Dogster Photo Contest: Dogs of the Week Winners (November 14, 2024)
The post Dogster Photo Contest: Dogs of the Week Winners (November 14, 2024) by Dogster Team appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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This Week’s Winner
| Name: | Bubba the foster |
| Breed: | Lab mix |
| Fun Fact: | Bubba’s favorite spot is on the cool concrete in this Austin, Texas heat. In this pic he’s begging for some fall weather this November. |
| Socials | @fosteringthebpack |
Cutest
| Name: | Lilibet Lou |
| Breed: | Chihuahua, Jack Russell, Pug mix |
| Fun Fact: | Lilibet Lou loves the grass and the sun. She loves to chase squirrels, although she has not been allowed to catch one. She adores kids that are little like her!! Her favorite toy is an opossum plush that I have had to sew over 20 times to keep it together! |
Most Expressive
| Name: | Buddy |
| Breed: | Shorkie |
| Fun Fact: | I took this as I caught him across the room looking at me like this and my heart melted |
Sleepiest
| Name: | Winnie |
| Breed: | Golden Retriever |
| Fun Fact: | Winnie is 12.4 months old. She waits for me to put down a soft blanket before she will lie down. She is the sweetest girl |
| Socials | @winnie_and_charliet |
Silliest
| Name: | Hazel |
| Breed: | Mini Goldendoodle |
| Socials | @minihazeldoodle |
Most Dignified
| Name: | Peanut & Pixie |
| Breed: | Chihuahua |
| Fun Fact: | Peanut and Pixie are both rescue dogs. They both compete in pet fashion shows to raise money and awareness to dog rescue. |
| Socials | @peanut0926 |
Enter Your Dog
Submit your doggie for a chance to be featured! Click here
- View our previous week’s winners here: November 8, 2024
- Click here to view all of our past winners
The post Dogster Photo Contest: Dogs of the Week Winners (November 14, 2024) by Dogster Team appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Do Dogs Have Zodiac Signs? Pet Horoscopes & Personality Traits
The post Do Dogs Have Zodiac Signs? Pet Horoscopes & Personality Traits by Ashley Bates appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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Zodiac signs are all the craze nowadays. It seems that everybody knows about astrology and even judges people based on their astrological sign. Are you one of them? If so, you might be really curious to know if our pets are still held to the same rules of the stars. Do dogs have horoscopes?
Since the zodiac signs are developed to cover the entire year, your dogs, cats, and other critters would most certainly be on the list. If you know your dog’s birthday, here’s a bit of information about a dog’s zodiac sign personality so you can see if your dog fits their sign.
Aries
- March 21—April 19
- Element: Fire
Oh yes, the Aries. Headstrong, fiery, and the epitome of what makes a fire sign, a fire sign. No matter what kind of animal you have born in this window, you can bet they are definitely assertive and love to run!
An Aries tends to be a little headstrong, so they might even prove challenging to train. However, they exhibit loyalty and ambition, so you have such a rewarding relationship with them. In terms of protection? They will defend their heart and home 100%.
The Aries is a bit hard to handle for some. They might require a bit of a firm hand. It’s nice to use positive reinforcement training with this star sign—and definitely never use force or negative reinforcement to get your point across—you won’t win!
Taurus
- April 20—May 20
- Element: Earth
The lazy, relaxed Taurus loves to eat. These are some stereotypes that you hear when talking about this earth sign. The Taurus tends to be a little bit stubborn.
So, even though your animal might be extremely sweet, lackadaisical, and go with the flow, they might also be a little resistant to change and put up a fight when it’s something they don’t want to do.
Tauruses are also creatures of habit. A pet that is a Taurus might have trouble adjusting to change. So, if you move homes or bring a new baby into the equation, they might not adjust so great at first.
But don’t worry, these lovable doggos will warm up before you know it.
Gemini
- May 21—June 21
- Element: Air
The Gemini—the twin of the zodiac world. If you have a dog that is a Gemini, their split personality will speak for itself. One minute, they might be relaxed and chilling on the couch. The next, they are bouncing off your walls and ripping down your curtains.
The Gemini is known to have two extreme sides to their personality, making them somewhat unpredictable, which can be entertaining all on its own. Geminis tend to be pretty free-spirited and happy.
Geminis are curious cats, or, well, dogs! They tend to be very social, outgoing, and exploratory! If you love adventure, you will certainly love having the glass-half-full Gemini by your side.
You can always count on them to put a smile on your face and fill your heart with love.
Cancer
- June 22—July 22
- Element: Water
If you have a Cancer animal in your home, you might notice that they are a bit more emotionally intuitive than some others.A Cancer will probably make a fantastic emotional support animal, constantly being aware of your mood fluctuations and your stress.
These animals can be a little nervous at times. You might find that a Cancer might duck under their bed when there’s a thunderstorm or even develop issues like separation anxiety.
These animals wear their heart on their sleeve, so they will be extreme Lovebugs, willing to give affection to just about anyone. Even ones that are more selective will thrive on the connection they have with their human counterparts.
Leo
- July 23—August 22
- Element: Fire
The goofy, spicy Leo is a lion at heart. Brave, sometimes against their own good, is an understatement. Many of these animals might exhibit a larger-than-life personality, where they think that they rule the roost.
Brave, helpful, and courageous, a lion-hearted little Leo dog will be protective, proactive, and perfect for pet parents everywhere. They have a light-heartedness about them but when they mean business, you can see their whole demeanor change.
They are a fire sign for sure, being a little bit bossy, somewhat stubborn, and even a bit overbearing. However, a Leo also has a very loving quality that makes them super fantastic in their own right.
Virgo
- August 23—September 22
- Element: Earth
The Virgo: a methodical, analytical star sign that bleeds over on our pets as well. If you have a Virgo, you might notice that your dog is very observant, calculated, and well-mannered. These animals tend to look at life through a very practical lens.
They tend to be very obedient animals, making them very easy to train. Virgos tend to be incredibly intelligent, so you shouldn’t have much of an issue teaching them basic concepts like potty training and general commands.
Because of a Virgo’s analytical nature, it also makes some great candidates for advanced training and areas of service or task-related duties. They are very observant of their surroundings and receptive to commands.
Libra
- September 23—October 23
- Element: Air
The Libra is all about balance. Libras tend to be very poised in nature, and your pets will take on the same type of royal persona. They tend to be a little bit finicky about certain things.
So, you might have a pup that snubs their nose up at food they don’t like or one that has to be loved and always pampered. They might not like to get their feet wet in the grass and would rather be on a luxury pet bed napping.
Since Libras are about balance, they might be as bad as they are good. They might have a rotten streak where they get rambunctious and then turn around and act like little angels sent to Earth.
Scorpio
- October 24—November 21
- Element: Fire
The Scorpio is one of the darkest of all star signs. They might put on a warm face, but when you have your back turned, they’re into the trash! Scorpios are the type of star signs that know what they are and aren’t to do, and then proceed to do whatever they want.
Then, they will make you feel bad for reprimanding them. They might be one of the most cunning of all star signs, so they constantly keep you on your toes. They might just outsmart you no matter what—and then put an innocent face on to lay on the guilt trip thick!
Scorpios run deep. They might lack obvious expressions, so it could be hard to tell what they are thinking. They might come across as somber, poker-faced, or even aloof. However, there is much more depth than what meets the eye.
Sagittarius
- November 22—December 21
- Element: Fire
The Sagittarius could arguably be the most adventurous of all the doggo star signs. Sagittarius dogs might be escape artists, excellent playmates, and road trip travelers. They are curious about the world around them and aim to sniff out everything that makes life great.
The Sagittarius has their little head in the clouds. You might find that your dog is a bit of an airhead that doesn’t always think things through. They aren’t the most well-timed, but they’re certainly humorous and friendly. They’re energy makes training not so serious, creating a layer of comedic relief during serious moments.
Capricorn
- December 22—January 19
- Element: Earth
The Capricorn is a highly practical star sign, maybe even more so than a Virgo. These pets will be very straight to the point. A Capricorn animal might be a little disapproving when there are a lot of shenanigans happening around the household.
Slightly aloof and a little moody, they might judge you, look down on you, and wonder why you do some of the things that you do.
Also, they might be the most well-behaved pet you have. They know the rules and they follow them—because they’re by-the-book like that. Capricorns also tend to be protective, so they will make very parental-style companions to kiddos and other pets.
Aquarius
- January 20—February 18
- Element: Air
The Aquarius is definitely a critter of many colors. These animals tend to be very intellectual and creative. For this reason, it might make them extremely good at being escape artists, getting away with other bad behaviors and the works!
On the flipside, they might just be very good at navigating life. They might take to learning very well, soaking in all kinds of different concepts, tricks, and commands. This is a very good candidate for advanced training concepts, as they are patient and receptive.
The Aquarius has a bit of an unconventional approach to life. These dogs might march to the beat of their own drum. They can also be quite sensitive to criticism, so always make sure to use positive reinforcement when interacting with them.
Pisces
- February 19—March 20
- Element: Water
Ah, the Pisces—deeply emotional, heart-on-their-sleeve, overly sensitive, lovable. If your dog is a Pisces, they are going to be quite an easygoing but sometimes babyish dog that is ultra-receptive of the energy around the room.
The Pisces is known as being one of the most intuitive and sensitive star signs of all. However, this can create a bit of negativity as well, as it can lead to issues like nervousness, separation anxiety, and other behavioral concerns.
A Pisces might also become very dependent on their owners, looking to them for guidance. This is a very desirable trait for some and less desirable trait for others.
Conclusion
Now you understand that the stars can influence our pets as much as they influence us. Now that you’ve learned a little bit more about each star sign, have you found any similarities to the descriptions with your pet?
Of course, these are stereotypical explanations for these star signs. Every animal is an individual with a whole personality of their own. It’s not a one-size-fits-all situation, although these are all very common characteristics of these signs.
Featured Image Credit: Thanumporn Thongkongkaew, Shutterstock
The post Do Dogs Have Zodiac Signs? Pet Horoscopes & Personality Traits by Ashley Bates appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Dog Breed Stereotypes: Inaccurate and Damaging
The breed identification associated with a mixed-breed dog can have life-or-death repercussions.
Our youngest dog, Ally, has a “bestie.” Her name is Colbie and she belongs to our friend Amanda, a trainer who also works as an instructor at my training center, AutumnGold. Ally is a Golden Retriever. Colbie is a pit bull, adopted from a local shelter while Amanda was on staff there.
Being young girls, both Ally and Colbie wear pink collars, Gentle Leaders, and harnesses. For Ally, this is simply a fashion statement. For Colbie, given her breed and the breed stereotypes that she may encounter, it means a bit more. Amanda purposefully dresses Colbie in pink, hoping that such feminine attire will present Colbie as the sweetheart that she is.
Although Ally does not care about Colbie’s genetic heritage (or that she wears pink), many people do. Breed stereotypes are pervasive and impact local and state breed-specific legislation (BSL), homeowner’s insurance rates, rental property regulations, and shelter decisions regarding adoption and euthanasia. BSL in the United States and the United Kingdom specifically target pit bulls and other bully-type breeds, and either ban ownership of the breeds outright or impose strict restrictions upon ownership. These laws are based upon two assumptions:
1. Targeted breeds are inherently dangerous.
2. Individuals of the breeds can be reliably identified.
There is much controversy (and no consensus) regarding the first assumption, which is a topic for another time.
In this article, we look at the second assumption regarding reliable breed identification. Is there supporting evidence?
It turns out that there is quite a bit of science on this topic – and the results are quite illuminating.
A Dog Breed Guessing Game
Prior to the development of DNA testing, the only method available for identifying the breed of a dog whose heritage was unknown was visual assessment. A shelter worker, veterinarian, or animal control officer examines the dog and assigns a breed designation based upon physical appearance and conformation. Even with widespread availability of DNA tests, most shelters and rescue groups continue to rely upon visual identification to assign breed labels to the dogs in their care. Given the life or death import of these decisions for some dogs, it is odd that the question of the reliability of these evaluations has not been questioned.
Until recently.
Even the Experts Can’t Agree on Pit Bulls. 
In 2013, Victoria Voith and her co-researchers (reference 1) asked more than 900 pet professionals to assign a breed (or mix of breeds) to 20 dogs that they viewed on one-minute video clips. A DNA test was conducted for each of the dogs prior to the study, which allowed the researchers to test both the accuracy of visual breed-identification and the degree of agreement among the dog experts.
Results: Poor agreement was found between visual breed assignments and DNA results in 14 of the 20 dogs (70 percent). Moreover, there was low inter-rater reliability, meaning that the dog experts did not show a high level of agreement regarding breed assignments to the 20 dogs. More than half of the evaluators agreed on the predominant breed in only seven of the 20 dogs (35 percent). These results provide evidence that physical appearance is not a reliable method for breed identification.
You Say Pit Bull, I Say Boxer 
The following year, researchers in the U.S. and the U.K. collaborated and examined the consistency with which shelter workers assigned breed labels to the dogs in their care (reference 2). A group of 416 shelter workers in the U.S. and 54 in the U.K. were asked to assign a breed or mix of breeds to photographs of 20 dogs. They also completed a questionnaire that asked them to list the specific features that they used in their determination. Of the 20 dogs that were used in this study, more than three-quarters had a bully-breed appearance.
Note: An important difference between the U.K. and the U.S. is that all U.K. shelters are subject to the country’s Dangerous Dog Act, a law that bans the ownership of pit bulls. While such bans exist in the U.S., there is no universal law. Rather, select municipalities or states have various forms of BSL.
Results: Perhaps not surprisingly, U.K. shelter workers were much less likely to identify a dog with a “bully appearance” as a pit bull than were U.S. shelter workers. Instead, the U.K. shelter workers tended to label these dogs as Staffordshire Bull Terriers, a breed that is allowed in the U.K., rather than as a pit bull, a “breed” that is universally banned.
Despite this difference, results corroborated Voith’s study in that the researchers found a great deal of variation among shelter workers in their assignments of breed, and there was a lack of consensus regarding which of the 20 dogs were identifiable as pit bulls.
DNA VS. Shelter Staff
A 2015 study surveyed experienced shelter staff members at several Florida animal shelters (reference 3). At each of four sites, four staff members were asked to assign breed designations to 30 adoptable dogs who were housed at their shelter. Collectively, 120 dogs were evaluated by 16 staff members. DNA testing was conducted on all of the dogs. A primary objective of this study was to examine the reliability of shelter staff’s ability to identify dogs with pit bull heritage and to compare their assessments with DNA results.
Note: The DNA signatures that are used to identify “pit bull terriers” are those of the American Staffordshire Terrier and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, two breeds that are considered to be genetically identical. The companies that offer DNA tests for mixed-breed identification do not include American Pit Bull Terriers among the breeds they may identify.
Results: About one-third of the dogs who were identified as a pit-bull type breed by one or more shelter staff lacked any DNA evidence of bully breeds in his/her heritage. When inter-rater reliability among the participants was examined, agreement among shelter staff was moderate, but still included a relatively large number of disagreements.
What this means in practical terms is that a substantial number of dogs in this study were labeled as pit bulls or pit bull types and yet had no such genetic background. Even if the shelter staff agreed on a particular dog’s identification, this would be rather a moot point (for the dog) if they both happened to be wrong.
Breed DNA Doesn’t Always Show
How is it possible that a dog who appears to have the characteristic “pittie-type” head shape, muscular body, and other distinctive features, tests negative for pit-bull heritage? The conclusion that many people make from these discrepancies is that DNA testing must be unreliable, inaccurate, or just plain wrong.
However, the fact is that it is not uncommon for the results of DNA tests of dogs who have mixed heritage to identify a set of primary ancestor breeds that look nothing like the dog in question. This occurs because purebred crosses, particularly after the first generation, can result in unique combinations of genes that produce a wide range of features. When several different breeds are involved, some of these features may not be apparent in any of the ancestral breeds.
This occurs for two reasons. First, many of the breeds that we know today were originally created by crossing two or more existing breeds and then selecting for a small set of physically unique traits in subsequent generations. However, the dogs of these breeds still carry genes for a much wider variety of traits, even though the genes are not being “expressed” in the dog’s appearance. When these dogs are then bred to dogs of other breeds the hidden traits may become evident in their puppies.
A second reason is that less than one percent of the canine genome encodes for breed-specific traits such ear shape, coat type and color, and head shape. So, a dog could be a large part (genetically) of a certain breed, while not showing all of the breed’s physical traits, which may have been rapidly lost during cross-breeding with other breeds.
These three studies provide valuable evidence that the use of visual assessments to assign breed or breed-mixes to dogs is inaccurate and unreliable.
Not to put too fine a point on it, but this information is of more than just casual interest for dogs like Colbie because pit bulls and other “bully breeds” are most frequently stigmatized by breed stereotypes and impacted by BSL and shelter policies that require automatic euthanasia. It is not an exaggeration to suggest that identifying an individual dog as a pit bull may be a matter of life or death for that dog.
Labels Matter in the Pet Adoption World
A recent paper published by researchers in Clive Wynne’s dog lab at the University of Arizona describes an ambitious series of experiments in which they examined the impact of breed labels on the perceptions of potential adopters and on the eventual outcome for the dog (reference 4). The studies were carried out online and at animal shelters in Florida and Arizona. Participants were asked to rate photographs, videotapes, or live dogs in their kennels. In some conditions the dogs were provided with a breed label and in others they were not.
Results: Two major findings came out of these studies. The first showed that stereotypes about pit bulls are alive and well, and the second showed how this stigmatization ultimately affects dogs:
1. People rated an image of a “pit-bull type” dog as less approachable, friendly, and intelligent, and more aggressive when compared to an image of either a Labrador Retriever or a Border Collie. In another experiment, labeling a dog as a pit bull negatively influenced the perceptions that people had about the dog. When visitors rated a dog who was labeled as a pit bull, the dogs were found to be less attractive in terms of perceived approachability, friendliness, intelligence, aggressiveness, and adoptability compared with when the same dog was not so labeled.
2. Dogs who had been labeled as pit bulls had length of stays in the Florida shelter prior to adoption that were more than three times as long as the stays of dogs who were matched in appearance, but had been labeled as another breed or breed-mix.
When breed labels were removed from the profile cards of dogs offered for adoption, adoption rates for pit bulls increased significantly, length of stays prior to adoption in the shelter decreased, as did euthanasia rates.
Interestingly, not only pit bull-type dogs benefited from removing breed labels from the kennel cards. Dogs from working breeds who were available for adoption, in particular Boxers, Dobermans, and Mastiffs also showed an increase in adoption rate.
Take Away Points
There is a lot to ponder here. We have learned that breed identification using a dog’s physical appearance, even when conducted by experienced dog experts, is flawed in two distinctive ways. First, experts cannot agree consistently about how to label an individual dog. One person’s Boxer-mix is another’s pit bull and is yet another’s Bulldog/Lab mix.
Second, DNA tests do not consistently confirm breed assignments that were based upon physical appearance. Labeling breeds for purposes of shelter retention, adoption, and euthanasia is a highly dubious process, and one that is most critical for pit bulls, American Pit Bull Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, and every other so-called “bully” breed and breed-mix.
We have also learned that potential adopters react to a pit bull label in ways that may adversely affect the outcome for the dog. Labeling a dog as a pit bull may increase her length of stay in the shelter, reduce her chances of adoption and increase her risk of being killed, simply because she was assigned a (possibly incorrect) label that changed the perceptions of potential adopters.
And last, we have evidence that removing breed labels from the cage cards of adoptable pit-bull-type dogs (and many other dogs) increases their chance of adoption, reduces the length of their stay in the shelter, and increases their chance of simply staying alive.
Colbie is pretty in pink, for sure. But it’s time that wearing pink becomes a simple fashion statement for Colbie, just as it is for her pal Ally.
What’s a “Pit Bull” Anyway? 
Would it surprise you to learn that there is no such breed as the pit bull? This is why it’s not capitalized in WDJ; we do capitalize breed names. There are lots of dogs that are called “pit bulls,” however. Some of them might actually be one of these: The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes a breed called the American Staffordshire Terrier, and another called the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. The United Kennel Club (UKC), established in 1898, recognized its first breed, the American Pit Bull Terrier, in 1898. The UKC also recognizes the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Pedigrees be damned, an individual of any one of these dogs would likely be labeled as a “pit bull” if he or she were found in an animal shelter.
As the studies discussed here show, the above-mentioned purebreds, as well as other breeds developed over the years (including the American Bulldog) – and the countless mixed-breed dogs that result from matings with them – are largely indistinguishable to most humans, and even to many dog training or veterinary professionals. If the dog has a blocky head, a muscular body (whether it’s short and squatty, or taller and chiselled), a short coat, and a whippy tail, he will likely be called a pit bull at some point – almost certainly if he ends up in a shelter. If he’s lucky enough to make it onto the adoption row and gets adopted, his savior finds she has also adopted a quandary: Most breed specific legislation, housing regulations, and insurance companies discriminate against any dog with a “pit bull” label – possibly the reason why those mixed-breed DNA testing companies don’t designate any of the dogs they test as American Pit Bull Terriers.
Is That a Cyst or a Tumor?
A cyst is usually a lump containing fluid, while a tumor tends to be solid.
Terminology is important when it comes to lumps or bumps on your dog’s skin. A “cyst” is a capsule that usually has fluid in it, although it can have air as well. “Tumor” is a general term, basically a generic swelling or mass. The terms tumor and neoplasm tend to be used interchangeably.
A neoplasm is a mass with abnormal tissue. It can be benign (slow growing and noninvasive) or malignant (rapid growth with spread to other tissues). It may be cancerous or noncancerous.
Overall, lumps and bumps tend to be solid tissue masses, but a bump like a superficial abscess may have pus as well as some solid tissues.
Should You Worry About a Lump?
Most benign growths are superficial. They are only in the outermost layers of the skin, so they are movable and not firmly attached to the body and underlying tissues. They are not usually red or inflamed or painful. Most develop slowly.
If you notice any growths on your dog, track the location and size. Checking once a month is a good recommendation. If things change, contact your veterinarian for an exam. Your chart of the growth’s history will be helpful.
If your veterinarian has any concerns, the first step is generally a needle aspiration, which is done without any anesthesia and provides your veterinarian with cells to examine under the microscope.
Common Types of Lumps, Cysts, and Tumors.
Cysts: Some skin cysts have a clear, thin layer of tissue. Your veterinarian can drain a cyst, but without removal of the capsule, it will often refill.
Sebaceous cysts: These cysts tend to be firm and white or gray in color. They do not drain easily and may rupture and become infected.
Skin tags: Small skin tags and wart-like growths tend to be benign but may irritate your dog due to their location. If they’re irritating, you can discuss removal with your veterinarian.
Lipomas: Lipomas are fatty neoplasms that tend to be smooth, often round, and benign. They can be moved around in the skin a bit and you can usually feel underneath them. Some of these can get quite big and may not be as movable then.
Hives and welts: Hives, welts, and allergic reactions can crop up very quickly. My shorthaired Cirnecho dell Etna was “popping up” hives as we watched during one very buggy night at training class. These lumps disappeared quickly with a dose of antihistamine.
Mast cell tumors: These tricky skin growths usually appear benign, somewhat superficial and with no inflammation. Often, if they are rubbed, they will have a temporary increase in size, the skin will get red and warm, and your dog may bite or itch at them. This is all due to histamine release from the irritated mast cells. Mast cells growths require veterinary intervention.
Just like us, our dogs can have a variety of skin tags, growths, lumps, bumps, and cysts—and hygromas. Most of these are benign, but some can indicate other problems or even cancer. Erring on the side of caution with a veterinarian appointment is wise. Everything is easier to handle when caught earlier.
How Big Do Jack Russell Terriers Get? Vet-Verified Average Size, Weight & Growth Chart
The post How Big Do Jack Russell Terriers Get? Vet-Verified Average Size, Weight & Growth Chart by Ashley Bates appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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Jack Russell Terriers are happy-go-lucky, spry little dogs that bring so much happiness to their owners. If you love little dogs, live in an apartment or smaller living spaces, or are just curious about the breed’s size—we have all the growth facts you could want! On average, a Jack Russell Terrier can weigh up to 13.5 pounds (6 kilograms) and grow up to approximately 12 inches (30 centimeters) in height.
So, without further ado, here is more about this athletic, lively little breed. Will a Jack Russell be the right size for your living space? Let’s see!
Jack Russell Overview
The Jack Russell Terrier is an adorable little dog that is classically white with black and/or tan markings. They can come with a smooth, broken, or rough coat, so the look can be a little different depending on the type of Jack Russell you choose.
Jack Russell Terriers are known for being clownish, energetic, and stubborn! These chipper little dogs are agile, alert, and sociable. They tend to get along well with strangers and other pets, even if they like to rule the roost.
Jack Russells have stout, muscular little bodies with great tone and structure. Typical to the terrier, these dogs are very athletically capable and can jump quite high into the air. They’re the perfect dog to teach a whole bunch of fancy tricks.
Jack Russell Terrier Size and Growth Chart
In the chart below, we are going to explain exactly what you can expect from your Jack Russell from month to month. Keep in mind that this chart shows a list of averages, so not every Jack Russell will be an exact fit on the scale every month. You will find a wide range of sizes of Jack Russells in their adult age, here we have taken into account a dog that will reach about 14 lbs in their final adult size. Your vet is always the one to determine whether your Jack Russell is meeting their weight markers.
| Age | Weight Range | Height Range |
| 0 months | 0.5–1 pound | 2–3 inches |
| 1 month | 1–2 pound | 4–5 inches |
| 2 months | 2–4 pounds | 5–6 inches |
| 3 months | 3–5 pounds | 6–7 inches |
| 4 months | 5–7 pounds | 7–8 inches |
| 5 months | 7–9 pounds | 8–9.5 inches |
| 6 months | 8–11 pounds | 9–10.5 inches |
| 7–9 months | 9–13 pounds | 10–12 inches |
| 12–24 months | 12–14 pounds | 10–12.5 inches |
Source: iheartdogs.com
When Does a Jack Russell Terrier Stop Growing?
A Jack Russell Terrier is considered fully grown by the time they reach approximately 12 months of age. These pups are considered small dogs, so some of them might top out in their growth at around 9 months of age. These little dogs will be very unlikely to continue to grow in size and height past the 1-year marker.
Factors Affecting the Size of Jack Russell Terrier
Is it possible to determine how big an individual Jack Russell will get? Even though there’s a general average, obviously every dog will be different. Some of them will be on the runt side while others will be on the very large side.
You will see a pretty drastic difference if you line them up Jack Russell by Jack Russell. Several factors can affect the height and weight of an adult Jack Russell Terrier, including genetics, age, and overall health.
Genetics
Genetics play a huge role, possibly the biggest, in how large a dog gets. Often, dogs take after their parents, so bloodline speaks volumes. If both parents are smaller, the puppies will likely be on the smaller side as well.
Age
Age speaks volumes about size. Jack Russells typically stop growing at around 12 months of age. Generally speaking, smaller dogs stop growing earlier than larger dogs. Some larger dogs can take upwards of 2 years to fully grow.
Overall Health
Your Jack Russell’s overall health can affect their size. Dogs that suffer from certain health conditions may have stunted growth or grow more slowly than dogs that are otherwise healthy. For example, dogs that have heart conditions, nutritional deficiencies, severe parasitism, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, liver shunts, endocrine problems, or esophageal diseases may have stunted growth as a result.
Ideal Diet for Maintaining a Healthy Weight
There are several different ways that you can ensure your Jack Russell maintains a healthy weight. This aspect of care is very important during the growth process, adult maintenance stage, and senior years.
Below are a few ways you can be sure that your spry little dog has their weight in check.
Feed Appropriate Portions
It is crucial to always make sure you’re feeding your dog the correct portions. That can be a little tricky to figure out on your own, which is why most dog food bags have this information listed on the back. If you choose to feed your dog with another method, such as canned, fresh, raw, homemade food, or a combination of any of these, portioning can be a little trickier.
That is why it is so crucial to work hand in hand with your veterinarian to make sure you’re not only giving your dog the right food but adequate portions every day. One Jack Russell might require more or fewer calories than another based on many different factors such as neutering status, exercise levels, health, and current weight.
If they’re trying to watch their figure, your vet might have their portions reduced or have them on a maintenance diet. If your Jack Russell is a little underweight, you might need to bulk them up by offering a protein and calorie-dense meal.
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Age-Appropriate Recipes
Purchasing the correct diet for your dog’s life stage is vital. As puppies, they will need energy-dense diets that include very important nutrients in their diet to help their growing bodies move along. Some of these can include calcium and phosphorus, and high-quality, highly digestible proteins that nourish the brain and body.
As adults, they will need a recipe that helps them maintain their adult weight and allows them to thrive in daily life. As seniors, they will need a recipe that helps them maintain as their bodies begin to degrade and metabolize nutrients differently.
Sometimes you will have to switch a recipe based on certain issues like food allergies, health conditions, and overall needs as well.
Ensure Adequate Exercise
A Jack Russell is a very active little dog. They prefer life on the go, and it’s important to ensure that they’re getting enough exercise in a day. If they aren’t, it could cause weight gain very quickly, especially if they’re hefty eaters.
On average, an adult Jack Russell requires around 60 minutes of exercise per day, more if possible. These numbers can vary slightly based on the individual dog. These dogs will love to play games like fetch, go on scavenger hunts, and take their daily walks.
Understand Your Dog’s Needs
Since every circumstance is different, it’s important to understand your individual Jack Russell’s needs. Some Jack Russells will be a little on the weaker side requiring more care while others will be robust and full of life.
It really just depends on the overall genetics and environment of your pooch. Sometimes, there is no way to foresee certain allergies, sensitivities, or other health conditions that develop. You never know what kind of eater your dog will be either.
If you free-feed, you might find that your dog becomes obese pretty quickly. Others will be picky eaters and can most certainly raid the food bowl all day and still not get enough calories.
How to Measure Your Jack Russell Terrier
You can measure your Jack Russell to see how much they grow as they are young, and measuring your dog is also important for other factors, such as buying harnesses, leashes, doggy clothes, and other bodily items.
- Length: Measure from the base of the tail to the base of the neck.
- Neck: Measure its circumference at the base of the neck.
- Chest: Measure around the widest part of the chest.
- Waist: Measure around the thinnest part of the dog.
- Height: With your dog standing straight measure from the base of the floor to the highest point of the dog’s shoulder blades.
- Weight: Place your Jack Russell on a vet scale, or weigh yourself on a home scale then weigh yourself holding your Jack Russell Terrier and subtract your weight from the total.
Conclusion
Now you know exactly what to expect as far as growth for a Jack Russell Terrier. Several different things influence the overall growth of a dog similar to what happens with people. However, you can get some pretty good averages and get a little more educated by brushing up on all the facts about the breed.
Featured Image Credit: nexusby, Shutterstock
The post How Big Do Jack Russell Terriers Get? Vet-Verified Average Size, Weight & Growth Chart by Ashley Bates appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Favorite Things: The Wednesday Dogs of Dogster Respond
The post Favorite Things: The Wednesday Dogs of Dogster Respond by Dogster Team appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Welcome to the Wednesday Dogs of Dogster! Every month, we ask our Dogsters to weigh in on a new topic. This week, we asked them: What’s Your Favorite Thing About Your Dog(s)? Here’s what they had to say:
Amanda & Subi
Subi has an arsenal of quirks, habits, and behaviors that I adore. If I had to choose a few favorites, though, I think one might be her inept attempts to ward off the mailman as he passes by. I am in two minds about how the mail carrier feels about it, but for me, it is pure entertainment. Before anyone says anything about allowing this behavior, she’s a dog so I let her do dog things. Subi has prime visuals with floor-length windows and almost levitates with the excitement coursing through her body. Arrhythmic tap dancing compounded with rapid-fire barks light up my house like a Christmas tree. Occasionally, I see her spook the carrier at the first window. Hilarious and the cherry on top. I’ve dubbed her the neighborhood watch because she alerts me of any and all movement. Passersby, birds, cars, leaves in the wind. Anything at all, Subi will tell you about it.
Despite being extremely food motivated, Subi is incredibly patient when getting treated to human food, and surprisingly, she is not much of a beggar. She’ll be in proximity but far enough away that her puppy dog eyes are almost undetectable. No whining or crying, either. She’ll wait in her space until you invite her into yours. However, she’ll snatch that food from your hands and swallow it whole like it is her job. Balance, I suppose.
Funny oddities aside, my favorite thing about this round little Chi is that she’s one of the most wholesome dogs I have ever met. Chihuahuas have a bit of a reputation, but Subi is certainly the exception to the rule. Although a bit wary initially, she gets along with everyone. Dogs, humans (adults and children), and even cats. Subi is easily excitable with the happiest feet, springing between still moments of her playful downward dog pose. Because she’s a rescue, it’s taken a few years to gain her trust fully (I am chalking it up to the baby voice that’s exclusively hers), but I am so proud of the dog she is now. She and I have the best girl time filled with belly rubs and trolling the neighbors.
Kate & Gizmo
My favorite thing about Gizmo? That’s easy: the pure joy he seems to experience while doing about 90-95% of his daily activities. Breakfast? Amazing, even better than yesterday. Running around the backyard? Fabulous, spotted a squirrel, sniffed every blade of grass. Morning nap, excellent. Mid-morning nap, also excellent. Pre-lunch zoomies around the house, always good to stretch the bod. And so on – whether or not we’re doing something new and exciting, he’s always there, looking up at me with a broad grin (yes, I’m anthropomorphizing, but I swear, he’s also thrilled).
My second favorite thing about Gizmo is how determined and creative he is in the pursuit of a good snuggle. When entering any room, he does a quick scan of the humans to plot his lap-and-nap plans. If you’re already sitting down, fabulous: he’ll take a flying leap and trust that your legs will be there when he lands. If you’re lying on the couch, same thing, but with the added joy of tiny sharp feet suddenly stabbing your soft bits. If you’ve made the mistake of standing in his presence, he will jump onto the nearest soft thing and lure you in with his siren eyes. I’ve very rarely seen anyone resist.
When first sitting on a lap, Gizmo will sit upright, with Downton Abbey-esque posture, and his little dangling chicken leg swinging down to the side. But when he decides that the room doesn’t need surveillance and it’s time for a full-blown cuddle, he’ll stand, take a couple of spins, and always end the rotation with his head nestled next to my stomach, neck and back held in the curve of my arm.
I love when he does this; it’s so sweet and one of his calmest states. But holding him there is also a workout for all of the tiniest muscles in my legs, arms, and back, on top of which, I do actually need to type with my left hand. So when I stop holding him at a perfectly comfortable angle, a lesser cuddler might give up and move to the comfy couch three feet away. But Gizmo is a master cuddler, so he’ll shift a bit to hold himself there, even clamping his legs around one of mine. When it’s time to stand up (usually 30-40 minutes after I first intended to), I say “Okay!” and he leaps off my lap, ready for the next adventure.
Meagan, Draper & Rue
My favorite thing about Draper is probably the fact that he has been with us through so many of life’s big, adult milestones. Draper came into our lives right at the beginning of the pandemic, and I think he was really what got us through the long, uncertain days. Instead of being annoyed that our days were spent stuck inside our little apartment, we were thrilled to be training our little boy and doting on his every move. Somedays I swear we didn’t even realize we were in lockdown!
Those long days (that turned to years) spent stuck inside together created a very special bond between Draper and me, which is actually my second favorite thing about him – his love and loyalty for his humans. Draper is our loyal snuggle buddy, cuddling up beside us on the couch or letting out gentle whines at the foot of the bed each morning so I can move over to let him curl up beside me (he doesn’t need to do this, by the way; he’s already on the bed with us. He is just a scaredy cat who won’t walk too close to the edge, so he needs me to shuffle).
He welcomed his human brother into our little family with open paws. From protecting my bump when I was pregnant to curling up beside the baby when we brought him home, he has proven his loyalty extends beyond just my husband and myself to include our baby. As our little nugget becomes busier and busier, Draper has mastered the art of dodgeball, keeping a safe distance to avoid having his glorious golden locks yanked by grubby little fingers. But he’s always on watch, ready to spring into action for some puppy kisses or crumbs. They say first borns are dependable, cautious and controlling, and I can confirm, Draper is the true first born child in our family. We often refer to him as “Deputy Draper” — a job he takes very seriously, barking orders at his siblings or us if we dare to step out of place. And despite his loud opinions (aka his barking, which happens to be my least favorite thing about him), Draper is our gentle, sensitive soul and my favorite 4-legged creature on the planet—right alongside his little sister and partner in crime, Rue.
My favorite thing about Rue is not just one thing but her entire personality! This little spitfire is fearless and loves to bully Draper, yet somehow manages to be adorable while doing it. She’s a master lap-sitter and loves to curl up into the tiniest ball behind your knees and hide under the covers. Each morning, Rue bolts to our faces, showering us with kisses as if to say, “Wake up, Mom and Dad! I love you, I love you, I love you!” She then jumps out of bed ready to rumble, attacking Draper’s ears and pulling all of her toys out of her toy basket, which often results in a game of tug of war with her human brother. After breakfast she will usually settle on one of our laps for the day until a neighbour walks or drives by and then it’s go-time, baby! She quickly pounces to the window to let the passerby know this is her house and they dare not come any closer!
When one of us is away from her, whether we are taking a nap with the baby or relaxing in the tub, she will make sure she keeps a close eye on us, running into the room every so often to bombard us with kisses! Every night, she eagerly waits for us to remove our socks so she can snag them and use them as her pillow, growling at Draper if he gets near, protective of her beloved stinky sock stash. Once she’s secure with her precious belongings, she finds her favorite spot to retire for the evening until we do it all again tomorrow!
Nicole, Rosa & Machado
It’s hard to list just one favorite thing about each of my dogs because there are so many, and they are ever-changing as we continue to grow together. For example, when we got Rosa, my favorite thing about her was her resilience and bravery. She had been through so much in her short life but she was still kind and gentle and trusting. She didn’t know how to play, so most of our early interactions included us reminding her that she was safe with us and showering her with love. When she started feeling more comfortable, she would give us more love than she was happy to receive herself, and that’s still true today.
My favorite things about her evolved to her silly side. Once Rosa knew the ball was for her to have fun with, we started experimenting with training commands. She learned ‘sit’ very quickly because she already loves to sit very regally whenever her name is called. We moved to ‘high five’ and this was hilarious and difficult for Rosa. When we would lift her paw, she would lose balance and fall over onto her back immediately. But, after 10 weeks of persistence, she got it, and I cried the moment she did. I have never seen a dog happier or more proud, she knew exactly what she had done, she persisted and learned something new, and from that moment on, we saw a new dog. We got to see the playful, goofy side, and I can’t get enough of that. While I still admire her resilience and bravery and know that without those traits we wouldn’t have our goofy girl, I truly love seeing my silly pup shine.
The over-arching favorite thing about Rosa, though, is her kind and gentle spirit. Whether she’s in one of her ‘cannot compute’ modes because she hears thunder, or her ‘let’s start a rumpus’ goofy modes because the sun has come out again, through it all, she has the sweetest demeanor and I cannot help but melt for her.
With Machado, because of his laid-back surfer dude mentality, we often forget that he is just as brave and resilient as Rosa. We don’t know much about where he came from, but we know that he instantly bonded with us and trusted us and Rosa and our cat Baby Cat.
Mac is the best little brother to Rosa we could have ever dreamed of. He instantly became a support beam for her to branch out and push herself out of her comfort zone, but he doesn’t give in to her all the time either. He pushes her buttons and runs away with a goofy grin when she gets grumpy with him when they play, takes a lap, and heads back and all is well again. The two together are perfect little peas in a pod.
I love the way Machado loves. His big heart is open to making friends with everyone and every animal, big or small. From the moment he met our cat, he was obsessed, always wanting to sleep beside him and keep Baby Cat involved in everything. Mac will sit outside and watch the wild rabbits and quails play, not wanting to chase them, he just sits calmly and watches. And when we welcomed our daughter to the mix, he became her instant best friend and protector. He must have known that she would drop human food (or hand deliver it directly) eventually. He played the long game and it paid off.
I also love that Mac loves to sing and talk, and it is hilarious. When he first moved in, he was terrified of the guitar. Now, we can harmonize together. He tells us when he feels hard done by (food is taking too long, food is not frequent enough, someone said the W-A-L-K word and isn’t acting fast enough, etc.). Now Rosa also loves to join in, but she cannot howl to save her life. She barks. Loudly. This is another one of my favorite things about her, while the harmonizing doesn’t happen, boy does she try!
I could write about my favorite things about my two hooligans all day! They are so loving and sweet and have taught me so much about myself and I feel so blessed and grateful to have them in our lives.
The post Favorite Things: The Wednesday Dogs of Dogster Respond by Dogster Team appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Tail Docking vs Tail Amputation: Vet-Verified Differences & Explanation
The post Tail Docking vs Tail Amputation: Vet-Verified Differences & Explanation by Jessica Kim appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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Tail docking and tail amputation are commonly mistaken as the same thing. These two terms are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings. Both involve removing part or all of a dog’s tail. However, tail docking is widely considered as a controversial cosmetic procedure, while tail amputation is a necessary medical intervention. To clear up the confusion, we’ll go over the differences between tail docking and tail amputation and everything you need to know about each procedure.
At a Glance
- Cosmetic reasons; prevent potential injury
- Commonly used for herding and working dogs
- Most often completed in early puppyhood
- Considered inhumane by animal welfare activists
- Medically necessary; performed due to traumatic injury
- Must have a therapeutic purpose
- May stop severe infections from spreading
- Performed only if medically necessary on older dogs
Overview of Tail Docking:
Tail docking is a procedure that involves amputating part of a dog’s tail. It’s controversial because many believe that it inflicts unnecessary pain on dogs. Many countries actually ban tail docking, and animal rights activists are opposed to it.
Reasons for Tail Docking
There are several reasons why dogs will get their tails docked. One of the main reasons for it is for cosmetic purposes. Some breed standards have docked tails as one of the requirements under physical features. For example, the American Kennel Club’s breed standards for Doberman Pinschers include tails that are docked around the length of the second joint.
Tail docking may also be used to prevent injuries. In theory, guard dogs are less likely to get hurt if their tails are shorter and more difficult to grip. Similarly, herding dogs may also get their tails docked to prevent them from getting trampled on or snagged while they’re herding livestock.
When Do Dogs Get Their Tail Docked?
It’s most common for dogs to get their tail docked when they’re young puppies. It’s usually done within the first 5 days of a puppy’s life. The reason tail docking is done so early is because of a belief that the puppy will be too young to feel or remember the pain from the procedure. However, there’s insufficient evidence available to fully support this belief.
If a puppy doesn’t get their tail docked within the first several days after being born, the procedure must be held off until the puppy is old enough to receive anesthesia safely. This is usually after the puppy reaches 12 weeks old.
Is Tail Docking Covered by Insurance?
Because tail docking is considered a cosmetic procedure, it isn’t covered by insurance. Since it isn’t medically necessary, pet insurance doesn’t apply to it. The cost of tail docking often depends on the age of the dog. Tail docking for younger puppies usually cost less than procedures performed on older puppies and adult dogs.
- May prevent injuries in working dogs
- Painful
- No significant benefits to quality of life
- Can be traumatic for dogs
- Makes socialization challenging
Overview of Tail Amputation:
Sometimes, removing a part or the whole tail is deemed medically necessary. When tail removal is used as a medical procedure to save a dog’s life or significantly improve their quality of life, it is considered to be a tail amputation.
Reasons for Tail Amputation
Tail amputation is considered when a dog’s tail is threatening the dog’s life or actively causing significant harm or pain. For example, veterinarians may amputate a part of a dog’s tail to stop malignant tumors from spreading to the rest of the body. If the tail experiences severe physical trauma, it may need to be amputated. Another reason why a dog’s tail requires amputation is to prevent the spread of a dangerous infection, such as gangrene.
When Do Dogs Get a Tail Amputation?
Tail amputation is most common in older dogs because they become more susceptible to certain health issues as they age. For example, certain purebred dogs, like Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds, are at higher risk of getting cancer the older they get.
If you believe there is a medical reason why your dog’s tail is causing severe pain or distress to your dog, you can consult your veterinarian to determine if tail amputation would be a significantly beneficial surgery for your dog. Your veterinarian can help you weigh your options and inform you of any less invasive procedures that could help your dog.
Is Tail Amputation Covered by Insurance?
Because tail amputation is considered to be a medical procedure, it can be covered by pet insurance. Just keep in mind that pet insurance doesn’t cover procedures and treatments for pre-existing conditions. For example, if your dog has a tumor that requires tail amputation, your pet insurance won’t cover the surgery if your dog is enrolled in an insurance plan after the tumor was discovered and in their medical records.
- May stop infections from spreading
- Effective for removing tumors
- Can be life-saving
- Can become infected
Is Tail Docking Legal in the US?
Tail docking is illegal in certain countries, including Australia, Germany, and the UK. However, it remains legal and unrestricted in the US. Some states, including New York and Vermont, have drafted bills to ban tail docking, but there currently aren’t any states that have made it an illegal practice.
Most veterinarians are opposed to tail docking and will only perform medically necessary tail amputations. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) is against cosmetic tail docking because there isn’t sufficient justification for it.
Recovery Time for Tail Docking and Tail Amputation
The recovery time for tail docking and amputation will depend on the dog. In general, the tail will heal within a week. Dogs are recommended to wear an e-collar during their recovery period to prevent them from licking the wound as it heals. They are also usually given medication for pain management.
In rare cases, the tail can become infected, which will complicate the healing process. Infected tails can look red and sore, and might be covered in pus. Because infections can quickly become serious, dogs should be taken to the veterinarian right away if their wound has become infected.
Most dogs face a good prognosis after a tail amputation surgery. However, some dogs may continue to experience tail sensitivity and chronic pain. They may also have a general heightened sensitivity to pain even after their tail has healed from the surgery.
Conclusion
While both procedures look the same, they have completely different intentions. Tail docking is a cosmetic procedure that isn’t supported by most veterinarians and animal welfare organizations. In contrast, tail amputation is a surgery that veterinarians will perform when it’s absolutely medically necessary for their canine patients. Knowing the difference between the two is important because it can protect your dog from unnecessary pain or give them access to lifesaving care.
Featured Image Credit: BONDART PHOTOGRAPHY, Shutterstock
The post Tail Docking vs Tail Amputation: Vet-Verified Differences & Explanation by Jessica Kim appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Meet the Winner of the 14th Annual American Humane Hero Dog Awards®, Law Enforcement Dog Bo
The post Meet the Winner of the 14th Annual American Humane Hero Dog Awards®, Law Enforcement Dog Bo by Nicole Cosgrove appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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If you haven’t heard of the American Humane Hero Dog Awards®, it’s time to tune in! They’ve just celebrated their 14th annual event and announced America’s newest top dog: Law Enforcement Dog Bo.
The American Humane Hero Dog Awards® is a nationwide event that celebrates exceptional dogs across the United States, recognizing them in five distinct categories: Therapy Dogs, Service and Guide Dogs, Military Dogs, Law Enforcement and First Responder Dogs, and Shelter Dogs.
The competition began in June with Americans nominating hundreds of inspiring dogs from all corners of the country. Five semi-finalists in each category were selected from this initial pool to meet the public. Following a rigorous round of public voting, 25 semi-finalists were narrowed down to five finalists, each with a remarkable story. In the end, Bo emerged as the winner, chosen by an esteemed blue-ribbon judging panel.
“We are so excited to name Bo as American Humane’s latest Hero Dog, a distinction that is well-deserved for him and his handler David,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of American Humane. “In a short time, Bo and David have done extraordinary work. As members of the Gastonia Police Department, the duo have worked tirelessly and saved many lives thanks to Bo’s courage and top-notch scent-tracking skills. It’s these types of incredible stories about perseverance and dedication that this award aims to spotlight.”
More About the Winner, Bo
| Age: | 18 months old |
| Breed: | Bloodhound (male) |
| Handler: | Gastonia Police Department Sergeant David Rowland |
| Location: | Gastonia, North Carolina |
| Hero Dog Awards Category: | Law Enforcement & First Response |
At the young age of 18 months, Bo has already been saving lives, reuniting families, and solving crimes for most of his life as a K-9 Officer with the Gastonia Police Department in N.C. and has been doing so since he was only 8 months old.
Bo’s journey with the Gastonia Police Department began in April 2023 when he was selected from a litter specifically for his potential, Bo was trained closely by Sgt. Rowland, who involved his children in activities to develop Bo’s tracking instincts.
As the department’s first bloodhound, Bo brings a unique approach to his role, contrasting with the traditional, more intimidating K-9 breeds. Known for his gentle nature (and fear of Halloween decorations), Bo can comfort and calm those he finds.
Although he’s young, his dedication and bravery are extraordinary. Bo officially began his work as a Police K-9 in October 2023 after comprehensive training, quickly proving his worth by locating both a missing elderly dementia patient and an 11-year-old child with autism.
Alongside his partner, Sgt. David Rowland, Bo’s people-tracking success has been profound, and Bo offers comfort—and sloppy kisses—once the person is found.
Bo’s impressive record includes tracking robbery suspects through difficult scent conditions, leading to their successful capture. Then, in January 2024, on a cold winter night, he used his tracking skills over miles to find a missing elderly patient, bringing them safely home despite harsh weather. His most moving achievement came in May 2024, when he tracked down a 7-year-old child who had been abducted. Bo’s work continues to uplift the Gastonia community, making him an inspiring figure within the police department and now, across America.
- You might also like: A Heartwarming Reunion: Retired Hero Military Dog and U.S. Army Sgt. Reconnect After Two Years With the Help of American Humane
Meet the Other Four Outstanding Finalists
With a competition of this caliber, it is not always easy to select a winner because there are so many outstanding dogs that deserve to be honored. So, we do want to highlight the incredible efforts of the other four finalists.
Dayo
| Age: | Nine years old |
| Breed: | Rhodesian Ridgeback (male) |
| Handler: | Full-time volunteer therapy dog handler Liz Stewart |
| Location: | Dublin, California |
| Hero Dog Awards Category: | Therapy Dogs |
The finalist in the Therapy Dog category, Dayo, a Rhodesian Ridgeback, has been a certified therapy dog who brings joy to the patients and families at George Mark Children’s House in San Leandro, CA—the first pediatric palliative care center in the United States. Dayo also provides comfort at Camp Erin, a bereavement camp for children coping with loss. He’s a beloved presence in the Pleasanton Library’s Paws to Read program, where children read to him, and he offers support to high school students during exams. Dayo also visits Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital and Kaiser Permanente, where he brings warmth to those in radiation, oncology, and urgent care.
Dayo, whose name means “Joy Arrives” in Afrikaans, began life as the puppy companion to an orphaned baby cheetah named Pancake at Wildlife Safari in Oregon. Born on the same day, the two grew up together as siblings (you can read Today.com’s story about the pair here), until Pancake’s unexpected passing in 2017. Heartbroken, Dayo’s caretakers found him a fresh start with a new family. His new owner, Liz, soon saw his gentle nature and emotional intelligence, which made him ideal for therapy work.
Sampson
| Age: | 11 years old |
| Breed: | Golden retriever (male) |
| Owner: | Neuroscientist and inclusion advocate Joey Ramp-Adams |
| Location: | Sierra Vista, Arizona |
| Hero Dog Awards Category: | Service Dogs |
Sampson, the finalist for the Service and Guide/Hearing Dog category, has spent nine years as a loyal companion to his handler, Joey, making a profound impact on her life. After a severe accident in 2006 that left Joey with traumatic brain injury, 23 broken bones, and lasting challenges, Sampson provided steadfast support, empowering his handler not only to recover but to go on to earn a neuroscience degree and establish a company dedicated to helping people with disabilities access scientific careers.
Joey’s pursuit of a neuroscience degree faced barriers when labs initially refused Sampson’s presence, fearing safety issues. She fought for his access, earning him the nickname “Science Service Dog.” Together, they now advocate in Congress to improve access for service dogs in science.
Joey recently made the difficult decision to retire Sampson, but this now allows her other half to enjoy his golden Golden Retriever years off duty.
Niki
| Age: | Five years old |
| Breed: | Belgian Malinois-German shepherd mix (female) |
| Handler: | Petty Officer Alesha Horn (ME1) |
| Location: | Seattle, Washington |
| Hero Dog Awards Category: | Military Dogs |
K-9 Niki, a Belgian Malinois-German Shepherd mix with the U.S. Coast Guard, is a Military Dog nominee known for her sharp skills and dedication. Niki began her courageous career in 2021 with the U.S. Coast Guard as an explosives-detection dog alongside her handler, Petty Officer Alicia Horn. Together, they’ve forged a deep bond built on trust and service.
She has taken part in over 250 high-stakes operations and logged more than 4,000 working hours. From securing events like the Rose Bowl and Seattle Sea Fair to ensuring the safety of top officials and key maritime sites, K-9 Niki has proven herself invaluable. Her work includes over 25,000 vehicle sweeps and 250 vessel searches, protecting nearly 7 million people.
Her achievements also include tracking down a fugitive who had been evading capture for two years and discovering a firearm crucial to an ongoing investigation. Additionally, she visits schools and engages with young students in educational outreach, inspiring them with her courage, bravery, and service.
Penny
| Age: | Four years old (estimate) |
| Breed: | Mixed breed (female) |
| Owner: | High school teacher Lindsey Peetz |
| Location: | Louisville, Kentucky |
| Hero Dog Awards Category: | Shelter Dogs |
Penny, who won the Shelter Dog category, was discovered abandoned with severe injuries, including a crushed pelvis and broken legs after being thrown from a moving car in 2020. Thanks to a dedicated rescue shelter, Penny received life-saving surgeries, including the amputation of a leg.
Her adoptive owners, both high school teachers, first fostered Penny and helped her regain mobility. They were enamored by her resilience and adopted her permanently in November 2021. Now, Penny works as a therapy dog, teaching children compassion and proving that disabilities can be beautiful. She also advocates for stronger anti-animal abuse laws, joining her owner Lindsey at the Kentucky capitol to lobby lawmakers. Through her journey, she’s become a symbol of recovery and love.
About American Humane
American Humane is the United States’ first national humane organization and the world’s largest certifier of animal welfare, overseeing the humane treatment of more than one billion animals across the globe each year. Founded in 1877, American Humane has been First to Serve
the cause of animals and for 145 years has been at the forefront of virtually every major advance in the humane movement. For more information or to support our lifesaving work, please visit www.AmericanHumane.org, follow them on Facebook, X, and Instagram, and subscribe to their channel on YouTube for the latest breaking news and features about the animals with whom we share our Earth.
American Humane would like to send a heartfelt thank you to their sponsors, including Sam Rose, Pets Best, and Lulu’s Fund, whose generosity helps American Humane recognize and celebrate these heroic canines. For more information about the Hero Dog Awards or sponsorship opportunities, please visit HeroDogAwards.org or email [email protected].
The post Meet the Winner of the 14th Annual American Humane Hero Dog Awards®, Law Enforcement Dog Bo by Nicole Cosgrove appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Why Does My Dog Smell So Bad? 7 Vet-Verified Reasons & Helpful Tips
The post Why Does My Dog Smell So Bad? 7 Vet-Verified Reasons & Helpful Tips by Dogster Team appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
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We can think of a thousand and one reasons we love our dogs, but their smell is one aspect that could often use some improvement. Dogs have a habit of developing interesting odors, some from the environment and others due to bodily issues. No matter the cause, an off-putting doggy odor can understandably make you scramble for a solution.
While smart habits like monthly baths can prevent many common issues, rooting out the cause will reveal the most effective treatments for lasting odor control.
The 7 Possible Reasons Your Dog Smells So Bad
1. Skin Infections
Bacterial and fungal infections can affect dogs across their bodies, often on their skin. Most skin infections are secondary to other issues though, for example allergies. Allergies cause itching and inflammation, damaging the skin and meaning that bacteria and fungi that normally live there can overgrow leading to infections. Dogs with wrinkly skin often develop infections in the warm skin folds, making them prone to nasty odors.
Yeast dermatitis (Malassezia dermatitis) is a common fungal skin infection that can cause a foul, musty odor. Infected skin may be crusty, greasy, thickened, red, and itchy. Bacterial skin Infections may also lead to an increased smell, typically alongside other signs like hair loss, scaling, and pus-filled red bumps.
Tips to Manage Dog Smells From Skin Infections:
- Since many infections are secondary to other issues, talking with your vet is a practical first step for managing your dog’s smelly skin. Frequent cleaning with dog wipes can help if your dog is prone to skin fold infections.
- Your vet will determine the best option for treating your dog’s skin infection depending on the type of infection, cause and severity. Topical treatments and medicated shampoos are often prescribed. Sometimes oral antibiotics and antifungals are needed for more severe infections. Possible underlying causes will also be investigated which may involve diet trials and blood tests.
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2. Ear Infections
Ears are hotspots for bacterial and yeast infections that can also affect the skin. Infections may affect one or both ears and are more common in dogs with floppy or hairy ears that trap moisture and pathogens.
Waxy buildup and discharge are among the most prevalent ear infection signs, but redness, crusting, and a funky odor are also typical. You may notice your dog scratching their ear or shaking their head to relieve the pain and itchiness.
- Prevention is the best way to handle ear infections. Owners should regularly check their dog’s ears for signs of a problem and clean the ears with a vet approved ear cleaner if necessary, especially after swimming.
- Treating existing ear infections requires consulting with your vet for proper diagnosis. Depending on the cause your vet may prescribe medicated ear drops, and if ear infections are recurrent they will investigate and address any underlying issues that may be contributing. For example, allergies, ear mites, and foreign bodies like grass seeds can all lead to ear infections.
3. Seborrhea
Seborrhea is a condition that causes skin flaking and often oily or greasy skin. It is caused by a keratinization malfunction, and a problem with the production of new skin cells.
Some breeds, including Basset Hounds and Cocker Spaniels, may develop it as a primary genetic disorder, but seborrhea is more commonly secondary to other conditions like hormonal imbalances, skin allergies, parasites and skin infections.
- Your vet is the best resource for resolving primary and secondary seborrhea. They’ll often recommend a special medicated shampoo to remove dead cells and reduce scaly buildup, while antibacterial and antifungal treatments can alleviate infections.
- Identifying underlying allergies, hormonal problems, and internal diseases is crucial in eliminating secondary seborrhea. Your vet will examine your animal and consider other factors, such as diet, body condition, and abnormal behaviors, to diagnose the problem and form a treatment plan.
4. Anal Sac Issues
Dogs have two scent glands on either side of the anus that produce a smelly excretion that helps them communicate with others. These glands typically empty and excrete fluid whenever the dog defecates.
Sometimes anal glands don’t empty properly and this can lead to impaction, infection and abscesses. One of the first signs of a problem is often a distinct, strong, fishy smell. Dogs may also show signs of irritation by dragging their butts along the ground, or licking around their anus to try and get some relief.
When the glands become infected and form abscesses then redness, swelling and blood or pus may be visible.
- Some dogs need their anal glands to be manually expressed regularly to prevent impaction, your vet or trained groomer can do this. If the glands become infected then antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication may be required.
- Your vet may also recommend dietary adjustments to help prevent future problems such as adding extra fiber to their diet to help ensure firmer stools.
5. Gas
Gassiness is a frequent occurrence for many dogs. Some have more sensitive stomachs, while others may get into trash, table scraps, and other sickening substances that cause excessive stinky flatulence. Dogs can also get a build up of gas when they eat too fast and swallow air.
- Temporary gas from dietary indiscretion typically resolves itself as the dog passes the offending food. In these instances, preventing odors is as easy as keeping your dog from getting into the trash or eating unwanted materials around the house and outside. If your dog eats too fast you could invest in a slow-feed dog bowl or divide your dog’s daily food allowance into smaller meals to help reduce the amount of air that they swallow.
- Chronic flatulence can occur when dogs suffer from a dietary intolerance or other gastrointestinal diseases. Frequent gas should inspire a conversation with your vet, especially if it accompanies diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, and other signs of distress. Vets may run some tests to help identify the underlying cause and may advise an elimination diet trial to help identify food intolerances or allergies.
6. Dental Hygiene
Dogs can develop bad breath from poor dental hygiene, or it may indicate a more severe underlying internal illness such as kidney disease. Periodontal gum disease affects over 80% of dogs over 3 years old.
Bacteria build up associated with the plaque and tartar, leads to infections and foul mouth odors, highlighting the need for daily toothbrushing and regular dental cleanings at the vet.
- Daily tooth brushing removes plaque and helps prevent dental disease and halitosis. If your dog is already suffering from hygiene issues, a dental cleaning and possibly tooth extractions at the vet may be required to reduce the smell and, with frequent brushing, prevent it from returning.
- Some dogs may also have underlying illnesses contributing to bad breath. Diabetes can result in sweet-smelling breath, while kidney disease could make a dog’s mouth smell of ammonia. Abnormal growths in the mouth like tumors can also become infected and smell.
- Bad breath should always be checked by a vet so the underlying cause can be diagnosed and treated appropriately.
7. Wet Dog Smells
Does your dog tend to get stinkier after walking in the rain, swimming, or playing outside on an extra-humid day? Wet dog smell is a frequent occurrence rooted in the microorganisms that are on their skin. Although these microorganisms, like yeast and bacteria, can cause infections when overgrown, even healthy dogs have them in certain numbers living on their skin naturally.
Fortunately, they’re rarely smelly when dry. When your dog gets wet, moisture mixes with the volatile compounds these microbes produce. Odors arise as the water evaporates and carries the chemicals into the air and up your nostrils.
- Keeping your pet dry is the most straightforward solution for managing a wet dog smell. After swimming, bathing, or sloshing around in the rain, give your dog a thorough towel drying down to the skin. A dog-safe blow dryer on a low setting for long-coated dogs can evenly and efficiently dry the entire body.
Tips to Keep Your Dog From Smelling Bad
Bathing and a reliable grooming routine are fundamental in preventing everyday off-putting dog odors. Washing your pet with dog-friendly shampoo and drying them thoroughly will help remove dirt, debris, excess oils, and microbes that contribute to the smell.
Dogs generally need baths about once every 1–2 months, but those who like to get dirty or become overly greasy may need it a few times monthly. Brushing weekly for short-coated dogs and once every few days for long and double-coated breeds will further promote a better-smelling pup.
Brushing removes dander, dead hair and debris which can trap odors in the coat. When grooming, check for any skin issues such as redness, rashes or unusual odors. If you notice any problems consult with your vet to get them addressed as soon as possible.
Wet Wipes
Pet wipes are a convenient way to refresh your dog’s coat at home or on the go. Rather than bathe your dog constantly, use these mildly scented sheets to wipe away surface filth, clean under folds, and manage your dog’s delicate areas to keep odor-causing compounds and bacteria from creating an overwhelming stink.
When it comes to choosing the right grooming products for cleaning your pup to prevent dog odors and avoid skin irritation, there are two products we cannot recommend highly enough. The Oatmeal Pet Shampoo from Hepper is formulated with aloe and oatmeal to soothe skin and hydrate the coat; and for a convenient on-the-go option to quickly refresh sensitive areas, Hepper’s Wash Wipes will help you keep your dog clean from head to tail with moisturizing ingredients. Both products are pH-balanced and formulated with pet-friendly ingredients, free of harsh soaps, chemicals, and dyes. Give this duo a try to soothe, heal and nourish your dog’s coat, and leave them with an irresistible just-left-the-spa cucumber and aloe scent.
At Dogster, we’ve admired Hepper for many years, and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool pet company!
Diet
A healthy dog is usually a stink-free dog. To prevent gas and pungent body odor, feed your dog highly digestible food with high-quality animal proteins and limited ingredients. For dental health, you can complement frequent tooth brushing with teeth-cleaning chews to help scrape away plaque and and prevent bad breath.
Conclusion
Dogs can smell bad for a variety of reasons, from a dirty, wet or matted coat to underlying health issues like skin or anal gland infections. While some problems are relatively easy to fix with bathing and regular grooming, for other dogs the odor is a sign of a more serious issue that needs veterinary attention.
If your dog smells bad but you can’t easily identify the source of the smell, or resolve it with a bath, then contact your vet who can help you find the underlying cause and a lasting solution for a better-smelling pet.
Featured Image Credit: In Green, Shutterstock
The post Why Does My Dog Smell So Bad? 7 Vet-Verified Reasons & Helpful Tips by Dogster Team appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
How to Remove Dog Odor From Your House: 15 Vet-Approved Tips
The post How to Remove Dog Odor From Your House: 15 Vet-Approved Tips by Dogster Team appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
There is no getting around it: Dogs can get stinky. No one even has to ask if you have a pet; it’s evident when they enter your home. But no one wants their house to smell like a kennel. Dogs should be seen but not smelt. If you want to eliminate the doggie odor, you have many options to get the stink under control. It often involves multiple treatments to reach a sweet solution, but by trying a few of these tips, you’re sure to have your home smelling fresh and clean again in no time.
Top 15 Tips to Remove Dog Odor From Your Home
1. Rule Out Medical Issues
Please note that while dogs, just like us, will emanate certain body odors, a dog that is too smelly might be suffering from a medical condition. Many issues can cause your pup to stink. Off-putting smells are often a telltale sign of a health problem, including ear infections or skin disorders. For example, the loss of skin microbiome balance due to yeast overgrowth can cause a dog to become quite stinky indeed.
Another common source is periodontal disease. Your dog’s bad breath may make your home smell foul. It’s also a significant health concern for your pup. Therefore, we recommend scheduling a checkup with your vet to rule out medical causes.
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2. Give Your Dog a Bath
We recommend starting with the source of the problem: your dog. Maybe your pup found something stinky in the yard, or perhaps it was that evening walk in the rain that now has everyone running for cover when your pup enters a room. Bath time can provide a quick, albeit temporary, fix to the problem. Ask your vet or groomer about the best dog-safe products for your pet.
If you are looking for a product that eliminates dog odors without masking them, the Hepper Deep Clean Shampoo is our favorite product. It works by neutralizing any smells lingering in your pet’s coat, leaving them refreshed and scentless once dry. You can also combat static, tangles, and restore moisture with the Hepper Pet Conditioner. Both products are all-natural, pH-balanced, and free of harsh chemicals and additives. Learn more about each below.
At Dogster, we’ve admired Hepper for many years, and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding products of this cool pet company!
3. Vacuum Your Home
Accumulating dog hair or fur and dander could make your home unpleasant smelling. Running the vacuum could do the job and eliminate anything else contributing to the issue. Make sure to move the furniture so your dog isn’t taking the rap for someone else’s mess and to get in those hard-to-reach areas. Sprinkling baking soda around your home can help absorb any lingering odors! Just make sure you let it set overnight, then vacuum the excess before allowing your pup access to the area, to prevent them from licking it up.
4. Mop the Floors
Undetected accidents could be an oft-missed culprit. A quick swipe of a mop and a floor cleaner may be all you need to do to remove dog odors. A steam mop can also eliminate the bacteria that’s making the odor even worse. Make sure to clean under tables and other furniture, paying particular attention to the places your dog uses frequently.
5. Wash Your Pup’s Blankets and Bedding
The odor may not be your dog but their belongings. We recommend washing your pet’s blanket and bedding regularly to keep odors under control. You can use products formulated for these purposes. Think of them like your own bedding, only hairier and stinkier. You should also inspect them for wear and replace them as necessary.
6. Air Out Your Home
You can remove doggie odors simply by airing out your home. Let the sunshine in with open windows to encourage cross ventilation to optimize airflow. A window fan will maximize the effects. We suggest doing it daily, if possible. It’s a great way to start your day with some fresh air.
7. Bust Out the Baking Soda
Baking soda is one of the best things to use in your cleaning routine. You can use it for many household tasks. After all, odor control is its purpose, whether for the litter box, your fridge, or your dog’s bedding. Add 1 cup to the wash with the items, and you’re good to go. Or sprinkle some all over your carpeting or furniture, let it sit for a while, and then vacuum it up. Please ensure your dog has no access to it, as you don’t want them ingesting large amounts of baking soda.
8. Dry Wash Your Carpets
Oil, hair, and dander could build up in your carpets and cause odors. Washing your carpets could be just the thing to make your home smell pleasant again. You can make it a project by vacuuming first, followed by a deep cleaning to cover all your bases. Make sure to keep your dog out of the room until the carpeting is completely dry.
9. Keep Fido Off the Furniture
This tip might be a no-brainer for some pet owners, but if your home has an odor problem, there is more to clean if you let your dog climb on the furniture. This often makes your furniture and pillows more difficult to wash, making the situation even more challenging to handle. An alternative is to put sheets or covers on the places you allow your pup to use, as they are easier to clean by simply throwing them in the wash.
10. Invest in a HEPA Air Filter
A HEPA air filter is an excellent investment to keep your rooms smelling fresh while removing dander for those with allergies. Particulate matter can be a seemingly hidden source of odors that this device can remove. Make sure to check the coverage to ensure you’re getting the most out of your purchase. You should have one for every room in which there is a problem.
11. Wash Your Dog’s Toys
Cloth toys or those made of other absorbent materials can retain bad smells, making your living space unpleasant. It’s also a good time to inspect them for damage. Replace them as needed, and make sure to wash out any toys you fill with peanut butter or other treats. What you may be thinking is doggie odor might actually be spoilage.
12. Clean Up Messes Promptly
Messes are easier to clean thoroughly if you treat them promptly. The longer they sit, the more likely the material will absorb the odors. That makes a simple task that much harder to resolve, so make sure you clean things the moment you notice them.
13. Use a Black Light
Dog odors often become a problem simply because they go undetected. One way to get the jump on potential issues is to run a blacklight around the offending room. Any stains will become fluorescent, making them easy to spot. We suggest scanning the area occasionally to avoid a repeat performance. Also, you should use this tip in conjunction with the next one.
14. Invest in an Enzymatic Cleaner
Enzymatic cleaners provide a permanent solution for lingering odors by binding with the source and eliminating them. If your dog can still smell the odor, they will likely return to the spot and worsen the problem. Thankfully, these powerful products are designed specifically for pet odors and can break this vicious cycle to make your home smell pleasant again.
If you are interested in an all-natural enzyme cleaner, our favorite is the Hepper Advanced Bio-Enzyme Pet Stain & Odor Eliminator Spray. It does an excellent job of successfully lifting set-in stains and odors the first time without odor masking. It’s available in 3 light scent options – Neutral, Citrus Splash, and Floral Fresh. Best of all, it comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee – click here to learn more.
Hepper Advanced Bio-Enzyme Pet Stain & Odor Eliminator Spray
- ADVANCED ENZYMATIC CLEANER – Penetrates the most stubborn smells and stains at the deepest molecular…
- FOR ANY MESS, ON ANY SURFACE – This pet odor eliminator cleans your carpets, floors, furniture,…
- FRESH, NATURAL ODOR – Our unique formulation doesn’t rely on dangerous or unpleasant chemical…
At Dogster, we’ve admired Hepper for many years, and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding products of this cool pet company!
15. Call in the Big Guns!
If you have tried several of these suggestions and still have a problem, we suggest calling in the big guns: a professional cleaner. They have the experience and products to deal with stubborn issues.
You can eliminate most doggie odors with these tips. However, some cases may require a different approach to make your home odor-free again.
In Conclusion
Pet ownership is sometimes challenging. You must invest time and effort in training your pet, but sharing your home with a dog can present other issues, such as unpleasant odors. Fortunately, several options exist for managing this vexing problem. You may find using more than one of these tips helpful for a long-term solution. The goal is an odor-free home that doesn’t make your pup’s presence disturbing, so do as many as it takes until the problem is resolved.
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Featured Image Credit: Prostock-studio, Shutterstock
The post How to Remove Dog Odor From Your House: 15 Vet-Approved Tips by Dogster Team appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.