Can Dogs Eat Cheetos? Risk Vs. Reward
Picture this: you are sitting down, getting ready to enjoy a relaxing night with your furry friend and a few savory snacks. You get up for a second to grab a drink and when you come back, your brand-new bag of Cheetos has been eaten through by your dog. What should you do?
Don’t worry if you find yourself in a situation similar to this; it happens to even the most experienced dog owners.
Luckily, Cheetos are not a directly toxic food to dogs. Despite this, they aren’t considered healthy and can pose a health risk to our fluffy friends. Specific Cheeto products such as puffed Cheetos or Flamin’ Hot Cheetos can pose unique risks that should also be thought of when they concern dogs eating Cheetos.
Nutritional Value of Cheetos
There are different types of Cheetos, each with its own nutritional makeup. For our purposes, we’ll focus on the original crunchy Cheetos. One serving is 21 pieces, and those 21 pieces contain 160 calories. According to the package, the rest of the nutrients are listed as:
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calcium | 10 mg |
| Carbohydrate | 15 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fats | 1.5 g |
| Trans Fats | 0 g |
| Iron | .4 mg |
| Fiber | > 1 g |
| Potassium | 50 mg |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Sugars | > 1 g |
| Vitamin D | 0 mc |
Surely, you’ve watched a dog eat something especially tasty before, usually something they shouldn’t be eating. They could easily inhale a full serving or two before you cross the room to pick up the spilled bag.
Besides the high calories and other nutrients, the ingredients themselves are equally as unhelpful for a dog.
Main Ingredients in Cheetos
- Enriched Corn Meal (Corn Meal, Ferrous Sulfate, Niacin, Thiamin Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid)
- Vegetable Oil (Corn, Canola, and/or Sunflower Oil)
- Cheese Seasoning (Whey, Cheddar Cheese [Milk, Cheese Cultures, Salt, Enzymes]
- Canola Oil, Maltodextrin [Made from Corn]
- Natural and Artificial Flavors
- Salt
- Whey Protein Concentrate
- Monosodium Glutamate
- Lactic Acid
- Citric Acid
- Artificial Color [Yellow 6]
These ingredients aren’t toxic to dogs, but they don’t provide any health benefits to your dog either. In fact, they may actually ruin your dog’s long-term health if they consume too much – it just won’t happen immediately after eating one or two.
Cheetos Are Not Toxic to Dogs
On their own, regular Cheetos are not a direct health risk for dogs. They do not contain any ingredients or additives that are known to be toxic. Thus, if your dog helped itself to a few Cheetos, there is no need for immediate alarm!
Even though Cheetos are non-toxic to dogs, a few ingredients can pose minor risks. For instance, the sodium, dyes, herbs, and spices in certain Cheetos may all impact your dog’s gastrointestinal health.
Should You Feed Your Dog Cheetos
Due to some of their ingredients, it is not recommended to feed your dog Cheetos directly. There are countless options for other foods that would be a better choice for your dog. For instance, some people sparingly use less-intense snacks like Ritz as a special snack. If all else fails, using plain old dog treats is the safest option!
Dangers of Feeding Your Dog Cheetos
As mentioned, there are a few key things that could pose a risk to your dog if they find their way into a bag of Cheetos. Let’s take a short look at each main concern:
Sodium
One of the main issues with dogs eating human foods is sodium. Dogs are not well adapted to salty foods. Even the slightest excess of salt can cause them to dehydrate, which is not healthy! Most human snacks, Cheetos included, are extremely rich in sodium.
Thus, it can only take a few Cheetos to set off your dog’s salt balance. This is especially true for smaller dogs!
Gas
Another big problem with human food is the gas and bloating it can cause. Highly processed grains can easily expand and create gas when they are eaten by dogs. Not only can this cause discomfort, but it can also lead to bigger issues, such as gastrointestinal blockages.
Unknown Additives
Cheetos can also be loaded with unknown additives that are dangerous for dogs. Extra spices such as garlic and onions are great examples of snack seasonings that are toxic for dogs. Likewise, special Cheeto flavors, such as Flamin’ Hot or Jalapeno, may also have unhealthy ingredients.
Summary
At the end of the day, Cheetos are not the best snack to feed your dog. In addition to the regular dangers of feeding human food to dogs, Cheetos can also be full of additives, sodium, and gas-inducing compounds that are dangerous for your furry friend. With this in mind, it is probably best to keep the Cheetos all for yourself and opt for a simple milk bone the next time your dog is craving a savory treat!
Can Cats See Colors, or Are They Color Blind?
What do you think your cat sees when they’re staring out the window? Do you think it’s the same vibrant world full of bright greens, blues, and reds that you see?
As natural, and exceptionally skilled, hunters, I always assumed cats had impeccable vision; like the grounded version of a falcon. Lo and behold, I was wrong. While cats are certainly incredible hunters, there is no disputing that, in many ways, they actually see worse than we do.
Are Cats Color Blind?
The retina of the eye in humans and cats contains cones and rods, two types of photoreceptor cells that allow your pet to see the world. The cones are responsible for seeing colors and making out shapes or details from a distance. Conversely, Rods are responsible for peripheral vision (how far to the side you can see) and vision in low light.
So, what does this mean for cats?
Cats have three types of cones, also called cone populations, that allow them to see colors at wavelengths 450nm (blue), 500nm (greenish-blue), and 550nm (yellow)1. In comparison, humans also have three cone populations. So does this mean cats see the same colors as us? Not exactly. The human eye may have three cone populations, but we have 10x the number of cones as cats. This means what a cat sees is muted, dull versions of the colors that we see. They also won’t be able to differentiate between shades of colors like we can.
So, are cats color-blind? Not at all! Cats definitely see in color; they just don’t get to appreciate the same vividly colorful world that we do.
What Colors Do Cats See Best?
- Blue-violet: At the lower end of the spectrum, cats can see bluish-violet or indigo colors, though they won’t be able to perceive true violet colors.
- Blue: Cats can see blue better than most other colors.
- Green: Green is another color that cats can see fairly well, but it’s approaching the higher end of their perceivable spectrum.
- Yellow: Cats are able to recognize various shades of yellow. However, red, brown, and orange are imperceptible to them.
- Muted Spectrum: The colors cats see lack the richness and saturation that human eyes perceive. Their color spectrum is more muted and dull.
How Far Can Cats See?
We talked about how the cones in a cat’s eye play a direct role in perceiving colors, but they also affect visual acuity (the ability to distinguish shapes and details at a distance).
With fewer cones, cats can’t see as far as humans or in as great a detail. Beyond about 20 feet, a cat’s vision becomes blurry, but this isn’t a hindrance to them like we might think. A cat’s vision is optimized for their natural behaviors, and being ambush predators, they don’t need to see at the same distance a hawk does.
Do Cats Have Night Vision?
Cats excel in low-light situations, so yes, they have exceptional night vision. What they see, however, doesn’t resemble what night vision goggles look like in military movies.
We mentioned that cats have fewer cones in their retina than humans, but they have significantly more rods, roughly six times as many. This effectively means that cats can see six times better in low light than humans can.
A cat’s eye also possesses a specialized structure called the tapetum lucidum, a type of reflector behind the retina. As light passes through the eye, it gets reflected back through the retina, allowing the rods a second chance at processing the information. If you’ve ever looked at your cat at night and noticed their eyes are shiny or appear to be glowing; what your seeing is the tapetum lucidum reflecting light.
As if this wasn’t enough, you may have noticed your cat’s pupils dilate and can get huge, almost taking up the whole eye at times. Dilating their pupils allows them to absorb or maximize the light that passes through their eyes, increasing their excellent night vision even further.
What Does a Cat’s Vision Look Like?
- Color Perception: As we mentioned earlier, cats are not colorblind. However, their color vision differs significantly from ours. Imagine viewing the world through a soft, pastel filter. Cats primarily see shades of blue and green, with yellow being another discernible color. Reds, oranges, and browns appear as muted grays or indistinct shades. So, while they don’t experience the same vibrant spectrum we do, their visual world has a subtle beauty of its own.
- Visual Acuity: Cats have lower visual acuity than humans. Their eyes lack the intricate cone cells responsible for sharp focus, so their close-up vision isn’t as detailed. But don’t underestimate them! Cats compensate with other remarkable adaptations.
- Peripheral Vision: Cats boast an impressive field of view. Their wide-set eyes allow them to see nearly 200 degrees horizontally, compared to our 180 degrees. This peripheral vision is crucial for detecting movement—a survival advantage in the wild—or figuring out where that cheeky laser pointer darted off to.
- Motion Sensitivity: Cats excel at detecting motion. Their retinas contain specialized cells called ganglion cells2, which respond to movement. This sensitivity helps them spot prey, even in low light.
Do Cats and Dogs See the Same?
Cats can see slightly more colors than dogs can because dogs only have two types of cone populations compared to the three that cats have. Cats also have better night vision than dogs, even though both species have the mirror-like structure (tapetum lucidum) we talked about. Either way, they both see better at night than you or I.
While dogs may not see as well at night or see as many colors, they do have better visual acuity than a cat. Dogs can see at greater distances than a cat and make out details better – allowing them to recognize faces and read human expressions.
Why Cats’ Eyesight Is Perfectly Suited for Hunting
- Predator’s Advantage: A cat’s visual adaptations align well with their role as ambush predators. Their ability to detect motion, especially in low light, ensures successful hunts. Whether it’s a mouse scurrying across the floor or a bird fluttering in the dusk, cats are finely tuned to seize the moment.
- Nocturnal Prowess: Cats’ crepuscular behavior – most active during dawn and dusk – capitalizes on their night vision. Their slit-like pupils adjust swiftly to changing light conditions, allowing them to transition seamlessly from darkness to daylight.
- The Art of Stalking: Cats’ elongated pupils constrict to narrow slits when they focus on prey. This enhances depth perception and allows them to judge distances more accurately. Combine this with their peripheral vision, and you have a masterful stalker.
Yes, Dogs Can Eat Cheerios, But They Really Shouldn’t
Having dogs with children means the dog is going to get people food from time to time. It’s as certain as the sun rising each morning. Heck, I’m guilty of giving my pups random table scraps from time to time, too. My twin 1-year-old boys take the cake, though; it’s become a game of sorts to get the dogs to come to them. They hold food down over the side of their high chairs, and boom, like magic, the wet nose of an eternally grateful puppy appears.
Lately, besides eggs, my boy’s favorite food of choice has been Cheerios. Honey Nut, to be more specific. Needless to say, the dogs have been getting bits of cereal for breakfast occasionally, which begs the question, are Cheerios safe for dogs to eat?
Fortunately, dogs can eat Cheerios, and most of the different flavors are not toxic to dogs. They aren’t exactly a healthy, balanced snack, but dogs seem to love them, and a few here and there won’t hurt.
How Many Cheerios Can a Dog Eat?
Dogs can safely eat Cheerios in moderation. A few here and there are fine, but they certainly don’t need a whole bowl to themselves. Treats of any kind should never make up more than 10% of a dog’s diet. Keep in mind, if you feed your dog other treats besides Cheerios, which you probably do, altogether, it should be under 10%. Not 10% per treat type.
There are also much better treats than Cheerios to give your dog that actually provide health benefits. Ultimately, it’s up to you if you want to give them Cheerios or opt for a healthier snack.
Cheerios are high in fiber and low in sugar, but they contain no protein or vitamins that dogs actually need. They are also very low in calories, with one Cheerio “O” being about .2 calories. Meaning 10% of a 10lb dog’s diet would be roughly 100 “O”s.
Can Dogs Eat Flavored Cheerios?
Cheerios come in a dozen different flavors. Besides the standard regular version, you have honey nut, very berry, frosted Cheerios, pumpkin spice, apple cinnamon, and the list goes on. There are tons of different flavors, and some of them are most likely not toxic to your dog, but as a best practice, stick to either the regular Cheerios or the Honey Nut Cheerios flavors.
The other flavors are more likely to have higher amounts of sugar and, in general, be more unhealthy for your dog than those two.
Other things to consider are added ingredients to make the different flavors. Avoid anything with chocolate or raisins, and be sure to check for xylitol (sugar substitute). These three ingredients are toxic to dogs and should be carefully avoided.
Can Dogs Have Milk With Cereal?
When we think of cereal, we normally think about a bowl full of milk along with it. But it’s not a good idea to share it with your dog.
Almost all dogs are lactose intolerant, meaning they can’t digest the sugar in milk. This is actually common among all mammals. The reason dogs can eat cheese is because it’s very low in lactose by comparison.
When it comes to dogs, milk (or any dairy high in lactose) can cause diarrhea, vomiting, bloating, and gas, as well as triggering various allergies or things like ear infections.
If you do choose to give your dog some Cheerios, skip the milk.
Dogs with Pancreatitis, Do They Mix?
Finding treats to give a dog with pancreatitis can be difficult. There isn’t much information about whether or not Cheerios will trigger a reaction in a dog with chronic pancreatitis, so I asked my vet, and he said he would avoid them altogether. Better safe than sorry.
Definitely avoid giving milk to a dog with pancreatitis.
Instead, talk to your veterinarian about what’s best for your dog and stick to it, including treats specifically made for dogs with pancreatitis.
Best Cereals for Dogs to Eat
There are no cereals that really qualify as the “best cereal” for dogs since they are all grain-based and not produced with a dog’s diet in mind. As far as an occasional treat that they will enjoy, some of the better ones are:
- Cheerios
- Rice Krispies
- Bran Flakes
- Kix
- Corn Flakes
Avoid anything that is high in sugar, like fruit loops, and always check for ingredients that are toxic for dogs.
What About Oatmeal?
Many people, including myself, lump oatmeal in the same category as cereal. They are both common breakfast foods you eat with a spoon. For our purposes, the big difference is oatmeal is actually good for dogs.
Oatmeal is a heart-healthy food that is rich in nutrients, minerals, antioxidants, and vitamins that provide a real benefit to your dog.
It is still grain-based and should not replace your dog’s normal balanced diet, but it can be used as an additional supplement. “Half-a-cup of cooked oatmeal (at most), one to two times a week is more than enough for most large dogs” according to an article published by the AKC.
German Shepherd vs Wolf: The Big Differences
Very few dog breeds resemble a wolf as closely as the German Shepherd. The only one that comes to mind as a potential closer match is the Czechoslovakian Vlcak.
Many sources claim that the German Shepherd breed has a 99% DNA match with wolves – which is true but misleading. Domestic dogs, in general, share 98.8% of the same DNA as wolves, making the match with German Shepherds less impressive than that statistic on its own initially appears to be. As an additional fun fact, the Shih Tzu breed is the breed with the highest DNA match to their wild wolf ancestors.
So why is it that German Shepherds look so much more wolfish than others? After all, they have a similar shape, size, stature, and even body language. Most likely because wolf-hybrids were used in the breed’s creation.
Breed History
Wolves are ancient animals that have existed for millions of years, with the first members of the group originating around 40 million years ago. Gray wolves, the ancestor of all domesticated dogs according to researchers, first appeared around 1 million years ago.
Wolves today are still wild animals that live in packs and hunt for their food, as well as scavenging when necessary. They have adapted to many different environments and climates, ranging from the cold Arctic to the hot, sunny desert. Wolves are also highly social creatures and communicate with each other using body language, vocalizations, and scent marking.
Gray wolves, the ancestor of all domesticated dogs according to researchers, first appeared around 1 million years ago
By comparison to wolves and even other domestic breeds, German Shepherds are an extremely young breed, developed in the late 19th century by a German captain named Max von Stephanitz. He set about creating a versatile working dog that could perform various tasks such as herding and guarding, as well as having the ability to serve in the military and police. He crossed various local sheepdogs depending on their desirable traits, selecting only the best specimens for his breeding program.
According to the book “Der Deutsche Schaferhund in Wort Und Bild,” written in 1923 by Max Von Stephanitz himself, the wolves were used in the original breedings as well as 3 wolf-dogs.
The result, of course, was the German Shepherd, a loyal, intelligent, and obedient dog that quickly gained popularity around the world.
Modern German Shepherd Wolf-Hybrids
Wolf-hybrids, or wolf-dogs, have become more common than a lot of people think. Naturally, the more rugged, wolf-like breeds are often used, such as Siberian huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, and, of course, German Shepherds.
One interesting example of this is the recently popularized Blue Bay Shepherd, which was first produced using blue-coated European line German shepherds and eastern timber wolves as part of the breeding foundation. Another one is the Lycan Shepherd, which I’m waiting to hear more information about.
Size
Wolves are typically larger and heavier than German Shepherds. The average weight of a male wolf is between 80 – 100 pounds, though some gray wolves can grow as large as 180 pounds. The average weight of a male German Shepherd, on the other hand, is around 66 pounds, and they rarely eclipse 100 pounds. Mine hovers between 92 and 98 pounds, and he is definitely on the larger side, though nowhere near the size of a large gray wolf.
Weight is not the only size difference between these two canines; they differ in height and length as well. Wolves are, on average, only 2-6 inches taller than a German Shepherd, but they are substantially longer. Most German Shepherds don’t reach over 42.5″, not including the tail, while wolves are around 48″ long, also not including the tail. Some exceptionally large wolves can even be as long as 60″, a whopping 5 feet!
These numbers may vary from individual to individual as well as between different species of wolves. The numbers here are based on gray wolves.
Personality
It should come as no surprise that wolves and dogs have distinct personality differences, one being wild and the other domesticated.
German Shepherds are well known as friendly, loyal, and affectionate dogs toward their owners and family. As a product of their breeding, they are also eager to please, alert, and protective, making great watchdogs and guard dogs. They are also often good with children and other pets as long as they are properly trained and socialized at a young age.
In stark contrast, wolves are shy, wary, and independent animals that do not often trust humans or other animals easily. They are not suitable as pets either, requiring a lot of space, exercise, and stimulation. By instinct, they are also very territorial and dominant, making them prone to aggression and conflict. Another byproduct of their distrust of humans is they do not learn, listen to, or follow commands easily, making them highly difficult to train.
Temperament
As a herding/guard breed, German Shepherds tend to be calm, confident, and courageous dogs in all types of situations. Though they are not aggressive by nature, they will quickly defend themselves, their owners, and their property without hesitation.
German Shepherds are also wary of new people, so if you bring home a new pet or have strangers over, they may take time to warm up, and proper introductions are essential.
Wolves are quite the opposite. They are nervous, fearful, and unpredictable animals. They do not adapt well to changing environments and often suffer from stress or anxiety. Leading to abrupt, unexpectedly violent reactions – typically attacking anything they view as either threat or prey.
Diet
At it’s basic level, wolves and German Shepherds share the same diet. They are both facultative carnivores. Meaning they both primarily eat meat but have the ability to consume some plant matter for supplemental nutrition.
After taking down a large game animal, wolves can eat as much as 20 lbs of meat in one sitting
The difference lies in how they get their food. In most cases, German Shepherds are given commercially prepared kibble by their owners. It’s usually formulated with one or two types of meat (protein), as well as other vitamins, minerals, and plant matter, to make a completely balanced diet.
Wolves do not get this luxury*, nor would they take well to it if it was presented. Wolves hunt with their pack, share the kill with their pack, and rely on high protein and high fat to sustain their strength, endurance, and energy levels. They do eat plant matter like berries and grass when needed, though studies show it is relatively rare and doesn’t account for much of their diet.
Wolves have also adapted to eat as much as possible at one time. After taking down a large game animal, wolves can eat as much as 20 lbs of meat in one sitting, but other times they can go days or weeks without eating due to unsuccessful hunts.
*Whether or not kibble is a luxury is debatable. Personally, if given kibble, I’d have nightly dreams of a perfectly cooked rib-eye.
Breeding
Wolves have the same gestational period as domesticated dogs, averaging 63 days of pregnancy before pups are born.
Wolves, however, have smaller litter sizes than German Shepherds do on average, typically between 4-6 pups or less. German Shepherds can have as many as 9 puppies in one litter.
German Shepherds also typically breed twice a year, around spring and fall, but wolves only have one breeding season each month. For wolves, this usually occurs around mid to late winter so they give birth in the spring as the snow is melting. This allows young wolf pups as much time as possible to grow and learn before the snow returns the following winter – giving them a better chance of survival.
Wolves are also extremely protective of their young and are actively engaged in raising and teaching them.
Who Would Win a Fight
German Shepherds and wolves are both strong, formidable animals capable of handling themselves well in a fight. However, if they were to ever face each other, which we hope they don’t, it would almost certainly end with the wolf as the victor.
Wolves also have a much stronger bite, with estimates putting their bite force between 400 – 1200 psi. A German Shepherd’s bite force averages around 238 psi.
In terms of size and weight, the wolf would almost certainly be the larger of the two, giving them an advantage there.
Wolves also have a much stronger bite, with estimates putting their bite force between 400 – 1200 psi. A German Shepherd’s bite force averages around 238 psi. Significantly weaker than a wolf, though still very strong. Some military-trained German Shepherds have had a bite force measured in the 750 psi range, so while it is possible for an individual dog to gain an advantage here, it’s unlikely.
The last and most important aspect is experience. Wolves are raised to protect, hunt, and kill from the time they are weaned at 6-8 weeks old. German Shepherds are not – plain and simple. The average German Shepherd has probably never been in a real fight a day in its life, while a wolf could realistically have been in hundreds. It would be like me jumping into the NFL and going toe-to-toe with experienced athletes. I’d do it, but I don’t fancy my odds.
There are, of course, certain circumstances that could shift the balance of battle and allow a German Shepherd to emerge victorious like a wolf being elderly or sick or the Shepherd being highly trained. Even the motivation behind the fight. In many cases, a wolf is more likely to run away than fight unless they feel they have no choice.
FAQs
Are German Shepherds part wolf?
Can German Shepherds and Wolves Mate?
Can German Shepherds and Wolves Communicate?
Can Wolves and German Shepherds Live Together?
Pet Friendly Flagstaff: What To Do, Where To Stay, Places To Eat
Pet friendly Flagstaff is nestled at the base of the San Francisco peaks at 7,000 feet in elevation. From its historic downtown, you’ll have easy access to mountain wilderness, scenic trails, national parks, and more!
Outdoor adventurers, history buffs, aspiring astronomers, foodies, and local brew enthusiasts all find Flagstaff, Arizona to be a fantastic vacation destination. But, most importantly to us, pet friendly Flagstaff provides people traveling with their furry family members a wonderful opportunities to do more together. From fun activities to places to stay and eat with your furry travel companion, you’ll find it all in Flagstaff!
Pet Friendly Flagstaff – Things To Do
Flagstaff truly celebrates the outdoors, which makes it a wonderful place to visit with pets! Make your first stop the Visitor Center, located in the Amtrak station on Route 66 in historic downtown Flagstaff.
Dogs are welcome inside the visitor center, and the staff can provide advice on local pet friendly businesses. They also have free maps for self-guided walking tours of downtown. The Route 66 Tour and Historic Downtown Walking Guide are both great ways to get the lay of the land and begin learning about the history of the area.
READ MORE ⇒ Planning A Pet Friendly Road Trip
Public Art Tour
Combine culture and exercise by taking your pet on the public art walking tour! You can print the self-guided art tour, or pick up a copy at the visitor center. More than forty pieces of public art in Flagstaff visually represent the heritage of the area. And the variety runs the gamut, from murals to abstract steel installations.
The Arboretum At Flagstaff
Leashed dogs are welcome to join you at the Arboretum at Flagstaff. With 200 acres of gardens, greenhouses, and open spaces, this preserve is home to more than 750 species of plants!
The arboretum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9am to 4pm from May through October. Human tickets are $12, and dog tickets are $2.
Pioneer Museum Grounds
The Arizona Historical Society’s Pioneer Museum is situated on three pet friendly acres. Stroll the grounds with your pup to view historic buildings (pets must remain outdoors), farming equipment, a Baldwin locomotive, and a Santa Fe caboose.
Heritage Square
Located in the heart of historic downtown, Heritage Square is a gathering place for music, movies, live performances, festivals, and special events throughout the year. And it’s surrounded by interesting shops, galleries, and eateries — many of which are pet friendly!
This is a convenient spot to duck for cover in a pop-up rain shower, and a nice place to kick back on a bench for bit of people watching.
Urban Trail System
Leave it to pet friendly Flagstaff to design a 58-mile, citywide network of pathways for bicycling, walking, cross-country skiing, and nature watching — where leashed pets can join you! Experience canyons, grasslands, meadows, and forests, all within the city limits. The FUTS Map is available at the Visitor Center, or download a copy and start imagining your next adventure!
Thorpe Park Bark Park
Located within easy walking distance of downtown, your dog won’t forgive you if you miss the Thorpe Park Bark Park! With separate areas for large and small dogs, this 1.5-acre off-leash play area will appeal to pups of all sizes.
The Thorpe Park Bark Park is surrounded by large pine trees, which provide a considerable amount of shade. The play area has agility equipment for the truly active dogs, as well as benches, picnic tables, and covered seating for the humans.
Flagstaff’s other off-leash, fenced dog park can be found at Bushmaster Park, 3150 N. Alta Vista Road.
READ MORE ⇒ Sniffspot Private Dog Parks: An Option For Traveling Dogs
Buffalo Park
For another nice walk with fantastic views of the San Francisco peaks, head to Buffalo Park. What used to be a private wildlife park now is public space, so don’t worry about running into any bison during your visit!
Serious hikers can access a vast network of trails here, but most visitors opt for the 2-mile Nate Avery Loop Trail, which leads you on a lovely stroll through open fields and pine forests. The trail is wide and hard-packed, making it a good option for pets in strollers or wheelchairs.
Stroll The Northern Arizona University Campus
The NAU campus is just south of historic downtown Flagstaff, and is a lovely place for a pet friendly stroll. Historic and modern buildings stand side-by-side, with monuments and sculptures scattered among them. And the large, shady lawns are perfect for picnics or stretching out with a good book.
Surrounding the campus, you’ll find all kinds of businesses that cater to the students. From coffee shops to pizza joints, there are plenty of options with pet friendly seating to choose from.
Riordan Mansion State Historic Park
Another nice place to walk your dog very close to several Flagstaff hotels is the Riordan Mansion State Historic Park. Built in 1904 for one of Flagstaff’s founding families, this is the world’s largest Arts and Crafts-style duplex.
While dogs are not allowed on tours inside the house, pets can explore the interpretive exhibits on the grounds with their owners. This is a lovely park in a pine forest just a block away from the busy commercial district, and a few minutes from Northern Arizona University campus.
The park hosts many programs and events throughout the year. So be sure to check their calendar to see what’s happening during your visit!
Arizona Snowbowl Trails And Views
For sweeping views of the San Francisco volcanic field, take a 20-minute drive to Flagstaff’s ski resort – the Arizona Snowbowl. You could easily spend a day exploring the trails, playing disc golf, or enjoying a bite to eat on a pet friendly patio while taking in the scenery.
Flagstaff Brewery Trail
Flagstaff is becoming known as a leading Craft Beer City in Arizona, with eight breweries participating in the Flagstaff Brewery Trail. Six of the breweries are pet friendly, and four of those serve food.
Pet Friendly Breweries in Flagstaff, Arizona:
Dark Sky Brewing Company – 117 N Beaver Street – pets are welcome on the back patio, pizza from Pizzicletta
Also check out Dark Sky Brewing Company Beer Garden and Atmosphere Kitchen – 103 W Birch Street
Flagstaff Brewing Company – 16 E Route 66 – pets are welcome on the patio, burgers, sandwiches, wings
Grand Canyon Brewing Company – 1800 South Milton Road – pets are welcome on the patio, extensive food menu
Historic Brewing Company’s Barrel House – 110 S San Francisco Street – pets are welcome at the outdoor seating area
Mother Road Brewing Company – 7 South Mikes Pike – pets are welcome, food available from the “Roadside Stove” food trailer
Wanderlust Brewing Company – 1519 N Main Street – pets are welcome inside and on the patio, check their Events page for food trucks, or bring food with you
Note: Beaver Street Brewing and Lumberyard Brewing Company do not allow pets
For extra fun, get the app and collect stamps from all eight breweries (no purchase necessary). Take your completed passport to the Flagstaff Convention & Visitors Bureau and receive a commemorative souvenir pint glass.
Pet Friendly Flagstaff – Where To Eat
Pet friendly Flagstaff has a great selection of restaurants with dog friendly patios! In addition to the breweries listed above that serve food, here’s a list of places you and your pup can enjoy together:
Aloha Hawaiian BBQ – 16 E Route 66
Altitudes Bar & Grill – 2 S Beaver Street
Aspen Deli – 20 N Beaver Street
Brandy’s Café – 18 S Beaver Street
Café Rio Mexican Grill – 2710 S Woodlands Village Blvd
Chipotle Mexican Grill – 1111 S Plaza Way
Del Taco – 2201 S Milton Road
Diablo Burger – 120 N Leroux Street
Dirty Birdies Sports Bar & Grill – 2285 E Butler Avenue
Ewa’s Thai Cuisine – 110 S San Francisco Street
Filiberto’s Mexican Food – 2275 E Butler Avenue
Forêt Flg – 2 S Beaver Street
Fratelli Pizza – 119 W Phoenix Avenue and 2120 N 4th Street
Hops On Birch – 22 E Birch Avenue
Josephines Modern American Bistro – 503 N Humphreys Street
Las Gorditas Mexican Food – 2900 N West Street
Los Altenos Restaurant – 1481 S Milton Road
Los Gordos Mexican Food – 1051 S Milton Road
Lumberjack Pizza – 104 E Route 66
Macy’s European Coffeehouse & Bakery – 14 S Beaver Street
Matty G’s Steakburgers – 6 E Aspen Avenue
MIX Flagstaff Coffee Shop – 120 N Leroux Street
NiMarcos Pizza Downtown – 101 S Beaver Street and 1800 S Milton Road
Pizzicletta – 203 W Phoenix Avenue
Polibertos – 2221 E Cedar Avenue
Ralberto’s Mexican Food – 2700 S Woodland Village Blvd
Route 66 Dog Haus – 1302 E Route 66
Satchmo’s BBQ & Cajun – 2320 N Fourth Street
Someburros – 320 S Regent Street
SoSoBa Ramen – 12 Historic Route 66
Southside Tavern – 117 S San Francisco Street
The Oakmont – 2380 N Oakmont Drive
The Pizza Patio – 109 E Phoenix Avenue
The Toasted Owl Cafe – 12 S Mikes Pike
READ MORE ⇒ Taking Your Dog To Pet Friendly Restaurants
Tourist Home All Day Cafe – 52 S San Francisco Street
Uptown Pubhouse – 114 N Leroux Street
Wildflower Bread Company – 530 Piccadilly Drive
Your Pie Pizza – 2619 S Woodlands Village Blvd
The Northern Pines Restaurant – 2200 E Butler Avenue
Pet Friendly Flagstaff – Places To Stay
When planning your trip to pet friendly Flagstaff, you’ll have no trouble finding a place to stay! There are dozens of pet friendly hotel and campground options. And you can review detailed pet polices for each hotel by clicking through to the listings on GoPetFriendly.com.
Americana Inn Route 66 Flagstaff
America’s Best Value Inn & Suites Flagstaff
Best Western Pony Soldier Inn & Suites
Budget Host Inn NAU/Downtown Flagstaff
Courtyard By Marriott Flagstaff
Days Inn & Suites By Wyndham East Flagstaff
Days Hotel By Wyndham Flagstaff
Doubletree By Hilton Flagstaff
Econo Lodge Flagstaff Route 66
High Country Motor Lodge – Flagstaff
Hotel Aspen Inn Suites Flagstaff
Howard Johnson By Wyndham Flagstaff
Howard Johnson By Wyndham I-40 East Lucky Lane
La Quinta Inn & Suites By Wyndham Flagstaff
La Quinta Inn & Suites By Wyndham Flagstaff East I-40
Ramada by Wyndham Flagstaff East
Residence Inn By Marriott Flagstaff
Rodeway Inn Flagstaff East Route 66
Springhill Suites By Marriott Flagstaff
Super 8 By Wyndham NAU/Downtown
Travelers Inn
Pet Friendly Day Trips From Flagstaff
In addition to all the pet friendly things you’ll find to do in Flagstaff, there are some great day trips, too! Here are some of the places you can visit using Flagstaff as your basecamp:
Elden Pueblo Heritage Site (15 minutes from Flagstaff) – This prehistoric pueblo site contains the remnants of pit houses, pueblo structures with over 40 rooms, mounds, a large community room, and other features.
Grand Canyon National Park – South Rim (1 hour, 20 minutes from Flagstaff) – Pets are welcome on the entire 13-mile South Rim Trail, in the campground, and at Yavapai Lodge. If you plan to hike below the rim, make arrangements for your pet at the kennel at the South Rim.
READ MORE ⇒ Pet Friendly National Park: The Grand Canyon
Montezuma Castle National Monument (1 hour from Flagstaff) – Pets are welcome on the trail at Montezuma Castle, but not in the visitor center. This park participates in the B.A.R.K. Ranger program!
Petrified Forest National Park (1 hour, 40 minutes from Flagstaff ) – Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome on ALL the trails at Petrified Forest. And this is another park where your furry travel buddy can earn a B.A.R.K. Ranger badge!
READ MORE ⇒ Pet Friendly National Park: Arizona’s Petrified Forest
Sedona, Arizona (40 minutes from Flagstaff) – Just 29 miles south of Flagstaff, Sedona is famous for its natural beauty. Tucked into a stunning backdrop of red rocks and thick green foliage, it’s also a wonderful pet friendly!
READ MORE ⇒ Sedona, AZ: Where To Hike, Stay & Eat With Pets
Tuzigoot National Monument (1 hour, 15 minutes from Flagstaff) – Pets can go on the trail at Tuzigoot, but not inside the visitor center. This is another park that participates in the B.A.R.K. Ranger program.
Walnut Canyon National Monument (15 minutes from Flagstaff) – Pets can join you on the Rim Trail, a 0.7-mile trail along the rim of Walnut Canyon. However, the main attraction of Walnut Canyon are the Cliff Dwellings, seen from the Island Trail, which is not pet friendly.
We hope our trip to pet friendly Flagstaff inspires you to visit, too! No matter what time of year you’re traveling, you’ll always find something fun to do with your pets in Flagstaff.
The post Pet Friendly Flagstaff: What To Do, Where To Stay, Places To Eat appeared first on GoPetFriendly.com.
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He has been nothing but a sweet and loving dog who just wanted to be cared for. I am so lucky I have him in my life and I don’t want to loose him.
Stand Up For Pits Tacoma, WA in 11 DAYS!!
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How Old Is 2 In Dog Years? Vet-Approved Guide to Each Size of Dog
The post How Old Is 2 In Dog Years? Vet-Approved Guide to Each Size of Dog by Oliver Jones 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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Thinking of every dog year as equal to seven human years is a convenient way to gauge a dog’s age, but it’s rarely accurate, especially in a pet’s early years. By this equation, a 2-year-old dog will be roughly 14 years old in dog years. The truth is that this drastically underestimates their relative age, as dogs are closer to 22–24 in dog years when they reach their second birthday.
The vast disparity between these estimated ages can impact how we perceive and care for our dogs. Getting it right is crucial. To help you treat your dog in age-appropriate ways, we’ll break down how old your 2-year-old dog is in dog years according to their size.
Size:
Age in human years:
Small breed (<20 lbs or less):
24 years
Medium breed (21 to 50 lbs):
24 years
Large breed (51 to 100 lbs):
24 years
Giant breed (100+ lbs):
22 years
Source: Almanac.com
How to Calculate Dog Years to Human Years
Rather than rely on the “1 year for every 7 dog years” formula, many dog lovers use an updated equation that makes every year equal to roughly five dog years. In the first part of their lives, dogs undergo rapid growth, so we have to apply a unique measure for their first and second years.
The first year sees significant change equal to approximately 15 human years of development. In the second, development slows compared to the first year but stays relatively quick at roughly 9 years. As a result, dogs will be around 24 years old in dog years when they reach 2 years old. The rule is general, as dogs vary in their development rate primarily based on size.
Small Dogs
Image Credit: Spill Photography, Shutterstock
At 2 years of age, small dogs have finished their development. With smaller bodies, many of these breeds reach sexual, physical, and mental maturity by the end of their first year and settle into adulthood during their second. Activity levels are still high, but their temperament levels out and becomes more or less set for the long term.
Understanding the differences in maturation between breed sizes is crucial through a dog’s first 2 years. While smaller dogs will already be on adult food by this point, large and giant dogs may still be growing and need the support of a puppy formula.
Likewise, desexing a small dog will be unlikely to cause issues during their first year. By contrast, larger dogs may need to wait until they reach 18 months or older before spaying or neutering can occur to prevent potential orthopedic problems and other health issues.
Medium Dogs
Image Credit: Ross Stevenson, Shutterstock
Mid-sized dogs typically follow a similar developmental path as smaller dogs, though their overall lifespans are often shorter. In the first 2 years, these dogs age roughly 24 dog years.
Large Dogs
Image Credit: Mary Swift, Shutterstock
Large and giant dogs have a unique growth pattern compared to small and medium-sized breeds. We may consider them relatively young for the first 2 years, only reaching 22 in dog years by their second birthday.
Part of this is due to their rapid yet long growth period. Although these dogs grow quickly, their enormous bodies take more time to develop, with some not reaching full maturity until their third or fourth year. Mental maturity is also often slower. Adolescence continues for a while for many large and giant breeds, generally lasting until the dog finishes growing.
After the second year, the relative age of large dogs flips, and they begin aging faster than smaller dogs. In this regard, age primarily observes how long the dog lives once they reach maturity. It does not reflect a dog’s mental age but rather their physical decline.
Large breeds wear down faster in obvious ways as they age, particularly in orthopedic health, and cancer development rate. In terms of behavioral and cognitive aging, they don’t differ much from smaller breeds. They have shorter lifespans and more bodily issues mainly due to their fast growth, selective breeding, and greater oxidative stress, but despite this larger dogs don’t mentally age any quicker than other dogs.
What’s the Science Behind Dog Years vs. Human Years?
Two years is a long time for dogs, explaining why the updated model for converting human years to dog years makes sense. Dogs go through puppyhood and adolescence in their first 2 years, with smaller breeds reaching their teenage period earlier and finishing it quicker. By age 2, dogs are generally in their young adult phase of activity and mental and social maturity.
A more recent assessment of a dog’s relative age complicates matters but gives us an even better way of calculating the human equivalent. Scientists evaluated age using DNA methylation, looking at how genes and their expressions change over time.
In their research, they landed on an updated equation for finding a dog’s human age equivalent by multiplying the natural logarithm of the dog’s age by 16 and adding 31: human age = 16 x ln(dog’s chronological age) + 31.
By this equation, dogs age roughly 31 years in their first year. Every time their age doubles, we add another 11 years. At age two, this would mean dogs are roughly 42 years old in dog years. It’s older than what we would expect at that point and suggests dogs reach middle age sooner than anticipated.
The Life Stages of a Dog
Dog breeds can vary drastically in how much and how quickly they mature through the first 2 years. Across their entire lives, dogs progress through several stages of growth and decline. Though the exact ages and ranges of each stage are up for debate, the following is a basic outline of what you can expect for a long-lived dog.
Puppy (0–6 months): Puppies develop rapidly and need constant training, socialization, and positive reinforcement to set them up for success as adults
Adolescence (6–12+ months): “Teenage” dogs become more stubborn, energetic, and challenging as they deal with hormonal and cognitive changes on their way to adulthood
Young adult (2–4 years): Mature dogs have reached their physical, breeding, and cognitive prime
Middle age (4–8 years): Middle age can begin and end earlier for large dogs and later for small dogs, representing a time of physical activity but also the potential appearance of chronic health issues
Senior (8+ years): Dogs may begin showing visible signs of aging, including graying hair and reduced energy, while orthopedic issues, cognitive and ocular decline, cancer, and other health problems become more prevalent
Image Credit: Radomir Rezny, Shutterstock
Life Span by Breed Size
Size:
Average life span:
Small breed (<20 lbs or less):
10-15 years
Medium breed (21 to 50 lbs):
10-13 years
Large breed (51 to 100 lbs):
10-12 years
Giant breed (100+ lbs):
8-10 years
Source: American Kennel Club
Key Factors That Affect the Dog’s Aging Process
While factors like breeding practices, early upbringing, genetics, and body size may not be in an owner’s control, we have plenty of ways to affect how long and well our dogs live.
Body condition score: Maintaining a proper weight helps maintain overall health and can increase longevity
Exercise and enrichment: Stimulating a dog’s natural drives through exercise, play, toys, puzzle feeders, and other activities can maximize cognitive and physical health
Diet: Age and breed-appropriate foods rich in proteins, antioxidants, omega fatty acids, and other essential nutrients ensure proper development and can slow age-related decline
Grooming: Coat, nail, ear, eye, and dental care prevent infections and injuries that speed up age-related bodily issues
Vet visits: 1–2 annual checkups for exams and blood work can reveal potential health issues while they’re early and manageable
Preventatives, medications, and supplements: Working with your vet to form an appropriate preventative healthcare plan for your dog including vaccinations and parasite prevention is important to prevent disease. Following medical advice for appropriate prescriptions and supplements can also improve longevity.
Conclusion
Two years old is a transformative age for dogs that can mean different things for different breeds. While some are already mature, others are only wrapping up their adolescence, requiring unique considerations around how we interact with and care for them. It may be early in your dog’s life, but this is the perfect time to discuss changes to the routine with your vet to set your adult pet up for several more years of health and happiness.
Featured Image Credit: DavidRaifort, Shutterstock
The post How Old Is 2 In Dog Years? Vet-Approved Guide to Each Size of Dog by Oliver Jones 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 Old Is 1 in Dog Years? Vet-Approved Guide to Each Size of Dog
The post How Old Is 1 in Dog Years? Vet-Approved Guide to Each Size of Dog by Chantelle Fowler 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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Many people are surprised to learn that, contrary to popular belief, one year of human life isn’t actually equal to seven dog years. Depending on their size, a one-year-old dog would be around 12 to 15 years old in human years.
While the 7:1 calculation is easy, it’s not entirely accurate as it doesn’t take a dog’s size into account. Dogs age differently depending on their breed and size, so a new calculation considering this information was necessary.
Read on to learn more about converting dog years to human years.
Size:
Age in human years:
Small breed (<20 lbs or less):
15 years
Medium breed (21 to 50 lbs):
15 years
Large breed (51 to 100 lbs):
15 years
Giant breed (100+ lbs):
12 years
Source: Almanac.com
How to Calculate Dog Years to Human Years
The old method for calculating dog years to human years was based on the outdated assumption that humans live to be around 70 and dogs live to be 10. We now know that a dog’s lifespan can vary greatly depending on size and breed. So, while the 7:1 ratio calculation was pretty easy, quick, and convenient to do, it’s just not as accurate.
Instead, the American Veterinary Medical Association recommends using these rules to get your pup’s age in human years:
The first year of a medium-sized pup’s* life is equivalent to around 15 human years
The second year adds around nine human years
Every human year after is equal to four or five for a dog
*“Medium-sized dog” is assumed to weigh 21 to 50 pounds
As you may have noticed in our chart above, a one-year-old giant dog (one that weighs 100+ pounds) is only considered 12 years old in human years, while their small, medium, and large breed counterparts are “older” at 15 years.
If you were to look at the entire chart on the Almanac website, however, you’d see that large dogs do eventually catch up. By their third birthday, they’ll be aging faster in human years than smaller dogs. For example, when they hit their fifth birthday, giant dogs are thought to be around 45 in human years. In comparison, small, medium, and large breeds are just 36.
Image Credit: ANURAK PONGPATIMET, Shutterstock
What’s the Science Behind Dog vs Human Years?
Researchers have discovered a relatively new concept in aging that suggests that a human’s DNA undergoes chemical modifications as they age to create an “epigenetic clock.” Scientists believe that looking at the addition of methyl groups to specific DNA sequences can track a human’s biological age. This takes into account the toll that a poor lifestyle, genetics, and disease take on our bodies.1
But how does this relate to dog aging? Well, dogs also have epigenetic clocks. A recent study looked at the methylation patterns in 104 Labrador Retrievers and found that dogs and humans share similar age-related methylation in some genomic regions. The research found that specific gene groups involved in development are methylated similarly as both species age.2
Scientists already understand that dogs can develop similar diseases and experience age declines comparable to those of humans. However, this study may suggest that both species experience similar molecular changes as they age.
The results suggest that methylation can work as a diagnostic age readout and a cross-species translation for physiological aging milestones.
The Life Stages of a Dog
The life stages of a dog can vary from source to source. However, according to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), every dog goes through four distinct life stages, each with its own challenges and focuses. It is essential to also recognize that every dog breed will hit these stages at a different age.
Puppy
Image Credit: Zanna Pesnina, Shutterstock
Proper, tailored nutrition should be the emphasis during the puppy stage to support a dog’s rapid growth period. Socialization and training are also critical to promote positive behaviors.
Young Adult
Image Credit: jcburke, Shutterstock
When dogs hit the young adult stage, they can begin transitioning to an adult diet. Socialization and training should be continued. Regular dental care is necessary to prevent periodontal disease and routine veterinary visits will help make sure your dog’s health is on track.
Mature Adult
Image Credit: Hanna Borysenko, Shutterstock
Adjustments to a mature adult dog’s diet may need to be made to accommodate changing metabolisms. Owners should be diligent about monitoring for age-related health problems and continue with regular veterinary visits.
Senior
Image Credit: Suchavadee, Shutterstock
Senior dogs may require a special diet to address aging organs and joint health. More regular visits to the vet would be beneficial to keep on top of potential developing health issues.
Life Span by Breed Size
Size:
Average life span:
Small breed (<20 lbs or less):
10-15 years
Medium breed (21 to 50 lbs):
10-13 years
Large breed (51 to 100 lbs):
8-12 years
Giant breed (100+ lbs):
8-10 years
Source: American Kennel Club
Key Factors That Affect the Dog’s Aging Process
Regular preventative veterinary care is vital to helping your dog live a longer and healthier life. The better you are at keeping up with the annual wellness exams, the easier it is for your veterinarian to establish a baseline for your pup’s health. This baseline allows them to pick up on any subtle changes to your dog’s condition before they get out of control.
Ensuring your pup receives quality nutrition designed for their life stage and maintains a healthy body weight can go a long way in slowing the signs of aging. A 2018 study found that de-sexed overweight dogs have shorter lives.
Conclusion
A one-year-old dog is anywhere between 12 and 15 years old in human years, depending on their size and breed. The number of human years accumulates quickly for dogs during the first few years of their lives, but thankfully, it does taper off.
Converting a dog’s age into human years is more complicated than once thought, but one thing is for sure: our beloved canine companions age much faster than we would ever want them to.
Featured Image Credit: anetapics, Shutterstock
The post How Old Is 1 in Dog Years? Vet-Approved Guide to Each Size of Dog by Chantelle Fowler 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.