A Senior Dog Health Management - Rich Diet, Exercise, Vet Checkups & Supplements

As humans, your dog too ages and it is relatively earlier than a humans age. With age, numerous health issues arise in your dog such as deterioration of skin and coat, loss of muscle mass, digestion issues, obesity, arthritis, dental problems and decreased ability to fight back infections. However, large size dogs experience age-related changes earlier compared to smaller dogs who live longer. This gives us the hint to estimate when it is a time to feed your canine a senior diet food based on the size. 

A standard guideline to follow to determine how dogs age related to their size is: 

· Small breeds or dogs weighing less than 20 pounds - 7 years of age. 

· Medium breeds and dogs weighing 21 to 50 pounds - 7 years of age. 

· Large breeds and dogs weighing 51 to 90 pounds - 6 years of age. 

· Giant breeds and dogs weighing 91 pounds or more - 5 years of age. 

Say no to diets that have a low level of proteins 

Normally, it is believed that as dogs age, they require less amount of proteins. This is far behind the real fact. Senior dogs require as much protein as they were taking previously. Studies have proven that older dogs need to be facilitated with the proper level of proteins, and this does not open gateways to the development or progression of renal failures. It is even crucial to feed senior dogs with optimal levels of easily digestible proteins to help retain good muscle mass. 

Ensure to Provide Low-Calorie Diet 

Senior dogs have been recorded to attain an extra body fat in spite of consuming fewer calories. Due to the age, this change in a body is unstoppable and may be triggered due to reduced energy spending or a sudden change in metabolism. Whatever the reason is, it is paramount to feed a low-calorie diet to avoid every possibility of weight gain and the problems arising due to obesity. However, meeting the proper protein level is important to support in retaining muscle mass. 

Talk to your vet regarding the change of diet of your older dog

 

Aging can directly affect a dog's intestinal functionality. It can hamper intestinal bacteria, which can surface the symptoms of gastrointestinal infections. When selecting a senior dog diet, ensure it contains FOS (fructooligosaccharides) that promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria, this invariably helps in proper digestion, preventing any digestive issues. 

Pick foods with a high ratio of vitamin E and Beta-carotene 

Liquid Dog Vitamins

Antioxidants such as vitamin E and beta-carotene help in removing free radicals that can largely damage the tissues of the body and can cause signs of aging. Senior dog diets should contain higher levels of these antioxidant compounds. Good amount of antioxidants is responsible for increasing the effectiveness of the immune power in older dogs. 

Stick to Consistency 

Never be inconsistent when it comes to a routine care of geriatric pets. Along with consistent daily routine, timely veterinary examinations should be involved to diagnose the presence or progress of a chronic disease. Stressful situations and abrupt changes in daily routines should be shunned. In case, you are looking to make a drastic change in your older pet's routine, remember to put it on a gradual scale. 

Liquid Glucosamine (Vegetarian)

In a nutshell, senior dogs undergo a variety of physiological changes along with psychological changes. To tackle these changes, it is advisable to follow the right diet that is recommended for older dogs. Two things to care - their weight and agility. Your elder dogs need not only proper diet and optimal weight but also regular health checkups at a vet office. Not limited to this, the care should be extended in adding the nutritional supplements to aid their physical health. Well, taking proper care of your older dog, you can help them pass their golden years happily. 

Liquid Glucosamine for Small Dogs

As your Dog ages, it would be prudent to speak with your veterinarian to find out if giving your dog a vitamin supplement or a supplement to help with any joint problems it may be experiencing would be beneficial. 

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?A-Senior-Dog-Health-Management---Rich-Diet,-Exercise,-Vet-Checkups-and-Supplements&id=9585621

My Dog Doesn't Need To Go For Walks

I hear this a bunch. Unfortunately, a lot of dog owners think because they have a BIG yard their dog does not need to go for walks. They are sure wrong in their thinking. In this article I am going to try to dispel that myth and give you some answers and the reasons why it is a myth.

Having a large backyard is great for an active dog. It can allow you to play retrieve games, Frisbee and even some agility if that yard is big enough for all the equipment. However those games are great exercise which your dog definitely needs but it is in no way a substitute for going on walks.

Wild dogs walk a bunch all day long. Why? Well they are looking for food and water. I realize that your dog doesn't need to hunt for food but the walking is still something that it needs to do make it feel good and satisfied.

You may not realize this but walking builds serotonin in the brain not only for your dog but you as well. Serotonin is a must if you want a well-balanced happy dog. Since you are walking as well, you will get all the great benefits including building serotonin in your brain as well.

Walking with your dog builds a bond. A bond that makes your dog realize that you are the pack leader. Being your dog's pack leader actually will make him happier because he realizes that you are taking responsibility and it relieves him from having to assume that responsibility.

Remember that taking your dog for walks allows it to discover all the great things that are out there to see and experience.

One thing that you may not know is that small dogs need walks as well as their bigger brothers. Small dogs may not need or even to be able to walk as far as a larger breed however they do need to get out on a walk.

Now here is a challenge for those of you that do not currently walk your dogs. Make a pledge to give your dog a walk every day for 10 days. Watch your dog's enthusiasm, look how happy it appears. That is because it is feeling better not only physically but mentally as well.

If you accept my challenge I think that the results will be so good that you will want to continue. The best part about this challenge is that you will feel better as well so give it a try!

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?My-Dog-Doesnt-Need-To-Go-For-Walks&id=9137337

Understanding Canine Hip Dysplasia

It is an unfortunate truth that dogs of all different age groups can fall victim to hip dysplasia. In more severe cases, puppies that are as young as only five months old will start to show discomfort and pain either during exercise or shortly after. This is a condition that can and will worsen until some of the most normal daily activities become painful. If not taken care of, these dogs may end up with an inability to walk, which calls for an understanding from dog owners as to the causes, symptoms and treatment options for this condition.

Hip dysplasia is a condition that can take place in dogs, but also in cats and humans as well. Within the canine world, this is usually a condition that impacts the larger breeds, including Great Danes, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds and so on. However, this is a condition that can impact all different breeds and sizes of dogs.

This condition is caused by what is known as a subluxation in the joints of the hips. When this happens, there is wear and erosion of the joint that can cause pain and arthritis. There have been studies done that have tried to determine if the number of calories that a dog has taken in throughout their daily life has been a factor as well as any predisposed factors in their genetics. Of course, obesity in any animal can lead to a problem of the joints and make it very difficult for them to get around, such as hip dysplasia can.

Liquid Dog Vitamins

It is very important that your dog is able to get just the right amount of calcium as well as other valuable minerals in his or her diet so that they have less of a chance of developing issues with their hip joints. If you are still unsure if your dog is getting the right nutrition or if you own a breed that is highly susceptible to dysplasia, it is important that you talk to your veterinarian about nutrition as well as supplementation that can be helpful to your dog's joints and bones.

Liquid Glucosamine for DogsVegetarian

The right amount of exercise, without overexertion, can have a lot to do with how your dog progresses once diagnosed with hip dysplasia. Again, working closely with your veterinarian will be the best way to ensure that you are doing all that you can to improve the quality of life and range of motion that your dog has.

Liquid Glucosamine for Small Dogs

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?Understanding-Canine-Hip-Dysplasia&id=9116129

Ideal Dogs For Senior Citizens

Dogs are the perfect human companion. This is true for people of any age, especially seniors who need the love and happiness a dog brings to their lives. Keeping active is essential for a senior citizen's good health, and a canine companion fits the bill with all the outdoor walks and playtime the dog needs.

Yet, once a person who takes in a dog later in life settles in with his or her pet, there are some concerns about what will happen when the senior ages and in 10 or 15 years cannot get around as much. What if an owner must move to an assisted living home? What will happen to the dog? Is there a dog that is perfect for seniors no matter their age or abilities?

In most cases, the size of the dog matters when a senior or late-middle aged individual chooses the pet. As a person reaches certain ages the problem of being able to lift a dog or walk without pain comes into the picture. Small dogs, therefore, should be easier to handle on walks or on car trips to the vet.

Dog breeds that have healthy backgrounds and good genetics are better for seniors, too. A German Shepard, for example, is a fantastic companion and guard dog. Yet, this breed often succumbs to health problems at an early age. For a senior who lives on a fixed income, they may not be able to handle all the veterinarian bills that accompany its ownership.

Still, choosing a dog based on its breed's health history does not guarantee a dog will not need some vet care in his or her life. To choose the ideal companion first consider your own health and your future plans. Do you have a family that could take on or would be able to take on caring for the animal if something were to happen to you?

Older dogs are better choices for seniors than puppies are, too. This way, you are already aware of any health issues the dogs has. If the dog is healthy, chances are your time with him or her will be trouble-free.

Are there specific dog choices best for seniors? The answer to this is that a person can choose any breed of dog to call their friend as long as they plan ahead and take all factors affecting them into consideration.

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?Ideal-Dogs-For-Senior-Citizens&id=9025102

Consider A Beagle For A Pet

There are few pets as irresistibly adorable as a beagle puppy. For dog lovers, just passing by a pet shop window with a few wiggly mounds of fluff is an effort to pull away from. But if those wiggly puffs are beagle puppies, it's something else.

Before being overwhelmed by the eyes, friendliness and charm of these little yappers, take a moment and be cool. A beagle is not your average dog, if there is any such thing as your average dog, and they have very distinct personalities hidden between those floppy ears.

Following are some key points to consider before taking on the serious responsibility of taking a beagle into your home:

They Only Look Small

Beagles are small dogs and therefore are easier to feed, wash and carry than a larger dog, but don't think for a second that a beagle will act his size. For their size beagles are full of energy and friendly curiosity. They make excellent companions for children of all ages, providing a perpetual supply of energetic antics and entertainment.

The antics are truly limitless and a beagle pup will follow his inquisitive nose into your rubbish bins, drawers, shoes, flower beds and then back into your bed. But this is only because he understands the need to be fully aware of his surroundings to better serve you the alpha of the pack. So be sure he has plenty of room for antics and you will save on repairs.

Tougher to Train

Beagles are highly intelligent and multi-talented dogs; they are fully capable of participating in competitions of skill, obedience, flyball and agility. It is probably this superior intellect that can make the beagle such a tough pal to train.

House-training is not impossible not by a long shot, but conventional methods of simply walking the dog at regular times may not be enough for the beagle. Patience and consistency are key in house training a beagle: many beagle owners say they have had much success with crate training their pups.

Noisy Little Guys

For apparently no reason or for no reason apparent to you, your beagle friend may begin to bay loudly and yap at the wall, couch or refrigerator. This is a common occurrence for a beagle, whose superior sense of smell is constantly being bombarded with new and interesting sensations.

Beagles are a very social animal companion, they enjoy and require a lot of time socializing with their pack mates. Do consider that twice the beagles is more like four times the trouble but also four times the excitement and good companionship.

Be sure you are ready for it.

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?Consider-A-Beagle-For-A-Pet&id=8982209

How To Choose The Right Dog Breed For Your Family

At some point or another, most kids will beg their parents for a dog. Those who have had a dog before or have always wanted one may be considering giving in to their child's plea. However, before parents make any decisions, they should think about which breeds are best suited for their family.

Why is Choosing the Right Breed Important?

Like children, dogs are a lot of work. They require care, attention and exercise. If they do not get these things, they could wind up being sick or unhappy.

Because dogs rely on their owner to provide them with a good life, families should not take on dogs that they cannot handle. Choosing the wrong breed could mean that the dog and/or the family do not get their needs met.

How to Find Information on Dog Breeds

The simplest way to get information on dog breeds is to look on the AKC website. This website lists every dog breed and talks about issues such as:

Jack Russell 

- Exercise requirements. High energy dogs such as Jack Russell terriers should not be adopted unless the family has time to walk them every day.

- Grooming requirements. Some breeds require more grooming than other dogs. For instance,

Maltese terrier

Maltese terriers need to have their fur trimmed regularly. If this is not done, their hair may mat.

Labrador

- Temperament. While all dogs can sweet with the proper training, some of them have a milder temperament than others. Labradors are known for being good with children while terriers have a reputation for being "nippy" and loud.

Border Collie

- Trainability. When a dog is easily trained, life becomes much easier for the dog owner. Untrained dogs tend to misbehave more often.

Are Some Breeds Better for Children Than Others?

Highly trainable breeds are great with children as they are eager to please. Some examples of these breeds are Labradors and Golden Retrievers. Breeds like German Shepherds and Border Collies are also highly trainable.

Although, some parents would rather not get specific breeds, all breeds are good with children if they are trained and socialized properly. The size of the animal should also be considered.

Great Dane

Many people (especially men) have never imagined themselves owning a small dog. While this is fine, dogs that are too large may not be suitable for certain conditions. Large dogs require a lot of space and this could be a problem if they are living indoors. They also eat a lot more food.

Chihuahua

Small dogs such as the Chihuahua are nervous around small children. This is because smaller children tend to play more roughly than adults. A pull on a tail could lead to the dog feeling threatened and reacting aggressively.

Bichon

Finally, health problems need to be assessed. If a breed is known for having certain health problems, parents may not want to adopt the dog. Illnesses and medical problems can result in high vet bills. If anyone is allergic to dogs, a dog that does not shed much should be chosen.

Taking a little bit of time to choose the right dog is important and can make for a happy household.

Source:https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6058542778250350059#allposts/postNum=6

5 Great Reasons to Adopt Small Dogs

Are you thinking to adopt a small breed dog, but are quite confused whether to go for it or not? Small breed dogs are cute looking showering lots of love and affection. They are happy for life filling your life with full of joy and happiness. With their low energy, fairly cool indoors, and decorous with other residents, these dogs provide lots of reasons to adopt them.

You can find that many Hollywood stars are pet parents of these small breed dogs. However, some people are prejudiced about owning these little pups as it seems to them that training these animals is quite difficult due to their cute and innocent appearance. Nevertheless, giving training at an early age or with the help of a dog trainer can definitely turn them into well-mannered pets, always following your commands.

Added to this, dog lovers' other worry is about high maintenance due to the perception that they are specially meant for millionaires. On the contrary, this is not true as there does not require much budget for maintenance of this breed. So, if you are interested in getting a small dog, then go with it as there are many other benefits attached to it, which you will definitely like to cherish.

They are Adorable

Small dogs are as cute as puppies. Appearing as a bouncing ball of fur, they are great for sight and simply adorable to fall in love with them. With low agility profile and adjusting in the lap, they are liked by everyone in the house - whether small or big.

They are Small

Normally, pet parents consider their dog's appearance wondering whether he will retain his innocence and cuteness; the fact remains intact if it is for small dogs. Because the size of a normal breed dog increases and the sweet look just diminishes away as he adds up the years. On the other side, this does not apply to a small dog because they don't develop in size with age, which would make you feel that you are the pet parent of the same young puppy. Isn't it interesting to have that innocence and cuteness same like a puppy with your small dog!!!

They Don't Take Much Space

Well the sizes speak for themselves. Big - means huge space and Small - means less space. No wonder because of the small size, these dogs require comparatively less space than huge dogs. Having smaller compartments, it becomes quite cumbersome to have big dogs, but for small dogs, they can fit in any smaller space.

They Can Adjust Everywhere

A very strong positive point of having a small dog is that they can adjust anywhere in any given space. Whether you are planning for a campervan tour, or a cruise voyage or planning a holiday to a new destination, there is nothing to worry whether your small furry pal can be adjusted. During the journey they are effortless to transport, lift and opt-for.

They remain Calm

Small dogs are not as aggressive and full of energy as their bigger counterparts. This is a very good thing if you are a senior citizen or have small kids. Rather than jumping on the passersby or terrifying others due to their large size, small dogs are easier to handle going on the walks or visiting the dog parks.

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?5-Great-Reasons-to-Adopt-Small-Dogs&id=9447618

5 Heartwarming Motivations Behind Adopting Small Dogs

Small dogs also known as toy dogs or miniature dogs are symbols of cuteness personified and they bring in a lot of positive energy that enthralls their owners. But dog lovers are circumspect about getting small tykes because they are very hard to train due to their cuteness. A possible solution to the problem is to commence the training early by overlooking their good looks. Slowly, but gradually, these small pals will turn into the most obedient and trained pets that you will ever find.

The other concern of dog lovers is that small pooches are high maintenance pets that are exclusively meant for billionaire daughters. But since these furry pals have smaller coats they need only occasional grooming, resulting in lower maintenance costs than their larger counterparts. So if you are looking for a furry friend to be your perfect companion or act as a friend to your children get a small doggie.

Let us now divert our attention to the emotional factors i.e.; heartwarming motivations behind the adoption of small dogs.

Do not grow in size

When you adopt a dog you look at his good looks and wonder whether he will retain the same cuteness throughout his lifespan. But the fact is that with age, the size of the dog increases and the cuteness factor eventually subsides. The good thing is small tykes do not grow in size with age, which would give you a feeling that they are a puppy throughout their lifespan irrespective of their age. Isn't it a heartwarming feeling to get a lifetime puppy?

Do not take as much space as large dogs

Due to the small size of these dogs they need comparatively less space than larger dogs. They are tailor-made for smaller apartments. So the next time you decide on adopting a furry pal and are thinking about space constraint a small tyke will perfectly fit the bill.

Easy to take them along with you

Unlike larger dogs, small pooches are easy to pick-up, transport and carry around. So you can take them along on different places where you cannot even think of taking larger dogs. The positive aspect of this is you will be able to take them with you so they will not be left alone at home.

Longer lifespan than larger dogs

It has been observed that small minions tend to have higher life expectancy than large dogs. Some of them even cross 15 years of life. So, if you want to get old with your furry pal; these dogs are the best choice.

Less dangerous for children than the larger ones

While large dogs can bite children when they get too rough small tykes pose less danger to children due to their extremely cuddling nature.

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?5-Heartwarming-Motivations-Behind-Adopting-Small-Dogs&id=9393056

4 Great Lap Dogs To Have In Your Home

Are you thinking about getting a pet? You may have your hopes set on getting a dog, but would prefer to have a lap dog instead of a large one running around the house, especially if you are tight on space. There are certain breeds that are known for being the best lap dogs. If you are not exactly sure which one to buy or adopt, check out some of the best choices below.

Havanese

If you are looking for a playful pet that is small enough to fit on your lap, the Havanese puppy is a great choice. They are known for being great companions, but they are adorable too. These particular dogs tend to weigh around 10 pounds, but they may weigh up to 16 pounds at the most. Even so, they would still be small enough to fit right on your lap.

Maltese

These pups are well-behaved, affectionate and quite smart too. They always seem to know what is going on around them. If you are interested in becoming the owner of a gentle, soft and cute dog, a Maltese may be the perfect addition to your family.

Pekingese

Although they are slightly aggressive, these small dogs are affectionate and loyal to their owners too. They are intelligent and will naturally form a strong bond with you before you know it. They tend to weigh about eight pounds, but there are some that may even weigh up to 14 pounds, which is still light enough to fit comfortably on your lap.

Pugs

They are known for their sad signature look, but these dogs are actually quite happy when they are treated well in a loving home. Pugs love to play and have a good time, but they are also quiet, reserved at times and quite sweet. A pug would sit on your lap and would love any kind of positive attention you give it, including a nice head rub or back rub.

These four different breeds are some of the best lap dogs you could possibly own. These kinds of breeds are known for remaining loyal and being great companions to their owners. If you want to build a strong bond with an adorable small dog, consider buying or adopting one of these specific dog breeds. Before you know it, the whole family will end up falling in love with him or her.

Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?4-Great-Lap-Dogs-To-Have-In-Your-Home&id=9116192

Aggressive Behaviors in Small Dogs

Aggressive dogs are a major problem for many pet owners, and a justified cause for concern. Some canine experts refer to aggression in miniature breeds as small dog syndrome, the animal kingdom's version of a Napoleon complex. Unfortunately, many people fail to take this behavior seriously, believing that an aggressive small dog won't be able to cause much harm. Professional dog trainers do take this phenomenon seriously, however, and recommend that dog owners do the same. Fortunately, small dog syndrome can be successfully mitigated with proper training and follow-up.

Small Dog Syndrome

Small dog syndrome is a term that many trainers use to describe aggression in miniature breeds. This phenomenon is sometimes mocked or discounted because small animals usually can't impart the level of damage that a large breed can. Consequently, pet owners allow their tiny companions to exhibit behavior that would never be tolerated with a large dog. Rather than training the tiny canines to display correct behavior, owners often control by force. It's easy to scoop a tiny dog up in your arms and carry him away when he acts up, but this does nothing to teach it proper behavior. This practice causes a variety of complications that can reward and reinforce bad behavior rather than eliminate it. In addition, this degree of close contact, when overdone, can make the dog feel uncomfortable and overwhelmed.

The Most Aggressive Small Dog Breeds

As you might expect, the usual suspects top this list: Poodles, Jack Russell terriers, Chihuahuas and Lhasa apsos are the most commonly reported breeds for aggression. It may surprise you to learn that cocker spaniels, beagles, dachshunds and shih tzus are also frequently noted as being antagonistic. Rounding out the list are the bichon frisé and the Pomeranian. Of course any dog, regardless of size, can develop aggression.

Experts say that it is important not to blame the dog's breed or expect breed-specific negative behavior patterns. Behavioral patterns in domestic canines almost always have more to do with human influences and the degree to which the animal was successfully socialized as a puppy.

Understanding and Addressing Tiny Aggression

Aggression in small dogs may have different influences than for larger breeds. And while tiny pups are more easily hurt, it may be difficult to make the adjustments necessary to overcome aggression while still keeping them safe. It is important to watch your dog for signs of fear or discomfort, which are the typical emotions that precede aggression. Careful observation will help you learn to recognize those situations that trigger unwanted behaviors. Watch for your dog to tuck its tail, assume a wide, crouching stance, put its ears back or lick its lips. If the situation elevates, it may bark, growl, initiate eye contact, snap at the air or put its hackles up.

The best way to remedy aggression in small breeds is with training, specifically using reward-based training techniques with obedience, confidence-building and socialization. It isn't easy to break old habits with weekly pet-store classes, however. Many experts suggest boot-camp-style programs. In this scenario, away from the owner's influence, a small dog can have the comfort level to successfully master new behavior patterns. At the end of the program, pet owners typically join their dogs to learn how to maintain and reinforce the new behaviors. With this approach, you are much less likely to experience recidivism, wherein the dog reverts to his old aggressive dog ways.