Does Taylor Swift Have a Dog? What We Know
The post Does Taylor Swift Have a Dog? What We Know 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.
Taylor Swift has been very open about being a cat lady, and she shows off her adorable cats frequently with her fans. However, when it comes to dogs, Taylor Swift seems to be a little more discreet with her love for them. We know that she has had several pet dogs throughout her lifetime, and you can also find some childhood photos of her with dogs.
Taylor Swift’s life with dogs isn’t as public as her cats, but we think it’s pretty safe to say that she’s an animal lover. Here’s what we know about her experience with dogs.
How Many Dogs Does Taylor Swift Have?
It’s unclear as to how many dogs Taylor Swift has because information on them isn’t shared often on social media. However, we do know that at some point, she has had Dobermans and a Bull Terrier. The names of her Dobermans are reported to be Bug and Baby, and they were her childhood pets.
Taylor Swift also has a Bull Terrier, though this dog’s name is unknown. In November 2012, Taylor Swift was a part of a photo shoot called “Stars and Pets.” As the name suggests, the photo shoot revolved around celebrities posing with their own pets. Taylor Swift’s photo has her sitting with a Bull Terrier.
Image Credit: Mary Swift, Shutterstock
Do Dobermans Make Good Pets?
Doberman Pinschers were originally bred to protect tax men as they traveled through towns to collect taxes. Today, they’re more commonly seen as companion pets and family dogs, but you can also see them in police and military dog work.
Doberman Pinschers can be good pets for people who can match their active lifestyle. These highly intelligent dogs are fearless, and they require a strong owner who can train them and live up to their full potential. They become very devoted, loyal, and affectionate with their families while being wary and watchful of strangers.
Do Bull Terriers Make Good Pets?
Bull Terriers are spunky dogs with big personalities, and they just want to have fun and enjoy life. They can be a bit stubborn and more challenging to train, so they’re best reserved for experienced dog owners.
Life is sure to become more fun and entertaining when there’s a Bull Terrier around. They love playing games and can get into some mischief. They have an excellent sense of humor and grow to become lovable and loyal companions.
Image Credit: otsphoto, Shutterstock
Does Taylor Swift Like Cats More Than Dogs?
Taylor Swift is a lot more open about her life with her cats. We know that she grew up with two Siamese Cats named Indy and Eliehsen. She currently has two Scottish Folds named Olivia Benson and Meredith Grey and a Ragdoll named Benjamin Button. Her cats have appeared multiple times on her social media, and Benjamin Button was also featured in Taylor Swift’s Time Magazine 2023 Person of the Year photoshoot.
While there’s no direct statement that Taylor Swift has given about her attitude toward dogs, it’s pretty safe to say that Taylor loves cats. In fact, it’s common knowledge that Taylor Swift isn’t just a cat person. She’s a loud and proud cat mom. She has shared in interviews that her cats have been invaluable companions who have been by her side through difficult parts of her life. You can also find many pictures of her with her cats.
However, dogs have also been a part of Taylor Swift’s life. Though much less common, there are photos and videos of Taylor Swift with dogs at various stages of her life. Fans have spotted several different dogs, including a small white dog and a Sheltie-Collie mix.
Other Animals Associated With Taylor Swift
Besides cats and dogs, other animals have been associated with Taylor Swift. In fact, there’s a species of spider and a species of millipede named after her. The Nannaria swiftae, or the Swift Twisted-Claw Millipede, was discovered in 2022. It was named after Taylor Swift because the lead author of the team that discovered this millipede listened to a lot of her music during his time in graduate school.
Similarly, the Castianeira swiftay is a species of spider discovered in Costa Rica in 2023. It was identified and described by Brogan L. Pett, and Pett stated that Taylor Swift’s music kept him energized and motivated throughout his studies and research.
Conclusion
Taylor Swift has lived with dogs at various points in her life. What we definitely know as of now is that she lives with three cute and lovable cats. It doesn’t seem like she’ll be getting a new dog any time soon, but you just never know what might happen. Taylor Swift is an animal lover and just might discover the perfect dog for her.
Featured Image Credit: Luiza Kleina, Shutterstock
The post Does Taylor Swift Have a Dog? What We Know 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.
How Can You Tell if Your Dog Is Going Blind? 8 Vet-Verified Signs
The post How Can You Tell if Your Dog Is Going Blind? 8 Vet-Verified Signs 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.
Dogs can start to experience vision impairment or blindness as they age. It’s often a startling transition for both dogs and their owners, and it requires special care and attention to help dogs adjust.
Dogs often exhibit specific signs when they’re starting to lose their vision. Knowing the common signs can help you provide early treatment for your dog, which can slow down disease progression and help you maintain your dog’s quality of life. If you have any suspicions that your dog is losing their sight get them checked over by your veterinarian. We’ve listed seven signs of vision loss in dogs and have tips for how you can help your dog navigate the changes that come with it.
The 8 Signs That Your Dog Might Be Going Blind
1. They Get Startled Easily
If your dog’s vision starts to weaken, you may notice that they get scared more easily. They may flinch in surprise if you approach them from the side or behind to pet them. Some dogs may get startled when a car drives past them while they’re out on a walk.
You can help your dog feel more relaxed by avoiding approaching them from behind. If you have to wake them or get their attention, call their name or gently tap their bed or the floor instead. Directly touching your dog when they’re unaware can end up frightening them.
Image Credit: Jill Gulles, Shutterstock
2. They’re Hesitant to Walk
Having impaired vision may cause your dog to feel more hesitant about walking around. You may notice decreased activity, and dogs that once enjoyed going on walks may no longer want to go outside. Some dogs can develop a fear of going up and down the stairs.
You may have to assist your dog by walking with them around the house with a leash. It’s also helpful to rearrange furniture to prevent your dog from bumping into it and then not changing the layout so they can learn it. If you have stairs in your home, use gates at the top and bottom to protect them from tripping down the stairs.
3. They’re Sniffing More Frequently
Your dog is likely to rely on their other senses when they experience vision impairment. Dogs have powerful noses that help them navigate their environments, so it’s common for dogs to sniff more after vision loss. They may pause to sniff before they resume walking. Some dogs may sniff around when they enter a new room. Your dog may also take extra time to sniff their toys and treats before eating them.
Image Credit: Zontica, Shutterstock
4. They Bump into Walls
Since vision impairment affects spatial awareness, your dog may bump into walls more frequently, even if they have partial vision. They can also trip on things on the floor, such as toys and carpet rugs.
It’s helpful to create clear and simple pathways around your house so that your dog can avoid bumping into objects. You can use non-slip mats or hallway rugs to create paths that lead to your dog’s food and water bowls, beds, and other areas that they frequent. Your dog will be able to navigate on their own as they get used to feeling the mats and rugs.
5. They Have Cloudy Eyes or Discharge Around Eyes
It’s common for dogs’ eyes to cloud over slightly as they age. This occurrence is often attributed to nuclear sclerosis, but it doesn’t usually cause vision impairment. Cataracts also cause a milky or cloudy appearance but do affect vision. However, other medical issues can cause cloudiness and discharge around the eyes. Eye diseases can also cause swolleness, redness, and discharge around the eyes.
Cataracts, glaucoma, and anterior uveitis are all medical conditions that can cloud your dog’s eyes, and they can be quite painful. If you notice your dog’s eyes looking cloudy, it’s best to take them to your veterinarian to determine the cause and receive proper treatment.
Image Credit: selvaco, Shutterstock
6. They Resist Jumping Up and Down Furniture
Because your dog’s spatial awareness can be affected by vision impairment, they may become more hesitant to jump up and down from furniture. They often require assistance in order to use furniture without hurting or injuring themselves.
If your dog is becoming resistant to jumping up and down from furniture, buying dog stairs can be helpful for them. Dog stairs can help dogs maintain their independence and confidence, as they can get onto furniture on their own without anyone’s help.
7. They Have Increased Clinginess
Vision impairment can be scary for dogs, and you may start to notice some emotional signs from them that may look similar to separation anxiety. Your dog may not like being alone, and they may keep searching for you. Some dogs may refuse to leave their owner’s side and will become even more reliant on them.
If your dog is becoming noticeably clingier, it’s important to show compassion without coddling them. Making adjustments to your home and your dog’s routine can help them navigate their vision loss without turning them overly dependent on you.
Image Credit: Aleksey Boyko, Shutterstock
8. They Have Difficulty Finding Familiar Objects
Dogs with vision impairment may start to show difficulty locating familiar objects around the house. They may not know where their food and water bowls are, and dogs that use potty pads may start to miss them by accident.
One way you can help your dog locate their food is to heat it up. Warm food emits a stronger smell, which makes it easier for dogs to sniff it out and locate their food bowl.
How to Help Dogs Through Vision Loss
See Your Veterinarian
The first thing to do if you suspect vision loss in your dog is to take them to your veterinarian. Vision loss can be a sign of a number of health issues, so it’s important for a veterinarian to examine your dog and make an accurate diagnosis.
Sometimes, vision loss can be temporary, and your dog’s vision can return after they receive proper treatment. Some diseases and illnesses can be degenerative or eventually turn into permanent blindness.
Image Credit: Zontica, Shutterstock
Make Adjustments to Your Home
If your dog’s vision loss isn’t curable, it’s important to start making adjustments to your home and your dog’s routine. Your veterinarian can help you develop a plan to make your home safer for your dog. You can also work with a dog trainer or behaviorist to come up with new activities for your dog to enjoy and ideas for preventing anxiety or depression.
It’ll be helpful for your dog if you clear your home of any obstacles that can harm or injure them. You can lay out a trail of rugs and non-slip mats to help your dog navigate your home more easily. Another safety measure is to install gates at your stairs to prevent your dog from slipping and falling down them. Your dog may also benefit from using dog stairs to help them access couches and beds.
Use Protective Devices
With your veterinarian’s approval an anti-collision ring, more commonly known as a “Halo” may be appropriate for your dog. This is a light frame attached to a jacket that can help stop your dog from bumping into objects.
Dog protective eye goggles are another option suitable in some cases for eye protection. These protect the eyes from wind, UV light and impact injuries.
Image Credit: aabeele, Shutterstock
Be Patient and Compassionate
Most of all, it’s important to be patient and compassionate toward your dog. Vision loss is often a nerve-wracking experience for dogs, and they can feel fear and lose confidence as they experience these changes. Being gentle, supportive, and encouraging can help soothe your dog’s anxiety, which can help your dog adjust to vision loss more quickly. Often the rate of vision loss will be a factor, sudden loss of vision may be harder to adjust to than slow and incremental loss of sight.
Conclusion
Vision loss is a significant life event for both dogs and their owners. It can be a sign of a variety of underlying health issues, so it’s important to get your dog to your veterinarian as quickly as possible if you suspect vision loss.
While it can feel intimidating and scary, dogs with vision impairment can still live happy lives. It does require making some changes, but with some time, dogs are able to adjust well and enjoy their new lifestyle.
Featured Image Credit: ThamKC, Shutterstock
The post How Can You Tell if Your Dog Is Going Blind? 8 Vet-Verified Signs 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.
Dog Car Sickness Natural Remedy: 7 Vet-Approved Prevention Ideas
The post Dog Car Sickness Natural Remedy: 7 Vet-Approved Prevention Ideas 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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Canine motion sickness is an unfortunate reality for many dog owners. You probably dread going anywhere with your pup if they have exhibited the classic signs of car sickness before. However, you don’t need to be resigned to a life of constant worry over your pup and car seats. There are several remedies you can try to treat your pup’s motion sickness naturally. Read on to learn why dogs get car sick and what you can do to help your pup when they’re feeling green on car rides.
Why Do Dogs Get Car Sick?
Car or motion sickness can have a combination of physiological and psychological causes. Physical motion sickness occurs when the eyes, inner ear, and body send conflicting messages to the brain. Essentially there is an imbalance in what your dog is seeing and feeling.
Car sickness is more common in puppies and younger dogs which may be because the ear structures in charge of balance haven’t had a chance to fully develop yet. However, that doesn’t mean adult dogs won’t get motion sickness.
If your dog is not used to traveling in a car or associates car travel with stressful experiences, then this can also cause or exacerbate car sickness.
The 7 Ideas for Preventing Canine Motion Sickness
1. Ginger
Image Credit: grafvision, Shutterstock
Ginger is an ingredient known for its tummy-settling properties. There is anecdotal evidence that a small amount of ginger can ease motion sickness and help with digestive issues. Try grating a tiny amount of fresh ginger into your pup’s food before going on your trip. You can also find ginger-infused dog treats to help with car sickness.
Note: We recommend double-checking with your veterinarian before offering your pup ginger. While it is safe most of the time, it may not be appropriate for dogs with bleeding disorders or dogs taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or anticoagulant medications.
2. Adaptil
Adaptil is a calming pheromone product that mimics the pheromones emitted by mother pups as they lactate. It can be found in transportation sprays, collars, and even home diffusers. The collar and home diffusers are great for daily use to achieve a calming effect, while the spray is best saved for travel or prior to any stressful event.
Spray Adaptil in your vehicle and in the kennel your dog will be in during the car ride. It’s best used 15 to 20 minutes prior to departure.
3. CBD Supplementation
Image Credit: 24K-Production, Shutterstock
Cannabidiol (CBD) interacts with the endocannabinoid system to regulate nausea. A study from 2011 found that manipulating this system can regulate vomiting and nausea in humans and animals. A more recent study from 2024 found that daily supplementation with CBD can positively impact the stress levels of dogs often exposed to car travel. If you’re not interested in offering CBD daily, another 2024 study found that a single dose can positively impact the measures of stress in dogs during car travel.
CBD is widely available these days and can be found in many different forms, including tinctures, dog treats, and oils. We recommend speaking with your veterinary team to find the best form and dose for your pup.
If you need to speak with a vet but can’t get to one, head over to PangoVet. It’s an online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the personalized advice you need for your pet — all at an affordable price!
4. Valerian
Valerian is widely available in supplements and sprays (like Pet Remedy). It is used for its calming effects and so may be helpful for dogs who get stressed when traveling in the car. If given as an oral supplement it can sometimes make dogs drowsy and interact with certain medications, so you should discuss it with your vet before using it.
5. Modify How You Travel
Image Credit: Andrey_Popov, Shutterstock
How you set up your vehicle for travel can impact your dog’s wellness during the drive.
Leaving the windows down to let some fresh air flow through the vehicle can be refreshing. Rolling down the windows can also equalize the pressure and minimize any negative impact your pup’s vestibular system may be experiencing.
6. Desensitization
All dogs fearful of car travel should be slowly desensitized to enjoy time spent in the vehicle. This can be achieved by allowing them into your car for play time and treats while the vehicle is off and building on from there. You can start having play sessions while it’s running, then go for a quick drive around the block with your pup to gauge their reaction. If they’ve tolerated the ride well, reward them with a treat. The more positive associations your pup makes with car travel, the better they’ll handle going for drives.
Desensitizing your pet can be a lengthy process, taking as long as several months in some cases. Do not rush it.
7. Medication
Image Credit: Creative Cat Studio, Shutterstock
While medications may not be considered “natural,” they may be worth considering if your pup’s motion sickness is quite severe and your vet advises them. There are several pharmaceutical options, which should only be given under your vet’s directions, including:
Cerenia. This is a highly effective, FDA-approved prescription medication for dogs that prevents vomiting due to motion sickness.
Anti-anxiety medication. If your pup’s motion sickness is the result of anxiety, your veterinarian may recommend anti-anxiety medications.
Antihistamines. Antihistamine medications such as meclizine and benadryl (diphenhydramine) can reduce nausea and have sedative effects. Although these medications may be easy to find over-the-counter in your local pharmacy, it is not advisable to give them to your pup unless instructed by your veterinary team to do so.
What About Essential Oils?
Essential oils have gotten a bad reputation in the pet circle over the last few years, and for good reason. Cats, especially, are very sensitive to essential oils.
Cinnamon
Citrus
Pennyroyal
Peppermint
Pine
Sweet birch
Tea tree (melaleuca)
Wintergreen
Ylang ylang
However, some essential oils—in some forms—can be used safely for dogs.
If none of the other ideas above worked, you could try essential oils. To help prevent canine motion sickness, try applying a few drops of lavender or chamomile oil to a cotton ball. Place the ball in your vehicle for half an hour before you embark on your car ride. These oils are scientifically proven to reduce stress levels in humans and may produce the same effect in dogs. Don’t forget to remove the cotton ball so your pup doesn’t eat it.
When Should I See a Vet About My Dog’s Car Sickness?
Talk to your veterinarian if your pup gets sick often during car travel. They can recommend effective preventatives and may suggest medication to try in conjunction with other measures. It’s best to take action when you notice a problem starting as if it can get worse over time if not managed correctly.
Image Credit: Prostock-studio, Shutterstock
Final Thoughts
A dog prone to motion sickness doesn’t mean you two will be resigned to a life of never enjoying car rides. The above remedies may be helpful in treating your pup’s condition. However, if they are severely sick every time they go in the car, we recommend reaching out to your veterinary team for guidance. Good luck, and hopefully, you’ll be on your way to enjoying an incident-free journey soon.
Featured Image Credit: Aleksey Boyko, Shutterstock
The post Dog Car Sickness Natural Remedy: 7 Vet-Approved Prevention Ideas 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.
Great Dane Chihuahua Mix: Is It Possible? Facts, Ethics & Risks
The post Great Dane Chihuahua Mix: Is It Possible? Facts, Ethics & Risks 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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Mixing large dogs with small dogs is a controversial topic, especially if it’s done intentionally. So, while many people may be curious if it’s possible to breed a Great Dane and Chihuahua, the answer is it is possible; however, that doesn’t mean it’s an ethical or safe combination. Let’s learn more.
Great Danes and Chihuahuas Can Technically Breed
Great Danes and Chihuahuas certainly have the capability to breed, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe. Because of the insane difference in size between a Great Dane and a Chihuahua, the sex of the Chihuahua and Great Dane parents matter.
A female Chihuahua wouldn’t be able to carry the size of puppies that a Great Dane cross could produce. It could be a risk to her health as well as the puppies. If your Chihuahua is accidentally bred by a giant breed, like a Great Dane, speak to your veterinarian about the safest option.
Now, if you’re looking at it the other way around, it should be possible for a Great Dane female to carry and whelp a litter of Chihuahua cross puppies. However, it may be very difficult for the male Chihuahua to get her bred in the first place due to the differences in size.
The best option be by artificial insemination of a Great Dane female.
Image Credit: Natallia Yaumenenka, Shutterstock
Great Danes and Chihuahuas Shouldn’t Mix
Just because a Great Dane and Chihuahua could create life doesn’t mean it’s ethical to do so, especially intentionally. Many designer dog crosses have become very popular due to their uniqueness, but creating a cross that puts one of the parent dogs at risk shouldn’t be done.
Avoid breeders that say they have produced a Great Dane/Chihuahua cross, even if the breeding was done through artificial insemination. This may be just another gimmick to sell dogs rather than a responsible way of producing animals.
Also, when getting a crossbreed dog, you really don’t know what you’re going to get. The size and temperament can be a range between what the two parent breeds are typically like. So, when you’re dealing with dogs as different as a Great Dane and Chihuahua, it can very much be a wildcard.
What to Expect from a Great Dane Chihuahua Mix
If you have a dog that definitely has some Chihuahua and Great Dane in their DNA, what could they possibly be like? There are tons of possibilities, so there is no one-size-fits-all answer..
Size
As far as size goes with this combination, they can range anywhere from slightly bigger than a Chihuahua to slightly smaller than a Dane. However, most generally, they would fall somewhere in the middle.
Personality
Chihuahuas are fiery, feisty, and free. They are often very selective of who they get close to and they can be aloof or even aggressive with others. These little dogs can be both loving to those they know and nippy to those they don’t.
Great Danes are typically fun-loving, goofy dogs with protective undertones. They tend to be very close to every member of the household but might be a little suspicious or standoffish with strangers.
When you combine the two, aggression could definitely be at the forefront of concerns. It’s highly crucial to properly socialize your dog as they will need exposure to all sorts of new situations to desensitize them and make everything go smoothly.
DNA Testing for Dogs
If you think your crossbreed dog has a little of both Great Dane and Chihuahua in them, there is one way to know for sure. DNA testing is quite possible on dogs. Knowing what breeds make up a dog can help you to understand potential health conditions or behavioral problems that could develop so that you can get a jump on them.
There are different means of testing you can do, some of what you could do from the comfort of your own home. You can also contact your vet to see if they offer any type of DNA service.
Conclusion
Since both Great Danes and Chihuahuas are canines, they are capable of producing offspring, but that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea. Due to their vast size difference, breeding these different dogs can create some real health issues for the parents and is likely best done through artificial insemination. The outcome of the breeding can be vastly different as well, with a decreased ability to estimate size and temperament of the offspring.
Featured Image Credit: pixshots, Shutterstock
The post Great Dane Chihuahua Mix: Is It Possible? Facts, Ethics & Risks 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.
Boston Terrier Pekingese Mix Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Care, & Facts
The post Boston Terrier Pekingese Mix Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Care, & Facts by Matt Jackson 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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The Boston Terrier Pekingese mix is a mixed breed dog that combines the pampered Pekingese and the distinguished Boston Terrier to create a loyal and smart small canine companion breed.
Although the cross can lean towards one parent breed or the other, you are most likely to find that your Boston Terrier Pekingese Mix falls somewhere between these two popular pups, ideally taking the best of both breeds and combining them in one compact package. The mix is sometimes referred to as a Bostinese or Boston Peke, or simply called a Boston Terrier Pekingese Mix.
Breed Overview
Height:
10–15 inches
Weight:
12–25 pounds
Lifespan:
11–14 years
Colors:
Black, white, brown, tan, gray
Suitable for:
Novice owners looking for a smart, loyal companion canine
Temperament:
Loyal, loving, smart, responsive, resilient, adaptable
Although the Boston Terrier Pekingese mix is a relatively new combination, you can expect a pup that is loyal and loving, smart, and generally happy to be trained, as long as it gets love and some treats out of the arrangement.
The Bostonese will enjoy spending time with its humans, will generally get along with other dogs, and is considered easy to care for—this combination of traits makes it a good choice for first-time and novice dog owners. Its size and adaptability mean that it can live in most accommodations, too, so it is a good choice for owners who live in apartments as well as those who live in houses with more land.
Boston Terrier Pekingese Mix Puppies
The Boston Terrier Pekingese Mix is a small dog, which means that puppies are especially small. Although the breed itself is not overly delicate, the tiny size of the puppies means that extra care does need to be taken when they are very young.
The mixed breed is not that well-known or popular, yet, which means it can prove very difficult to find breeders that are intentionally breeding the cross. However, it is worth investigating. Check breeder registries, look on social media, and ask any owners of the mixed breed where they got their puppies from.
When choosing a breeder, ensure you don’t use a puppy mill. Puppy mills mass breed dogs and not only do the parents and puppies live in inhumane conditions, but the puppies can grow up to develop physical and emotional problems that they will have all of their lives. Studies suggest that puppy mill dogs are more likely to develop certain health conditions and are more likely to have fleas and other problems as soon as you receive the puppy.
When choosing a breeder, visit their site. Ask to meet the mother and ensure that she and her puppies look healthy and alert. Ask any questions you have about the breed. Not only does this help ensure your suitability as an owner but it can also give a good indication of how caring a breeder is.
Although the mixed breed is rare, you might find them in rescue centers, and it is always worth checking shelters to see if there is a dog you can adopt. Ask the adopter for as much history as they have on the dog, whether it gets on with other animals in the shelter, and how it acts when meeting visitors. Dogs do act differently when they are in shelters, but this can give a good idea of how well-socialized the dog is, at least.
Whenever you get a new dog, you should start socializing and training it as soon as you get it home. This will help ensure it grows up to be a well-adjusted dog that can cope with new situations, and that it will get along with other animals as well as new people.
Boston Terrier Pekingese Mix Breed Origin & History
Due to the similar size of the two parent breeds, the Boston Terrier Pekingese mix may have occurred naturally in the past, but intentional breeding of this pairing is a relatively new phenomenon.
Intentional breeding likely started at the beginning of the 21st Century to add some of the robust, playful tendencies of the Boston Terrier to the doting lapdog qualities of the Pekingese. The breed remains fairly uncommon, for now, at least.
Image Credit: Left- Christine Bird, Shutterstock | Right – Liliya Kulianionak, Shutterstock
Temperament & Intelligence of the Boston Terrier Pekingese Mix
The Boston Terrier is known for being a playful, even hyperactive, little dog. It loves to play, enjoys walking and running, and is also at its happiest and most content when spending time with its human owners.
The Boston can be protective of its owners, making early socialization especially important for the breed, but it isn’t known for being overly vocal and, when combined with its diminutive stature, this makes the Boston Terrier a good choice for living in an apartment. It is a smart dog, but its playful nature means it can be difficult to keep the Boston Terrier’s attention for a long-winded training session. Training is certainly possible, but it means that the owner must keep training sessions short and ensure they’re fun.
The Pekingese breed was bred as lapdogs and they were valued so highly by Chinese royalty that owned them, that they had their own servants. Modern Pekingese owners will tell you that they haven’t forgotten this, and they expect their humans to still act as their servants.
The breed is fearless, in keeping with its “lion dog” moniker, and this means that it will attempt to fearlessly tackle much larger dogs. Again, this makes early socialization key to successful ownership. The breed likes children, but its tiny size means that it can be fearful of very young children who are prone to grabbing their ear fluff.
The combination of these two breeds typically results in a fearless small dog that loves to play, adores spending time with its humans, and can be a little difficult to train. Despite the training challenge, the breed is considered a good choice for first-time owners, but if you do take on a Boston Terrier Pekingese mix you will need to start training and socializing them as soon as possible to ensure a stress-free time.
Are These Dogs Good for Families?
Both parent breeds make good companion dogs that will get along with children and, as such, the mix will get along with kids, too. The addition of the rugged Boston Terrier breed means that the mix will usually even get along with very young children, whereas the Pekingese can be wary around tiny grabbing hands. With that said, the crossbreed will do better with older children, especially those who are willing to grab a ball or other toy and spend some time playing.
The Boston Terrier Pekingese mix dotes on its owners and can struggle if left alone too long, so if your family is out of the house all day, this might not be the best choice of breed for you. However, despite being quite energetic, those little legs don’t need too much vigorous exercise, so the breed is also ideal for senior owners. Its size, and the fact that it isn’t usually prone to being excessively vocal, means that the mix is a good choice for owners who live in apartments or close to their neighbors.
Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets?
Generally, the breed gets along very well with other dogs, and it can also get along well with cats. If you do have other animals at home, you should ensure they are introduced gradually, though, so they have the greatest chance of getting along.
Ensure all pets have their own spaces they can retreat to. In the case of cats, it is a good idea to let them have the high ground, so make sure they have a perch on which they can jump. The small size of the Boston Terrier Pekingese mix means that the perch doesn’t have to be very high, and the cat shouldn’t have an issue getting away.
If you’re introducing the dog to an existing dog or pack of dogs, start by putting them on opposite sides of a stairgate so they can see and smell one another without physically interacting. Once they get used to the smell, use leashes and introduce them gradually. It can take time for existing animals to accept new members of the pack, but with gradual and careful introductions, it should be possible.
Although the breed is small, you should still never leave it alone with small animals like mice, rats, Guinea Pigs, or other caged animals. If the small animal runs, the dog will likely give chase and can seriously injure or even kill the pet.
Things to Know When Owning a Boston Terrier Pekingese Mix:
The Boston Terrier Pekingese Mix combines two very popular small companion dog breeds. It gets along well with people of all ages, although care needs to be taken around very young children, and it can usually be integrated into a house with existing pets. It is considered a good first dog breed, but no breed is perfect for all owners.
Below, we look at some of the features and requirements of the breed to help you determine whether it is the right dog for you.
Food & Diet Requirements
Diet is very important to dogs. A poor diet can cause physical and health problems, and it can also lead to poor coat condition and skin problems. Feeding too much food can lead to your dog putting on extra weight, so you do need to follow feeding guidelines. If your vet has recommended a specific food, a particular diet, or some kind of supplement, follow these guidelines above all others. Otherwise, you can choose between wet food, dry food, or a combination of the two.
On average, a Boston Terrier Pekingese Mix will consume around one cup a day of dry kibble. You can choose a small breed dog food. Not only does small-breed food meet the nutritional requirements of small breeds, but it typically has smaller kibble pieces that are easier for small mouths to manage. Alternatively, wet food can also help hydrate your dog while also meeting daily nutritional requirements.
Weigh your dog, choose an appropriate food, and then feed according to the guidelines on the packaging to make sure you’re meeting the necessary calorie, protein, and nutritional needs.
Exercise
The Boston Terrier Pekingese mix is a lively, active breed that enjoys walking, hiking, running, and playing, and it does require daily exercise to stay fit and healthy. However, it is a small breed and only has small legs. As such, it doesn’t require an excessive amount of walking and can struggle with strenuous forms of exercise.
A couple of walks a day, totaling 45 minutes or more, should prove ample, and you can supplement this with some time playing outside. The breed’s playful nature means that the Boston Terrier Pekingese Mix can do well at certain canine sports. With consistent and positive training, you might be able to take part in agility classes, and there are flyball and other sports events that are tailored to smaller dogs.
Training
Training not only teaches basic commands like sit, stay, and leave, but it also teaches dogs what is considered good behavior and what isn’t. The Boston Terrier Pekingese mix is an intelligent breed but it can be a little stubborn, and the playful nature of the Boston Terrier means you will have to make training sessions fun and exciting if you want to keep the dog’s attention throughout the session.
Keep sessions short, use training treats to encourage good behavior, and consider signing up for puppy classes. Puppy classes let your dog mix with other dogs, and meet new people, and they teach you the basics of dog training.
Puppy classes are also a great way to start your dog’s socialization. Socialization means introducing your dog to new situations. They will meet new people as well as other animals. They will become desensitized to the whole experience and good socialization will set you and your dog up for an easier life.
Socialization and training should continue outside puppy classes. Set aside some time every day to train basic commands and positive behavior and take your dog on different walks at different times, to different places, to offer further socialization.
Grooming
Whereas Pekingese have long coats, Boston Terriers have short coats, and your mix’s coat is likely to be a little on the longer side. You can expect some shedding, potentially quite a lot, as both parent breeds are prone to moderate shedding.
Brush daily during shedding season to help prevent knots and to ensure your little dog is comfortable. During the rest of the year, you can reduce grooming sessions to three or four times a week, but you must keep on top of this.
Nails need trimming, typically once every 2 or 3 months, or they can start to cause pain when your dog walks, and trimming nails also helps prevent scratching when your dog jumps up.
Teeth need cleaning at least three times a week but ideally every day. The breed doesn’t do well in extreme weather. You may need to provide a jacket in winter and sunscreen in summer.
Health and Conditions
The Boston Terrier Pekingese mix can struggle in cold and hot conditions, which means you need to offer protection from extreme weather. They also have brachycephalic facial features, which can lead to respiratory and eye problems.
The mix is more prone to the following conditions than most other breeds.
Eye Conditions
Cataracts
Allergies
Brachycephalic Upper Airway Syndrome
Corneal Ulceration
Patellar Luxation
Male vs Female
The male Boston Terrier Pekingese mix will be a little heavier and taller than the female, as is typical with most dog breeds. When it comes to character and temperament, there is some anecdotal evidence that males can be more playful and difficult to manage, whereas females are more prone to mood swings but are usually more level-headed and less likely to wander.
The breed is not known for being aggressive, but males are more likely to be aggressive than females, especially unaltered males.
3 Little-Known Facts About the Boston Terrier Pekingese Mix
1. The Boston Terrier Is Known as “The American Gentleman”
The Boston Terrier hails, unsurprisingly, from Boston, U.S.A. Thanks to its tuxedo markings, the breed has become known as the American Gentleman, although some owners may insist they are more thuglike than gentlemanlike.
2. Pekingese Used to Have Their Own Servants
The Pekingese hails from China, where it was bred as a lapdog to Royalty. They were treated so well and revered so highly that they had their own servants. Owners will tell you that they still have their own human servants, to this day.
3. The Boston Terrier Pekingese Can Suffer Separation Anxiety
The Boston Terrier and the Pekingese are both known for being companion dogs that are very close to their human owners. This makes them great companion pets, but it also means they can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for too long. If you go to work, you may need a walker or pet sitter to come in and help.
Final Thoughts
The Boston Terrier Pekingese mix is a mixed breed that combines two popular small companion breeds. The resulting mix is a small breed that enjoys spending time with its human family.
Although energetic, the small size of the breed means it doesn’t require too much exercise, and although its playful nature means it might find it difficult to concentrate, the breed is smart and intelligent enough that it can be well-trained. It will get along with other dogs, generally gets on with strangers, and is considered a good breed for novice owners.
However, you will have to take some care of that coat and the breed can suffer separation anxiety so it might not be the best choice for owners that work all day.
The post Boston Terrier Pekingese Mix Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Care, & Facts by Matt Jackson 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.
Can Dogs Climb Trees? Vet-Verified Facts & Info
The post Can Dogs Climb Trees? Vet-Verified Facts & Info 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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Everyone knows that cats can climb trees like nobody’s business (it’s the getting-down thing they sometimes need the fire department’s help with). But can their canine counterparts scale a mighty oak, too?
While you’re unlikely to catch a St. Bernard in a tree, some particularly athletic breeds can climb trees if motivated enough. Read on to learn more.
Is It Normal for Dogs to Climb Trees?
Climbing trees isn’t a typical activity for dogs, but that doesn’t mean they won’t if they have the physical ability and are afforded the opportunity and incentive.
Dogs generally don’t climb trees because they’re just not built for doing so. Their strong legs are designed for endurance, not for scaling timber. They needed to evolve to run more than they needed to climb, so their legs weren’t designed to bend around things the way a cat or bear can. Additionally, their nails are not up to the task. Canine nails are thick and strong, but they’re not able to penetrate wood as easily as cats can with their sharp claws.
Image Credit: Anna Averianova, Shutterstock
Which Dog Breeds Can Climb Trees?
As you can imagine, tree climbing isn’t a hobby that every dog can master. We are generally only talking about making it up to the first branches and not the lofty heights of the tree. Only a handful of breeds can take their adventures into arboreal pursuits.
1. Catahoula Leopard Dogs
Image Credit: B Young, Shutterstock
Catahoula Leopard Dogs are a medium-large breed originating in the United States. They were used as working dogs to track and drive cattle and hogs from swamplands. As renowned hunters, these agile pups can scale trees in pursuit of their prey.
2. Border Collies
Image Credit: Anna Aybetova, Shutterstock
Border Collies are not only the most intelligent dog breed (at least according to the leading expert in canine intelligence), but they’re also one of the most energetic. The Border Collie is a descendant of the traditional sheepdog that once roamed the British Isles. They are typically kept as working dogs and are happy to spend their days herding sheep. It is their seemingly inexhaustible thirst for physical activity that makes the Border Collie able to climb a tree.
3. Treeing Walker Coonhounds
Image Credit: Mary Swift, Shutterstock
The Treeing Walker Coonhound earned their name honestly as they are one of the few breeds that can climb trees. Initially developed in the United States to hunt raccoons, these medium-sized dogs will also hunt other game, including bears, bobcats, and cougars. They aren’t afraid to chase their prey up a tree and follow them up there if they feel it is necessary.
4. Jack Russell Terriers
Image Credit: Anna Averianova, Shutterstock
Jack Russell Terriers are one of the smallest dog breeds capable of tree climbing. They typically weigh between 9 to 15 pounds on average, making their trek up the tree a little simpler than some of the other larger dogs on our list. The breed was initially developed in Britain to be used as fox hunters, and modern Jack Russells still maintain their dedicated working and hunting skills.
5. Belgian Malinois
Image Credit: Mary Swift, Shutterstock
The Belgian Malinois is a Belgian breed of herding dog whose working skills don’t stop in the field. This intelligent breed often finds work as assistance dogs, detection dogs, guide dogs, and police dogs. They have a lot of energy to burn and require anywhere from one to two hours of exercise daily. Their favorite activities include walking, hiking, running, and, apparently, climbing trees.
6. New Guinea Singing Dog
Image Credit: Blanka Berankova, Shutterstock
Although you won’t find a New Guinea Singing Dog at your local rescue or any breeders specializing in this breed, these wild dogs, similar to the dingo, are one of the best at climbing trees. Native to the forests on the island of New Guinea, they were thought to be extinct for 50 years. However, trail cameras have recently caught proof of their existence. Experts surmise there are only around 200 to 300 individuals left in their native island habitat. These animals are fascinating as they have very flexible spines and the ability to rotate their front and hind paws more than their domesticated counterparts, which is why they are excellent tree climbers.
Why Do Dogs Climb Trees?
A dog may choose to climb a tree for several reasons. For example, they may be in hot pursuit of prey that has run to the tree to find a safe haven, or they might be in the middle of a quality zoomies session and not even realize they’ve scaled a tree in their attempt to burn off excess energy.
Final Thoughts
While tree climbing isn’t the norm for dogs, there are certainly some outlier breeds that will ascend one if given the opportunity and possess the physical skills. The only reason you don’t see dogs in trees as often as cats is that their bodies are just not designed to tackle such tasks.
Featured Image Credit: Kebal Oleksandra, Shutterstock
The post Can Dogs Climb Trees? Vet-Verified Facts & Info 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.
Why Does My Dog’s Breath Smell Like Fish? Vet-Reviewed Causes & Solutions
The post Why Does My Dog’s Breath Smell Like Fish? Vet-Reviewed Causes & Solutions by Matt Jackson 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’ve all encountered some bad dog breath. While it’s considered common for your dog’s mouth to smell a little, if you notice a change in the smell, it can be a sign of illness or a problem with bad dental hygiene. In particular, if their breath smells of fish, this is often associated with problems including dental disease, kidney or liver problems, diabetes, or a poor diet.
Below, we look at some of the possible causes of fishy breath in dogs, along with other signs to look for and what actions you can take. We also look at some remedies and solutions that might help improve your dog’s breath.
The 5 Causes of Fishy Breath
Dogs and minty-fresh breath usually aren’t mentioned in the same sentence, but that doesn’t mean it should be considered normal for a dog’s breath to smell so foul that you can’t stand to approach them. A fishy odor is a strong smell, and it is one that you wouldn’t generally expect from a dog’s mouth. Therefore, it is worth investigating. Here are some of the possible causes of this smell.
Image Credit: Tatianasoba, Shutterstock
1. Poor Dental Hygiene
Your dog can’t brush their own teeth, so it’s very easy for accumulations of plaque and tartar to take over. Dental treats and other products can help, but they often work better when used in conjunction with a good tooth brushing schedule.
You should brush a dog’s teeth every day if possible, otherwise do the best you can but shoot for at least once a week. There are many different types of toothbrushes and doggy toothpaste available that are effective and safe. You will also need to take your dog to the vet to have their teeth and gums checked out every 6=12 months.
Signs of poor dental hygiene include staining of the teeth, damaged or missing teeth, and redness of the gums. If poor dental hygiene has led to dental problems, your dog might exhibit signs of pain and distress while eating.
If you do see signs of dental disease, take your dog to the vet and have them checked over. You should also start brushing regularly, and you may need to change their diet if your dog is struggling to eat the food you’re providing.
2. Dietary Issues
If you’ve recently changed your dog’s diet, this could be the cause of the bad smell. Your dog might be eating poop, either out of a litter tray, from the yard, or even while out on walks, if you’re not paying full attention. It could also be eating from the trash which might be causing the smell.
Ensure you buy a good quality food that provides all of the nutrients your dog requires. Try to keep them from eating things that they shouldn’t, including human food.
Image Credit: kathrineva20, Shutterstock
3. Diabetes
Diabetes occurs when a dog’s body either doesn’t produce the insulin it needs or doesn’t respond properly to the insulin that is there. This can lead to high blood sugar levels and lack of available energy for the cells of the body.
Typical signs of diabetes include increased urination, increased thirst, and weight loss. The vet will take a blood test to check blood sugar levels, and if your dog is found to have diabetes it will likely need regular insulin injections.
As with diabetes in humans, lifestyle changes can help manage diabetes, and this may mean putting your dog on a diet, ensuring they get enough exercise, and avoiding the feeding of human food, even in small amounts. Your dog must be seen by a vet if you suspect diabetes is the cause of bad breath because left unmanaged, it can be fatal.
4. Kidney Problems
The kidneys remove toxins, regulate blood pressure, and help prevent water loss.
Signs of kidney problems include excessive drinking and larger volumes of urine, vomiting, not eating, and weight loss. There may be ulcers and sores in your dog’s mouth as well.
The vet will take blood tests and conduct a urinalysis to help determine whether a dog has kidney disease, and likely treatments include dietary management and medications.
Image Credit: Elena Loza, Shutterstock
5. Liver Disease
The liver is another essential organ. It deals with food digestion and the storage of vitamins and minerals. It also removes toxins. Liver disease can include a wide variety of signs from reduced energy to a loss of appetite. In extreme cases, your dog might have bloody diarrhea or vomit, a painful abdomen, and yellowing of the skin.
If you believe your dog is showing signs of liver disease, you should visit your vet where they will conduct blood and urine tests for diagnosis. Treatment of the condition with a specific diet or by incorporating supplements into your dog’s daily nutrition is often effective.
What to Do About It
Depending on the problem and its severity, there are some steps you might be able to take at home to help improve your dog’s breath and the underlying cause of the problem.
Consult a Vet
You should make an appointment to see your vet as soon as possible. They will conduct tests to determine the cause, and they can advise if a different diet might be the best solution.
Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock
Clean Teeth and Gums
If your dog is showing signs of dental disease, it isn’t too late to start brushing your pup’s teeth, but it’s best to start with a dental exam and professional cleaning first. This will help ensure that any severe problems are managed before you take over the maintenance of a healthy mouth.
Change Diet
If you’ve recently changed your dog’s diet, this might be the cause of bad breath. This is especially likely if the new food you are giving contains fish or fish-based ingredients. A lot of commercial dog food does contain fish because, as well as being a good source of protein, fish also provides omega fatty acids, and a host of other beneficial vitamins and minerals.
When changing a dog’s diet, you should do so gradually by introducing a small amount of the new food to their existing food and increasing the ratio of new food to old food over the course of a couple of weeks. This can help prevent diarrhea and other digestive problems.
Image Credit: dmytro Zinkevych, Shutterstock
Feed Supplements
If your dog is lacking in any essential vitamins and minerals, you don’t necessarily have to change their diet to hit all the necessary levels. Dogs can benefit from supplements like people can, just be sure to talk to your vet first to make sure supplements are necessary and that you’re giving the right amounts.
Conclusion
Dogs aren’t known for having minty-fresh breath, but that doesn’t mean it should smell overly bad, either. Strong oral odors can be a sign of poor health, a bad diet, or dental disease.
Watch for other signs that your dog might be ill and consult a vet to help decide on the best course of action.
Featured Image Credit: UfaBizPhoto, Shutterstock
The post Why Does My Dog’s Breath Smell Like Fish? Vet-Reviewed Causes & Solutions by Matt Jackson 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 Calm Dog Anxiety Naturally: 10 Vet-Approved Tips
The post How to Calm Dog Anxiety Naturally: 10 Vet-Approved Tips 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.
Life throws stressors at us from so many angles that occasional anxiety is impossible for anyone to avoid entirely. Our dogs are no different. They often feel nervous from being in unknown situations, facing aversive stimuli, or when feeling their owner’s stress.
Most owners would jump through any hoops necessary to help their dogs feel better physically and mentally, but resorting to anxiety medications can make many of us feel uneasy. We recommend that if your dog is suffering with anxiety that they are seen by a veterinarian or veterinary behaviorist for appropriate advice. Here we discuss managing your dog’s stress with these tips to naturally calm your dog’s anxiety.
Understanding Your Dog’s Anxiety
Before resorting to any specific stress reduction method, determine where your dog’s anxiety is coming from. When you know the cause, you can decide how to respond. In some instances, the cause reveals the solution, and all you have to do is remove the stressor. If your dog is always anxious about an animal they see out the window, the best way to calm them may be as easy as closing the blinds!
Anxiety can be straightforward to solve in cases like these, but many dogs feel more deeply embedded sources of stress that require more complex support. Past experiences may make some feel separation anxiety or fear of certain noises or other unavoidable stimuli.
Others might have suffered past abuse or a lack of socialization, creating a generalized anxiety that appears throughout the day. Even old age can come with cognitive decline that causes behavioral changes and new fears and anxiety.
Each of these issues demands unique considerations and this is why the help of a certified veterinary behaviorist can be invaluable. Understanding the cause allows you to have more productive conversations with your vet and anticipate and react to your dog’s anxiety efficiently.
Image Credit: Paul’s Lady, Shutterstock
The 10 Tips to Calm Your Dog’s Anxiety Naturally
1. Play Music for Your Dog
Though it may not resolve anxiety for every dog, playing certain types of music is a hassle-free and quick solution to test. One study revealed increased resting and less standing in dogs that listened to classical music. By contrast, heavy metal caused more signs of agitation.
Dogs may habituate to the same music over time, reducing their benefits. Alongside classical music, genres like soft rock, reggae, and Motown have also shown positive effects on a dog’s mood. If you rotate the types of music your dog hears, this form of auditory enrichment will remain effective in helping your dog relax.
Image Credit: Scorpp, Shutterstock
2. Use Safe Natural Scents
Essential oils can be as soothing for dogs as they are for humans if you use them safely and pick certain scents. Scents like lavender, vanilla, coconut, valerian, ginger and chamomile can inspire more relaxation in dogs. Others, like rosemary and peppermint, may be more stimulating, so you’ll want to carefully select the best aromas to deal with your dog’s stress. They must never have access to ingest the essential oils and do not apply them directly to their skin or fur.
When your dog feels anxious, a diffuser containing lavender or chamomile essential oil may help them calm down. Meanwhile, the oil imparts a pleasant scent anyone in the house can enjoy. Since essential oils can irritate dogs, you must minimize their exposure as much as possible and give them the option to leave the room and get away from the scent.
Dogs have an enhanced sense of smell, so they don’t need or want anything too overpowering. Lightly scented features are all you need to provide adequate olfactory stimulation.
Image Credit: Madeleine Steinbach, Shutterstock
3. Offer More Exercise
Giving your dog breed-appropriate daily exercise can help them manage anxiety and frustration. Exercise releases endorphins, feel-good chemicals that can reduce stress and related behaviors. Dogs maintain a better body condition score to decrease the ill effects of obesity and stay more relaxed in the home. They’ll feel better physically and avoid boredom that leads to unwanted habits.
The effect is even more pronounced with sports, such as agility and man-trailing. Dogs enjoy more positive reinforcement and can enhance their bond with owners with goal-oriented activities. You can set up workouts like these at home or sign your dog up for competitions to let them socialize with other dogs.
Image Credit: Rita_Kochmarjova, Shutterstock
4. Provide More Enrichment Opportunities
Mental and physical stimulation during the day makes it easier for dogs to cope with separation anxiety and frustration from boredom. Aside from walks and exercise routines, you can exhaust your dog with indoor play, feeder puzzles, snuffle mats, and assorted chews. Make training sessions a consistent part of the day to further your bond and engage your dog’s problem-solving abilities.
When leaving for the day, you can keep a dog that suffers from separation anxiety content in their crate with special treats. Offer crate-only enrichment options like bully sticks or peanut butter-stuffed Kong toys.
Since you can’t supervise pets when they’re alone, test new chews while monitoring your dog’s behavior. As many toys and natural calming aids can become choking hazards, you must ensure any item will be safe when your dog is alone.
Image Credit: alexei_tm, Shutterstock
5. Engage Your Dog Positively with Reading and Petting
Fostering a stronger bond with your dog is often instrumental in reducing their general anxiety. Find moments when you can engage your dog positively. As the night winds down, read to them in a soothing voice.
Show affection with cuddles and petting to reduce cortisol levels and subsequent feelings of anxiety. Generally, the more time you spend with your dog, the more their anxiety will subside.
Image Credit: Krichevtseva, Shutterstock
6. Use High-Value Treats to Counter-Condition Your Dog
Counter-conditioning works with desensitization to reframe a dog’s perception of and reaction to anxiety-causing stimuli. Maybe your dog fears thunderstorms or loud cars honking late at night. If you create positive experiences around these occurrences, your dog will learn they’re safe, and the stimulus isn’t inherently negative.
Identify the source of the stress, and reward your dog whenever they encounter it. When fireworks stress your dog, offer a high-value treat like cheese or chicken. Although many dogs will lose their appetite when overly anxious, there’s likely a treat your pet won’t turn down.
Image Credit: Sonja Rachbauer, Shutterstock
7. Use Natural Calming Supplements
Dietary supplements are an excellent option to try alongside enrichment and environmental aids to soothe your dog’s anxiety. Natural options with proven positive calming effects abound, including:
Omega fatty acids
Tryptophan and hydroxytryptophan
Probiotics
Casein (a milk protein)
Theanine
Valerian root
Chamomile
Passionflower
Melatonin
You can give supplements to dogs as part of their routine for chronic anxiety or situationally to deal with stressful events. For example, you can give your dog a calming supplement about 30-60 minutes before an anxiety-inducing vet trip. Offering it in dog-friendly supplements is ideal, as some natural remedies may be toxic or aggravating in the improper formulations or amounts.
Many natural calming aids for dogs, such as valerian root and ginkgo biloba, can boost cognitive performance. By managing cognitive decline, they may help prevent many of the associated fears and anxiety that aging dogs often develop. Talk to your vet about natural relaxing supplements that are practical for your dog based on their body type, health status, and tolerances.
Image Credit: WOSUNAN, Shutterstock
8. Licking and Sniffing
The actions of licking and sniffing are inherently relaxing for dogs and finding ways to work these into the daily routine can be very beneficial. There are many types of lick mats available to give licking opportunities during the day.
As well as scent work for dogs you can teach them to take a deep breath to help them calm down. Sniffing and breath work will help calm the sympathetic nervous system.
Image Credit: Jaromir Chalabala, Shutterstock
9. Touch Therapies
There are many massage techniques and therapies that use physical touch to bring about a sense of calm. Some can be safely learnt at home and others provided by trained professionals such as, T-Touch, canine massage therapists, physiotherapists, chiropractors, acupuncture specialists and more.
Image Credit: Leka Sergeeva, Shutterstock
10. Try CBD
CBD supplements have grown in popularity due to their natural pain-relieving and anxiety-reducing effects without the psychoactive effects of THC. Now, companion animals can get in on the trend with various liquid products and tasty calming treats incorporating CBD to manage stress.
Though research is limited, recent studies have indicated some potential for CBD to lessen anxiety in dogs. The results are mixed, however, so CBD should work alongside other calming aids to minimize your dog’s stress. Discuss incorporating CBD supplements into the routine with your vet to ensure they have no adverse health effects. CBD cannot be used with some medications and health problems so do check with your veterinarian first.
Image Credit: 24K-Production, Shutterstock
Final Thoughts
Enrichment, training, and supplements are some of the best natural options to calm your dog’s anxiety. While you help your pet relax and feel better emotionally, you’ll also benefit them physically, improving their fitness, mental functioning, and overall quality of life. Before choosing medications to tamp out your dog’s stress, talk to your vet about how routine and diet changes can provide the relief you and your pet deserve
Featured Image Credit: Diana Parkhouse, Shutterstock
The post How to Calm Dog Anxiety Naturally: 10 Vet-Approved Tips 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.
How Long Will My Pitbull Be Pregnant? Preparing for the Journey Ahead
Typically, a pitbull’s pregnancy lasts around 63 days, but this can vary depending on factors like litter size and overall…
The post How Long Will My Pitbull Be Pregnant? Preparing for the Journey Ahead appeared first on The Pitbull Center.
Can Dogs Eat Cat Treats? Nutritional Facts & FAQ (Vet Answer)
The post Can Dogs Eat Cat Treats? Nutritional Facts & FAQ (Vet Answer) by Dr. Ashley Darby BVSc (Veterinarian) 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’re a cat parent, you know the joy of giving your furry friend a tasty cat treat now and again. The same goes for dog parents and dog treats. But what if you have both cats and dogs in the house and run out of dog treats? Is it safe to give your dog cat treats if this happens?
In general, cat treats are safe for dogs although the opposite isn’t always true and you shouldn’t make a habit of feeding dogs cat food. This comes down to each species’ unique nutritional requirements. As long as treats make up a small portion of your pup’s diet and they are eating a nutritionally balanced dog food, you can feed them some cat treats in most cases.
Why Can Dogs Eat Cat Treats?
Dogs and cats have different nutritional requirements; while dogs are more omnivorous cats are obligate carnivores. While both cats and dogs should have meat in their diet, cats require a higher level of protein in general, as well as more specific nutrients that they can only get from meat. Dogs also need protein but they are more adapted to eating grains, fruits, and vegetables than cats are. They have the digestive enzyme, α-amylase, to digest carbohydrates that cats lack.
Since cat treats are usually high in protein, fat, and sometimes have grains, fruits, vegetables, and other ingredients, they are fine for dogs to consume. They won’t have anything toxic or harmful to your dog and they will likely benefit from most of the nutrients. The protein and fat content can make the treats more palatable and tasty for dogs, although this can also present a problem in some cases.
Image Credit: Red Lemon, Shutterstock
Feeding Cat Treats to Dogs
The benefits of feeding cat treats to your pup are the taste and variety it can add to their diet. Depending on the ingredients they can benefit from the nutrients in the treats in the same way as cats. If you’re out of dog treats it can be more convenient to slip them a few cat treats in a pinch, instead of preparing something specifically for them. You should ensure that the treats make up less than 10% of their diet and that their usual food is nutritionally balanced for dogs.
Dogs that have special dietary requirements or medical issues may not be able to consume cat treats. Dogs with kidney or liver disease on specialized diets may detriment from the high protein in cat treats, although this can also be a problem with some dog treats. Similarly, if your dog is allergic to a specific protein, they can’t have cat treats with that ingredient. Dogs with sensitive digestion may experience an upset stomach from a change in treats so we recommend introducing them to the diet slowly.
The extra fat in the cat treats can be a problem. Fat contains lots of calories which can lead to weight gain and obesity, which can result in a host of health problems. And though having a couple of cat treats won’t harm your dog, you could see some issues if they get into the treats and devour an entire bag. Eating a large quantity of cat treats could cause a dog to develop an upset stomach or pancreatitis and experience vomiting, diarrhea, a lack of appetite, or lethargy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Cats Eat Dog Treats?
Not all dog treats are good for cats. Cats need higher protein snacks and may not digest dog treats well if they don’t fit within their ideal nutrient profile. They may also dislike the taste. In addition, dog treats will be larger relative to a cat’s total intake, which increases the risk of nutritional deficiencies.
Image Credit: Sarah McGraw, Shutterstock
What are the Disadvantages of Cat Treats for Dogs?
The main disadvantages of feeding cat treats to dogs is the small size and expense of the treats. Certain treats may have certain advantages designed for cats, for example catnip treats, that won’t benefit dogs as much. Similarly supplements designed for cats may not work for dogs due to the ingredients or concentrations. Feeding too many cat (or dog) treats can lead to poor nutrition, weight gain, or gastrointestinal upsets.
Are There Treats That Both Cats and Dogs Can Eat?
Yes! Both species can benefit from plain meat protein or safe fruits and vegetables. If you’re looking for a commercially available treat we love A Better Treat Freeze-Dried Salmon Dog & Cat Treat which provides a high protein snack with omega fatty acids.
Conclusion
Most dogs will benefit from a few cat treats in moderation. If your pup needs to lose weight or needs a specific diet it’s best to avoid them though. If a dog eats a ton of cat treats they could end up with an upset stomach, vomiting, and diarrhea. Giving your pets the same treats can be a time and money saver, and there are options that suit both dogs and cats. Remember, this isn’t a two-way street so feeding your cat some dog treats isn’t usually a good idea.
See Also: Can Dogs Eat Cat Food? Vet-Verified Info & Safety Tips
Featured Image Credit: Garna Zarina, Shutterstock
The post Can Dogs Eat Cat Treats? Nutritional Facts & FAQ (Vet Answer) by Dr. Ashley Darby BVSc (Veterinarian) 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.