FAQS
Choose a high-quality dog food that meets the nutritional needs of your dog. Look for products that contain real, recognizable ingredients and avoid those with excessive fillers, artificial additives, or by-products. Ensure the food is appropriate for your dogs' age, size, and specific dietary requirements.
Dogs can have allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients, such as grains, chicken, beef, or dairy. Pay close attention to any adverse reactions your dog may have after consuming specific foods, and consult with a veterinarian if necessary. They may recommend an elimination diet or a specialized diet for dogs with food allergies.
Overfeeding your dog can lead to obesity, which can contribute to various health problems. Follow the recommended feeding guidelines provided by the food manufacturer and adjust the portion sizes based on your dogs' age, activity level, and overall health. Monitor your dogs' weight and consult with a veterinarian if you have concerns about maintaining a healthy weight.
Some dogs may be prone to swallowing or choking on small, hard pieces of food or treats. Choose appropriately sized kibble or treats and supervise your dog while eating to prevent choking incidents.
They contain low quality ingredients such as fillers and by-products, artificial additives including artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives which may cause allergies. In addition overprocessing strips away vital nutrients. They contain a high level of carbohydrates which lead to obesity, and allergens like wheat, soy, and corn are often present in commercial dog food potentially causing allergic reactions. They have inadequate meat content and some rely heavily on plant-based proteins which may not fulfill a dogs carnivorous nutritional needs. All of this, and more lead to poor digestibility and reduced nutrient absorption. There are many contaminants and recalls in the pet food industry with potential risks associated with certain commercial dog foods. Checking regularly for recalls is crucial.
Vegetables can be a healthy addition to a dog's diet as they provide various essential nutrients. Here are some vegetables that are beneficial for dogs and the reasons why:
Carrots are a great source of beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is important for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and vision. Carrots are also low in calories and high in fiber, making them a nutritious and crunchy snack for dogs.
Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A, C, and B6, as well as fiber and antioxidants. They provide energy, aid digestion, and support a healthy immune system. Sweet potatoes can be cooked, mashed, or dehydrated as a tasty and nutritious treat for dogs.
Green beans are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a healthy and filling vegetable for dogs. They can be served cooked or raw as a crunchy snack. Green beans are a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as minerals like manganese and potassium.
Pumpkin is packed with fiber, which can help regulate a dog's digestive system and promote healthy bowel movements. It is also a good source of beta-carotene, vitamins A and C, and potassium. Plain, cooked pumpkin or canned pumpkin (without added spices or sugars) can be added to a dog's food as a dietary supplement.
Spinach is a nutrient-dense vegetable that contains vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, calcium, and antioxidants. It can contribute to a dog's overall health and support their immune system. However, spinach should be fed in moderation as excessive amounts can interfere with calcium absorption.
Carrots are a great source of beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is important for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and vision. Carrots are also low in calories and high in fiber, making them a nutritious and crunchy snack for dogs.
Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A, C, and B6, as well as fiber and antioxidants. They provide energy, aid digestion, and support a healthy immune system. Sweet potatoes can be cooked, mashed, or dehydrated as a tasty and nutritious treat for dogs.
Green beans are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a healthy and filling vegetable for dogs. They can be served cooked or raw as a crunchy snack. Green beans are a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as minerals like manganese and potassium.
Pumpkin is packed with fiber, which can help regulate a dog's digestive system and promote healthy bowel movements. It is also a good source of beta-carotene, vitamins A and C, and potassium. Plain, cooked pumpkin or canned pumpkin (without added spices or sugars) can be added to a dog's food as a dietary supplement.
Spinach is a nutrient-dense vegetable that contains vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, calcium, and antioxidants. It can contribute to a dog's overall health and support their immune system. However, spinach should be fed in moderation as excessive amounts can interfere with calcium absorption.
Occasional vomiting may be normal, but persistent or severe vomiting requires a vets' attention. Monitor for other signs of illness.
Provide a balanced diet, maintain a healthy weight, and consider joint supplements that is recommended by your vet, especially for certain breeds prone to joint problems.
Consult your vet for the optimal time based on your dogs' breed, size, and overall health. Spaying/neutering can prevent certain health issues and unwanted behaviors.
Regular dental care, including brushing, dental chews, and vet-recommended dental check-ups helps maintain good oral health.
Consult your vet for vaccinations tailored to your dogs' age, lifestyle, and local disease prevalence.
Use vet-recommended preventive treatments and regularly check your dog for signs of infestation. Consult your vet for the best approach.
Monitor changes in behavior, appetite, and activity levels. Any noticeable deviations should prompt a vet visit.
Portion control, regular exercise, and choosing appropriate treats can help manage your dogs' weight. Consult your vet for guidance.
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which can be toxic to dogs. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are particularly dangerous as they have higher levels of these substances. Ingestion of chocolate can cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, tremors, and in severe cases, seizures or even death.
Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs, although the exact substance that causes the toxicity is still unknown. Even small amounts can be harmful, leading to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, and increased thirst and urination.
Onions and garlic, whether raw, cooked, or in powdered form, contain compounds that can damage a dog's red blood cells, leading to anemia. Symptoms may include weakness, pale gums, rapid breathing, and increased heart rate. Consumption of large amounts can be toxic and potentially life-threatening.
Avocado contains a substance called persin, which can be toxic to dogs in large amounts. While the flesh of avocado is generally safe for dogs, the pit, skin, and leaves contain higher concentrations of persin and should be avoided. Ingestion of these parts may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing.
Xylitol is a sugar substitute often found in sugar-free gum, candies, baked goods, and some peanut butter brands. It is highly toxic to dogs and can cause a rapid release of insulin, leading to low blood sugar levels. Symptoms of xylitol poisoning include vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures, and in severe cases, liver failure.
Alcohol is extremely dangerous for dogs, even in small amounts. It can cause intoxication, leading to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lack of coordination, difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, coma or death.
They can weigh as little as 2-6 pounds (0.9-2.7 kg) and fit in the palm of your hand!
Yes, sort of. They can often predict when it's time for their meals or walks, and may even wait by the door or bring you their leash when it's time to go out.
The Basenji dog breed is known as the "bark-less dog" Instead of barking, they make 'unique vocalizations’ that sound more like yodels or howls.
They were originally bred to hunt badgers and have a long body and short legs that make them excellent at digging into burrows.
There are annual surfing competitions held specifically for dogs, where they ride waves alongside their owners. It's quite a sight to see!
Absolutely! They can often engage in playful behaviors that resemble human laughter, such as play-bowing, wagging their tails, and bouncing around in excitement.
Yes. You may notice your dog twitching, wagging their tail, or even making small noises while they sleep. They are likely dreaming about chasing squirrels or playing fetch.
It’s a natural instinct for dogs to dig and it can be quite amusing to watch them digging holes in the yard or burying their favorite toys. They may even try to dig up buried treasure (or bones!)
Dogs definitely have a funny fascination with sticks. They love to fetch them, chew on them, or carry them around like a prized possession. It's amusing to see how much joy a simple stick can bring to a dog.
Dogs lick people for various reasons, and it can have different meanings. Here are a few possible reasons why dogs lick people: Bonding and affection, greeting and communication, taste and exploration, submission and respect, seeking attention or a reward.
Yes, sort of. They can often predict when it's time for their meals or walks, and may even wait by the door or bring you their leash when it's time to go out.
The Kangal is often considered one of the strongest dog breeds in the world known for their incredible strength. They are large, muscular dogs that were originally bred in Turkey for livestock protection.
Thanks for asking! Dogs have whiskers for several reasons. Whiskers are highly sensitive and serve as a sensory organ for dogs and they contain specialized nerve endings allowing dogs to gather information about their surroundings.
Whiskers help dogs navigate by detecting objects, changes in air currents, and even subtle movements. They provide valuable feedback about the size, shape, and texture of objects, helping dogs avoid obstacles and judge distances.
Whiskers are also necessary to communicate during social time with other dogs. During interactions, dogs use their whiskers to convey information to other dogs. For example, when a dog is feeling threatened or fearful, their whiskers may be pulled back to signal their discomfort. Conversely, when a dog is feeling relaxed or curious, their whiskers may be forward-facing.
Whiskers also protect dogs avoid potential harm. The length and positioning of whiskers extend beyond the width of a dogs body, acting as a warning system. When a dogs whiskers come into contact with an object, it triggers a reflexive response, causing the dog to avoid or adjust their movement to prevent collisions or injuries.
Whiskers help dogs hunt and locate prey detecting subtle vibrations and movements in the environment which aid in the detection of small animals, such as rodents, even in low light conditions. So it is quite true, those whiskers do provide dogs with important information about the location and any movement of potential prey.
PLEASE…
Do not cut or trim your dog’s whiskers! Whiskers play a crucial role in their sensory perception and overall well-being. Whiskers do naturally shed and regrow over time. If you have any concerns about your dogs' whiskers or notice any changes in their appearance or behavior, it's always best to consult with a veterinarian for guidance.
Lots! It depends on the breed, individual intelligence, and training methods used. On average, a well-trained dog can learn and respond to around 20 to 30 different commands. But some, like Border Collies and German Shepherds, have been known to learn and understand over 100 different commands.
Believe it or not, a well-trained dog can understand around 165 to 250 words! Some really intelligent breeds, such as Border Collies and Poodles, have been known to understand as many as 300 to 400 words or even more!
Dogs howl for various reasons including to communicate their location or to attract attention with other dogs. They can howl to express loneliness, anxiety, or distress and in response to hearing other dogs or certain sounds. They also howl to mark their territory and warn potential intruders.
A wet nose in dogs is a natural and beneficial trait that helps them with their sense of smell, temperature regulation, and can provide clues about their health. A healthy dogs nose should be cold and moist. It shouldn't drip excessively or have any discharge from your dogs' nostrils. If you notice any significant changes in your dogs' nasal moisture or have concerns about their health, it's best to consult with a veterinarian for proper evaluation and guidance.
Some experts believe dogs eat grass to supplement their diet with essential nutrients missing from their regular food. Grass does contain certain vitamins, minerals, and fiber that can be beneficial to a dogs digestive system. They also believe it may be an instinctual behavior that stems from this ancestral diet.
Sometimes when a dog has an upset stomach, they eat grass to induce vomiting and relieve the discomfort. Other dogs eat grass out of boredom, anxiety, or as a form of self-soothing behavior and other dogs eat simply because they enjoy the taste. * Excessive grass eating could be a sign of an underlying health issue or dietary imbalance that needs attention so check with your vet if you notice this behavior.
Domestic dogs do share a common ancestor with wolves. Over thousands of years, dogs have been domesticated and selectively bred for various traits and purposes.
A dogs sense of smell is estimated to be between 10,000 to 100,000 times more powerful than that of humans!! This makes them excellent at detecting scents and tracking missing persons, drugs, or even diseases like cancer.
Yes! Dogs have the ability to sense and understand human emotions. They can pick up on subtle cues such as facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice. This is one reason why they make such great companions and therapy animals.
There are over 340 different dog breeds worldwide, each with its own unique characteristics, size, and appearance. From tiny Chihuahuas to giant Great Danes, there is a dog breed for every preference.
Most dogs are devoted to their owners and families. They form strong emotional bonds and are often referred to as "man's best friend" for their constant companionship and loyalty.
Dogs use barking as a form of communication. They have different types of barks to express various emotions such as alerting for danger, expressing playfulness, or seeking attention.
YES! Throughout history, dogs have been trained for various jobs and roles, including herding livestock, search and rescue, therapy work, police and military work, and even assisting individuals with disabilities.
Dogs should have regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being. Daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation are essential for keeping a dog happy and healthy.
The average lifespan of a dog ranges from 10 to 13 years, sometimes longer. Mostly this depends on the breed. Smaller dog breeds tend to live longer than larger breeds.
Paw-ppy does it’s best to stay on top of this information. We post notices about recalls in our About Us/ Safety And Dangers. Stay updated on dog food recalls and be cautious of potential contamination issues. Follow reputable sources for information on recalled products. You can also sign up to get notices about recalls and risky products directly to your email from our Paw-ppy Patrol official scouts.
Properly store dog food in a cool, dry place to prevent spoilage and bacterial growth. Check the expiration dates on the packaging and discard any expired food. Keep the food in a sealed container to maintain freshness and prevent pests from accessing it.
Many herbicides and weed killers contain chemicals such as glyphosate, which can be toxic to dogs if ingested or if they come into contact with treated areas. It's important to keep dogs away from recently sprayed areas until the product has dried or been absorbed into the soil.
Some insecticides used to control pests like mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks can be toxic to dogs if ingested or if they come into contact with treated surfaces. It's crucial to read and follow the instructions carefully when using insecticides in your yard and keep your dog away from treated areas.
Fertilizers often contain chemicals like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which can be harmful to dogs if ingested in large amounts. Ingesting fertilizer granules or licking treated grass can lead to gastrointestinal upset or more severe symptoms. It's important to allow enough time for the fertilizer to be absorbed or washed into the soil before allowing your dog access to the treated area.
Cocoa mulch, which is made from cocoa bean shells, can be toxic to dogs if ingested. Cocoa mulch has a strong chocolate scent, which can attract dogs, but it contains theobromine, a substance that is toxic to dogs. It's best to avoid using cocoa mulch in areas where your dog has access.
Some synthetic pesticides used to control pests like ants, snails, or slugs can be toxic to dogs if ingested or if they come into contact with treated surfaces. It's important to choose pet-safe alternatives or use natural pest control methods that are less harmful to dogs.
D-Con and related types of mouse poisons and baits taste good to dogs, but it is deadly! It can take up to 48 hours for symptoms to begin, and once symptoms begin, they progress very rapidly and become fatal quickly.
A cockerpoodledoo!
A Bloodhound!
A friend you can count on!
Because the have collar IDs!
Because they have two left feet!
