ELDERLY DOG VITAMINS, WHAT ARE THE VITAMINS THAT HE CANNOT MISS?

The senior dog , for reasons other than those that puppies or adult dogs may have, need some essential vitamins to continue to lead a healthy existence, hopefully.

The safety of our four-legged friend is a priority, which is why we must do everything possible to ensure that he is well and does not have to deal with certain deficiencies. Third age is a delicate phase and routine visits must increase to prevent any and more probable health problems.

An overview

We all want our four-legged friend to live as long as possible and without too many ailments or annoyances. In this perspective, nutrition plays a fundamental role. It is no coincidence that there is the saying “we are what we eat”.

This is also why senior dogs need certain essential vitamins. The healthier and more balanced our beloved Fido’s diet will be , from the very first weeks of life, the more chance he will have of becoming a lively and happy old man.

The goal is to experience many beautiful and tender moments alongside our four-legged friend and to think as little as possible about any inconvenience that could put a strain on the serenity of all the actors involved, the dog in the first place.

The aging phase

Despite all our efforts to ensure an optimal quality of life, aging brings with it, at best, minor health problems that require more attention towards our faithful friend. Our trusted veterinarian – who knows any previous clinical, breed characteristics and can have the complete picture – will be of vital importance in Fido’s medical management.

The secret is to satisfy the needs, even food ones , of the furry. So let’s see what essential vitamins the elderly dog ​​needs, even if the last word is always up to the nutritionist who will draw up a personalized plan based on the four-legged needs.

More frequent pathologies

Longevity does not come only thanks to the luck and DNA of our four-legged friend. The better his body is treated, the easier it will be for us to enjoy his company for a long time. It is a question of considering both physical and psychological and social needs: it works exactly as it does for us human beings, no more and no less.

No matter how well our dear Fido ages , the aging process cannot be avoided . With it we also and above all witness important changes in the organism, and they must be taken into account.

Metabolism and physical activity decrease, which results in laziness and overweight . The immune system, like that of puppies, which however is not yet fully developed, appears weaker and the risk of pathologies increases. It also increases the risk of dehydration as your fluid intake drops. Attention to the osteo-articular system.

Finally, we must also think about the mental balance of our four-legged friend. Seeing your organism gradually give way is not a pleasant feeling: you feel sad and helpless in the face of the effects of time passing. Let’s be close to him as much as possible and let him know that it is our first thought, that we will always be present and that we love him very much.

The importance of vitamins

The diet of the senior dog must necessarily change and also include some essential vitamins to stem the effects of old age . This process, however, must take place under the supervision of your trusted veterinarian. Based on the results, he will make some changes and, if necessary, ‘adjust the shot’.

We do not do our own thing and do not rely on DIY . We must consider the general state of health of our four-legged friend and establish the nutrients he needs and in what percentage. The doses also change, based on the reduction of physical exercise.

The coat of our four-legged friend will appear less shiny, more dull and dull. He will also inevitably be more fatigued and less athletic . All this, and any specific pathologies, will lead to a reshaping of the diet, also in terms of vitamins and nutrients.

Diseases such as osteoarthritis , blood circulation problems, high blood pressure or an impaired metabolism are among the reasons why vitamins can be useful, but let’s see which ones are right for our faithful friend. They are very useful especially in the preventive phase, which as we know is the best time to avoid the onset of pathologies even of a certain entity.

Vitamins for Fido

The elderly dog ​​needs a series of essential vitamins, to put in order and understand which specifically we must rely on our trusted veterinarian who will draw up a list of nutritional supplements that our four-legged friend needs. Among the fundamentals are:

  • Mineral salts , which contain elements such as calcium (essential to counteract the wear and tear of the skeletal system);
  • Vitamin D, essential for a correct absorption of calcium in the bones and therefore essential for our beloved old man;
  • Algae, which contain a wide range of nutrients useful for maintaining good health in general;
  • Omega 3 fatty acids , indicated for specimens a little advanced in age with metabolism problems and abnormal blood pressure;
  • Vitamin A , on the other hand, is a powerful antioxidant that allows you to safeguard the function of sight, also preventing night blindness.

This represents a canvas that we can follow, but it is important to reiterate one aspect: no one can take the place of the veterinarian. No improvisations, better an ’empty’ check-up than underestimating important signs.

Useful tips

Treating the disease is certainly more expensive in terms of money and time than prevention. Furthermore, and it is not a minor detail, we could avoid our faithful friend having to deal with inconveniences of a certain entity.

Before taking any initiative and upsetting Fido’s diet, consult your trusted nutritionist. The same is true if we want to introduce an ingredient that has never been ingested before . We await the specialist’s clearance and do an allergy test with a very small amount. If we do not notice any suspicious reactions we can proceed according to the indications received, otherwise we look for an alternative by excluding toxic foods for the cat.

Why Dogs Eat Grass And What To Do?

How many times have you wondered why dogs eat grass ? This is a question that dog owners often don’t know how to answer, so we need to clarify and understand how to intervene in these cases. So let’s find out what to do when the dog eats grass .

Why the dog eats grass

The fact that the dog eats grass in itself is not worrying, and in most cases it is an instinctive fact. Due to the animal’s curiosity to know the surrounding environment by exploiting taste and smell.

In fact, during the daily walk the furry does not disdain to eat the green grass of the lawn. And who has a dog surely noticed that it is a habit that is repeated at every walk.

This is a fact that should not arouse any wonder, as even the wolf. When it devoured its herbivorous prey, also fed on entrails full of plant material.

However, at the same time, grass is an unusual food for the dog, but generally it shouldn’t cause any problems. In fact, if the dog eats grass and does not throw up everything ends there and there are no consequences.

The dogs eat grass driven by curiosity and then for them is something absolutely natural. Among them there are those who eat grass sporadically and those who instead make it a habit. And therefore at every walk in the lawn they do not miss an opportunity to ingest it.

As mentioned before, if there are no adverse symptoms there are no consequences for the animal. So if the dog eats grass and does not vomit everything ends there and there are no consequences.

But what to do when your dog eats grass and vomits? In this case the situation changes and measures must be taken immediately.

Why the dog eats grass and vomits

What to do when the dog eats grass and vomits white foam ? To understand how to intervene, it is first necessary to distinguish two cases in which the dog eats grass and vomits:

  • The animal is killed, does not play and refuses food
  • The animal has no other symptoms, plays smoothly and is lively even after vomiting

In case the dog is down after eating grass and vomiting and the symptom has been going on for several days the only thing to do is take him to the vet. It is essential to undergo a thorough examination to check it,. Also performing basic blood tests, abdominal ultrasound, and, if necessary, also an X-ray.

On the other hand, in the second case in which the dog has eaten the grass and vomited, but is fine and has no other symptoms, to ascertain his condition you have to wait to see if there are further developments. You should also pay attention to his mood after the unusual meal. And check his stools to see if they are liquid or there are undigested food residues.

If the animal hops quietly and eats again regularly in the evening without further interventions there is no need to worry. But it is advisable to let him take less water, so be careful to put little in the bowl and refill it more often.

What are the causes that can stimulate vomiting

When a dog eats grass and vomits it does not mean that it is the grass that hurts him, but there may be causes behind it. Among these the most common are the following:

  • Incorrect feeding
  • Chronic gastritis
  • Food intolerance
  • Ingestion of gastric foreign bodies, which can be stones, stones or other
  • Liver and pancreatic problems

It is clear that some of these pathologies are quite serious if the symptoms of vomiting often recur over time. So the first thing to do is to contact a trusted veterinarian.

In fact, vomiting can reveal a previous illness of the dog and sometimes the animal chooses to eat grass for a digestive problem, which is usually transient. It can happen when your stomach feels heavy, digestion is blocked, or when there is food residue in the throat. When dogs eat grass, they do so to push the body to react.

If fragments of grass are found in the dog’s vomit, inside the gastric juice, this means that the animal feels a disorder that can be indigestion and tries to solve it by inducing vomiting. Generally the animal adopts this behavior after a fairly prolonged period of fasting.

Check the variety of grass

Regardless of what caused the dog to vomit, it is essential to check the type of grass ingested well. However, it is difficult to determine the variety of grass ingested by the dog, as there are several species of grass in the lawn.

The furry’s favorite is common grass, which he easily tears from the ground with his jaws. But to find out what type of grass he has eaten it is useful to take samples of the affected area and carry out checks to ascertain whether it is treated with pesticides or fertilizers .

Source

Why Dogs Has Diarrhea

Why Dogs Has Diarrhea. Diarrhea in dogs causes loose or liquid stools to be passed. To know what to do when your dog has diarrhea. You need to find out what is causing this type of discomfort. The causes could be: changes in your diet, food intolerance, intoxication, internal parasites, kidney or liver disease, anxiety, stress and at worst cancer. Diarrhea in dogs is a symptom that usually must be accompanied by others. In fact it is not a disease in itself but can be treated once the cause is discovered.

To understand if diarrhea is caused by a disease or is simply linked to a gastrointestinal problem. We can rely on a series of first aid tips. Soon, in this AnimalPedia article we will explain what to do if your dog has diarrhea and when to go to the vet.You may also be interested in: Small kitten with diarrhea: what to do?Summary

  1. Diarrhea in Dogs – What is it
  2. Types of diarrhea in dogs
  3. Diarrhea in Dogs – Main Causes
  4. – when to worry?
  5. Diarrhea in Puppy Dogs – Prevention
  6. How to stop diarrhea in dogs
  7. What to do if your dog has diarrhea – Home remedies

Diarrhea in Dogs – What is it

The very loose stools are the most obvious sign of diarrhea. You will also notice that the dog goes to the toilet much more often, even indoors, because he cannot restrain himself.

Not surprisingly, softer or more liquid stools are accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, flatulence, and fever. If your dog’s diarrhea is mild, he will behave as usual and his mood will always be the same. Conversely, if the condition is severe you will see it more depressed and you may experience other symptoms, namely the presence of blood in the stool , loss of appetite and weight.

Dysentery in dogs occurs whenever diseases or disorders affecting the animal’s gastrointestinal tract occur. When this occurs, there is an alteration of the complex biochemical reactions that deal with the absorption of water or intestinal peristalsis (contractions of the intestine that allow the absorption and movement of food along the intestinal tube). This alteration can occur due to factors internal (eg: kidney disease) or external (eg: parasites) to the body that can cause constipation or dysentery in the dog.

Types of diarrhea in dogs

Before giving you any useful advice on what to do if your dog has diarrhea, it is important to be able to distinguish the various types of diarrhea and learn to recognize the one that has affected your dog. Diarrhea can be classified according to duration into chronic or acute, or according to the cause. In the latter case it is divided into:

  • Osmotic diarrhea
  • Secretory diarrhea
  • Impaired absorption diarrhea
  • Motor diarrhea

Osmotic diarrhea

It occurs as a consequence of a bad absorption of food caused by a virus, intolerance to certain foods such as gluten, benign or malignant tumors, chronic inflammatory diseases of the digestive system and etc. Another reason that leads to the development of osmotic diarrhea is poor digestion due to a change in the diet offered to the dog, the consumption of expired or spoiled food, a digestive block, pancreatic insufficiency or biliary insufficiency. But also, eating too quickly or a lot of food at a time can be the cause of this type of diarrhea in dogs.

Secretory diarrhea

This other type of diarrhea in dogs develops when the animal’s body produces more water, gastric juices, and minerals than the amount it can absorb. This can occur as a result of bacteria, pancreatic insufficiency, taking laxative medicines or foods, or diseases affecting the intestinal mucosa. In these cases, dogs give off bloodless and very liquid diarrhea .

Impaired absorption diarrhea

This type of diarrhea in dogs develops when the presence of viral or bacterial diseases cause lesions in the mucous membrane of the small intestine. Under these circumstances, affected dogs emit what are called “bleeding diarrhea” or diarrhea with blood , pus, or some kind of mucus covering the stool.

Motor diarrhea

It is caused both by excessive intestinal mobility , when the digestive system works too quickly and absorbs less water, and by poor intestinal mobility , when the decrease in movement causes irritation of the mucous membrane. This type of diarrhea in dogs is usually the result of ailments such as stress or anxiety, imbalance of thyroid hormones, or following a stomach operation.

Mixed diarrhea

Surely the diarrhea that affects dogs can be the consequence of various factors , giving rise to a secretory diarrhea caused by osmosis or the union of the 4 various types of diarrhea. For this reason, when faced with the slightest symptom, we recommend that you contact your veterinarian.

In this AnimalPedia article you can find the different types of dog feces , divided by color and consistency: it will help you understand if your dog is okay simply by observing his poop.

Dogs in Diarrhea – Main Causes

As we have already said, dog dysentery is the consequence of a gastrointestinal problem that can be caused by several factors. The main causes of diarrhea in dogs are:

  • Climatic factors: cold strokes, heat stroke.
  • Ingestion of improper food : garbage, objects, spoiled food, dead animals, etc.
  • Changes in the usual diet : too much chocolate, sugar, cold cuts, ..
  • Food intolerance , allergies and allergic reactions.
  • Toxic substances, poisonous plants , ingestion of chemical agents (including medicines).
  • Causes of an emotional nature , especially in the puppy: anxiety, stress, nervousness.
  • Viral and bacterial infections.
  • Parasitic infestations.
  • Internal diseases: kidney, liver, cancer, internal cancers.

We tend to think that dogs’ stomachs are made of steel and that they can eat anything without any problem. This is not entirely true: a dog’s stomach is as delicate as ours and a simple change in diet or contact with the cold floor can cause an alteration of the intestinal tract. In fact, if you make changes in your diet, try to do so slowly. For all these reasons we underline the importance of a healthy and correct diet and the weight it has on the health of your four-legged friend.

Ddiarrhea in dogs – when to worry?

The first thing to do when you have a dog with diarrhea is to observe the consistency and color of his stool. If you find there is blood, pus, mucus or even worms, take your dog to the vet immediately. It may be that the bleeding is related to the effort the animal makes, or it could be a serious illness. In this case, the best thing you can do is to collect a sample and take it to a specialist . In the specific case of puppies, diarrhea can also be caused by diseases such as parvovirus or distemper .

If there is no mucus, no pus or worms but blood is present in the stool, to try to find out the causes of diarrhea. Start treating it and go to the vet with all the information you can find. Remember if you have made any changes in his diet or if you have seen your dog eating from the garbage and also consider the possibility that he has been intoxicated or poisoned by some plant or medicine. Regarding the latter case, don’t hesitate to read our AnimalPedia article on ” Poisoning Symptoms “.

If you don’t notice blood in the stool, the next step in answering your question “what to do if your dog has diarrhea” will be to fast for 24 hours for adult dogs and 12 hours for puppies . When we talk about fasting, we mean that you will not have to offer any type of food but you can give him all the amount of water he will need, always fresh and clean. It will be essential to observe the animal during these hours and make sure that it remains well hydrated. If he refuses water, feels apathetic or vomits , take him straight to the vet.

Warning! When he has diarrhea, do not give him dairy products: many dogs are lactose intolerant. And remember to never medicate a dog before taking him to the vet because the same medications can worsen his clinical picture if they are not administered correctly.

Diarrhea in Puppy Dogs – Prevention

Cases of diarrhea among puppies are greater than in adult dogs. This is because their immune systems are weaker and they are more sensitive to changes and infections. Sometimes diarrhea in puppy dogs can be a side effect of vaccination or the pesticide. In these cases, puppies usually recover within 24 hours .

If the diarrhea persists, it could be a consequence of something more serious such as the diseases mentioned above: intestinal parasites such as tapeworms, food intolerances etc. In general, in these cases the puppy presents other symptoms such as vomiting, apathy, weight loss, fever, blood in the stool, worms, etc. As always, we advise you to go to the vet as soon as possible. Especially if the 12 hours of fasting have passed and the stools continue to be liquid or bleeding. Acting calmly can mean the difference between your puppy’s life and death.

Many times we can observe that the dog with diarrhea, when it comes to a puppy, is stressed or emotionally altered. The causes can be different, so we must try to identify them and intervene accordingly. Diarrhea in these situations could be a puppy’s involuntary way of getting attention and a signal that there is something wrong with the environment in which he lives. For example, a change in habits. The arrival of a new element in the family or even the sudden changes in the owner’s mood. In fact, remember that dogs in general – but especially puppies – are very sensitive and influencedfrom what surrounds them. We therefore try to dedicate the right time to our four-legged friend and respond to his psychophysical needs in a balanced way.

How to stop diarrhea in dogs

To stop diarrhea in dogs, you simply need to follow the steps described in this paragraph. Indeed, the comprehensive answer to the question “what to do if the dog has diarrhea?” lies in putting into practice the following indications:

  • Light Diet : Many people ask themselves “what can a dog that has diarrhea eat?”. The ideal would be to opt for light and easy to digest foods. There are people who prefer to buy canned meat for dogs and others prefer to prepare it at home. A diet for dogs with diarrhea consists of white rice and boiled chicken (always cut into small pieces and without salt). Also ask your veterinarian for advice, who will surely be able to help you.
  • Measure the amount of food: Divide meals into smaller, more frequent rations. It is best to start with small doses to facilitate digestion. You will need to give the dog the same amount of food as ever, divided into smaller portions.

Why Dogs Has Diarrhea

  • Introduce the diet little by little: A little at a time you will be able to introduce the usual foods back into the dog’s diet, such as kibble, taking into consideration the fact that there are real improvements in the dog’s health. Never combine his food with home cooking. We can vary the diet by offering him a little more treats every day until he has made up for his daily meals.
  • Feces of light color and in smaller quantities : Don’t worry if at first you notice that his stool is not like it always is. It will surely be due to the light diet he is following.
  • Use probiotics : These are bacteria that contribute to good digestion and promote healing. Attention, they must be specific probiotics for dogs or in any case of good quality. For more information, we recommend that you read our article on ” Probiotics for dogs “.
  • If after 24 hours your dog’s dysentery does not improve, go to the vet immediately because, as always in these cases. A precise and timely diagnosis can avoid much worse problems. If you can, remember to bring a sample of your dog’s stool with you.

What to do if your dog has diarrhea – Home remedies

In the previous paragraphs we have already mentioned some measures that we can use at home to treat diarrhea in dogs. Nonetheless, below we go into detail:

Probiotics for dogs with diarrhea

Probiotics help restore damaged intestinal flora and correct intestinal transit. Nowadays we can find natural probiotics for dogs on the market,. But know that these strains of bacteria are also naturally present in some foods. The most suitable for diarrhea in dogs is yogurt, which must be natural and sugar-free.

Water and sugar

This remedy is really effective if we can’t go to the vet immediately. Because it allows us to fight the dehydration caused by diarrhea and vomiting. Another very good option is to offer isotonic drinks to animals. However, as soon as possible, it is necessary to go to a specialist to administer the serum.

Easy to digest foods

Once the fast is over, we can start introducing foods that will help the dog recover. For this purpose, it is advisable to propose an astringent diet , with foods that are easy to digest but which. In turn, help harden the stool, such as the following:

  • Chicken
  • Turkey
  • Fish
  • White rice
  • Boiled potato
  • Pumpkin
  • Apple

Rice water

Finally, thanks to its digestive and astringent properties . Rice water is an excellent remedy for regulating intestinal transit and fighting diarrhea in dogs. This type of cereal contributes to the hardening of the stool.

This article is purely informative. At ScoobyDog we do not have the right to prescribe veterinary treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We encourage you to take your pet to the vet in case he has any kind of discomfort or discomfort.

Can Dogs Eat Eggs?

Can Dogs Eat Eggs? Feeding your dog correctly is one of the best ways to always have a healthy, strong and happy pet.

More and more people are aware of this fact, so many people who have dogs are looking for more natural ways to feed their four-legged friend in order to give them all the nutrients they need so much. So that there is even the ecological dog food. However, it is always necessary to consult the veterinarian so that the animal does not suffer from food shortages or does not accidentally take fruit and vegetables that are harmful to their health.

If you want to give your dog a healthy and natural diet, do not miss this AnimalPedia article in which we will answer the following question: can dogs eat eggs?You may also be interested in: Can Cats Eat Eggs?Summary

  1. Is egg good for dogs?
  2. How to give the egg to the dog: cooked or raw?
  3. How many eggs can a dog eat

Is egg good for dogs?

Can the dog be given an egg? The answer is yes, thanks mainly to the high content of proteins that have a high biological value, that is, they contain all the essential amino acids . These substances cannot be synthesized internally by the dog, so he must take them directly from food.

Proteins are nutrients of fundamental importance in the dog’s diet and which must be present in higher quantities than others. Eggs are good for dogs because they are also rich in fats, which are equally important in dog nutrition. It is also important to point out that eggs do not cause an increase in cholesterol as they are good fats in the dog’s diet .

Finally, the egg contains vitamin A, B vitamins, iron and selenium, so it is a complete , economical and, therefore, accessible to all food.

How to give the egg to the dog: cooked or raw?

If he lived in the wild, the dog likely find eggs and undoubtedly eat them. It is for this reason that there are those who argue that it would be preferable to give raw eggs to the dog . A position supported above all by the experts in canine nutrition who defend the BARF diet . In addition, they add that it would be appropriate to add a piece of chopped shell to the raw egg to increase the supply of minerals.

Dog egg white

However, the question that arises is: isn’t raw egg in dogs too heavy for their digestive system? L ‘ raw egg whites contain a protein called avidin which acts as antinutriente and interferes with the absorption of vitamin H or biotin. The raw egg in dogs, however, unlike in humans, is much more digestible. To have a biotin deficiency, you will have to consume a large amount of this raw food. Which is strongly discouraged in any case.

The yolk to the dog

The yolk offers a large amount of biotin, so if you offer the egg to the dog, both the egg white and the yolk, our four-legged friend will get all the possible benefits. Furthermore, the yolk to the dog, if offered raw, will not give any kind of problem. On the contrary, it is a source of proteins, iron and vitamins necessary to properly develop our best friend’s immune system.

The shell to the dog

As mentioned earlier, many argue that giving the shell to the dog is good: in fact, it is a very important source of calcium for the teeth and bones of our furry friend. The shell must be very thinly shredded so that it is not dangerous for our animal. It must be chopped so as to become dust, so as not to create wounds inside the mouth of our dog. Remember to wash the shell properly before breaking it and offer it to the dog. The raw egg could contain the salmonella bacterium , so it is very important to wash it thoroughly before serving.

A good option to avoid salmonellosis is to give the dog a cooked egg . Cooking activates the avidin denaturation process, the egg is good for the dog as well. And will provide him with the proteins and fats mentioned above.

Thus dogs eat cooked eggs .

Read Also: Can dogs eat cat food? Will cat food harm my dog?

How many eggs a dog eat

Protein must be the dog’s main source of nutrition. Even if the egg is a food rich in proteins. The contribution must come mainly from the meat because the dog is a carnivorous animal . Meat proteins are best for these four-legged friends.

If you are not sure how many eggs dog can eat. You need to know that it will given sporadically and it will be sufficient to give the dog an egg. Once or twice a week. However, if he is overweight , it is advisable to give the dog one egg per week.

Did they tell you that the egg is bad for the dog? Did you know that it had so many beneficial properties for our four-legged friend? Write in the comments if you agree to give the dog the egg.

What to do when the dog growls at the owner

Don’t feel guilty if your dog growls at you – find out why and how to fix it! What to do when the dog growls at the owner

When the dog growls

When a dog growls at the owner , it is easy for the owner to immediately feel guilty and start wondering where he went wrong if he has a clear conscience. If you are in this situation and you are asking yourself this question, we will answer you immediately: it is likely that you have done absolutely nothing “wrong”, you just need to be able to find a way to communicate with the dog!
The growl of the dog is first of all a form of communication, in particular it is a warning . If you react by scolding the animal, it will likely attack directly the next time it finds itself in the same situation, judging the previous warning ineffective. On the other hand, even showing fear or not reacting togrowling of the dog risks worsening the situation, putting him in a position of domination that he will hardly want to give up.
When the dog growls at the owner, an impulsive defense mechanism is triggered and it is useless, if not counterproductive, to try to eliminate this instinctive behavior. The only thing to do is to understand why the dog has these reactions and, therefore, find the suitable solution.

Why does the dog growl

If this has happened to you, you’ve surely wondered “why is my dog ​​growling at me?”
The causes of dog growl can be many. The first and most common is that the dog feels somehow threatened by something, just like a cat when it blows . In this case, you will have to try to understand what makes him feel in danger to resolve his discomfort.
However, if the dog always growls it cannot be due to the perception of a threat: no dog feels in danger all the time! In this case, the cause of the problem could be a psychological trauma suffered as a puppy that pushes the animal to a constant state of aggression.

 Another explanation ifyour dog growls all the time is that it is a physical condition, such as rabies. Both cases absolutely require the intervention of a specialist.
If your dog growls , however, it can also be for a seemingly trivial reason, such as your smell! In fact, dogs have a very developed sense of smell and can react aggressively to any type of strong smell, even one that we consider pleasant. In this case, it’s easy to spot the problem – just try changing your clothes and taking a shower and then see if your furry friend’s attitude changes.

Why does the dog growl when he eats

The growl for the dog is also an affirmation of domination and possession and it is therefore quite common for a dog to react in this way if you approach his bowl, especially while he is eating. He’s just clearly expressing ownership of his food. It may seem strange from our trusted friend, but it is a very common attitude in the animal kingdom: it happens that cats do too!

Why does the dog growl when he plays

Just like with food, some dogs become very possessive with their toys and don’t allow anyone to touch them, not even their owners! Again, if the dog growls it does so to show its dominance over something.

Why does the dog growl at the cat

Have you brought home a new kitten and your dog is growling at him ? This is a rather frequent situation: the dog defends its territory from the “intruder” and therefore growls . The fact that it is a common circumstance does not mean that you should not keep an eye on it, on the contrary! Be prepared to intervene if your dog shows signs of aggression and do everything possible to make him get along with the cat .

What to do when the dog growls at the owner

Having clarified the main causes that can cause a dog to growl at the owner , it’s time to figure out how to make him stop!
First of all, keep children away, so that they do not trigger jealousies between furry and non-furry puppies, and carefully observe the behavior, movements and body of your dog: in short, make sure that he has no injuries or physical problems. Having established that the cause is a feeling of danger perceived by the dog, you must be able to calm him and make him feel pampered. With calm, prudence and slow movements, re-establish a relationship of mutual trust and regain control of the situation.

 Talk to him in a faint voice, call him by name and approach very slowly, perhaps not “from above”. If the situation is under control, give him a few strokes and remind him that he has nothing to fear at home.
However, if the dog growls when you sneakthe situation is slightly different. Obviously we assume that it is a beloved and well-kept dog, reprimanded for some prank: an abused dog will growl and be right to do so. If, on the other hand, your dog growls when you scold him, he is probably trying to assume a position of supremacy over you.
What to do at this point? NEVER use violence, but a strong attitude is needed to restore hierarchies. A dry “NO” pronounced with an imperious voice, accompanied by a distraction, perhaps sound, may be the best answer to educate a somewhat reticent dog

How to teach your dog not to bark

Your dog has every right to bark but how to Teach your dog not to bark? If he does it all the time, however, it can be a problem for you and for him: here’s what to do!

If your dog is always barking

Let’s clarify one thing first: a dog has every right to bark, even the law says so! Therefore, intolerant neighbors from all over the world have to put their minds in peace, some “bau” is more than legitimate. However, if your dog barks continuously, there is probably a problem that goes beyond any annoyance. Understanding the source of this problem and being able to fix it. Will allow both you and him to feel more comfortable, so it’s worth understanding why your dog is always barking and how to stop it.

Also, Read What to keep in mind when getting a pet


You will probably need to be patient and it may take some time, but it is possible to teach your dog not to bark excessively and in any situation. There are many reasons why he does this: from stress to boredom to neurological problems. So let’s try to understand why your dog barks all the time and what to do.

Why your dog is always barking

If your dog is barking too much, it is a good idea to find the reason and correct this habit before it becomes a compulsion, also because if your furry friend is showing a diasg it is important to be able to solve it. It will be easier to eliminate the problem if the dog is still a puppy, but with the right method even adult dogs can be trained not to bark excessively.
So let’s try to list the most common causes that lead a dog to bark continuously :

  • The dog barks when alone . This is a very common attitude especially in puppies, who have grown up close to their mothers and siblings. Finding yourself alone for the first time is not easy, you need to be able to correctly introduce the concept of being alone and ensure that it has stimuli so as not to get bored without company.
  • The dog barks at night . Dogs have a strong protective instinct towards us, if they bark at night it is probably to warn us of something they perceive as a danger or to attract our attention since they do not see us alert. It is necessary to intervene on this habit as soon as possible so that it does not become a compulsion.
  • The dog barks at people . Your dog probably does this because he feels threatened. In this case, a visit to the behaviorist may be useful to understand if it is an immediate trauma or just stress.
  • The dog stares into space and barks at nothing . Given that sometimes dogs see things invisible to us and are therefore not staring into space, if your friend is of a certain age and, after a few seconds in which he seems “frozen”, barks with agitation it could be a neurological problem. Better run to the vet!
  • The dog barks for a long time in different situations . A typical expression of canine stress, this behavior can also depend on a life that is too active, for example full of frequent travel.

How to teach your dog not to bark when alone

If your dog barks when he is home alone , you can try leaving music or a radio on that is making familiar noises. Another good way to keep him comfortable is to leave him some games that require a lot of attention to keep him busy in your absence and take those games off when you are at home.


If you notice that it is not boredom that makes him bark when you are not around but instead suffers from separation anxiety, a good strategy is to leave him a piece of cloth or anything else that smells like his family to calm him down.
Once back home, spend as much time as possible with him and let him play: he will have missed you and this is the best way to re-establish the bond and erase all anxiety!

How to train your dog not to bark with a command

A good way to teach your dog not to bark with a command is to distract him every time he barks . Use something very loud, like a can full of coins, to get his attention, and then say the command “silence” very firmly.
When your dog stops barking, reward him. Never raise your voice when you want it to stop as it could cause anxiety and impair learning. As we have said from the beginning, it takes a little patience. It is also possible that your friend may get confused if he thinks you are “barking” too: yelling only reinforces the habit of barking .

How to tell your dog not to bark: don’t encourage him

If you want to be able to teach your dog not to bark , you will need to stop encouraging all kinds of barking . You know that your furry friend often barks just to get attention, so in this case, the first step is to stop giving him what he wants every time he says “wow”. But first try to figure out if he is barking because he has to go to the toilet – in which case he has every right to be heard! – or if it is simply a whim like getting on the sofa. In the second case, don’t indulge his whims: any concession from you will convince him that by continuing to bark he can get whatever he wants!

How to train your dog not to bark: reward him for behaving well

When your dog starts to stop barking , praise him and reward him for his silence. The point is to make him understand, over time, that if he keeps quiet he gets more advantages than when he barks insistently.  For this, have some special treats on hand to give him as soon as he stops barking and be ready to shower him with compliments. After all, he deserves them!
Once he realizes that if he is silent he receives rewards and if he barks he is ignored, you can gradually begin to extend the time he must remain calm before receiving the reward. For best results. Make sure that the waiting time for the reward is not always the same, so you can normalize the correct behavior step by step.

What Are The Best Dog Breeds For Children

Dog breeds

All dogs are great, but not all dogs are the same so we have some dog breeds . These animals have been selected over time to help us perform different tasks . Thus, physical and behavioral differences were established according to the races.

We must be aware that the selection made to get those dogs that better meet one or other needs (herding, hunting, companionship …), make the different breeds have different behaviors.

There are many benefits of having a dog for children as we explain in our article on the benefits of having a dog for children .

In theory, any dog ​​can get along well with children, although it is true that we must choose well the dog that we take home and be willing to proceed with their education appropriately .

However, some breeds have characteristics that generally make them more optimal for living with children. It is important that, before bringing a dog to your home, you inform yourself well about the characteristics of the breed and carefully choose the new member of the family.

Abandoning it because it does not meet your expectations should never be an option and you should also bear in mind that the dog may end up being alone at home when you go to work and the children are at school .

If you have children, you will want a loving and active dog, patient with the little ones. You will find many suggestions about which is the best. We are going to analyze various breeds and their main characteristics.

Why are there so many breeds of dogs?

When looking for information to choose a dog, you can be overwhelmed by the number of breeds and possibilities that appear before you. Which one should you choose?

The great diversity of breeds is due to the fact that humans have been designing different dogs for thousands of years for different functions . Unfortunately, in the last 100 years this has become something vertiginous that is leading many dogs to critical situations, by enhancing physical aspects that are not functional and neglecting their health, character and well-being.

Each race has genetic and behavioral differences that we have to know when choosing our partner. Start by looking for information about the different types:

All of them have certain characteristics that influence their behavior. And not all of them are ideal for a child . Naturally, we will also have to think about which characteristics are the best for our family and needs.

Is a dog of a breed considered dangerous good for a house with children?

Dogs of so-called dangerous breeds are excellent dogs, but due to their characteristics they require special conditions . They are very strong dogs that have been designed to attack or collect prey. They are aggressive in attack and defense and have a high resistance to pain.

These dogs have an inhibited attack sequence, they do not warn by growling or threatening when they are going to do so . Also, once they launch the attack, they turn off the cognitive mode and won’t obey you . In addition, they are designed not to let go of their prey .

If you are going to choose one of these dogs, you must be a natural leader and keep in mind that they are single-owner dogs. They can be great throughout their lives, but if one day for any cause they attack a member of your family, the consequences will be fatal .

You must be very aware of the dog that you bring to your house and know if you will be able to train and lead it properly.

What should I do when I bring a dog to a house with children

The first step is to proceed with your education from day one . This is always important, since obedience training is essential for a good coexistence. Some adult in the family must have enough time and commitment to spend long hours training the dog .

If you want children to be involved in their education, make sure they remain under the supervision of an adult. It is also important to educate children so that they learn to live with their new friend without disturbing or stressing them .

It is a good idea to buy a book about the chosen breed and soak up the characteristics of your future friend . You must be clear that it is the dog you want and that you can provide what it needs.

If not, choose a different breed. He will be a close friend and you should not forget that a dog will be with you all his life, which can last up to 16-17 years in some breeds .

The best dog breeds for children

If you have children, it is important to look for an intelligent, active and good-tempered dog . That you have energy to play with them and then be able to remain calm at home. Next, we are going to point out some of the breeds considered optimal for living with the little ones.

  • The Labrador Retriever or Golden Retriever . Both dogs are considered excellent for children. These are dogs with a lot of energy, they can develop hyperactivity if they don’t run enough. They are active and playful. These dogs are very affectionate and not aggressive at all . They are ideal dogs for children . Of course, they need space to play and run. If you are not willing to take your dog out for long walks and runs then it is not your option .
  • The Beagle . A very playful and hyperactive hunting dog . Easy to train and very calm when leading a proper active life. It is not a very big dog and it behaves very well with children . Without proper exercise and proper attention, you can become overprotective and bark a lot.
  • The Poodle . It is a very intelligent dog with a great temperament . This dog was designed to retrieve objects from the water. It can be of three sizes: standadr, miniature or toy, the smallest are ideal to have in a flat or an apartment . He is very playful and lives for about 17 years .
  • The Boxer . He is a playful dog and he likes children . In addition, it has a strong protective instinct, it will not let anyone near your children. They protect their herd and are aggressive in front of strangers if necessary to take care of their own. The American Boxer is a hunting dog that was used as a guide dog and as a messenger in warfare. You are very energetic and need to exercise every day . In addition, it requires strong leadership. If you do not see yourself capable of imposing yourself on him, it is better that you choose a smaller and more manageable dog.
  • The Collie . He is a family dog ​​and also has a guard instinct . Very predictable in nature. You need space to walk. It will protect your children and will not allow strangers to approach without warning. You will have to brush it often to keep its hair healthy and shiny. The Collie is one of the 15 ideal dog breeds for an apartment or a flat .
  • Saint Bernard . This big man is very docile and protective . Easy to train and very quiet. It is ideal for young children and babies .
  • The German Shepherd . It is a great sheepdog, very functional. It adapts to any situation and is a good companion and work animal. Very obedient and easy to train . It also has a great defense instinct, which will protect your children from any danger . Shepherd dogs, in general, are ideal for anyone who is willing to train them and provide them with an active life. Of course, they require leadership skills and must be well trained.
  • Mongrel dogs . A very suitable option is to rescue a dog from an animal shelter. Mixed-breed dogs are on many occasions balanced and intelligent . Choose carefully and learn about her character and ability to obey. These are dogs that have been through difficult situations and can show behavior problems. You will have to spend time training them, but if you choose one of these dogs, you will provide a home and they will be eternally grateful .
  • Maltese Bichon. A cheerful and playful dog  but with a  small size that can end up being an ideal companion.

There are many more breeds and all of them will provide excellent companions for your children. The rule that you must follow to choose properly is simple: find out about the breed that you are going to take home and about the specimen in particular, study its needs and think about whether you will be able to supply them objectively.

Do not take a dog without knowing what awaits you and then abandon it or find another home for it. It is important to choose responsibly. It is about a living being that will integrate into your pack with all the consequences.

We already have the dog at home.

Congratulations, you have chosen a new companion for your children and for the whole family. He will be a faithful friend who will give everything for you. He will take care of you, play happily, and provide you with thousands of incredible moments. Your children are lucky, as dogs provide them with experiences and emotional stability . They will establish a very close bond that they will never forget and will contribute to the construction of their personality. But the journey does not end here. Actually, it has only just begun: Now you will have to learn how to find the best food for your dog , do not forget to find a doghouse suitable for its size and the possibilities of space you have , find out about all the types of vaccines that you have to manage your pet, and all kinds of questions regarding the care of your new friend .

Do not forget that a dog can cause many expenses and on certain occasions many families cannot bear the expenses of certain operations and consultations of their dog at the veterinarian, so we advise you a veterinary insurance to avoid having to sacrifice or leave unattended your dog (remember that it can save you thousands of euros a year)

Before you, years of living together, combined with constant training (of both dogs and children), open up. Education is not a matter of one day. It is a lifelong project that you must take on responsibly. Welcome to your exceptional new life!