dog’s heart and lungs are healthy, there’s no reason you can’t
start them out with a 30-minute walk per day. If you can’t manage 7 days a week, try to
walk at least 5 days. Increase the challenge a little each week. So, if you’re walking an
obese dog for 30 minutes a day, you should increase the length of that walk gradually
every week.2
About one month into your walking routine, try to increase your walks to 40 minutes.
And a few weeks later, strive for a one-hour walk. If you don’t have time for a 60-minute
walk, try breaking it up into two 30-minute walks.
Your goal is to continue to get your overweight pup to take the majority of any walk at a
swift pace, so it’s time to…
3. PICK UP SPEED
To really activate fat burning in an overweight pup, they need to exercise hard enough
to get their heart rate up. But the average dog loves to stop and smell the roses (or
literally anything and everything) during their ever-so casual-dawdle down the street.
So, to increase their heart rate, and burn that fat, they need to increase their pace. Now,
some dogs love to run, but perhaps you’re not a runner yourself. Plus, asking an obese
dog to run is probably out of the question. And that’s okay! But you’re going to need to
set the pace for them.
Keep your leash close, and find a brisk walking pace that’s comfortable for you. But
don’t forget to push yourself a little, too. This new walking regime is certain to do great
things for your health as well.
WHAT DOES BRISK EQUATE TO? WELL, YOU SHOULD BREAK A LITTLE
SWEAT.
Understand that your overweight dog will want to stop from time to time to sniff things…
but don’t give in to them. Keep moving and command them to keep moving too.
So, perhaps in your first week when it’s all very new, aim for 10 minutes of your 30-
minute walk to be at a brisk pace. Then the second week, you could increase that to 15
minutes, then 20 minutes, and so on.
If your overweight dog has been sedentary for some time, start slow. There’s plenty of
time to increase the briskness as they get more used to the program.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I WEIGH MY OBESE DOG?
Weighing your obese dog is a key way to see progress. That progress keeps you
motivated to keep exercising with your pup. But weighing in too often can be
disheartening when you don’t see an immediate change.
To keep track of your obese dog’s progress, consider weighing them at least once a
month until they reach their weight loss goal. This is easiest when it’s done at your vet’s
office. Involving your vet is key to your pet’s weight loss success, as they can
recommend the most ideal weight loss goal for your breed of dog, along with key dietary
tips.
Once your obese dog reaches their optimal weight loss goal, it’s essential to remember
that you can’t just stop their walking program. Fitness is a lifelong endeavor. Now, it’s all
about maintaining that weight loss.
FINAL THOUGHTS
If you find yourself with an overweight or obese dog, it’s essential that you get them the
help they need so they can burn that excess fat. They’re your best friend, and you want
them around as long as possible. They may even help you with your own weight loss
goals as you get those heart rates up together! Dogs naturally love to get outside and
move, so they really are the best motivation for getting YOU outside to exercise.
Watching your pup’s weight also means watching the kind of food that they’re eating
(and the hidden ingredients in those foods.)
A GOOD HEALTHY DIET, THAT INCLUDES RAW, WHOLE FOODS, CAN MAKE A
REAL DIFFERENCE.
Though your dog may be super cute when they’re a little pudgy, understand that this is
an important health issue and should be treated as such. Don’t hesitate to talk to your
vet about how you can best start helping your furry friend’s health.
------------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/dog-peeing-carpet/
HOW TO PREVENT YOUR POOCH FROM PEEING ON THE CARPET
If your beloved dog is peeing on the carpet, there’s a pretty good chance that you’re at
your wit’s end. Why is your potty trained pet suddenly choosing to urinate indoors,
instead of outside?
And, most importantly, how can you stop this behavior?
When a dog suddenly decides to begin peeing on carpet, several things could be at
play. Some are potentially health-related; others are behavioral.
Here are some of the most likely reasons your dog might be peeing on carpet, along
with some things you can do to help fix the problem.
REASONS WHY YOUR DOG IS PEEING ON CARPET
In order to come up with a plan to keep your dog from peeing on carpet, it will be
important to figure out why this is happening. These are just a few of the possibilities:
CHANGES AT HOME
Any sort of disruption to a pet’s routine could lead to your dog peeing where they
shouldn’t. For example, your child might have moved away to go to college, or you
might have brought a baby, or a new pet, home. Any sort of family change, such as a
death, divorce, or even home renovations, can be very stressful for your dog. If it
stresses you out, it probably stresses your pooch out, too. Your dog might be used to
urinating at a certain time. If you’ve changed their schedule in any way, that could be
contributing to the problem.1
SEPARATION ANXIETY
Some dogs will urinate inside if they have separation anxiety. You might have started a
new job, and you’re suddenly working in an office instead of home. Or you may have
gone on vacation for a couple of weeks and had to leave your dog in a kennel, or had a
house-sitter come over periodically. Your vet may be able to refer you to an animal
behaviorist who can help address the problem. 2
A MEDICAL ISSUE
If you haven’t changed your dog’s routine recently, and your vet says your dog doesn’t
have separation anxiety, then you’ll want to see if a medical problem could be the
reason your pet is peeing on the carpet.
Your dog may be experiencing some sort of hormone problem. Many senior female
dogs lose estrogen as they age. This can lead to a weakness in the urethra, ultimately
resulting in incontinence.3 Kidney problems, or cognitive issues affecting older dogs,
could also lead to a dog peeing inside.4 Infections, certain diseases, and bladder issues
are some of the other health problems that can result in your dog peeing on carpet. 5
Get your dog to the vet for a thorough medical check-up.
PREVIOUS ACCIDENTS
Dog peeing sometimes occurs because a pet will smell old urine in the carpet. Traces of
urine can remain in carpeting for several weeks, even if they’ve been cleaned. If a dog
can smell it, they may decide to mark territory by urinating in the same area. Check your
carpeting with a black light. This will show you if there is any residual urine. If you find it,
use an enzymatic cleaner to break it down completely. 6
FIXING THE ISSUE OF PEEING ON CARPET
If you’ve ruled out all of the above as the potential causes of your dog peeing on the
carpet, the next step will be to dissuade them from doing it again. These are just a few
options that may help with the issue:
1. USE A SPECIALLY-MADE REPELLENT
There are several different repellent products you can purchase at pet stores, grocery
stores, or online. A repellent is designed to keep your dog from peeing in a certain spot.
Some repellent products contain compounds that dogs will try to avoid. A dog’s sense of
smell is strong. If they run across something that has a foul odor, they’ll probably steer
clear of the area. Clean your carpet first, let it completely dry, and then apply the
repellent.7 Just make sure the products you use contain ingredients that are non-toxic
and safe for pets.
2. LEMON JUICE
Lemon juice is another effective repellent. While most people find the scent of lemon
juice pleasant, most dogs can’t stand it. Mix a little lemon juice with water, and sprinkle
it on the area where your dog is peeing. That could very well solve the issue. 8
3. VINEGAR
Vinegar also has a powerful odor that dogs don’t like. It also does a good job of
removing any urine smell that might be on your carpeting. Mix an equal amount of white
vinegar with water, and spray it in the area where your dog has been peeing on the
rug.9
4. RUBBING ALCOHOL
Here’s yet another option that could help keep your dog from peeing on the carpet. It
not only works as a disinfectant, it also kills bacteria. Like vinegar, you’ll want to mix an
equal amount of rubbing alcohol and water, and spray on the affected area. 10
Note: Before you spray any kind of repellent on your carpet, do a “spot test” first, to
make sure it won’t damage the carpet fibers.
PEEING ON RUG: WHAT NOT TO DO
Hopefully, one of these options will work, and the days of your dog peeing on carpet will
be over. But you should never punish your dog if they have an accident. You won’t be
“teaching” the dog anything, other than that they should be afraid of you. Talk to a
professional trainer about gentle, effective ways of eliminating this behavior.11
THE BOTTOM LINE
It can be incredibly frustrating if your dog is peeing on the rug. But instead of punishing
your pet by rubbing their nose in the urine, try to figure out why the problem is
happening. Then, take the steps necessary to keep this issue from happening again. If
you’re still at a loss, it’s time to talk to your veterinarian!
----------------------------------------
https://drmartypets.com/dog-poop-guide/
ULTIMATE GUIDE TO YOUR POOCH’S POOP
Dog poop isn’t a pleasant subject, but it is worth talking about. Why? Well, because it
often paints a clear picture of your beloved pet’s health. Dog feces is actually a good
barometer of how your pet is doing.
Here’s a guide to what signifies healthy poop and other signs that could indicate
something is wrong.
WHAT IS HEALTHY DOG POOP?
As a dog owner, you might not take a second look at dog feces. You should, though,
because it could help tell you if you need to have your pet checked out.
Now, healthy dog poop tends to be somewhat moist and firm. You should use this as a
baseline so that you can tell when something might not be normal.
But what’s normal and what’s not can vary from dog to dog. For example, if your pet
gets a lot of fiber, their dog poop might have a strong smell. If your dog is on a raw food
diet, their stools may be smaller with less odor.1
THE CONSISTENCY OF DOG POOP
Another important consideration is the consistency of dog poop. There is actually a
scoring system that’s assigned to dog feces. The system goes from 1 to 7. A “1” means
the stool is very hard, and a “7” means it’s basically very runny, watery stool.
As it turns out, the best stool is generally considered to be a “2”. Pieces are firm,
segmented, and shaped somewhat like a caterpillar. 2
DOG POOP CONTENT
A veterinarian can also tell a lot by looking at your dog’s poop. For example, they may
notice worms in your dog’s feces. Now, worms in dog poop is a sign your dog has
parasites like tapeworms or roundworms.
It’s not uncommon to see worms in dog poop. It’s also fairly common to see other
things, including foreign materials like grass, plastic, or even rocks.
Pet owners know that dogs are notorious for eating non-food items. Often, pieces of
these items are visible in stool.3
If dog poop has fur in it, that could be a sign of over-grooming. This could mean your
dog has some sort of skin disease or allergy, or they’re experiencing stress. 4
MUCUS IN STOOL
Another red flag when it comes to dog poop is the presence of mucus. Be aware that
even a little mucus can be a sign of an issue. Dog feces with mucus is easy to spot. It
will look shinier and more slimy than normal.
There are several different causes of mucus in dog poop. For instance:
→ Stress – Like humans, dogs can get stressed out. This can happen due to a new
addition to the family (such as a baby, or a new pet), or being boarded or away from the
family for another reason. Stress can be manifested by mucus in stool. 5
→ Dietary changes – Sometimes, dog owners will change up their pet’s diet out of the
blue, without making gradual changes. This can lead to an increase of mucus in dog
poop.
A dog’s digestive system is very sensitive. Any sudden change to your dog’s diet could
If lead to issues. If there’s a lot of mucus, that could mean your dog is allergic to one of
the ingredients in the new food.6
→ Parasites – Mucus accompanied by worms in dog poop could mean your dog has
hookworms. These worms attack the gastrointestinal tract. There are several types of
medications that can be used to address hookworms, so talk to your vet if you have any
reason to believe your dog has been infected. 7
COLORS
One of the best ways dog poop can give you an idea of the health of your pet is through
color. If it’s discolored, that could be a sign of a problem. Here are just a few examples:
BLACK POOP
Black dog feces, or very dark dog poop, should be a red alert for all pet owners. Black,
tarry stools could mean a pet has some sort of gastrointestinal problems, such as
ulcers.8
RED POOP
If you notice blotches or streaks of red in your dog’s poop, that could indicate bleeding
in the gastrointestinal tract. It could be due to some sort of injury, or a disease such as
colitis, which occurs when your dog’s colon becomes inflamed.
It could also be a sign of an infection affecting the anal glands. 9
PURPLE OR PINK DOG FECES
When dog poop comes out as a strange color, such as purple or pink, that could
indicate dangerous bleeding due to a condition known as hemorrhagic gastroenteritis.
Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis is an emergency. Get your pup to the vet immediately. With
prompt treatment, most dogs recover fully.10
GREY DOG POOP
This could be an indication of a problem with your dog’s pancreas. It might not be doing
a good enough job of producing the enzymes needed for your dog’s body to digest fat
properly. A veterinarian can address this problem. 11
YELLOW POOP
Yellow poop could be a side effect of suddenly changing your dog’s diet. It might be an
indication that your pup’s system isn’t tolerating the new food. Yellow feces could also
indicate an infection or inflammation in your dog’s GI tract. 12
WHITE POOP
Sometimes, worms can take on the appearance of tiny grains of rice, making it look like
your dog’s poop is white. Go to the vet to get the problem addressed. 13
GREEN POOP
What does green poop mean? This is usually the result of your pet eating a lot of grass.
In some instances, however, it can be something more serious, such as a parasite. 14Get
to the vet to be on the safe side.
ORANGE POOP
This could simply mean that food is moving too fast through your dog’s digestive system
to absorb bile, which gives poop its brown color. It could, however, be a sign of a liver
problem.15
If you have any reason to be concerned about the color of your dog’s poop, take them
to the vet. It’s possible there’s nothing seriously wrong, but you want to make sure. Your
vet may show you a poop color chart to give you a picture of what’s going on.
RUNNY STOOL
Just about every dog – and every human, for that matter – will have a bout with watery,
runny stool now and then. If it only happens once in a while and your pet seems to be
eating and acting normally, it shouldn’t be that big of a deal.
However, if your dog starts acting differently and has this problem for more than a day
or two, that should be a cause for concern for all dog owners. Runny stool accompanied
by sluggishness could be a serious situation that needs to be addressed as soon as
possible.16
CONSTIPATION
At the other end of the spectrum is constipation. If it happens rarely, then you shouldn’t
have too much to worry about. If it happens more often, something may be wrong.
Now, there are a lot of potential causes of canine constipation. It could be an injury
that’s affecting the pelvis, a reaction to a new medication or some sort of intestinal
blockage.17Have a vet perform a thorough examination to determine what is going on.
BLOOD IN DOG STOOL
It’s important dog owners know any sign of blood in dog feces needs to be addressed
as quickly as possible. If the stool looks black it could mean bleeding in the upper part
of the digestive tract. If it’s red, the problem is probably lower in your dog’s system.
Certain medications can cause bleeding in your dog’s gastrointestinal tract. In some
cases, blood in the stool could be a sign of an ulcer. If that ulcer is allowed to develop, it
could tear a hole in the intestines that requires emergency surgery. 18
Never ignore blood in the stool – always get it checked out.
EXTREME ODOR
While dog poop never has a pleasant aroma, there are times where it may be
excessively foul. This might mean your dog’s digestive system is having a hard time
processing the fiber in the food they’re eating. 19
WORMS
Parasites, such as worms, can cause irregularities in dog poop. Certain parasites,
including the giardia and coccidia varieties, can result in a watery or very runny stool.
Sometimes, this can also lead to mucus and blood in the stool. 20,21
WHEN IN DOUBT, SEE THE VET
Don’t be nonchalant if you see something odd with your pet’s poop, be it color,
consistency, or content. In many instances, the cause of strange poop isn’t too serious,
but it pays to be cautious.
In some cases, strange dog poop can be a sign that something is wrong. If you have
any reason whatsoever to be concerned, set an appointment with your vet. Don’t
hesitate to seek medical help for your pet if you’re worried.
--------------------------------------

Https Drmartypets - Com Dogs

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Https Drmartypets - Com Dogs

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

https://drmartypets.

● A sudden loss of body weight

● Lack of interest in eating dog food

● Blood in the urine

TAKE ACTION, BUT DON’T PANIC

No more than ¼ cup should be necessary.

3. Let this sit overnight.

4. The next day, vacuum the area thoroughly.

some paper towels to absorb the moisture.

3. Let the area dry naturally.

DISTILLED WHITE VINEGAR

and two tablespoons of baking soda.

2. Shake it all up and spray the vinegar solution on the stain.

4. Let the area dry naturally.

REMOVING DOG URINE FROM CARPET, NATURALLY

● Lack of interest in toys

● Chasing shadows or light

SOME PEOPLE, THOUGH, PREFER TO KEEP THEIR PET OUTDOORS YEAR-

● Thicken the walls using insulation

● Cover the floor with insulating materials

● Raise the dog bed off the ground

● Add blankets or a heated mat

● Foam (polystyrene foam insulation or expanding foam spray)

● Mulch (though other easy cleaning options may be more suitable)

● Soft, water-sealed wood such as kiln-dried cedar6

OK, EVERYTHING IS SEALED – BUT WHAT ABOUT THE DOOR?

HOW TO SOCIALIZE A DOG: IT’S NEVER TOO LATE

1. Calmly introduce your dog to new experiences.

WHY SOCIALIZE YOUR DOG?

● Learn how to get along with other pets

● Calmly meet new people without fear

● Get used to being handled and touched

● Learn to cope with excitement without getting overly aroused

● Fearful or aggressive around people or animals

● Timid when you approach

● Visibly nervous around different sights or sounds while on leash

● Shy around other dogs or people

● Behavioral problems, like excessive barking

If your dog shows these traits, put a socialization plan in place.

● A relaxed or slowly swaying tail

● A slightly open mouth

● Tail down or tucked

● Different heights, ages, and ethnicities

● People with canes or walkers

● People in large hats

● Loud noises like vacuum cleaners

● A social environment, like a dog park

● People places, like an outdoor cafe

● Other people’s houses14

protect their “territory.”

● Let your dog observe the other dog from afar.

● If the experience seems to be going well, encourage short interactions. Give

distraction of walking can be helpful.17,18

INTRODUCING ADULT DOGS TO HUMANS

● Whenever someone comes over, give your dog treats.

● Ask the person to ignore your dog at first.

CONTINUE TO SOCIALIZE YOUR DOG

PET MESSES: HOW TO BEST CLEAN UP DOG VOMIT FROM CARPET

● Rubber gloves (optional)

● Your cleaner of choice (more details below)

● Baking soda or corn starch

● An old towel or microfiber cloths

1. START WITH THE BULK OF THE MESS FIRST