# Best Dog Foods and Holistic Dog Health Remedies | HealthierDogs.com — Full Content > Complete content index for LLM consumption > Generated: 2026-10-17 | Posts: 201 --- ## Dog Health URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-health/ Type: post Modified: 2018-03-17 Here at Healthier Dogs, you can be assured that you’ll be finding lots of information on dog health. How else will you be able to make your dog healthier without knowing a lot about dog health? Exactly! Over the past 13 years Iwe’ve built up the Healthy Happy Dogs site, which is a site dedicated to dog health. And if you requested the free dog health report over there, and have been receiving the Healthy Happy Dogs dog health newsletter, you’ll know that dog health is a real passion of mine. I don’t pretend to have any expertise, of course – and let me state again that I am not a vet and nor do I have any veterinary training or knowledge whatsoever. I’m simply a dog owner and dog lover, and any dog health information I share with my readers, whether here at Healthier Dogs, or at Healthy Happy Dogs, is simply my own non-expert opinions, suggestions and recommendations. You should always, always consult your vet if you have any health concerns in relation to your dog. Never seek to rely on advice obtained over the internet from unqualified persons like myself. Whew! Now I’ve got that out of the way … If you’re interested in holistic health for your dog, and using natural diet and natural remedies wherever possible, you’ve come to the right place. The majority of vets, believe it or not, are still not taught about animal nutrition in vet school, and the schools that do teach it are likely to receive funding from commercial pet food manufacturers for those sectors of the course. Likewise, veterinary pharmaceutical companies fund a lot of veterinary training, and once a vet has qualified, he/she is likely to update their knowledge with information from those pharmaceutical companies. So of course, the vast majority of vets are unlikely to favor natural remedies and treatments, partly because they just don’t have the requisite knowledge about such alternatives.  Holistic vets, on the other hand (and there aren’t many of them around) will look at ways to keep the dog healthy in the first place, rather than focusing on fixing dog health problems as they arise. And this is the approach I personally favor. So if you’re a fan of commercial pet food, drugs, chemicals and annual vaccinations for pets, you probably won’t find a lot of information here that will interest you. But if you’re looking to keep your dog healthy by natural means, and hopeful treat dog health problems that may arise from time to time with herbs, homeopathy and other natural remedies, then you’re going to love Healthier Dogs. So bookmark the Healthier Dogs site, and come back often. We’ll be updating it very frequently – as often as daily, when we can. Enjoy! --- ## Life’s Abundance Dog Food Review URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-food-review-lifes-abundance-dog-food/ Type: post Modified: 2026-05-03 Life’s Abundance Dog Food 💡 Quick AnswerHealthierDogs Life’s Abundance dog food is made using only fresh, human-quality ingredients such as premium all natural chicken and top quality catfish with the best fresh fruit such as tree ripened applies, vegetables like crisp fresh carrots, and select farm foods such as eggs. Life’s Abundance Dog Food – Dogs really do function better as carnivores, and should always have plenty of meat protein in their diet. Meat protein provides the building blocks of good dog health. Certainly, a small to moderate amount of carbohydrates can play a secondary role in a dog’s diet, but dogs should be fed only highly digestible carbohydrates such as brown rice. Excessive and/or poorly digestible carbohydrates of the type found in cereal based dog foods that contain only small proportions of meat are not recommended. Dogs are historically scavengers and of course, primarily meat eaters. In fact, a natural diet for dogs included bones, chunks of carcass, fish guts, animal guts and heads, together with rotten greens and fruits. In the pre-domesticated stage, dogs started to consume discarded human food, which continued until relatively recent times. Have you ever wondered why many dogs love to go through your garbage can, and will more often than not eat any and everything in there if given the chance? Well look back in history, and you will discover your answer. In fact, the major contributing factor in the domestication of dogs was their attraction to whatever food was available at human garbage dumps. Eventually, the tamer wolves that were the least threatened by human beings, over tens of thousands of years, became our companions and evolved into the various dog breeds we have today. It stands to reason, therefore, that your dog’s digestive system is more suited to raw food coupled with some table scraps – natural dog food, than to most of the substandard rubbish that’s passed off as commercial dog food. Life’s Abundance – from Fresh! But if you don’t fancy feeding your dog raw food, then at least ditch the commercial dog food and feed your loved companion a quality, premium dog food that has the healthy goodness of a home cooked meal. Life’s Abundance dog food is made using only fresh, human-quality ingredients such as premium all natural chicken and top quality catfish with the best fresh fruit such as tree ripened applies, vegetables like crisp fresh carrots, and select farm foods such as eggs. Life’s Abundance dog food also contains a superior blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It also contains bacteria cultures that assists digestion. There are no artificial flavors, colors, sugars, or chemical preservatives – common ingredients in most commercial dog foods. Dr Jane Bicks is responsible for product formulation and development of Life’s Abundance dog food – and cat food. Dr Bicks is a highly respected and nationally recognized holistic veterinarian. She is the author of three national books on pet care and nutrition and has served on professional boards including the Cornell Feline Health Center. Not all veterinarians have much idea on good nutrition for dogs, in fact most don’t. Conventional vets get most of their information from commercial pet food manufacturers. But if you’re fortunate enough to find a good holistic vet, you’re much more likely to learn the truth about healthy dog food. Life’s Abundance is Premium Dog Food! Life’s Abundance dog food is a premium health food for your dog. Apart from the ingredients in the dog food you select, you should also be concerned about the cooking process used. Commercial pet foods are extruded at extremely high temperatures which effectively destroy any semblance of nutrition that may have been in the ingredients. Life’s Abundance, on the other hand, is cooked in small batches using an exclusive “fast-cook” process that uses less heat to gently lock in more of the natural goodness and fresh taste of real food. And they even go a step further to ensure the nutritional quality of Life’s Abundance pet food with their revolutionary reclosable, oxygen resistant packaging that ensures all the flavor, vitamins and natural nutrients from Life’s Abundance remains. So no preservatives of any kind are necessary – natural dog food at its best. In fact, this food is said to be just as natural and deliciously wholesome as if you’d made it yourself. Life’s Abundance comes in a variety of formulations, to suit all types of dogs. Dry food is the cornerstone of the range. Life’s Abundance dry food selections include a premium healthy food that suits dogs of all breeds and life stages. If you’re after something more specific to your particular dog’s needs, you might want to try the Small to Medium Breeds Puppy Food or the Large Breed Puppy. These support the high energy levels of your puppy, and support your puppy’s growth. If your dog has any sensitivity to grains, as many dogs do, you should opt for the Life’s Abundance Grain Free formulation. And if your dog is already overweight, a great healthy option is the Adult Dog Weight Loss formulation. If you’re a fan of canned dog foods, there are some yummy options here as well – try the Turkey and Shrimp in Broth or the Chicken and Crab in Sauce. And if you prefer grain free, there’s a grain free option in the canned variety as well – Pork and Venison Grain Free. Don’t overlook the package options available. If you really want to give your dog a great start on the road to a long and healthy life, consider purchasing one of the Healthy Start packages, which comprise dog food, dog treats, as well as effective skin, coat and ear care solutions. For more dog food reviews, and more on Life’s Abundance Dog Food, and other types of natural dog food, click on the hyperlinks to go to other helpful articles right here in the Healthier Dogs site. Click Here for Life’s Abundance Dog Food --- ## The Most Important Ingredient in Dog Food   URL: https://healthierdogs.com/the-most-important-ingredient-in-dog-food/ Type: post Modified: 2026-05-03 Last Updated: May 3, 2026 💡 Quick AnswerThe most important ingredient in dog food is protein, which should always appear first on the ingredient list. High-quality whole proteins like chicken, beef, or poultry provide essential amino acids that support muscle development, immune function, energy levels, and healthy skin and nails. According to AAFCO guidelines, complete and balanced dog food should contain a minimum of 18-22% crude protein depending on your dog’s life stage. Understanding Why Protein Is the Most Important Ingredient in Dog Food If you’re a dog owner committed to providing the best nutrition for your furry companion, understanding what makes dog food truly healthy is essential. This comprehensive guide explores why protein is the cornerstone of quality dog nutrition, how to read ingredient labels effectively, and what to look for when selecting food that supports your dog’s overall health naturally. Whether you’re feeding a growing puppy, an active adult, or a senior dog, knowing how to identify healthy dog food will help you make informed decisions that contribute to healthier dogs throughout their entire lives. The pet food industry has grown exponentially, with the American Pet Products Association reporting that Americans spent over $58 billion on pet food in 2023 alone. With countless options lining store shelves, understanding the fundamentals of dog nutrition has never been more critical for pet owners seeking to keep their dog healthy naturally through proper dietary choices. How to Read Dog Food Ingredient Labels The FDA specifies that food ingredients must be stated in weight order on all pet food labels. This means ingredients are listed in order of highest quantity first, with the remaining ingredients following in descending order by weight. This regulatory requirement provides dog owners with valuable insight into what actually comprises the majority of their pet’s food. Understanding this labeling system is crucial for identifying truly healthy dog food. If a brand claims to be high in protein but lists a carbohydrate such as corn, wheat, or rice as the first ingredient, you have reasonable cause to doubt those protein claims. The first ingredient carries the most weight—literally—and should reflect the primary nutritional focus of the food. When examining ingredient labels, also pay attention to ingredient splitting, a practice some manufacturers use to make protein appear more prominent. For example, a company might list chicken first, but then include corn meal, corn gluten, and ground corn separately, which when combined might actually outweigh the protein content. Being aware of these practices helps you select natural dog food that genuinely prioritizes your pet’s nutritional needs. Why Protein Should Be the First Ingredient Protein should always be the first item in your dog’s food list of essential ingredients. While dogs are omnivores and can derive energy and nutrients from both plants and animals, protein plays an irreplaceable role in their overall health and development. According to veterinary nutritionists, protein is the building block of life for canines and should form the foundation of every dog’s diet. The essential functions that protein serves in your dog’s body include: Muscle Development and Maintenance: Protein is necessary for the growth and repair of muscles and connective tissues. Active dogs, working breeds, and puppies in their growth phase have particularly high protein requirements to support their physical development and activity levels. Immune System Support: A robust immune system depends heavily on adequate protein intake. Antibodies, which fight off infections and diseases, are made of proteins. Dogs fed protein-deficient diets often show increased susceptibility to illness and slower recovery times. Energy Production: While carbohydrates and fats also provide energy, protein serves as a crucial energy source, especially during periods of growth, recovery, or increased physical activity. This makes high-quality protein essential for maintaining your dog’s vitality and stamina. Skin and Coat Health: Strong skin, healthy nails, and a lustrous coat all require adequate protein intake. The keratin that forms hair and nails is a protein, and deficiencies often manifest as dull coats, brittle nails, and skin problems. Hormone and Enzyme Production: Many hormones and all enzymes are proteins or require proteins for their synthesis. These biological molecules regulate everything from metabolism to digestion to mood. Understanding Your Dog’s Protein Requirements The amount of protein your dog needs can vary significantly depending on several factors. Your dog’s age, breed, weight, activity level, and reproductive status all influence their optimal protein intake. A working Border Collie will have different nutritional needs than a senior Chihuahua, and understanding these differences is key to providing appropriate nutrition. Puppies: Growing puppies require higher protein levels to support rapid muscle and tissue development. Their bodies are building new cells at an accelerated rate, demanding more amino acids from dietary protein. Adult Dogs: Maintenance diets for healthy adult dogs require consistent protein intake to maintain muscle mass, support organ function, and provide ongoing energy for daily activities. Senior Dogs: Older dogs may actually benefit from higher protein levels to help combat age-related muscle loss, though dogs with certain kidney conditions may require modified protein intake under veterinary guidance. Pregnant and Nursing Dogs: Female dogs who are pregnant or nursing puppies have significantly increased protein requirements to support fetal development and milk production. Active and Working Dogs: Dogs engaged in regular strenuous activity, such as hunting dogs, agility competitors, or service animals, require elevated protein levels to maintain muscle mass and recover from physical exertion. Complete Proteins and AAFCO Standards Complete proteins contain all of the essential amino acids that canines require to survive and thrive. Dogs cannot synthesize these amino acids on their own, making dietary intake absolutely essential. There are ten essential amino acids for dogs: arginine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) establishes nutritional standards for pet food in the United States. According to AAFCO guidelines, dog food labeled as “complete and balanced” must maintain minimum levels of crude protein to meet dogs’ nutritional requirements. Minimum Protein Requirements by Life Stage On a dry matter basis, AAFCO specifies the following minimum crude protein requirements: Growth and Reproduction: A minimum of 22% crude protein is required for diets designed for puppies and pregnant or nursing dogs. This higher requirement reflects the increased demands of building new tissue and supporting offspring development. Adult Maintenance: A minimum of 18% crude protein is required for diets designed for adult dogs. This level supports ongoing bodily functions, muscle maintenance, and general health in fully grown dogs. It’s important to note that these are minimum requirements. Many veterinary nutritionists and dog health experts recommend protein levels above these minimums, particularly for active dogs or those fed grain-inclusive diets where protein digestibility may vary. A 2022 study published in the Journal of Animal Science found that dogs fed diets with protein levels 25-30% above AAFCO minimums showed improved muscle condition scores and coat quality compared to those fed minimum-protein diets. Types of Protein in Dog Food: Quality Matters Not all proteins are created equal when it comes to dog food. The source, processing method, and quality of protein significantly impact its nutritional value and digestibility. Understanding the different types of protein commonly found in dog food helps you select truly healthy dog food for your pet. Whole Meats Whole meats are unmixed proteins listed by their specific source, such as chicken, beef, lamb, salmon, or turkey. These are generally considered the highest quality protein sources because they are minimally processed and retain their natural nutritional profile. When whole meats appear as the first ingredient, you can be confident the food prioritizes quality protein. However, it’s worth noting that whole meats contain significant moisture (approximately 70-75% water). When the food is processed and moisture is removed, the actual protein contribution may be less than it initially appears on the label. This is why some quality foods list both whole meats and meat meals in their ingredient panels. Meat Meals Meat meals are rendered whole meats that have had moisture and fat removed, resulting in a concentrated protein source. Quality meat meals will list the specific protein source next to the word “meal,” such as “chicken meal” or “salmon meal.” Because the water has been removed, meat meals often provide more protein per pound than whole meats. When evaluating meat meals, specificity matters. “Chicken meal” indicates a known, consistent protein source, while vague terms like “poultry meal” provide less certainty about the actual protein content and source. Meat Dinners and Generic Proteins Some dog foods list rendered whole meats without specifying a particular protein source. Labels might read “meat dinner” or “meat and bone meal” without identifying whether the protein comes from beef, chicken, pork, or other sources. This lack of specificity can be problematic for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies and generally indicates lower quality control standards. By-Product Meals By-product meals contain organs and other parts of animals besides muscle meat. While by-products have historically carried a negative reputation, it’s worth noting that organ meats like liver, kidney, and heart are actually nutrient-dense and provide vitamins and minerals not found in muscle meat alone. The quality of by-product meals varies significantly between manufacturers, making brand reputation and sourcing practices important considerations. Selecting the Best Protein Sources for Your Dog When choosing healthy dog food that will contribute to naturally maintaining your dog’s health, prioritize foods that list specific, whole protein sources as the first ingredient. High-quality options include: Poultry: Chicken and turkey are lean protein sources that are highly digestible for most dogs. They provide excellent amino acid profiles and are generally well-tolerated. Beef: A traditional protein source that provides iron and B vitamins along with complete protein. Some dogs may develop sensitivities to beef over time. Fish: Salmon, whitefish, and other fish provide protein along with omega-3 fatty acids that support skin, coat, and joint health. Fish-based proteins are excellent for dogs with sensitivities to land animal proteins. Lamb: Often used in limited ingredient diets, lamb provides a novel protein source for dogs with food sensitivities while delivering complete nutrition. Venison and Novel Proteins: For dogs with multiple food allergies, novel proteins like venison, duck, rabbit, or kangaroo may be recommended by veterinarians. Frequently Asked Questions About Protein in Dog Food What percentage of protein should be in my dog’s food? According to AAFCO standards, adult dog food should contain a minimum of 18% crude protein on a dry matter basis, while puppy food and food for pregnant or nursing dogs should contain at least 22%. However, many veterinary nutritionists recommend protein levels of 25-30% for optimal health, particularly for active dogs. Always consult with your veterinarian to determine the ideal protein level for your specific dog’s needs. Can dogs get too much protein in their diet? For healthy dogs with normal kidney function, excess protein is not harmful and is simply excreted from the body or converted to energy. The myth that high protein damages kidneys has been largely debunked by veterinary research. However, dogs with pre-existing kidney disease may require protein-restricted diets, so always follow your veterinarian’s recommendations if your dog has health conditions. Is grain-free dog food higher in protein? Grain-free dog foods often contain higher protein levels because grains are replaced with other ingredients, frequently including additional protein sources. However, grain-free doesn’t automatically mean higher quality or more appropriate for your dog. The FDA has investigated potential links between certain grain-free diets and heart disease in dogs, so discuss dietary choices with your veterinarian before making significant changes. How can I tell if my dog isn’t getting enough protein? Signs of protein deficiency in dogs include poor coat quality, muscle wasting, slow wound healing, weakened immune response leading to frequent infections, and general lethargy. If you notice these symptoms, consult your veterinarian to evaluate your dog’s diet and overall health. Blood tests can help determine if nutritional deficiencies are contributing to health issues. Should I choose dog food with meat meal or whole meat as the first ingredient? Both whole meats and quality meat meals can provide excellent nutrition for your dog. Whole meats indicate minimal processing, while meat meals offer concentrated protein since moisture has been removed. The ideal food often contains both—a whole meat as the first ingredient followed by a meat meal to boost overall protein content. The key is ensuring the protein source is specifically named rather than generic. Are plant proteins adequate for dogs? While dogs can digest and utilize plant proteins, animal proteins provide a more complete amino acid profile and higher bioavailability. Plant proteins like peas, lentils, and soy can supplement a dog’s diet but shouldn’t replace animal protein as the primary protein source. Dogs fed exclusively plant-based diets require careful formulation and supplementation to meet all nutritional requirements. How does cooking affect protein quality in dog food? The cooking and processing methods used in dog food manufacturing can affect protein digestibility and nutritional value. High-heat processing may reduce the bioavailability of certain amino acids. Gently cooked, freeze-dried, and fresh dog food options often retain more nutritional value than heavily processed kibble, though quality kibble can still provide complete nutrition when properly formulated. --- ## Lifes Abundance Dog Food: Natural Meals For Happier And Healthier Dogs URL: https://healthierdogs.com/lifes-abundance-dog-food-natural-meals-for-happier-and-healthier-dogs/ Type: post Modified: 2026-05-03 When you bring a dog into your family, it is your responsibility to implement a solid wellness plan that will allow you to properly manage your pet’s health – Life’s Abundance Dog Food does that. Do not forget that companion animals give unconditional love and friendship to their owners that are almost the same and at times greater than the ones we can give to our families or friends. Having said that, it is crucial that you return the favor to your furry friend by giving him the best possible care that he deserves. Perhaps, one of the best things you can do to achieve this objective is to offer him a holistic natural dog food that will fulfill both his daily nutritional and dietary needs. And as I said, Lifes Abundance Dog Food is one that fits the bill. Properly selecting the right food for your dog is one of the primary requirements of responsible animal ownership. Although there are hundreds of canine meals available in the market today, not all of them fill the needs of your pet. In truth, a wide margin of these meals is not effective at all. Your dog has unique nutrient needs that include the right amount of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, fats and minerals, which are all vital elements that ensure their growth and enhance their ability to recuperate from a variety of illnesses. Hence, the complete nutrients provided by natural dog food products are what make them the most appropriate food choice for canine pets. Lifes Abundance Dog Food Natural dog food products are superior than commercial canine meals because the latter products are usually composed of unsafe and undesirable ingredients such as excessive grains, chemical additives and preservatives as well as animal by-products. These chemically altered ingredients are unhealthy for pooches, and actually predispose them to a variety of diseases. Life’s Abundance dog food, on the other hand, contains human-quality ingredients that have adequate levels of nutrients needed by dogs. Lifes Abundance Dog Food – One of the Best! One of the best dog food brands around is none other than Lifes Abundance dog food. All of their meals are composed of the freshest, wholesome grains that are void of by-products, corn, wheat, and chemical additives. Every pack of their pet food is filled with quality protein and other fresh ingredients that naturally contain powerful antioxidants, and probiotics that promote healthy digestion for pooches. The meals manufactured by Lifes Abundance are available in different variants, making it easier for pet owners like you to purchase the right meal appropriate for you and your pet’s lifestyles. For example, if your four-footed friend is beginning to add pounds, you can settle with their weight loss formula and use it as a part of your pet’s weight-control program. If you are taking care of puppies though, make certain that they’ll grow healthy and strong by providing them with premium health variant, which is known to have all the nutrients that puppies need to grow faster. If you are a hands-on pet owner and you don’t feel like feeding your pooch with ready-to-eat meals, the best option you have is to make homemade dog food recipes to ensure that he will receive ample amount of nutrients. Just like humans, canine pets also want to have a variety in their meals, and by making your pet’s food in your own kitchen, you will be able to provide this variation that will surely tickle his taste buds. Before doing this option, it will be wise to do your assignment first and search for some ingredients appropriate to include in your pet’s diet, or you can just consult with your pet’s veterinarian to discuss this matter. This way, your companion will receive the best possible care whatever condition he is currently in. Natural dog food is probably the most ideal meal that you can integrate as a part of your pet’s solid wellness plan. This is because such meals for canines are free from hazardous ingredients that are otherwise present in most commercial canine meals today. The meals manufactured by Lifes Abundance dog food are basically made from high quality ingredients that are proven safe and healthy for pets. You can also try concocting your own homemade dog food recipes every now and then so as to give your pooch with meal varieties. – Melinda Smith Click Here for Life’s Abundance Dog Food! --- ## Toy Dog Breeds URL: https://healthierdogs.com/toy-dog-breeds/ Type: post Modified: 2026-05-03 Last Updated: May 3, 2026 💡 Quick AnswerToy dog breeds are small companion dogs typically weighing under 12 pounds, including popular breeds like Chihuahuas, Pekingese, Pugs, and Italian Greyhounds. These diminutive dogs are ideal for apartment living, require less exercise space than larger breeds, and have historically served as beloved companion animals for people of all ages, including residents in nursing homes and eldercare facilities. Understanding Toy Dog Breeds: A Complete Guide for Dog Lovers If you’re considering adding a small canine companion to your family, toy dog breeds offer an appealing combination of personality, portability, and affection. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about toy breeds, including which dogs actually qualify as toy breeds, their unique characteristics, health considerations, and why they make excellent companions for various living situations. Whether you’re an apartment dweller, a senior looking for a manageable pet, or simply someone who prefers smaller dogs, this guide will help you understand what makes toy breeds special and how to keep your dog health at optimal levels throughout their lives. According to the American Kennel Club, toy breeds are among the most popular dog categories in the United States, with breeds like the Chihuahua, Pomeranian, and Yorkshire Terrier consistently ranking in the top 20 most registered breeds annually. Understanding what defines a toy breed and how to properly care for these small companions is essential for any prospective or current toy dog owner committed to raising healthier dogs. What Exactly Defines a Toy Dog Breed? The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially classifies toy dog breeds as those bred specifically to be small companion animals. These dogs typically weigh under 12 pounds and stand less than 12 inches tall at the shoulder. The official AKC toy group includes breeds such as Chihuahuas, Pekingese, Pugs, Toy Poodles, Yorkshire Terriers, Maltese, Papillons, Pomeranians, and Italian Greyhounds, among others. It’s important to note some common misconceptions about toy breed classifications. For instance, the standard Greyhound is actually a medium to large-sized dog, often weighing between 60 to 70 pounds. The Italian Greyhound, however, is an entirely different breed that legitimately belongs in the toy category, typically weighing only 7 to 14 pounds. While both breeds share similar physical characteristics—particularly their thin, sleek physique and distinctive shape—they are completely separate breeds with different care requirements and temperaments. Similarly, while some sources mention Spaniels as toy breeds, it’s crucial to understand that most Spaniel varieties are not classified as toys. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and English Toy Spaniel are the exceptions, as they fall within the toy category. However, Cocker Spaniels, Springer Spaniels, and other Spaniel varieties are classified in the sporting group due to their larger size and hunting heritage. The Appeal of Toy Dog Breeds Toy dog breeds have captured the hearts of dog lovers worldwide for numerous reasons. Their compact size makes them incredibly portable and easy to handle, while their affectionate nature provides constant companionship. Many toy breeds retain puppy-like characteristics throughout their entire lives, which is one of the biggest attractions these small dogs hold over larger breed dogs. Despite their diminutive stature, toy dogs are far from fragile once they’ve safely passed puppyhood. Their energy levels and enthusiasm can rival any breed of dog, making them lively and entertaining companions. Many toy breeds make excellent watchdogs, using their alert nature and surprisingly loud barks to announce visitors or potential threats. While they certainly can’t physically prevent an intruder from entering, the hue and cry of toy dog breeds can be enough to make your hair stand on end and alert you to potential dangers. Advantages of Choosing a Toy Dog Breed There are several compelling advantages to choosing a toy dog breed as your companion. Understanding these benefits can help you determine if a toy breed is the right fit for your lifestyle and help you maintain optimal dog health for your small companion. Perfect for Apartment Living Toy breeds are exceptionally well-suited for apartment dwellers and those with limited living space. Unlike larger dogs that require substantial room to move and play, toy breeds can get adequate exercise within smaller spaces. A brisk walk around the block and some indoor playtime often satisfies their exercise needs completely. This makes them ideal for urban environments where outdoor space may be limited. Easier Grooming and Maintenance Toy dog breeds typically shed less than their larger counterparts—not because they have different coat characteristics, but simply because there is less dog to shed. This reduced shedding means less time spent vacuuming and cleaning up after your pet. All aspects of dog care are proportionally smaller with toy breeds: from bathing and grooming to cleaning up waste and managing food portions. Lower Food Costs Feeding a toy breed is significantly more economical than feeding a large dog. While you should always invest in high-quality natural dog food to maintain your dog’s health, the smaller portions required by toy breeds mean your healthy dog food budget stretches much further. A bag of premium dog food that might last a Labrador two weeks could feed a Chihuahua for two months or more. Travel-Friendly Companions Toy breeds are much easier to travel with than larger dogs. Many airlines allow small dogs to travel in the cabin in approved carriers, and hotels that accept pets often have size restrictions that toy breeds easily meet. Their portable nature makes them ideal companions for people who enjoy traveling and don’t want to leave their furry friend behind. Toy Dog Breeds as Companion Animals Historically, toy dog breeds were specifically bred to serve as companion animals. Unlike working breeds developed for herding, hunting, or guarding, toy breeds were created with one primary purpose: to provide affection, comfort, and companionship to their owners. They are naturally friendly and alert, yet perfectly content to be held and petted for extended periods. The therapeutic benefits of toy breeds extend beyond personal pet ownership. Nursing homes and adult care facilities have discovered that toy dog breeds are particularly soothing for their patients and residents. These small dogs can bring peace, comfort, and joy to individuals who might otherwise feel isolated or lonely. Their gentle demeanor and willingness to transfer affections to everyone equally makes them ideal therapy animals. Toy Dog Breeds in Healthcare Settings Contrary to common perception, there is no law preventing animals from living in or visiting nursing homes. The decision to allow pets rests entirely with each eldercare facility’s administration. Many facilities have recognized the profound calming influence that pets, especially small, affectionate dogs, can have on patients. Research published in the Journal of the American Medical Directors Association indicates that animal-assisted therapy programs in nursing homes can significantly reduce symptoms of depression and improve quality of life for residents. Toy breeds are particularly well-suited for these programs due to their manageable size and gentle temperament. While some healthcare facilities prefer toy dog breeds as resident companion animals due to their space efficiency, others opt for larger breeds like Labradors for their therapy programs. These larger dogs often live off-premises and are brought in daily by their owners to spend time with residents or patients. Both approaches have proven effective in improving patient outcomes and overall well-being. Children’s wards in hospitals have also embraced animal-assisted therapy, with both toy breeds and larger dogs providing comfort to young patients during difficult times. The presence of a friendly dog can reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure, and create positive experiences during otherwise stressful hospital stays. Keeping Your Toy Dog Healthy Naturally To keep your dog health at its best, toy breed owners should focus on several key areas. Providing natural dog food specifically formulated for small breeds ensures your companion receives appropriate nutrition. Toy breeds have faster metabolisms than larger dogs, requiring more calorie-dense food to maintain their energy levels. Regular veterinary checkups are essential, as toy breeds can be prone to certain health issues including dental problems, luxating patellas, and hypoglycemia. Working with your veterinarian to develop a preventive care plan will help ensure you’re raising healthier dogs with longer, happier lives. Dental care is particularly crucial for toy breeds, as their small mouths can lead to overcrowding of teeth and increased risk of periodontal disease. Regular brushing and professional dental cleanings are important components of maintaining your toy dog’s overall health. Frequently Asked Questions About Toy Dog Breeds What is the smallest toy dog breed? The Chihuahua is generally recognized as the smallest toy dog breed, typically weighing between 2 to 6 pounds and standing only 5 to 8 inches tall. Despite their tiny size, Chihuahuas are known for their bold personalities and fierce loyalty to their owners. These diminutive dogs can live 14 to 16 years or longer with proper care and quality natural dog food. Are toy dog breeds good with children? Toy dog breeds can be excellent companions for children, but supervision is essential due to the dogs’ small size and potential fragility. Breeds like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Pugs are known for being particularly patient and gentle with kids. However, very young children should be taught proper handling techniques to avoid accidentally injuring these small dogs during play. How much exercise do toy dog breeds need? Most toy dog breeds require 20 to 30 minutes of exercise daily, which can include short walks and indoor play sessions. While they don’t need as much exercise space as larger breeds, toy dogs still benefit from regular physical activity to maintain healthy dog weight and mental stimulation. Interactive toys and games can supplement outdoor exercise, especially during inclement weather. Do toy dog breeds have more health problems than larger dogs? Toy dog breeds can be predisposed to certain health conditions, including dental issues, luxating patellas, tracheal collapse, and hypoglycemia. However, with proper preventive care, quality healthy dog food, and regular veterinary checkups, many of these issues can be managed or prevented entirely. Toy breeds often have longer lifespans than larger dogs, frequently living 12 to 16 years or more. What is the best toy dog breed for first-time owners? Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Pugs, and Maltese are often recommended for first-time dog owners due to their adaptable, friendly temperaments and relatively easy care requirements. These breeds are typically eager to please, moderately active, and bond strongly with their families. When choosing any toy breed, researching specific breed characteristics and health considerations is essential for making an informed decision. How do I choose the right food for my toy dog breed? Selecting the right natural dog food for your toy breed involves choosing a formula specifically designed for small dogs with higher calorie density and smaller kibble sizes. Look for healthy dog food options with high-quality protein sources as the first ingredient and avoid fillers like corn and wheat. Consulting with your veterinarian about your specific dog’s nutritional needs will help ensure you’re feeding an appropriate diet to support optimal dog health. Can toy dog breeds be left alone during the workday? While toy dog breeds can tolerate being alone for moderate periods, many are prone to separation anxiety due to their strong attachment to their owners. Most toy breeds shouldn’t be left alone for more than 4 to 6 hours at a time. Providing puzzle toys, comfortable resting areas, and considering doggy daycare or a pet sitter can help keep your toy dog content and maintain their emotional well-being during your absence. --- ## Feed the Dog to Fill It Up   URL: https://healthierdogs.com/feed-the-dog-to-fill-it-up/ Type: post Modified: 2022-10-21 Dogs are mostly driven by food. If you are like the majority of dog owners, you have taught your dog to eat at specific times of the day. In fact, one of the simplest methods to keep your dog happy, healthy, and well-behaved is to establish a regular meal schedule for him. So, What to feed a dog that is always hungry? It can be challenging to determine your dog’s exact state of fullness. especially considering that dogs are considered “scavengers” in an evolutionary sense. Many dogs don’t know when to stop eating and, if given the chance, would consume an entire Costco-sized bag of dog food. For pet owners who constantly replenish their pet’s food bowl throughout the day, this can be risky. For a variety of reasons, dogs will beg for food even when they are not hungry. Just consider the fact that humans eat for a variety of purposes other than survival. We eat for social reasons and sporadically when we’re anxious or lonely. Considering this, it’s possible that psychological or environmental variables are causing your dog’s hunger to increase. There are several methods you can employ to determine when your dog is satisfied after a meal and prevent overfeeding. Treat your dog to some raw carrots, celery, broccoli, or cucumbers. For part of the insoluble fiber to be broken down, you may also try boiling them first. To prevent giving your pet an upset stomach, wash off any pesticides and chemicals before offering them vegetables from the back of your refrigerator. Consult your veterinarian before making any major dietary changes to your picky dog. We can assist you in selecting the ideal meal programs for your dog based on its activity level, breed, size, and other health considerations. --- ## Get to Know About the Excessive Hungry Dog   URL: https://healthierdogs.com/get-to-know-about-the-excessive-hungry-dog/ Type: post Modified: 2022-10-21 Although it may seem as though dogs are always interested in food, polyphagia or hyperphagia may indicate a more serious condition that needs to be checked out by a veterinarian. If your dog is constantly hungry, there may be an issue with its metabolism, which would cause them to be unusually ravenous. They may also beg or whine even after eating. Why does my dog eat like he is starving? Increased hunger in dogs can result from a variety of circumstances. It’s possible that a dog picked up the behavior as a result of improper feeding or anxiety related to food. Alternatively, they might have developed a metabolic disorder, an infection, or parasites. To rule out specific causes, your vet will need to perform an examination, ask some questions, and run certain tests. Dogs’ Increased Appetite: Possible Causes There isn’t one specific reason why a dog might be consumed food. It could be from a physical problem like inadequate nutrition or an underlying health condition, or it might be a psychological problem like stress or taught behavior. To identify the cause of the issue, you will need the assistance of your veterinarian. To rule out specific causes, they can run tests and ask questions. Some of the most typical reasons for a dog’s increased appetite include the following: 1. Psychological problems, such as stress or worry 2. Learned behavior brought on by poor nutrition—either being fed too much or not enough— 3. Experiencing old age Some older dogs will start to crave food more. 4. Drugs, including prednisone 5. Metabolic diseases including type 2 diabetes and hypoglycemia 6. Cushing’s condition (hyperadrenocorticism) 7. Among the gastrointestinal conditions that prevent nutrients from being absorbed are: a. IBS (Idiopathic Bowel Syndrome) b. Cancer c. Insufficiency of the exocrine pancreas 8. Parasites and diseases that prevent the absorption of nutrients --- ## Human Foods That Are Safe For Dogs   URL: https://healthierdogs.com/human-foods-that-are-safe-for-dogs/ Type: post Modified: 2022-10-21 What are the 10 best human foods for dogs? See which human foods are the healthiest for you to share with your dog! Before giving your dog new food, you should always make an appointment with your veterinarian. 1. Peanut butter Protein, good fats, niacin, vitamin B, and vitamin E are all abundant in this diet. Due to peanut butter’s high-calorie content, it is advised to restrict your dog’s consumption. 2. Cheese Cheese is high in calcium and protein and is simple to digest. Give your dog cheese in moderation and keep an eye on how your dog responds. 3. Carrots They include fiber, vitamin A, and beta-carotene, and they are low in calories, making them a healthy treat option for overweight dogs. 4. Blueberries The health of your dog may be benefited from the anti-inflammatory antioxidants, phytochemicals, vitamins, minerals, and fiber that blueberries provide. 5. Chicken To spice up and add more protein to your dog’s diet, mix some chicken into the bowl of ordinary chow. 6. Simple Yogurt Yogurt is a great approach to help your dog’s digestive health because it is packed with protein, calcium, and digestive microorganisms. 7. Salmon Omega-3 fatty acids, which are abundant in salmon and high in protein, are beneficial for the health of your dog’s skin, coat, and immune system. 8. Sweet potatoes With tons of fiber, beta-carotene, vitamins B-6 and C, and no added sugar cooked plain sweet potatoes are an excellent addition to your dog’s diet. 9. Pumpkin For dogs with sensitive stomachs or digestion problems, canned pumpkin or fresh, cooked pumpkin without additional sugars and spices is a fantastic option. It has a lot of vitamin A and fiber. 10. Apple Slices Numerous vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants are included in apples. as well as being high in fiber, which may be good for your dog’s digestive tract. --- ## What Should Dog Eat First?   URL: https://healthierdogs.com/what-should-dog-eat-first/ Type: post Modified: 2022-10-21 Today, a lot of pet owners give their dogs homemade dog chow. This is a wise, healthy decision for your pet because of a number of aspects. If you’re considering producing healthy homemade dog food, it’s essential to understand what canines consume and what the finest form of human food is for your dog. What can dogs eat full list? Dogs are carnivores, so meat should make up the majority of their diet. They do not, however, only eat meat or are forced to be carnivores. Dogs in the wild eat mostly prey animals and a few seasonal vegetables to live. Fruits are occasionally consumed by wild dogs. The majority of your nutrition choices for your dog should center around these foods. Proteins Dogs can eat meat, but to prevent choking hazards, all meat should be prepared and any bones should be removed. It’s vital to keep in mind that certain dogs cannot consume dairy products due to lactose intolerance, thus their protein should come from various sources including turkey, chicken, lean beef, pork, and many others. Fruits & Vegetables Some fruits are safe for dogs to eat, but because they are heavy in sugar, you should only feed them to your dog occasionally. Consult your veterinarian before including any other fruits or vegetables in your dog’s diet because they can be harmful to them. Apples, carrots, cucumbers, bananas, and green peas are some of them that are safe. Grains Most dogs require some moderately fermentable fibers, like rice, corn, and oats, in their meals. For dogs who need a lot of energy or for puppies and developing canines, high-fiber foods are not a smart idea. Other Foods You can feed these additional human meals to your dog as a treat in moderation: a. Make sure the brand of peanut butter you choose doesn’t have any xylitol or extra sugar. b. Coconut c. Honey d. Popcorn --- ## What Are the Most Important Ingredients in Dog Food   URL: https://healthierdogs.com/what-are-the-most-important-ingredients-in-dog-food/ Type: post Modified: 2022-10-21 These are the most important nutrients for optimal health and nutrition, although it is true that certain dogs have distinct nutritional demands and sensitivities. Always keep in mind that items are listed by weight; meats like beef, fowl, chicken, or fish are typically first on the list. They frequently weigh more than components lower on the list, which might provide more essential nutrients but might also weigh less. What should be the number 1 ingredient in dog food? 1. Meat. The most crucial component of dog food is this. Most commercial dog foods use actual meat as their primary protein source, including chicken, cattle, fish, rabbit, venison, and a variety of other meats. Some labels may list egg protein, which is wonderful, but make sure that there is also a lot of actual meat present. 2. Meat Meal. In fact, this protein source in pet food is relatively high. The word “meal” often confuses consumers when they read the dog food components on a label. The meat that is described in the meal is used in its preparation. 3. Carbohydrates and Grains. This can be a very helpful component, provided your dog does not have any allergies or sensitivity to wheat. One of the elements in dog food that people dislike is grains and carbohydrates, but these substances are not as horrible as many people make them out to be. 4. Vegetables These can be highly beneficial to your dog’s diet even though they are not a necessary element because they offer a variety of vitamins and minerals. 5. Fruits. Fruits like blueberries, apples, and cranberries are excellent sources of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, and they are also not hazardous to a dog’s diet. Cranberries may also help with urethritis and maintain good oral hygiene by killing particular microorganisms. --- ## Ways to Keep Your Dog Feeling Full   URL: https://healthierdogs.com/ways-to-keep-your-dog-feeling-full/ Type: post Modified: 2022-10-21 The majority of dog owners have experienced it. A hasty and deliberate succession of scratches is made on the bedroom door 30 minutes before your alarm goes off as you cling to those precious final seconds of sleep. Someone needs to eat. When it comes to scavenging behavior, dogs are opportunistic. Dogs eat for various reasons other than hunger, making it challenging to manage and correctly assess your dog’s satiety. So, what can i feed my dog to fill him up? Give Your Dog Veggies Looking for a quick remedy to feed your dog’s belly? Grab the vegetable drawer of your refrigerator. Green beans, cucumbers, celery, carrots, and broccoli are all recommended by many researchers. Although steaming or boiling them is a viable alternative, these processes start to break down part of the fiber, which makes them excellent starting points. What vegetables should you give your dog? unadulterated and uncooked. They rival or perhaps surpass the quality of any dog treat sold in stores. Dispute Hunger with Character Every dog has a varied diet, and some dogs may change their diet daily. That score, however, is what matters. His weight is healthy if it falls between 4-6 or about 2.5 on a five-point scale. That suggests your dog is in good shape if he keeps up his body condition score despite not finishing everything in his bowl. He doesn’t need it and isn’t even hungry if he is maintaining but still appears to be pleading for food. He most likely wants to be noticed. Avoid Using Placebos, Such as Air and Water Because they have been “popped,” or inflated with air during preparation using high heat, certain kinds of kibble appear bigger than others. Your dog might feel full after eating this kind of food, but the feeling will shortly pass because burping will force the air out of their system. --- ## Mixing the Rice with the Dog Food   URL: https://healthierdogs.com/mixing-the-rice-with-the-dog-food/ Type: post Modified: 2022-10-21 Is it OK to mix white rice with dog food? It’s acceptable to add rice to your dog’s meal, and your dog could even enjoy it. The only issue is that it can offer them an excessive amount of carbs, which can result in some issues. Adding more rice is generally not a problem because many commercial dog diets already contain some rice. Because it is simple to digest, rice is frequently given to dogs who have digestive or other intestinal problems. Dogs with diarrhea can benefit from rice since it helps with their loose stools. Dogs who are ill and not eating may consume rice. It gives them the nutrients they require while being easy on their stomachs. Rice is a good option for senior dogs who might have trouble chewing their diet. It is easy to eat and a wonderful source of carbohydrates. If a dog is unable to eat or has not wanted to eat for a while, a small amount of rice by itself can be a great way to get it back on track. Dogs may consume a wide variety of other things, including cheese and other fruits and vegetables. By adding them to dog food, you can improve the flavor of the dog. Dogs frequently become weary of dry food and value its addition. However, if you do it too frequently, the dog will start to anticipate it and stop eating its dry food plain. It’s crucial to stay as far away from processed foods and additives as you can. The digestive system of a dog can be sensitive to spices. Your dog may put on weight as a result of fat, which can occasionally cause diabetes. Keep any additional food you give a dog as natural as pure as you can. --- ## Rice As A Dog Food: Is It Safe?   URL: https://healthierdogs.com/rice-as-a-dog-food-is-it-safe/ Type: post Modified: 2022-10-21 The most popular choice for a bland diet for a pet is rice and chicken. It’s crucial that your pet transitions to this diet aid in their recovery from their gastrointestinal disease. A starchy diet like rice, which is classified as a carbohydrate and thus a starchy food, is recommended since it is thought to help bind the stools together, prevent diarrhea, and not irritate the stomach. However, there is one catch. Can rice upset a dog’s stomach? White rice is digested very fast but offers very little in the way of nourishment or hydration for your pet because the body converts it to sugar. It has been determined that 97% of all white rice is a genetically modified food, making it a refined carbohydrate that has essentially had all of its nutrients removed. The use of brown rice in place of white rice is another option that is advised because it is more nutrient-dense and requires more time to digest. However, because a dog’s and cat’s digestive systems were not created to process rice, the nutrients in brown rice are unavailable to their bodies. Most pets eating processed food are probably not starving to death, but instead are probably lacking in certain essential nutrients. As a result, they may be searching for other foods to make up for these deficiencies, which may irritate their stomachs and cause them to eat inappropriate foods. Your pet truly needs a portion of pure, high-quality food to help replenish those nutrients, electrolytes, and fluids naturally, speed their recovery, and re-energize them. Your dog and cat both eat meat. Absolutely no grains are necessary for them. You should avoid giving your pet any type of rice or grain in general and think of them as digestive irritants with no nutritional value. --- ## What Should Be Avoided in Dog Food   URL: https://healthierdogs.com/what-should-be-avoided-in-dog-food/ Type: post Modified: 2022-10-21 When thinking about what to feed your dog, dog food is the obvious choice, and for good reason. Despite its moniker, this food is a great choice since it contains the essential nutrients your dog needs to grow into a healthy, active adult. However, not all ingredients in dog food are good for your dog’s health. Some of them are only fillers or preservatives, while others are nutritionally insignificant. What ingredients should be avoided in dog food? Ten items to stay away from in dog food are listed below to assist you with this. 1. Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) The first item on our list is butylated hydroxyanisole or BHA. It serves as a chemical preservative when added to fats and oils. In Europe, the US, and Canada, BHA is legal to use, but only in extremely modest doses. 2. White Flour Once taken, this flour has the power to substantially alter the blood sugar levels of dogs. Additionally, it only keeps people full for a short while before they start to feel hungry again. When this happens, your dog consumes more than usual, increasing the likelihood that the animal will develop diabetes and obesity. 3. Meat Meal Since there is little to no quality control, meat dishes are merely used as fillers with little to no protein. It is therefore preferable to stay away from them completely. If you have no choice but to feed your dog a meat meal, pick one that lists the types of meat it contains. 4. Food Coloring Synthetic However, it is not at all required to color dog food for animals. Your dog doesn’t really care what color its food is, after all. The most popular food colors are also associated with severe food allergies and hyperacidity. --- ## Give the Best Treatment for Your Dog   URL: https://healthierdogs.com/give-the-best-treatment-for-your-dog/ Type: post Modified: 2022-09-23 There are various ways you can demonstrate your responsibilities as an owner, such as administering vaccines and watching your diet. From this, there is one core question for you and your beloved dog. How do I give my dog the best life? As an owner, you must always be responsible for everything related to your beloved pet dog and family. 1. Giving Vaccines By three months of age, the protective antibodies naturally passed down through their mother’s milk have been used up and your puppies will need to be vaccinated to help protect them from infectious diseases, such as leptospirosis, distemper, and parvovirus, as well as rabies vaccinations. 2. Visit the Doctor Regularly Dogs need regular visits to the doctor to ensure their health. Annual or monthly health checks give your veterinarian the opportunity to address any illness or health problem early on, before it causes a bigger problem. 3. Provide Nutritious Food To keep your dog healthy and active, give him a diet that is high in nutrients. Your dog’s growth will not be optimal if you do not provide it with complete nutrition. 4. Invite the Dog to Do Physical Activities Running around the block or taking a leisurely walk in the park can keep your dog in great shape and in good health. In addition, it can reduce obesity and aggressive behavior that is often owned by various types of dogs. 5. Invite to Play Take the time to invite them to play, or at least pet them and give them affection. Also provide a variety of toys that dogs like, such as a ball and run them around to avoid stress. 6. Pay attention to food intake Pay attention to your dog’s food intake, don’t eat too much and the various fats in it make your pet dog obese. --- ## Are Eggs Good For Dog or Not?   URL: https://healthierdogs.com/are-eggs-good-for-dog-or-not/ Type: post Modified: 2022-09-23 Dogs absolutely adore eggs and go crazy for them. But are eggs good for dogs with diabetes? Because eggs provide a rich source of protein and won’t raise blood sugar levels, they are beneficial for dogs with diabetes. One of the keys to good health is eating a balanced diet that is healthful and nutritious. Being careful with what goes into a diabetic dog’s diet is essential since some foods might raise blood sugar levels. This increase has the potential to cause diabetes-related problems like cataracts, which can result in blindness. Thankfully, eggs—which are a great source of protein—do not cause that spike. Having said that, if you have a diabetic dog, please be careful to ask your veterinarian if they are a good fit for them. Eggshells are a good source of calcium and protein, according to research. Boil the shells first if bacteria are a concern. Once they’ve dried completely, use a food processor, coffee grinder, or mortar and pestle to smash them into a fine powder. You may even use a rolling pin to smash them. The final piece of advice might possibly improve your mood. Alternatively, until you’re ready to crush them, keep the shells in a baggie in the refrigerator. whichever suits you. How much should be used every day varies according to recommendations. Start out slowly and cautiously by using one quarter or one half of a teaspoon. Try a small amount of it on your dog’s food and observe how he responds. Whether eggs should be given cooked or raw is a hot topic of discussion. Many veterinarians and proponents of raw feeding agree that this method is ideal because cooking removes essential nutrients. Other veterinarians and nutritionists advise boiling them first because raw foods pose health risks. After weighing the advantages and cons and consulting your veterinarian, you must make a personal choice that is best for your dog. --- ## Can Dog Eat Eggs with Their Stomach Problem?   URL: https://healthierdogs.com/can-dog-eat-eggs-with-their-stomach-problem/ Type: post Modified: 2022-09-23 Dogs once had the ability to grab eggs out of bird nests and consume them raw. Although dogs no longer need to go hunting for food, eggs still offer a significant quantity of protein for dogs. As long as they are ingested responsibly, eggs are great for giving dogs as treats or as dietary supplements. However, are eggs good for dogs with sensitive stomachs? Do Dogs Benefit from Eggs? Your dog can get all the nutrition they need from eggs, which are entirely safe for them. They are beneficial to your dog on the inside as well as the outside since they are rich in protein, fatty acids, vitamins, and fatty acids. Remember that the quality of a chicken’s eggs depends on the chicken itself. Try to feed your dog eggs that came from hens that were provided a free-range organic diet. You should try to get them from a dependable source if at all possible. Chickens, like people, are only as healthy as the food they eat, and healthier chickens lay eggs that are richer in nutrients. Before giving your dog eggs, consult your veterinarian. If your dog has a medical condition, make sure first because they shouldn’t eat eggs. Eating eggs in excessive amount may also result in health problems like obesity, so it is a wise choice to consult your veterinarian about the appropriate amount to give your cherished dog. That said, eggs can occasionally be used to soothe unsettled tummies. Although they make a great occasional treat, your dog shouldn’t eat eggs as their main source of food. Despite the fact that the majority of physicians advise poaching eggs before feeding them to dogs, some pet owners prefer to give their animals raw eggs. Your dog probably has an allergy to eggs as well. Watch out for any symptoms of an adverse response in your dog, such as coughing, sneezing, swelling, hives, difficulty breathing, lethargy, or sneezing. --- ## The Effect of Eggs Toward Dog’s Ingestion, Is It Healthy or Not?   URL: https://healthierdogs.com/the-effect-of-eggs-toward-dogs-ingestion-is-it-healthy-or-not/ Type: post Modified: 2022-09-23 Chicken, moderate amounts of fish like sardines, salmon, and cod, and eggs—which have the highest protein and choline contents and are ideal for liver disease—are all excellent sources of protein. If that so, are eggs good for dogs with liver disease? What sort of diet must a dog with liver problems to consume? A diet high in fat and low in protein is typically beneficial for dogs with liver issues. Include as many sources of Omega 3 fats as you can, such as fish oil and flaxseed oil, to provide your dog the healthy fats his body requires and can effectively handle. What foods should dogs with liver problems stay away from? For canines with severe liver disease, offal and fish, for instance, include higher amounts of certain compounds like purines and some amino acids. What can I do to lower my dog’s liver enzyme levels? Changing your diet can often help. Your dog might need a particular diet to ensure they are getting the vitamins and calories they need to support their liver. SAM-E and milk thistle are two supplements that can help the liver heal. Antibiotics are used to treat liver infections. Do dogs benefit from eggs? Your dog can get all the nutrition they need from eggs, which are entirely safe for them. Because they are high in protein, fatty acids, vitamins, and fatty acids, they are beneficial to your dog both inside and outwardly. While some dog owners still feed their pets raw, unshelled eggs, most veterinarians advise boiling eggs before feeding them to dogs. Does peanut butter benefit dogs with liver issues? The majority of peanut butter products contain aflatoxin, one of the most carcinogenic substances on earth. Exposure to aflatoxin is dangerous for your pet and has been connected to liver cancer in laboratory animals. --- ## Pros dan Cons of Grain Free Dog Food   URL: https://healthierdogs.com/pros-dan-cons-of-grain-free-dog-food/ Type: post Modified: 2022-09-23 What are the pros and cons of grain free dog food? As you will see below, grain-free dog diets have both benefits and drawbacks, just like any other kind of dog food. 1. Prevent obesity Carbohydrates that cannot be digested by the body will accumulate and cannot be used as energy. So that the provision of grain free feed is better to prevent obesity. 2. Does not cause allergies The damaged villi cannot absorb nutrients such as protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. As a result, the dog will experience weight loss and diarrhea. Giving gluten free dog food will prevent a hypersensitivity response from occurring. 3. Maintain a healthy digestive system If the grain food is kept fed for a long time, it will cause damage to the mucosa (lining) of the intestine. Giving grain free will help maintain a healthy digestive system in dogs Disadvantages of Grain Free Dog Food Despite the numerous advantages of a grain-free dog food, the following drawbacks nevertheless exist: 1. More Expensive The cost of grain-free dog food is higher than the cost of other generic dog foods. If, however, the cost of dog food is not a concern for you, then this shouldn’t worry you. 2. Not Ideal for Less Active Dogs Remember how we said grain-free dog food can increase your dog’s activity level earlier in this post? However, a senior dog doesn’t need the kind of energy that can be found in a grain-free diet. 3. It Can Be Challenging for Picky Eaters Even though grain-free dog food is readily accessible, your dog might not always enjoy it. As a result, it could take some time for your dog to accept grain-free dog food if they are used to eating dog food made with grains. Particularly if your dog is a fussy eater, this is true. --- ## The Importance Of The Size And Content Of The Food Required For Puppies   URL: https://healthierdogs.com/the-importance-of-the-size-and-content-of-the-food-required-for-puppies/ Type: post Modified: 2022-09-23 Even though your puppies currently seem little, they will quickly mature. They will reach adulthood in just 12 months (up to 24 months for larger breeds). A high-quality diet can aid in the quick development of their bodies and minds, which must both develop. Is it OK to feed a puppy all life stages food? They have their own level and dose of food with various contents, so you can’t. The amount of calories burned by a healthy, active puppy is double that of an adult dog. To keep your pups healthy and content, you must feed them. It is appropriate to introduce foods specially prepared to match their needs once they are mature enough to take solid foods, often at six to eight weeks of age. The appropriate nourishment for your family’s newest member is specifically made puppy food. This is because they provide everything your puppy needs to grow up healthily and are nutritionally complete and balanced. They do not need any additional nutrients or human food. The following ingredients in puppy food should be avoided. Calorie-dense foods Because they need more energy to grow, puppy food typically has more calories than adult dog food. Supplementary protein In order to support the proper growth of their organs as they develop, puppies’ food often contains more protein. Essential nutrition The growth of strong teeth and bones depends on large quantities of important nutrients like calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, and vitamin D. Small-sized kibble Puppies prefer to eat their dry food all at once and enjoy chewing on the little kibbles that are made for easy swallowing. The precise amount is determined by the size, age, and advice your veterinarian offers you for your dog. Start by giving the puppy a tablespoon of food five times a day while it is still nursing from the mother. --- ## Life’s Abundance for the Healthier Dog   URL: https://healthierdogs.com/lifes-abundance-for-the-healthier-dog/ Type: post Modified: 2022-09-23 Although there are other high-quality products and businesses available, we went with Life’s Abundance because of its commitment to excellence, stringent standards, and strong track record. It not only gives all the necessary sustenance in every bite, but also contains all of them because it is produced with the maximum number of nutrient-rich foods, vitamins, and minerals you can buy. Who Makes life’s Abundance dog food? Dr. Jane Bricks created Life’s Abundance, which offers the nutritional harmony necessary to support your pet’s attainment and maintenance of optimal health.It is harmonious throughout. In fact, our dog food’s superior nutrition has been shown in a feeding trial as required by the Association of American Feed Control Officials, giving us the peace of mind that each and every pet owner deserves. On the subsequent printing of these bags, this accomplishment will be noted. Life’s Abundance is what we feed all of our babies and older dogs. We think it has a remarkable nutritional advantage that is supported by both science and nature. Our dogs adore it, and it’s also nutritious! Beginning with Life’s Abundance of Food and vitamins, our puppies. Together, these items deliver top-notch nutrition for all of their years. The dog food from Life’s Abundance has additional nutrients. Our healthy dog food is manufactured in frequent small batches and stays in Life’s Abundance care until it is dispatched to your doorstep, in contrast to other top brands that store lots of food for months on end. Your adorable dog will gain from the stringent inventory controls and unmatched product safety considerations when you purchase Life’s Abundance Dog Food. We vehemently recommend giving this premium food to your cherished pet, and if you keep up this amazing nutritional regimen, we’ll give you a 3-year Health Guarantee. For further information, please review your contract. --- ## The Importance of Knowing the Type of Dog Food Based on Age   URL: https://healthierdogs.com/the-importance-of-knowing-the-type-of-dog-food-based-on-age/ Type: post Modified: 2022-09-23 Like other living creatures, dogs also need to eat the best food to stay healthy and fit. If you have a dog, you must provide a portion of dog food that contains complete nutrition and is age-appropriate. From this statement, there is one important question. What does all life stages dog food mean? Just like humans, dogs also need proper nutrition. Every dog needs different nutrition based on their age, weight, health condition, and how active they are on a daily basis. Dog food sold in the market is available in several forms, such as dry food or wet food, with different nutritional and calorie content. In order not to go wrong when buying, here are some ways to choose dog food based on his age: When feeding puppies, choose a dog food that has been specially formulated. Usually, these foods contain lots of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. The frequency of feeding the dog should also be considered. For puppies that have been weaned up to 4–6 months of age, feed them 3–6 times a day. This is so that the blood sugar levels in the puppy’s body remain normal. Adult dog food can be given when your favorite dog is 1 year old. Adult dog food should ideally contain protein, fat, carbohydrates, water, as well as various types of vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc, and magnesium. The serving portion also needs to be adjusted to the dog’s weight and how active he is every day. The total calorie consumption of senior dogs will be reduced by as much as 20%. Usually, senior dog food is formulated to be easier to digest and can help with weight control. Therefore, the ingredients and nutritional content are different from adult dog food. --- ## Wet or Dry Food, Which is Better for Dogs?   URL: https://healthierdogs.com/wet-or-dry-food-which-is-better-for-dogs/ Type: post Modified: 2022-09-23 In the market, there are two types of dog food available, namely wet or fresh food and dry food. The difference between these two foods lies in the shape and texture of the food. As the name suggests, wet food has a more mushy and watery texture. Meanwhile, dry food is the opposite. Do dogs like dry food or fresh food better? Dog food is divided into two types, namely wet food and dry food. Here’s the difference: Dog Dry Food In terms of appearance and presentation, dry food is claimed to be superior when compared to wet food. This is because this type of food tends to be easier to store and can be placed in the dog’s food bowl for a long time. Dry food is said to provide less water for pet dogs. This is important for the dog’s body, especially if the pet dog is often exposed to the sun or has a tendency to age. Wet Food Wet food contains more water than dry food, so it can help hydrate your dog. In terms of taste, wet food is also usually preferred and can make the dog fuller, thus avoiding overeating. Long-term consumption of wet food is said to have the potential to damage or cause dental problems. In terms of practicality, this type of food is also a bit lost, because wet food tends to spoil quickly if it is removed from the can or when served. Then, which type of food should be chosen for a pet dog? Wet food or dry food? The answer comes back to the dog’s condition and needs. However, because these two types of food both have their advantages and disadvantages, you can try combining these two types of food. Sometimes a combination of wet and dry food can be the best option to meet your dog’s nutritional needs. --- ## Know Your Dog’s Health   URL: https://healthierdogs.com/know-your-dogs-health/ Type: post Modified: 2022-09-23 Making sure a dog is healthy and content is the duty of the dog owner. In addition to being physically healthy, people can also be mentally and emotionally well. The owner will be better able to assess whether there is a health issue with the dog if they are familiar with the traits of a healthy dog. What are 5 signs of a healthy dogs? The following are indications of a healthy pet dog. Optimal Skin and Hair Condition A lack of fat in their diet and sparse, dull, and dry fur are signs of poor nutrition. The same issue commonly results in hair loss. Giving him healthy, balanced food will therefore tremendously aid in nourishing his coat and skin. Lucid Eyes The eyes of a healthy dog will be sparkling, clear, and brilliant. Through the eye’s outer layer, you can see it. You should be able to clearly see the brown or blue ring iris pattern that gives the eye its color through the cornea of the eye. Fresh Breath and Spotless Teeth Teeth that are smooth and white in young, healthy dogs tend to discolor as they age. Depending on the breed, puppies have 23 baby teeth, while adults often have 42 permanent teeth. Similarly to a dog’s skin, healthy gums might be pink, black, or speckled. Body Temperature Normally A healthy dog’s body temperature ranges from 38.3 to 39.2 degrees Celsius. The dog may get a fever if its temperature hits 39.4 degrees Celsius. This fever may be brought on by an infection, a vaccination, toxins, or internal inflammation. Healthy Appetite A dog that is ravenous has a healthy appetite. Dogs with a healthy appetite can eat their meal in as little as 10 minutes. Because the dog may have indigestion or a fever if it shows no interest in eating or consistently leaves its usual ration of food. --- ## What Exactly Does Commercial Dog Food Contain? URL: https://healthierdogs.com/what-exactly-does-commercial-dog-food-contain/ Type: post Modified: 2022-07-28 Commercial Pet Food For Your Dog? by Brigitte Smith Have you ever wondered what exactly commercial pet food is made up of? If you’ve never applied your mind to this question, perhaps you should. What you feed your dog is really SO important for your dog’s ultimate health and longevity. It impacts on his/her susceptibility to illness in a major way. In fact, if you really want your dog to be as healthy as s/he can be, you should probably stop feeding ANY of the widely available commercial dog foods. I’m referring to the types of dog food commonly found in your supermarket. And you’d be surprised to learn the dog food ingredients in even many of the supposedly superior brands sold in some supermarkets, pet food shops, and even by many vets. The cheaper the brand, then generally the more full of garbage it is, but even many of the more expensive brands leave much to be desired. What do you think is an ideal diet for your dog? – fresh, juicy, chickens? – choice cuts of fresh beef and lamb? – perhaps you’d add a few healthy grains (e.g. rice, maize, wheat, etc.) for variety? – perhaps you’d expect the odd fresh herbs, vegetables and fruit to be part of a healthy dog’s diet? You’d be right. But how many of the above types of dog food ingredients do you think actually go into commercial pet food? A lot? Only a little? If you said yes to either of these, you’d be dead wrong. The average commercial dog food bears NO relation to the above list of choice ingredients, despite what pet food manufacturers display in some of their marketing, and despite what the list of dog food ingredients on the pack or can might tend to indicate. There is very, very little (if any) of the above ingredients in the average commercial dog food. And by the time the third rate excuse for food been overcooked at sustained high temperatures, and sprayed with preservative agents, the resultant “food” (and I use that term loosely, because commercial kibble and canned pet food contain little, if any, real nutriiton at all) can be very harmful to your dog’s health and well being indeed. Yes, if you’re feeding your dog ANY commercially available dog food, you’re potentially exposing your dog to a source of chemically enhanced, overprocessed, garbage, the meat source for which may apparently even include diseased carcasses which have been left for up to 5 days before being processed. Enough to turn you off for life? It was for me. As you may know, I’ve always fed my dogs a diet of mainly raw meat and bones. But I like to give them a little treat in the mornings rather than just feed them once a day (which, by the way, IS all a dog NEEDS). I used to give them a handful of dry dog food each morning, sometimes the cheaper supermarket brands, and sometimes the “brand” names which cost 4 or 5 times as much. Now that I know better, I never give my dogs any of that garbage. I should say that SOME of the expensive pet foods which are readily available ARE better than the cheaper brands. BUT, most are still far from an ideal diet for your dog, so I have to wonder whether the extra money is money well spent. I have come to the conclusion that it is not. If the product says it’s “with real chicken”, did you know that it only needs to contain 3% of chicken? Only 3%. If the first item listed is meat or chicken, did you know that this doesn’t mean that’s the main ingredient? How can that be? Well, take a close look at the label. It’s likely to list a meat first, and then 2, 3, 4 or 5 types of grains. This is a very misleading tactic used by the commercial pet food manufacturers. Each of the grains individually may be slightly less in quantity than the meat. But added together? They’re probably nearly 2, 3, 4 or 5 times the quantity of the meat ingredient. After having looked into this issue in a great deal of detail, I’m convinced that the most healthy diet for your dog is mainly fresh meat, with some fresh veges and a little grain thrown in. And this alone is probably NOT enough, because of the leeching of nutrients from the soil due to environmental soil erosion that is extremely widespread today. You need to give your dog a vitamin supplement always, for optimal health. And for the very best health, there ARE some reputable HEALTHY, wholesome, holistic dog food manufacturers, which really DO provide wonderfully healthy food for our dogs.  If you’re game to read the whole shocking report published by the U.S. Animal Protection Institute, about what’s really in commercial pet food, it’s posted at: www.HealthyHappyDogs.com/APIArticle You can read about the vitamins I recommend at Recommended Pet Vitamins And for details of the best dog food manufacturers, see all the details here: Really Healthy Premium Pet Food (c) 2007, Brigitte Smith, Healthy Happy Dogs Brigitte Smith is a dog lover with a special interest in holistic dog health. Her other site, Healthy Happy Dogs, has pages and pages of information on improving your dog’s health naturally. For your special FREE report – “How to Improve Your Dog’s Health Within 30 Days – Maybe Even Lengthen Your Dog’s Life!”, Click Here for Your Free Dog Health Report! --- ## Chihuahua Training URL: https://healthierdogs.com/chihuahua-training/ Type: post Modified: 2022-07-28 Who doesn’t know what a doll Chihuahuas can be? They are ridiculously cute and adorable, especially when they’re all decked out in little clothing their sometimes over doting owners often dress them up in. Don’t be fooled by its size though, Chihuahua training is a must if you want an orderly and peaceful home. That’s right – this canine may be small in size but big in personality. If you’ve never had a Chihuahua, just ask any Chi owner and they will tell you that I am not lying. When they are left untrained and unrestrained in their antics, they can manipulate their owners and this will result in a skewed household. One thing about Chis is that they are smart creatures. They need to be mentally and physically stimulated to be happy. If you use this to your advantage, then training them wouldn’t be as challenging as you think. Remember though that you need to be extremely patient when dealing with rambunctious breeds like them for any training to be effective. Chis are not the best family dogs because of their less than inviting nature to children. They are, however, very protective of their owner and will stay close to them as often as they possibly can. Therefore, one of the most important things you can ever teach your Chihuahua is socialization skills. Socialization lessons should start as early as 7 weeks. It will be harder to teach them after 3 to 4 months of age. Without the proper socialization training, your dog can become aggressive and excessively anti-social. They will not adapt well to new environments or situations. Solve this problem by introducing him to different types of people as early as possible. Take him with you to busy places frequently so he will get comfortable with crowds. Bring him out to car rides whenever you can. You might think toy dog breeds won’t be too much of a problem around the house, but make sure you don’t let them get away with pooping indoors. Potty train these little mutts early on, otherwise they will feel that every home is an acceptable elimination station. You don’t want to go on visits to your friends’ homes and be embarrassed when your little doggie leaves a little present behind now do you? No matter how cute your Chi is, don’t forget that you should let him know that you are the head of the pack. Let him follow you and don’t let him enter the house before you. Be affectionate and loving towards him, but don’t overdo it. Also, as much as possible, don’t allow his head to be higher than your shoulders when you pick him up to hug him. Let him watch you eat before you give him his meals. These simple tricks will keep him in place and make him more submissive to you. These simple Chihuahua training tips will help in making sure that you don’t get bullied around by a 6 pound dog. Do your best and enjoy your time with these lively and affectionate dogs today! --- ## Important Information on Worming Puppies URL: https://healthierdogs.com/important-information-on-worming-puppies/ Type: post Modified: 2022-07-28 When you think of puppies I bet your mind goes to faces of adorable little fur balls fresh, and healthy out of their mum’s wombs, right? Wrong. I don’t know if you are aware of this, but majority of dogs are born with worm infestation. I know, it doesn’t jive well with your image. It is important that you know important information on worming puppies to prevent the escalation of many canine health problems. You might be wondering, how in the world can puppies be born with worms? I mean, they didn’t even have the chance to get dirty and already there are worms wiggling their way up the little pup’s internal systems? I agree, it sounds unfair but that’s the reality of it. When pregnant mothers have not been de-wormed properly, they pass on these internal parasites to their babies. The larvae of the worms migrate to the different organs of the bodies lungs, intestines, heart, and when they are fully grown, begin to lay more eggs. Do not be deceived in to thinking that your dogs do not have worms just because you don’t see evidence of it in their stool. Remember, most of these parasites are really small and will not be visible to the naked eye. If you want to check if your dog has worm infestation, you can bring a stool sample to the vet and have him verify your dog’s condition. So it’s critical that you de-worm your dog as soon as possible. It is recommended that the 1st worming for puppies begin on their 2nd week and every 2nd week for the next three months. Many experienced pet owners also suggest that you de-worm your dog regularly after that for preventative measures. You should ask your vet with regard to the product and frequency of the worm prevention medication your puppy will be taking. There are many over the counter de-worming medication, but I strongly recommend that you use herbal and organic products only. Many synthetic medications are actually pesticides milder in formulation but still harmful nonetheless. You can’t imagine pumping your puppy with a measured dosage of pesticide every month now would you? Doing so can really make him more unhealthy in the long run. While some people tend to discount the severity of worm infestation in dogs, keep in mind that this is not only detrimental to your pet’s health it can also be detrimental to your family’s well-being as well. Common intestinal parasites like the roundworms and tapeworms can be transmitted to human beings. This is especially true for children who might have weaker immune systems than adults, and have more physical contact with animals as well. Worming puppies should be a priority to any responsible household. Most herbal de-worming treatments also have other health benefits that your pet can use as well. Do your best in keeping your dog as healthy as he can be, and you will not regret it. A healthy and happy dog is a reward well worth any effort you will put in it. Enjoy! --- ## Signs of Worms in Dogs URL: https://healthierdogs.com/signs-of-worms-in-dogs/ Type: post Modified: 2022-07-28 You probably know how disgusting dog worms can be. They are tiny wriggly little intruders that breed in feces, dirt and other parasites. Fortunately, there are ways that you can prevent worm infestation, as well as safely treat them when they do get into your dog’s system. These worms may be small but if they are left untreated, they can risk the life of your beloved pet. Discover the signs of worms in dogs so you can prevent this from happening to your pet. There are several kinds of worms. They have many similarities (like they are all very detrimental to your pet’s health), but they have distinct differences also between them. For one thing, they can be found in different sources. Roundworms often congregate in dirt and tapeworms are contracted through ingestion of infected fleas. Generally, all canine worms can be found in the dog’s stool so be very careful in handling feces or you might accidentally be infected with worms as well. Let’s find out a little about these worms. Roundworms are one of the most common internal parasites that dogs suffer from. Symptoms of roundworms include a pot belly and dull coat. They can grow up to 7 inches long and cause obstruction in your dog’s internal organs causing serious health complications. Hookworms are transmitted through skin contact. They attach themselves to the wall of the intestines and suck the blood out of their victims this way. This results in anemia and intestinal bleeding. Symptoms of hookworm infestation are very similar to whipworms. These signs include weight loss, pale gums, low energy, diarrhea and traces of blood in stool. Tapeworms are another kind of canine intestinal parasite that you can often find in the dog’s stool. Aside from the pieces of broken tapeworm in the stool, it’s not that easy to detect if your dog has tapeworm. However, severe infestation will manifest through these signs: vomiting, weight loss, nervousness and extreme itchiness in his anus. In fact, the dog will often relieve his itchy anus by scratching his butt against furniture or the floor,butt scooting. So what do you do when you see these canine worm symptoms? You bring them to a holistic vet and have them treated with a natural de-worming remedy. These excellent organic treatments contain special herbs that kill the internal parasites without damaging the other organs of the dog, like what most pharmaceutical medicines do. Click on the links provided in this article to find the best treatment that countless of satisfied pet owners use for their own pets. Clean your home from feces and sanitize your dog’s crate and bedding often to avoid the proliferation of these nasty little vermin. Most dog worms can be transmitted to humans so wash your hands thoroughly after playing with your dog. Now you know the signs of worms in dogs and what you can do to avoid them. Do your best to improve your dog’s health and be rewarded with a happy dog when you do. Enjoy! --- ## More on Sojos Home Made Style Dog Food URL: https://healthierdogs.com/more-on-sojos-home-made-style-dog-food/ Type: post Modified: 2022-07-28 What do you really know about the dangers of processed foods? We hear a lot about the dangers of junk food for humans, and yet many pet owners continue to feed their pets a steady diet of junk – read: processed commercial pet foods.  What dogs really need is natural dog food, and you won’t find it on your supermarket shelves. Sojos Home Made Style Dog Food Here’s a really interesting article which has been written by one of my former readers, Bob Willhite, who also had a website about holistic health – for both humans and companion animals, although he seems to have discontinued the site currently.  He’s another advocate of natural dog food (like me!), and particularly likes Sojos dog food and Wysong dog food (also like me). Sojos Home Made Style Dog Food … and/or … Wysong Dog Food? Here’s the article: Processed Foods Are Poisoning Our Pets by Bob Willhite, A.M.P. 2004 Holistic veterinarians are stating that America’s pets are increasingly becoming diseased and are needlessly dying for the same reason as humans: processed and preserved foods. Veterinarian Don Hamilton clarifies that most commercial pet foods contain large quantities of rancid animal products. The meat used is usually from animals that died before reaching the processing plant and may have been diseased. The animals used are ground up with added preservatives, artificial colors, and “fillers” before the blend is processed into nuggets or cans. “These pet foods provide physical nutrients, but do not nourish the life force of the body & Rancid products lead to gastrointestinal illness in dogs and cats.” (Homeopathic Care for Cats and Dogs, 1999). Also it’s likely that hydrogenated or other low quality and unhealthy oils are used. Like humans, pets may be tempted to go for artificial taste instead of wholesome nutrition. Or, Dr. Hamilton notes they may submit out of hunger and eat foods that are not good for them. Another veterinarian, Randy Wysong, notes that, “A pet’s body is very adaptable and for a time can survive on whatever food is provided. But with typical processed and rancid foods, the body will ultimately be stressed beyond its limits. Loss of vitality will eventually result, followed by degeneration and ultimately disease. The consequences are so far removed from the earlier years of inappropriate foods that few make the connection in understanding the problem” (The Truth About Pet Foods, 2002). High-heat cooking and food preserving have sadly misled us down a path of illness. This is not newly-found wisdom. Dr. Francis Pottenger’s nutrition studies in the 1930’s using cats had groups receive the same basic diet: meat, milk and fish oil. One group received raw meat and raw milk, while others received cooked meat and pasteurized (high heat) milk. Cats feeding on all raw ingredients flourished, while those offered a cooked diet became weak and malnourished. Also, diseases with the cooked groups intensified with each generation, thus revealing a genetic effect. Skeletal, metabolic, reproductive, behavioral and dental problems escalated over time in the processed food groups, but were absent in the animals fed raw, whole foods (Dr. Francis Pottenger’s). Dr. Wysong says, “Most pet nutritionists ignore the perfect model, which is nature itself. You simply must supplement raw, fresh, natural foods to the diet of your pet if you are hoping to achieve its optimal health.” Try a dry, ready-mix called Sojos (by Sojourner Farms) for dogs or cats to which you simply add fresh, raw meat, raw bones and ideally some raw veggies. It takes only a couple of minutes a day. Working with your local butcher, you can add chicken necks and wings, animal organs and meat scraps; or buy meats as they’re discounted to sell before the expiration date on the package. Organic meats are best, for you and your pets. If you do not want to use raw foods, at least use Wysong’s canned food that’s as close to the natural diet as modern processing can mimic. It contains only the freshest of meats and organ ingredients with cold or low heat processing to maintain the food’s vitality. Only natural and beneficial compounds are used for preservatives. Dr. Wysong says, “Take control by being informed- and seek advice from those who have grown in their understanding of nutritional prevention.” Health begins with knowledge. Order from InBliss the Sojos, or Wysong products at a discount, which can be shipped to your home. Note: Bob Willhite is an Alternative Medical Practitioner that is Board Certified through the American Association of Drugless Practitioners. In his interaction with his wife’s business, InBliss, they facilitate wellness through education and holistic products (Idaho Statute, Title 54-2104 [f]). ================================== Well, what do you know, … Bob recommends Sojos as well! As you know, I’ve been talking about Sojos for a while as one of the very best alternatives for healthy petfood. It’s on my list of the best dog foods ranked. For more info, don’t forget you can check it out at www.HealthyHappyDogs.com/Sojos – it’s well worth it! You can order it directly online. Now that’s convenience for you! Bob also mentions Wysongs canned dog food in his article – this is another very good dog food product – other types of Wysong foods are on my best dog foods ranked list, but I personally don’t favor canned dog food. But Wysongs is certainly one of the better canned dog food varieties, if your preference is for canned food for any reason. --- ## External and Internal Parasites in Dogs URL: https://healthierdogs.com/external-and-internal-parasites-in-dogs/ Type: post Modified: 2022-07-28 Dogs are truly man’s best friend. Dog owners speak highly of their pets saying that their dogs offer them unconditional love and there are many famous quotations and sayings expressing how loyal dogs are to man. Unfortunately, dogs sometimes suffer from health issues that we aren’t aware of that may cause them great discomfort and even death. Sometimes these issues are caused by parasites. Parasites are not only extremely annoying to a pet, they can also cause serious health problems. The most well known parasites that affect dogs and other pets are mites, ticks and fleas. Fleas can cause allergies in your pet resulting in a lot of discomfort. Ticks are known to carry dangerous diseases and can sometimes be lethal. If your dog develops an inflammation from flea bites, he will be in severe discomfort and pain. A vicious cycle develops in which the dog scratches himself in an attempt to rid himself of the fleas and the fleas dig in deeper causing even more itching. The only way to bring relief to your suffering pet is to kill the pests. There are commercially available shampoos and dips for ridding dogs of external parasites but some of these may be toxic and can cause serious side effects in your dog. The best plan of action is to visit your vet who may prescribe a spot on flea treatment for your dog. This involves placing a few drops of flea medication on the dog’s scruff or back of the neck. Spot on treatments usually get rid of any flea problem your pet may be having while also inhibiting and halting fleas from breeding and multiplying. While some spot on treatments claim to kill ticks as well, you may find that you will have to remove ticks manually. Your vet is likely to use a chemically based treatment, but there are also natural flea treatments that can work also. A popular myth about ticks is that they will unlatch themselves from your pet if they are exposed to smoke. Not only is this incorrect, it can also result in severe burns to your pet so it is something you should never try. If you find a tick on your dog you should use tweezers and try to grab the tick from its head to remove it. Never pull on the body of a tick or you may leave its head embedded in your pet and this can cause a serious infection. Alcohol also helps in that it causes the tick to loosen its grip so it’s a good idea to use a wipe or swab containing alcohol before attempting to remove a tick with tweezers. External parasites are easier to discover than internal parasites. Internal parasites can sometimes be deadly to your pet and you should learn to identify symptoms that your pet may be harboring internal parasites. The most common types of internal parasites are worms that attach themselves to your dog’s intestines and leech nutrients, preventing your dog from benefiting from his food. With time, these worms and parasites can make your dog very sick. If you find your dog scooting or dragging his behind on the carpet, this may be a sign that the dog is suffering from internal parasites. A stool sample should be taken to the vet to diagnose the situation. If your dog licks his anal region excessively this could also be a sign of an internal parasite infestation. Some internal parasites can be contagious to humans and cause serious problems so you should always carefully monitor your pet’s health and make sure to consult with your vet on a regular basis to avoid any potential health problems. Some internal parasites can be contagious to humans and cause serious problems so you should always carefully monitor your pet’s health and make sure to consult with your vet on a regular basis to avoid any potential health problems. Some internal parasites can be contagious to humans and cause serious problems so you should always carefully monitor your pet’s health and make sure to consult with your vet on a regular basis to avoid any potential health problems. From Pet-Super-Store, a dog ramps and dog gates supply store. --- ## How to Identify Dog Health Problems URL: https://healthierdogs.com/how-to-identify-dog-health-problems/ Type: post Modified: 2022-07-28 Dog Health Problems – How to Identify Them and How to Treat Them by: Brigitte Smith An essential to your dog’s health is his/her regular annual checkup with the vet. Whether or not you choose to have your dog vaccinated* at this time, the annual checkup is also an excellent opportunity for a thorough physical examination to be carried out, and a time to discuss any minor problems or issues which you feel may be affecting your dog’s health or well-being. Your dog’s annual checkup is a time when your vet may pick up inherited diseases and the like (when your dog is young) so they can be treated early, or just kept an eye on. And as your dog gets older, the vet may find the early signs of more sinister illnesses during the checkup. About three years back, I took my dogs for their annual checkup, and for the first time alarms were raised about matters of significant concern – it was thought that Kara might have early stages of lymphoma (cancer) – which, fortunately, tests then proved to be not the case. And Jet apparently had something akin to the early stages of cataracts in her eyes, and according to the vet, Jet was likely to go progressively blind over the next several years. At least knowing that in advance gave me the opportunity to watch for any developing signs and, if and when necessary, adapt her outings and home environment to take into account any sight loss. It also allowed me to look into natural eyesight remedies for dogs – and the one I’m using really does seem to be doing the trick. Most importantly, it made me realize that a good vitamin and mineral supplement for dogs is actually a very wise idea. * There are natural alternatives to [tag]vaccinations[/tag], and significant controversy as to whether vaccinations are necessary or desirable in adult dogs at all.. --- ## Honest Kitchen Dog Food Review URL: https://healthierdogs.com/honest-kitchen-dog-food-review/ Type: post Modified: 2022-07-28 Honest Kitchen dog food began with a search for a human grade pet food that would be good enough for their own pets to eat, one that resembles a home made diet in quality, encompasses variety, is economical, nutritionally balanced, and quick and easy to prepare. Honest Kitchen Dog Food – It’s Dehydrated Their motto is – Dehydrated raw pet food with passion and principles! Honest Kitchen pet foods are made in an FDA approved, human-food-producing facility in Southern California, that makes the very same foods you eat. No processing in any pet food plant for Honest Kitchen dog foods or cat foods. Honest Kitchen Dog Food x 8   There are now eight varieties of Honest Kitchen dog food to choose from and all contain a broad array of amino acids, phytonutrients, vitamins, minerals and enzymes to help achieve and maintain optimum health for your dog with natural dog food. Verve was the original Honest Kitchen organic dog food. It contains organic rye, organic barley, hormone-free beef, organic flaxseed, organic oats, carrots,alfalfa, potatoes, eggs, red and green bell peppers, spinach, apples, cranberries, chicory, parsley, peppermint and rosemary. Yum! It’s best suited to adult and senior dogs with a low to moderate activity level. Force – you could describe Force Honest Kitchen dog food as a force to be reckoned with! Its list of ingredients include hormone-free chicken, organic flaxseed, potatoes, celery, sweet potatoes, apples, alfalfa, organic kelp, honey, zucchini, green beans, cabbage, bananas, papayas, yogurt, basil, garlic and rosemary. Force was formulated specifically for dogs with sensitive stomachs, and allergies to wheat and gluten. It’s both wheat and gluten free. Embark Honest Kitchen dog food was added to cater to active dogs, including puppies, and also for pregnancy and for nursing dogs where added nutrients are required for optimal nourishment of the unborn and newly born pups. It’s a low carbohydrate, grain free, dog food containing hormone-free USDA turkey, organic flaxseed, potatoes, celery, spinach, carrots, coconut, apples, organic kelp, eggs, sesame seeds, bananas, cranberries and rosemary.  Some dogs are intolerant of the usual meat protein sources, and some are intolerant of potatoes and flax. Preference was formulated by Honest Kitchen dog food for these dogs. Preference is a grain and meat free dog food base – you need to add your own protein. The beauty of this formulation is that if your dog does not tolerate chicken or turkey but can, for example tolerate venison or kangaroo, you can add the meat source your dog can tolerate. You can add eggs, fish, or even some cottage cheese, if your dog cannot tolerate any types of meat. What does Preference consist of? Alfalfa, sweet potatoes, cabbage, celery, apples, spinach, organic kelp, coconut, bananas, zucchini, and honey. Thrive is a later edition to the Honest Kitchen dog food range. Like Embark, Thrive is also low carbohydrate and is gluten free, but contains some grain. The ingredients comprise Hormone-free Chicken, Organic Quinoa, Sweet Potatoes, Spinach, Parsley, Organic Kelp, Rosemary, Vitamins and Minerals. Because of its low carbs – just 37% carbohydrate, Thrive is not only good for active dogs, including pregnant and nursing dogs, but is also excellent as part of a cancer recovery regime. More recent still are the Keen, Zeal and Love formulations. Keen was created for dogs with common protein intolerances – often dogs with protein intolerances don’t do well with  the more common proteins – chicken, beef, eggs and fish.  Keen is formulated with cage-free turkey meat, plus low gluten organic oats, and garden vegetables such as carrots and cabbage. It also has herbs such as organic alfalfa, rosemary and kelp, as well as some apples. The Zeal dog food by Honest Kitchen is another grain free food (like Embark) but this one is based on wild, line-caught white fish (Haddock and Whiting), with a touch of Salmon, mixed with some sweet potato, egg, organic coconut, organic alfalfa, apples, pumpkin, parsley, cabbage, bananas, cranberries, garlic, and rosemary  – yum!  Because it’s fish based, if your pooch is intolerant of any type of meat, this will be perfect. And most dogs love fish anyway, so it’s great for a change from whichever of the other Honest Kitchen formulations you usually feed your dog. And last but not least – Love dog food.  Love is a performance food for active dogs of all ages and life stages, including puppies and pregnant and nursing bitches and every other dog with an active lifestyle. Love is based on Midwestern beef with sweet potatoes, dandelion greens, parsley, papaya, cranberries, pumpkin and more.  Love is gluten free, low carbohydrate, and is perfect for dogs with egg or poultry intolerances. Have an active dog? What better way to show your love to your dog than to give him Love! Eight different varieties of natural dog food that you can really count on. Honest Kitchen Dog Food AND Supplements! Oh, and I almost forgot, Honest Kitchen also produces some excellent pet health supplements, and some really unusual and very yummy dog treats!         For more dog food reviews, and more on Honest Kitchen dog food and other types of natural dog food, click on any of the hyperlinks. --- ## Benefits Of Dog Obedience Classes URL: https://healthierdogs.com/benefits-of-dog-obedience-classes/ Type: post Modified: 2022-07-28 Our pets are a joy to be around with. They are faithful, fun and affectionate even though we are in a bad mood or smell funny. Isn’t it only right that we do our best to give them a great life? One way we can do this is by putting them through effective dog obedience classes. Now, you might be thinking this is more a benefit for you than for your loving canine.  Well, it goes both ways.  A well-trained dog is apt to have a better disposition in life. This means he is not easily stressed out or destructive, which will get him in trouble. When you take the time to have your dog trained, you are actually giving him a license to enjoy a better quality of life. The most obvious benefit of dog training is you enjoying a dog with good behavior. A dog that can sit, roll over, stay and heel is more attentive and will listen to you when you try to communicate with him. Because they have natural protective instincts, a trained dog is an excellent guard to have in your home. They will keep the members of your family safe from strangers and dangerous circumstances. A well-trained dog is also a great companion to take with you during excursions like camping and hikes. In fact, if your dog is really good, you can even let him join you in your sports events and exercises. This is a fun and effective way to keep your beloved pooch in shape. A dog that maintains his ideal weight is less susceptible to catching canine sicknesses like arthritis, diabetes and heart complications just to name a few. Some people think that having your pet trained is a luxury. They are wrong, it is actually a necessity. Socialization is one of the first things you will ever need to teach your puppy. A dog that grew up without socialization skills is aggressive, dominant and unable to adapt to new places and new people. Conversely, if your puppy is socialized early on, they will be an excellent contribution to society. Don’t forget, a good dog is also a big factor to having a clean and orderly home. Successfully potty training your pet will take about a few weeks only, but it is a gift that keeps on giving. More than that, with good dog training, he will not turn destructive and ruin furniture and clothing or shoes. Yes, a clean, organized and sweet-smelling home is a valuable asset that non-pet owners sometimes take for granted. More than anything else, successfully completing dog obedience classes with your dog will allow you precious bonding experiences with him. When you spend as much time as you do together, he will learn to anticipate your actions and strive to please you in any way that he can. He will not only be a wonderful family pet, but an absolutely reliable best friend as well. Now, what could be more worthwhile than that? --- ## Dry Eye in Dogs URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dry-eye-in-dogs/ Type: post Modified: 2022-07-28 Dry Eye in dogs is a painful condition for dogs.  And it often seems to be difficult to treat by conventional means (most often eye drops, often containing corticosteroids – which should of course be avoided wherever possible). Some dog breeds such as Pugs and English Bulldogs do have a tendency to be prone to Dry Eye. But any breed can develop the condition.  Dry Eye in dogs can be attributable to, and associated with, quite a number of conditions, including Diabetes, Hypothyroidism, Distemper, immune system problems including autoimmune diseases, or even to drug toxicity or surgery.  It can also be caused by allergies. Dry Eye in dogs can amount to a minor irritation for your dog in mild cases, to significant pain in significant cases of Dry Eye.  If left without treatment, your dog could eventually go blind.  Canine Dry Eye causes decreased tear production, and as you probably know, tears are essential for eye health in humans and animals alike. Once established, Canine Dry Eye is usually a permanent condition.  There is no known cure, but there are ways of keeping the condition under control to the extent that the dog does not suffer pain and discomfort. Another, newer, method of treating Dry Eye in dogs which seems to work more effectively than conventional eye drops, and is completely natural, is a liquid capsule that you give orally to your dog.  The best way is to pour it on your dog’s food, although directly into your dog’s mouth works just fine.  It contains various vitamins, minerals, and oils that keep your dog’s Dry Eye under control from the inside out. Try it!   Dog Clear Vision Herbs  – $ 28.99 Nature’s Herbs for Pets Clear Vision is beneficial for many eye conditions: eye infections/inflammation, double/blurred vision, dry eyes (non-tearing), conjunctivitis, failing eyesight, dilatation of pupils, cloudy eyes, etc. --- ## 10 Rare Dog Breeds URL: https://healthierdogs.com/10-rare-dog-breeds/ Type: post Modified: 2021-06-30 10 of the Rarest Dog Breeds in the World Great food for rare dog breeds – Life’s Abundance Dog Food   Pitbull Terrier, particularly certain colors, e.g. Merle Pitbull Terrier Turkish Pointer Mexican Hairless Dog Bergamasco Shepherd Tibetan Mastiff Thai Ridgeback Basenji Azawakh Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog Bedlington Terrier Life’s Abundance dog food is recommended for all breeds of dogs, including these rare breeds!                                        . --- ## Dog UTI – Diagnosis for Dog Urinary Problem URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-uti-diagnosis-for-dog-urinary-problem/ Type: post Modified: 2020-10-07 Click Here for more information on treating urinary tract infection in dogs. Urinary Tract Infection in Dogs Urinary tract infection in dogs (dog UTI) is common.  Some issues faced by dogs include canine urinary incontinence along with canine bladder and urinary tract infections. Does Your Dog Have a Weak Bladder? How do you know whether your dog has a weak bladder?  Urinary incontinence in dogs commonly occurs in female dogs, especially if your dog has been spayed.  If your dog has this problem, you may notice urine dribbling out when your dog is lying still or when she gets up from a prone position.  You could also notice a strong smell of urine around your dog and notice wet fur on her rear end.  These are almost sure signs of a dog UTI. As your dog gets older, the problem can start, or if already present, it can increase.  Male dogs are also likely to develop the problem as he ages as well. Your dog may not even seem to notice the problem.  But you may well notice it! Treatment for Urinary Tract Infections in Dogs  Canine urinary incontinence is sometimes treated with hormones or drugs that tighten the muscles in the urethral sphincter.  Such prescription drugs have side effects, though.  Hormone treatments can also suppress the immune system, and other types of drugs commonly used for urinary tract infection in dogs can affect your dog’s heart or cause hypertension, restlessness and severe weight loss or appetite loss. Bladder Infections and Urinary Tract Infections in Dogs Have you ever suffered from a bladder infection? If you know this condition as cystitis and have suffered from it, you will certainly sympathize with your dog.  You will definitely know how painful and uncomfortable such a bladder infection or urinary tract infection in dogs can be.  Some people describe a terrible burning feeling, while others describe the feeling as akin to passing out broken glass.  Ouch! Bladder infections can occur in dogs of any age, and although they are are much more common in cats, many dogs are also afflicted.  As mentioned, female spayed dogs tend to develop more bladder infections.  Recurring infections often occur in certain breeds, including Poodles, Labrador Retrievers and German Shepherds, especially middle aged to senior German Shepherds. Options for Treating Dog UTI Urinary tract infection in dogs is often treated with anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics.  These treatments will curb the infection, but antibiotics kill beneficial bacteria as well as the harmful bacteria that may have caused the bladder infection in your dog.  While antibiotics may well treat the symptoms and bring those symptoms under control, they fail to address the root causes of the problem. Another point about these types of drugs, is that if your dog is being treated with antibiotics or corticosteroids for any other condition, you need to be aware that these medications can actually predispose your dog to bladder infections.   Natural Remedies for Urinary Tract Infections in Dogs  The herbal and homeopathic remedies that humans have used with a great deal of success for several centuries can also work just as well on dogs as they do on humans.  Herbal and homeopathic remedies are particularly effective in treating both the symptoms AND the cause of UTIs in dogs.  These natural remedies are safe, effective and affordable, and do not have the side effects and possible health complications that conventional medicines are prone to have. Two well known herbs that have antiseptic and antibacterial properties that are excellent in the treatment of urinary tract infections are Bearberry and Barberry.  These two herbs also reduce inflammation and strengthen the immune system at the same time. Cantharis and Staphysagris are homeopathic remedies that can provide excellent symptomatic relief for many urinary problems such as cystitis. All natural solutions need to be appropriately prepared according to the Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia.  It is therefore very important to purchase remedies only from reliable homeopathic manufacturers. One company that is well-known for the quality of both their herbal and homeopathic products is Native Remedies, as all their products are carefully formulated and prepared in registered facilities.  And all products are backed by a twelve month money-back guarantee, and their prices are reasonable. – Click Here for more info! So if your dog has problems with urinary incontinence, recurrent bladder infection or UTIs, or if your dog has had a urinary tract blockage, you need to learn more about these conditions.  Be sure to read the testimonials written by other pet owners.  Your dog will thank you for it. Click Here for more information on treating urinary tract infection in dogs. --- ## Dog Food – What You Need to Know * URL: https://healthierdogs.com/ Type: page Modified: 2020-10-07 * There are so many brands that offer dog food today. You need only to stroll down a grocery store and you will find bags and bags of canine chow in colorful packaging that will try to entice you with discounts and supposedly yummy flavors your dog will enjoy. The problem is that not all of these food are really good for your pet’s health. In fact, most commercial pet food brands will actually do more harm to your dog’s health than you can imagine. Wellness Dog Food is NOT one of the commercial foods being discussed here! Ingredients in Commercial Dog Food Many of the ingredients that are found in these pet food products are processed and loaded with chemicals to make them last longer, look more appealing, and taste better to the canine palate. It doesn’t take a genius to realize that the more of these preservatives pumped into your dog’s system, the more likely he is susceptible to sickness and diseases. Yes, the commercial dog kibble may cost you a few dollars less in the grocery check-out counter, but you will end up paying more in the long run with medical bills and expenses. It is infinitely better to invest in good dog food early on and enjoy a good looking and happy dog, than scrimp on their food and watch them live a poor quality of life. Best Dog Food – Reviews If you’re asking – what’s the best type of dog food you can give your pet? The answer is the most natural kind. Before we domesticated our beloved dogs, they lived in the wild. They thrived on organic raw meat, fruits and vegetables. Are you worried about your dog being infected with bacteria and getting sick? You’ll be pleased to learn that a dog’s intestinal tract is shorter and more acidic than humans which means that bacteria found in raw food will not survive in their systems for very long. Of course this is not to say that ALL organic food that humans can eat are good for your dog. There are some ingredients that are very harmful to our canine friends. Some fruit and nuts such as macadamia and walnuts, fruit pits/cores, raisins and grapes, and the spice nutmeg are just a few examples of toxic food for dogs. Natural Diet for Dogs Meat is good for dogs. Many experts recommend the BARF diet which is the Bones And Raw Food or Biologically Appropriate Raw Food diet. Now, some concerned pet owners are not very comfortable serving their dogs uncooked meat and if this is you, it’s OK. You can cook them if you prefer, although there are more nutrients in raw food that your dog will benefit from. If you do cook the meat, make sure you remove the bones first. Cooked bones tend to splinter and be a choking hazard to the dog. You can either cook the bones, crush it to powder and sprinkle it over your dog’s food, or remove them and feed it to your dog raw separately. Either way, bones are a good source of calcium that is good for dogs. Best Dog Food Brands While it is ideal that you prepare this type of diet for your dogs, it is not always convenient to our busy schedules. The good news is that there are some great healthy pet food brands that offer organic and natural food that are packed with nutrients that your dog needs. You can find out which is the best dog food brands by looking at dog food reviews and comparisons. You will find some dog food ratings and reviews in other parts of this site, that analyse the ingredients in various foods to help you make an informed decision on what brand or brands you should try. My recommendations on the best dog food in the market today if you are wanting a convenience type food that is actually pretty healthy are: Healthy Dog Food Brands Acana dog food Blue Buffalo (also often simply called Blue dog food) Honest Kitchen Innova Life’s Abundance Merrick dog food Natural Balance dog food Orijen dog food Sojos Solid Gold Taste of the Wild Wellness dog food Wysong Ziwipeak This list is in not in any particular order of preference (in fact, I have simply listed the brands in alphabetical order). 10 Best Pet Food Brands for Dogs Many times I have been asked to list my 10 best dog food brands, and I have attempted to do that in my order of preference below. But really, dog food advice is very subjective. There are several excellent dog food brands, and some may suit your dog better than others. Or he simply may like the taste of one over another! My best advice is to steer clear of the commercial, supermarket-type brands (and also many of the so-called premium brands probably offered in your veterinarian’s surgery – vets are not trained (or very poorly trained) in animal nutrition (believe it or not), and get all (or most) of their information from the commercial pet food manufacturers which peddle their products in veterinary surgeries – you know the ones I’m talking about. Do your research – I recommend you start with the above list – and come to an informed conclusion on what you should feed your beloved dog. He deserves it! Feel free to explore the links on this page for dog food reviews and dog food ratings, as well as information specific to each of the recommended brands in the best dog food list above. Here is a quick rundown on each of the top dog food brands in the list, and roughly in my own order of preference: My No. 1 Dog Food: Wysong:  <= click to look or buy online The correct and healthy archetypal diet for pets is foods they are genetically adapted to. For carnivores, that would predominantly consist of raw prey. The logic and evidence for this is unassailable and Wysong has been teaching it for the past thirty years. For truly raw food, two options remain for consumers – feed raw foods from the grocery or feed Wysong True Non-Thermal (TNT™) raw cat and dog foods. The Wysong TNT™ process can only be done in relatively small batches. It requires extremely expensive equipment and is very labor intensive. The process requires days to complete because the product is never raised above approximate body temperature. Wysong Archetype™, Dream Treats ™, UnCanny ™, Origins™ and other Wysong raw animal products are produced at the Wysong facilities with this process. The truth is simple. Humans are the only creatures on the planet that cook food. Does nature really have it all wrong? Not likely. Pets need their raw archetypal diet and a variety of honest foods. Some grains and starch in the diet here and there is perfectly fine, but just not meal after meal. Cooked pet foods are fine here and there too, but not day after day, or exclusively. Pet owners deserve honest products designed and made by competent pet product producers (not marketers) that truly embrace health-first design and offer true non-thermal processing options. My No. 2 Dog Food: Sojos: <= click to look or buy online With Sojos raw dog food, you can be assured that your dog is eating fresh, wholesome all natural ingredients packed with essential nutrients. Sojos natural dog food forumulations are primarily gluten-free options with fruits and veggies that are gently air-dried and USDA raw meat which is freeze-dried right in Sojos own facility, keeping nutrients and enzymes intact. Sojos offers several varieties of natural raw dog food.  Your dog’s health and well-being will be maximised with these recipes. All Sojos foods are wheat and corn-free, contain no GMO‘s or artificial flavors. Sojos Original Dog Food Mix is a mix to which you add your own protein sources if you prefer to do that. It contains rolled oats, rye flakes, and barley flakes, along with pecans, tricalcium phosphate, dried kelp, parsley leaf, carob powder, basil, dried alfalfa, sunflower oil, and vitamin D3. All of the other Sojos foods are completely grain free, including the Grain Free Mix, to which you also add your own protein sources. The remaining Sojos formulations are complete meals in themselves, containing dried protein and vegetable sources, and include Sojos Wild Boar, Wild Salmon and Wild Venison varieties, all with 38% to 43% crude protein content, or if your dog requires a lower protein content (e.g. if your dog suffers from any skeletal problem), then the Sojos Complete Lamb, Beef or Turkey Dog Food formulations contain  22% to 26% crude protein. All are delicious, and dogs love them! My No. 3 Dog Food: Life’s Abundance: <= click to look or buy online Fresher food is more nutrient-rich. Many leading brands stockpile tons of food for months on end. Life’s Abundance makes healthy dog food weekly in small-batches. It’s only 4-to-6 weeks old when it’s delivered. It is only available online or from personal distributors who order online, so you can be confident that the food has not been sitting on a store shelf for longer periods! When you buy Life’s Abundance dog food, your dog will benefit from these strict inventory controls and product safety considerations that are second-to-none. Put your dog on the path to wellness. Provide them with a recipe for a long and happy life! Life’s Abundance natural dog food recipes contain only the finest ingredients, like … High-quality protein from chicken meal, for strong muscles A selection of nutritious vegetables A proprietary blend of vitamins and minerals An antioxidant system including Vitamins C and E Prebiotic fiber, Probiotics, and Dietary fiber, to help maintain a healthy digestive tract Omega-3 fatty acids, for healthy skin and a shiny coat Calcium and phosphorus, for healthy teeth and strong bones To be the best dry dog food, Life’s Abundance premium kibble does not contain … Any artificial flavors or colors Any corn, wheat or corn/wheat glutens My No. 4 Dog Food: Ziwipeak: <= click to look or buy online Natural balanced real-meat diet prepared with care in New Zealand. The peak health of dogs depends on the sustenance they get from real meat. ZiwiPeak products are formulated with the same balance of meat ingredients that dogs would find by hunting in the wild. It’s the diet that nature intended. Energize your pets with the nutritional value of a raw meat diet, with the convenience of air-dried jerky style portions. Ziwipeak’s unique, gentle air-drying process respects the nutritional value of 90% meat, organs, fish and green-lipped mussels. It minimises damage to the proteins, vitamins and sensitive nutrients and enzymes in the all-natural ingredients, so your dog gets nearly all the benefits of a raw-meat diet. The other 10% consists of carbohydrates from natural sources, such as green tripe, chicory, kelp and parsley, plus essential vitamins and minerals for a balanced diet. The food’s then further protected in a re-sealable airtight package. Beginning in their natural, wild habitats, cats and dogs have digestion systems evolved to thrive on raw meat and organs. And ZiwiPeak is just as nature intended. It has 90% real raw meat, organs and fish in the Ziwipeak dry food. The remaining 10% is pure goodness, in the form of carbohydrates from natural sources, such as green tripe, chicory, parsley and kelp, plus essential vitamins and minerals for a balanced diet, like chondroitin and glucosamine. My No. 5 Dog Food: Blue Buffalo Dog Food:  <= click to look or buy online BLUE recipes always start with high-quality proteins such as–deboned chicken, lamb, or fish. One of the most important ways BLUE distinguishes itself from other pet food brands is with the addition of our exclusive LifeSource Bits. When BLUE pet food was being developed, the Blue Buffalo Co. Ltd found that many of the highest-priced pet foods cook their added vitamins and minerals right along with the rest of their ingredients. Blue Buffalo was of the view that this process can degrade the potency of important antioxidants like Vitamin C up to 75%. LifeSource Bits are “cold-formed” to preserve their potency so that your dog or cat enjoys the full benefit of all vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. LifeSource Bits contain a precise blend of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists. These include ingredients help support your dog’s (or cat’s) immune system, support their specific life stage requirements and help maintain a healthy oxidative balance. My No. 6 Dog Food: Honest Kitchen Dog Food:  <= click to look or buy online The Honest Kitchen’s goal is to ensure your dog (and cat) is getting the absolute best pet food possible. Honest Kitchen dog food incorporates only quality ingredients, using a careful process of dehydration and a commitment to product quality. Honest Kitchen is committed to making its community and planet a better place. All this wrapped up in every Honest Kitchen box! They take out the water, you put it back! Dehydration is an age-old method of naturally preserving ingredients by simply removing moisture, without the need for chemicals of any kind. Human beings actually taste every ingredient that goes into all Honest Kitchen formulations, as part of its product development process. My No. 7 Dog Food: Acana Pet Food: <= click to look or buy online ACANA represents a new class of foods that mirrors the high and various inclusions of fresh, whole meats that dogs and cats are naturally evolved to eat, while excluding inappropriate ingredients. With three unique product lines formulated to our Biologically Appropriate™* standards, ACANA is guaranteed to meet the diverse nutritional needs of today’s dogs and cats. Made from Canada’s best and freshest ingredients in our own award-winning kitchens, ACANA‘s authentic foods keep your pet healthy, happy and strong. Read our ingredients and we think you’ll agree. *What does Biologically Appropriate™ mean? – 5 factors make up this definition: 1. Meat Concentrated: All dogs carry the same evolutionary origin and DNA as the gray wolf. Just like their wild cousins, our companion dogs and cats are carnivores. They are equipped with sharp teeth and a body evolved to effectively metabolize proteins and fats from meats, not plants. 2. Diverse Meat Ingredients: Think about the dramatic variation of the natural diet: a nest of eggs or rabbit today, a duck or goose tomorrow, fresh fish the next. This variety of fresh meats and fish provides the diversity of proteins and fats essential to the peak health of dogs (and cats). From cage-free poultry and eggs, to ranch-raised red meats and wild-caught fish, ACANA foods feature a diversity of meats to mirror the natural diet and promote the peak health of dogs (and cats). 3. Protein Rich and Carbohydrate Limited: Dogs and cats don’t need carbohydrates. Their natural diet contains few, if any. Your dogs and cats are carnivores. Our pets have evolved to metabolize animal proteins and fats as energy sources. ACANA limits carbohydrates to about half that of conventional foods, and features steel-cut oats as a low glycemic single source of grain. 4. Whole Fruits and Vegetables: Give your pet important vitamins and protective nutrients instead of high glycemic grains like corn and rice. Fruits and vegetables supply important vitamins and protector nutrients in natural, bio-available form. They also provide the limited amount of carbohydrates needed to form a kibble. 5. Fresh, Regional, Ingredients: Cage-free poultry, ranch-raised meats, wild-caught fish and sun-ripened fruits and vegetables need to be passed fit for human consumption before arriving fresh each day loaded with goodness. What many pet foods call fresh are actually pet-grade meats. They are frozen into 25kg blocks – to make them easier to transport and store – and often frozen and thawed a number of times. It’s usually the case that they are many months old before becoming food for pets. My No. 8 Dog Food: Merrick:  <= click to look or buy online Merrick’s bold assertion is that they don’t make pet food – what they make is the best food ever, for the best pet ever (yours, of course!) Merrick’s real, wholesome recipes use USDA-inspected deboned meat and fresh produce for industry-leading levels of protein, glucosamine and chondroitin. Merrick never imports ingredients from China. It handcrafts its food in its Hereford, Texas kitchen. Merrick sources ingredients from farmers they know and trust. Because your best deserves their best. Merrick’s award-winning recipes provide leading levels of quality protein, along with farm-fresh fruits and vegetables like sweet potatoes, blueberries, peas and more. Industry-leading levels of Omega 6 and Omega 3 fatty acids aid in a healthy skin and coat for dogs, and powerful levels of glucosamine and chondroitin foster healthy hips and joints. No Merrick product contains any corn, wheat, soy or gluten ingredients. My No. 9 Dog Food: Orijen Pet Food: <= click to look or buy online Protein-rich, carbohydrate-limited and grain-free, ORIJEN features the highest fresh meat inclusions of any dry dog or cat food, at the same time excluding many conventional pet food ingredients — such as inappropriate high-glycemic cereal grains and vegetable proteins that simply are not present in the natural diet. To mirror the natural diet, ORIJEN also features a diversity of meats including fresh, free-run chicken and turkey, fresh whole eggs, fresh free-range red meats and fresh saltwater and freshwater fish — all in a Biologically Appropriate ratio of 80 percent meat, 20 percent fruits and vegetables, and zero grain (80.20.0). By mirroring the foods that dogs and cats evolved to eat, Biologically Appropriate ORIJEN nourishes as Mother Nature intended, resulting in the peak health and happiness of your cherished dog or cat as well as your peace of mind. My No. 10 Dog Food: Natural Balance Dog Food: <= click to look or buy online Natural Balance is said to be Truly The Food For A Lifetime.® Dick Van Patten’s Natural Balance Pet Foods®  is based in Burbank, California. When Dick founded the company in 1989 he intended to develop the best pet food on the market. Dick wanted a healthy pet food based on sound scientific principles and truth, not marketing hype. And it seems that he did it!  No matter which of the Natural Balance pet foods you choose, whether the dry or canned varieties; grain-free or limited ingredient pet food; or vegetarian formulas, you can be assured that it truly can be The Food For a Lifetime.® Every production run of Natural Balance pet food is tested before distribution so that you can “Buy With Confidence”. Natural Balance® Pet Food encompasses several formulas, all featuring high-quality meats and unique proteins, complex carbohydrates and nourishing fruits and vegetables. For over a decade, Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets® with limited protein and carbohydrate sources were one of the first of their kind on the market and have paved the way in the limited ingredient diets category. Not in my Personal Top 10 Dog Foods, but Here are Another 4 Pretty Good Foods: Wellness Dog Food: <= click to look or buy online The history of Wellness® dates back almost 84 years, with the inception of Old Mother Hubbard®, oven-baked dog biscuits. One day a local sailor threw a biscuit to his dog that happily gobbled it up. The rest, as they say, is history. Upon its official establishment in 1926, Old Mother Hubbard began baking dog biscuits for distribution throughout the Northeast. Fast forward to the 1990’s, when a dedicated team began working with a team of animal nutrition experts, veterinarians and scientists to develop a food that would revolutionize the pet food industry. The result was Wellness. Wellness recipes for Dogs were introduced in 1997. From the first step to the last, every precaution is taken to ensure the Wellness produces a quality product that will enrich your pet’s life. This allows him to experience true health, happiness and vitality. Wellness employs rigid manufacturing procedures and protocols, enabling them to produce nutrient-dense food that is safe, wholesome and delicious. Wellness carefully handles ingredients in order to preserve the vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. The end result is a balanced formula. Wellness never uses artificial flavors, preservatives or other chemicals. Instead, Wellness selects a small number of pure, authentic ingredients that are brimming with the nutrients your pet needs to thrive. Innova Food for Dogs: <= click to look or buy online Dogs and cats are healthy and happy when they eat wholesome, natural foods: high-quality proteins like chicken and turkey, and farm-fresh fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots. Applying this nutritional philosophy, Natura introduced Innova in 1993 as the first holistic, natural pet food. For more than two decades, Innova has been improving the lives of pets by using superior, farm-grown nutrition. Expert animal nutritionists carefully select ingredients for Innova. Innova only uses nutritious and healthful ingredients. High-quality chicken, turkey, salmon or red meat is the FIRST ingredient Fresh fruits and vegetables like crisp, hand-picked apples and vibrant, whole carrots 100% whole grains, plus grain free options Vitamin E helps support the immune system, plus antioxidants from apples and blueberries Omega fatty acids help nourish a healthy, shiny coat Solid Gold Dog Food: <= click to look or buy online Solid Gold’s mission began in 1974 when Sissy Harrington McGill, a pioneering, animal-loving woman, decided her dogs deserved a nutritious, natural food that would keep them happy and healthy. Thus, Solid Gold’s flagship product, Hund-N-Flocken was born. Sissy believed everyone’s pets deserved the best as well. She built a strong following of pets and their owners, sample by sample. Now, over 40 years later, Solid Gold has a well-developed line of natural and holistic dry foods, canned foods, treats, and supplements for both dogs and cats. Solid Gold states its mission as being to create the kind of nutrition that will change pets’ lives in mind, body, and spirit. That’s why, for over 40 years, Solid Gold has scoured the earth looking for simple, natural ingredients that unleash the very best in your pet, which they call their “inner gold”! Powerful proteins. Vitamin-rich super foods. Balanced ingredients. That’s the Solid Gold commitment. Taste of the Wild: <= click to look or buy online Years of domestication have turned your pets from fierce predator to best friends. Modern science, however, proves that your dog or cat still share the DNA of the wolf or wild cat. Taste of the Wild® Brand Dog and Cat food offers your pet a diet dictated by his genes. It provides your pet with the kind of natural, balanced diet that he could find “in the wild.” Now you can satisfy your dog or cat’s instinctual cravings with Taste of the Wild foods. Made with real roasted meats and supplemented with fruits and vegetables, these grain-free formulas provide a superior taste sensation. They provide highly digestible energy and natural antioxidants to support a healthy immune system and overall health. --- ## Use Only Organic Dog Food Sources URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-food-use-only-organic-sources/ Type: post Modified: 2020-10-07 There is no other event which electrifies our darling pet dogs other than that significant time of day where we show our desire to feed them their favorite dog food. We must be very careful, however, with what we feed and prepare for our dogs. In the history of dog food, there have been multiple recalls due to contamination. This is why it pays off to believe in natural manufacturers of dog food. Organic Dog Food   Nowadays, the landscape of the dog food market afford many applied reasons why we should have faith in natural dog food. It is almost unimaginable to produce checks and balances against the dangers which non organic produced dog food can give to your pet. The solution to this is to resort to the producers of natural and organic dog food. In this particular deal, Honest Kitchen and Solid Gold pet food are great and sensible options. Solid Gold Pet Food Solid Gold Pet food is certainly one of the best dog foods available in the market. It is also one of the most dependable since it only derives from natural, and holistic origins. Their business line admits nine dry dog foods, including high protein, low carbohydrate dry dog food. Apart from this, Solid Gold Pet food also has a line of canned dog foods, as well as nutritional supplements and treats so that your dog could stay sharp and healthy. Solid Gold Pet food never uses chemical preservatives. Solid Gold Pet food also never expends genetically varied or primary allergens which induce irritation for dogs. Their company for sure only desires what is finest for your dog while at the same time, furnishing them with the best tasting treats. Solid Gold Pet food also makes it a point not to contribute animal or poultry fat since the unreasonable saturated fats in these may extend to dog heart disease or cancer for your dog. Honest Kitchen A different personal favorite when it concerns natural dog food is the Honest Kitchen brand name. Honest Kitchen uses a gentle dehydration process for its products, and thus enabling them to maintain the integrity of their foods. The fruits and vegetables of Honest Kitchen are harvested at peak times of their ripeness, prior to being mildly dried. Honest Kitchen firmly thinks that dogs merit the same nutrient diets which you would give your own family members. All the treats of Honest Kitchen are dependable for human ingestion also. This maybe is the elemental test if we really do care for our pet dog, and if what we are letting them feast on is healthy for them. Would it actually be inviolable if you yourself ate up the dog food and would it also be good for you and organic? If it is, then chances are, you are being a responsible dog possessor, and truly love your dog as a result. Which Will You Choose? The most healthy dog food are those which come from natural sources. Not only do your dogs get the best tasting treats ever, but they are also treated to the most healthy organic sources. A good producer of natural dog food is Honest Kitchen. Another reliable brand name in the organic dog food industry is Solid Gold pet food. If we truly love our dogs, then we will only choose from these brands. – Melinda Smith --- ## Dog Products for Your Dog’s Health URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-food-and-other-dog-products-for-your-dogs-health/ Type: post Modified: 2020-10-07 Dogs are one of the most loyal companions and best of friends we can ever have. They constantly make us happy whenever we see them go thrilled about seeing us again. They jump at us when they see us, chase us as we go inside our house and lick our faces as we sit down on our couch. These are some of the priceless moments we enjoy with them, those simple things that our dogs do to show their love and compassion to us. We treat them as family members and we love them as if they are one of us. Like how we are with our family members, we should also be concerned with their welfare and well-being. As their masters, we can show our compassion and give back our love to our beloved through simple things like taking good care of them the way we would with our family members. We would always want them to be in premium health condition and in good shape, and away from any sickness or diseases. To keep our dogs healthy, full of energy and to prevent any form of sickness or diseases that can threaten them, we must be mindful of what we feed them.Responsible dog owners would go for the best dog products available in the market. These products like dog food should include all the essential nutrients that can help our dogs’ to meet their nutritional needs. Aside from its nutritional values and benefits, we must also look for alluring and appetizing foods for our dog to persuade them to eat more, which is entirely advantageous to their well being. Finding the best food for our dogs is an easy task since they are widely available. We as dog owners have the freedom to select the right dog food which is available in varying prices and nutritional values and health benefits. We can opt for natural, organic and even premium foods that we can feed our dogs with. The important thing is that we know what is best for our dogs. It is our responsibility as dog owners to take time in educating ourselves with the best dog food available in the market. Natural dog foods are made using natural food stuffs and are free of any preservatives that can harm and trigger allergic reactions with our dogs. Organic dog foods since they are made from unprocessed ingredients are also free from preservatives and any harmful chemicals that can pose dangers to our dog’s health. Meanwhile, a great alternative comes in the form of premium dog foods which contain more protein and other minerals which are good for our dogs. Additional nutrients and palatability to the dog food can be obtained easily through pet food mix. On of the most well-known manufacturers of food mix for dogs is sojos food. Sojos food sells a wide variety of food mix for dogs that are perfectly suited to complement the food that we feed our beloved pets. With pet food mixes, our dogs can get have the benefit of optimum nutrition while encouraging them to eat more. We must develop a conscious effort in educating ourselves in finding the best dog products for our dogs. Finding the best dog products available in the market is one of our primary duties as dog owners. We should always look after the best dog food that can address our pets’ nutritional and health requirements. Sojos food pet food mix provides a great way to improve and enhance our dog’s food for an added nutrition and palatability. – Melinda Smith --- ## Legal URL: https://healthierdogs.com/legal/ Type: page Modified: 2020-10-06 Health Disclaimer: Statements on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information on this website is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. What does this mean for you? – It means that you must not rely on any information you find on this website without first checking with your vet that the information or recommendation is appropriate for your dog. Any health concerns should always be discussed with your vet – not self-diagnosed by looking at any internet site, including this one. Content Disclaimer: HealthierDogs.com works in affiliation with online merchants. All prices displayed on this site are subject to change without notice. Although we do our best to keep all links up to date and valid on a daily basis, HealthierDogs.com cannot guarantee the accuracy of links and special offers displayed. HealthierDogs.com is not responsible for any products ordered from our affiliate merchants and we cannot be held responsible for any actions of our affiliated merchants. 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But, we only use IP addresses and these are not linked to personally identifiable information. COOKIES: No cookies are used on this site. LINKS TO MERCHANT SITES HealthierDogs.com contains links to merchant sites. Be aware that HealthierDogs.com is not responsible for the privacy practices of these sites. We encourage you to read the privacy statements of each and every web site that collects personally identifiable information. AFFILIATE LINKS: We are affiliates for a number of companies that we believe in. If you click on those links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Also, as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. This privacy statement applies solely to information collected by this site. --- ## Dog Parvo Symptoms URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-parvo-symptoms/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27  Click Here! Before we look at the symptoms of parvo virus in your dog lets take a look at what parvo virus is, what it does and how it is spread. Parvovirus is a virus first identified in 1978 that spread worldwide in just two years. Over the years, the virus has mutated into two distinct strains and there is evidence of a third strain in Spain, Italy and Vietnam. All cases of canine parvovirus or CPV come from the first two strains. It was originally thought that the virus would mutate into the feline panleukopenia, a feline parvovirus but this was found to be untrue. All species have their own parvovirus but it is not spread outside the species.  Even though the virus cannot be spread directly from a cat to a dog or from a bird to a cat, they can spread the virus through contact. For instance, your cat wanders through the neighbor’s yard and picks up the virus on her feet she can then bring it into your home potentially infecting any canines on the property. The parvo virus works in one of two ways through the intestines or the heart. The intestinal infection is picked up by the animal through oral contact with contaminated feces. In other words through the feces of another canine who is infected. The virus then attacks rapidly dividing cells in the lymph nodes, intestinal crypts and bone marrow. This will allow normally occurring bacteria from the intestine to enter the blood stream making the animal septic. The virus will be shed in the stool for up to three weeks making this disease very contagious to non-vaccinated pets. The cardio form of the infection is most often seen in puppies that are infected in utero or shortly after birth. It must be noted that the cardiac form of CPV is less common since the mother usually passes immunity on to her pups from birth. The virus will attack the heart in the infected pup and result in death shortly thereafter. Symptoms of CPV usually present within 3-10 days of contact and they include lethargy, vomiting, fever and diarrhea. The diarrhea then causes severe dehydration and secondary infections. These are the actual causes of death rather than the virus itself. Survival rate depends on how quickly CPV is diagnosed and treatment is begun. When the case is not caught early the best treatment option is an IV through which fluids are pushed to re-hydrate the animal more quickly, in addition anti-nausea and antibiotic shots may be given intramuscular. The prognosis is good with proper care but an absolute death sentence without it. There have been a few reports that the human antiviral, Tamiflu, can be effective in treating CPV but there are no studies to substantiate this. A veterinarian will advise you to give your pet a parvo shot about eight weeks after they are weaned. With the prevalence of the virus and its ability to kill some precaution should be taken to protect your canine. There are also natural methods of treating dog Parvo symptoms – see the free Dog Parvo Information booklet – click here, or to order the treatment package, click here. But whatever you do, don’t delay. If you suspect your dog may have Parvo Virus, act immediately. This is an aggressive virus that will very likely kill your dog if left untreated. And it will happen quite quickly. There is no time to lose at all. Act now. Click Here! Find out how to prevent parvo and treat parvo before it’s too late! --- ## Dog Training Tips – Using Body Language URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-training-tips-using-body-language/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Dog Training Tips – Using Body Language to Help with Your Dog’s Training Let’s face it, dogs are in no way stupid, if they were then no one would want them as pets. Sometimes though, dog owners do not give their pet enough credit because just as we can teach them to learn voice commands, they can also learn body language. When you use body language along with spoken commands, training a dog is made much simpler. One example is that of an overly excited dog who often jumps on any visitor that enters your home. All puppies go through this phase and while most do get rig of it, some others will continue these actions well into adulthood. Every time that a guest makes their way into your home, the puppy will become easily excited regardless of whether they are there to play with the puppy or not. The puppy wants to know what the guest has to offer them, they want to know if the guest has any treats or even if the person wants to play with them and the easiest way for them to determine this is to simply jump all over anyone who enters the house. As a result, you start giving the dog a series of commands, even ones that you have never taught the puppy. Every time as your tone becomes firmer and firmer and harsher, so too does the dog become ever more excited. This becomes a vicious and chaotic circle that never ceases until either you throw the dog outside, or the guest leaves. When you grab the dog and raise your voice, the dog takes this as playing and the more that you do it, the more that he or she becomes excited. In order to better communicate with your dogs, here are some simple tips. Instead of joining in on the game and making the puppy more excited, you need to take a moment and look at how you approach the situation. How you approach the dog is body language and the dog interprets it much differently than you or I would. 1) When your puppy is doing something that you are not liking, refrain yourself from chasing the puppy around the house and yelling at him or her. While you may interpret this as anger, the dog will see it as you wanting to play right along with them and join in on the game. 2) It is important to remember that you always need to show dominance over the dog, instead of yelling, stand upright and puff out your chest in order to give yourself a larger silhouette and in a very firm voice, reprimand the puppy. The goal is to intimidate, but not to scare the puppy. 3) Remember that while the dog is excited, virtually anything you do can be interpreted as play. Never move quickly and using a smooth toned voice, talk to the dog. The ultimate goal is to show the puppy the behavior you would like him or her to have and make it a game for them; see who can stay the most relaxed. Your Dog Supplies Store offers blowout sales on many dog supplies such as dog beds, clothing, accessories and more. Save up to 87% right now! For more dog training tips – click here. --- ## Dog Treats – Find Out How to Make Them URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-treats-find-out-how-to-make-them/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 There are a lot of dog owners worldwide, and anyone of them can tell you that dog is indeed man’s best friend. Offering unconditional love, dogs can be a steady companion for people ages 2 to 92. However, caring for your family pet isn’t as simple as it may seem. Learning what is fit and unfit for our dogs should be an important priority for those with man’s best friend. What we feed our dogs can have an adverse or beneficial effect on the health of our canine companions. Dogs of today are very much different from wild animals that roam around the wilderness. Having been domesticated by humans, dogs now lack the necessary elements in order to survive alone for very long without problems. As such, their diets must be carefully monitored to ensure that our faithful companions are always fit and happy. This is where homemade dog food and homemade dog treats come in. Dog foods bought from the supermarket are a dime a dozen. Some boast special vitamins that make the coat shinier, or protects from worms or other parasites. However, some studies have shown that a steady diet of particular dog foods may be unhealthy for the house pooch. In fact, the vast majority of dog foods out there are deemed unfit for human consumption. Recipes for homemade dog food and dog treats can be found online, they offer good tips for starters and advice on the preparation of doggie meals. Dogs can actually eat most of the foods we eat, however with dogs the simpler the better. With a little adjustment anyone can prepare healthy dog treats! Recipes for dog food can be readily found online, and offer some basic starting tips. A few good tips that can be learned are that raw or spoiled garlic may be poisonous to dogs, thus if you make homemade dog food be sure to keep them out. Another important tidbit is that, as much as we humans enjoy cooked food, so too dogs. Because a minority of experts believe that dogs no longer have the necessary elements to properly digest uncooked meat, serving your dog cooked meat prepared with natural cooking oils are great! Two more things to watch out for are cooked bones or chocolates, never serve your dog these as chocolates can cause skin problems, and cooked bones may sometimes lodge in the digestive tract. An important tip for future dog treat chefs is to remember to mix in 40% meat, 30% vegetables and finally 30% of starch to maximize the nutrients and vitamins found in each food type and keep your pet in tip top shape! Homemade dog food, when prepared properly, can actually be a healthier alternative for your everyday doggie meal. These dog treats can be prepared right in the comfort of your own home care of recipes for dog food that can be found on the internet. Besides being the healthier choice, this way of dog food preparation will also save you that few extra bucks. – Melinda Smith --- ## Pet Food, Healthy Choices for Healthier Pets URL: https://healthierdogs.com/pet-food-healthy-choices-for-healthier-pets/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Dog owners will attest that they want their pets at the peak of their health at all times. Having a four legged family member means that extra care has to be taken to consider their well. However this may not be as simple a matter as it may seem, depending on the dog this can be a relatively low maintenance experience or a troubling one. However, though most pet related problems can be alleviated with a visit to the vet, dogs that have sensitive skin can be quite prone to allergies especially if given the wrong pet food. And there is nothing worse than a dog with chronic allergies. The dog has a difficult time when afflicted with skin problems, they itch and scratch and in severe cases resort to self mutilation by biting the problem areas. Chronic skin allergies are one of the worst afflictions that may happen to a happy dog. They begin to itch nonstop, and with more severe cases, resort to biting themselves bloody until they get rid of the itch. This of course is no good, as your happy dog can get really grumpy and sick fast due to infections caused by open wounds. As prevention is the best cure; the pet food consumed by your dog must be of the very best quality in order to secure your dog against skin problems. Brands like Flint River Ranch dog food and burns dog food are both hypo allergenic and all natural. They contain no preservatives, artificial flavors or colorings and are made specifically with your dog’s health in mind. Made from the freshest ingredients in the market, this pet food will not be a factor in causing chronic skin disease. All natural pet foods also have the added benefits of being hypo allergenic. As such, they will not be a factor in causing chronic skin problems, and with the wide array of choices to choose from, your dog will surely find the dog food made specifically for them. Treat your dog to a diet made from all natural fresh ingredients. This will ensure that they eat nothing but the very best hypo allergenic foods balanced with the right amount of nutrients and vitamins for the optimal development of your dog! If your dog has sensitive skin, then your pet might also be prone to skin allergies. Chronic skin problems may arise from the pet food they eat. Try out natural and holistic brands like Flint River Ranch dog food and Burns dog food. They provide natural, well balanced, hypoallergenic meals for your pet. Eliminate skin problems from your dog’s life. – Melinda Smith --- ## Dog Information on Food and Nutrition URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-information-on-food-and-nutrition/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 We love our pets like members of our families, and want to give them the best to ensure many happy and healthy years of companionship. There is a lot of dog information out there, much of it comes from conflicting and biased sources, and does not always give us the knowledge we really need. What can do in order to give our pets the happiest, healthiest lives we possibly can? Many commercial dog foods are composed of filler ingredients, or by-products, which provde for very little of our pets’ nutritional needs. These would be the doggy equivalent of feeding your pets fast food twice a day, ever day. Is it any wonder then, that canine diseases like diabetes are on the rise? For the benefit of our beloved pets, we should be educated on their health and nutrition. Cats and dogs are carnivores, and therefore they require protein in the form of meat. A good dog food should ideally contain more than one meat source in its contents. Lamb, beef, turkey meal or other ingredients like these are ideal sources of protein, and even more so if they are among the first five ingredients of the list, which signifies that they compose a high percentage of the total food. When we look at dog food labels, we should check for the presence of these ingredients, which should generally be avoided. Corn, corn gluten and other grain products are not necessary for dogs, and provide only empty carbohydrates. These are often used to “bulk up” a dog food by a pet food company in order to save money. Ingredients containing the word “by-products” should also be avoided as they can contain pet food plant waste and inedible animal parts. Vitamins and minerals are also necessary for a good canine diet, and many foods list nutritional supplements in their ingredients. Dog information sources say that chelated minerals have the advantage of being easier for dogs to process. Chelated minerals are included in many quality foods such as lifes abundance dog food. Additionally, a pet owner might consider other ways of feeding for optimum dog health. Many owners not choose to feed their pets raw food, as this mimics what a dog or cat would eat in the wild. But for the more squeamish, it is easy to find recipes online that tell us how to make your own dog food. No matter the brand or style of feeding you decide on, be sure to keep up to date on dog information on health and nutrition. Information sources can be found on the internet and libraries, but of you have any doubts or questions, please contact your veterinarian as the best source of dog information. If we love a pet like a family member, we should feed them accordingly. Learn about nutrition and other dog information in order to choose the best food, which should contain real meats and chelated minerals. Lifes abundance dog food is one good example. Some owners also feed raw or recommend that you make your own dog food. Always consult a veterinarian for issues on dog health. – Melinda Smith --- ## Dog Treats Can Have Ingredients Harmful to Your Dog URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-treats-can-have-ingredients-harmful-to-your-dog/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 When it comes to your dog’s well-being, nutrition is of the utmost importance. Feeding your pet properly can mean the difference between a long, healthy life, and a sickly, miserable existence. And since our dogs can’t select what they eat, their health ultimately rests on us, their owners who choose for them. Dog food and dog treats make feeding our pets easier, but what’s really in those cans and plastic bags? In most cases, sad to say, it’s some of the worst things you could feed your dog. To know what your dog food is made of, read the label. The components are listed by weight, and the first few ingredients comprise what makes up the majority of the dog food. Meat and grain by-products are some of the least-desirable ingredients you may find in your dog food. If you dog food or dog treats list these as main ingredients, find another brand. A lot of grain and grain-related ingredients may increase the amount of carbohydrates in your dog’s food, buy up to seventy percent, while your average dog really only needs less than thirty percent carbohydrates. The reason that so many pet food makers put wheat byproducts is simple: they’re cheap to use. These byproducts act as filler: they will result in more dog food produced, for a lower price. But too much carb can seriously shorten your dog’s lifespan – it leads to digestive problems and obesity, along with all the obesity-related health problems. Animal by-products aren’t much of an improvement. While they do contribute protein in the diet, this meat is basically parts that are thrown away because they’re unfit for human consumption: lungs, spleen, kidneys, brain, liver, blood, bone, and stomach and intestines. To make things worse, there is little to no regulation for the sources of this meat: it could be from a meat processing plant, but it could also be roadkill, or 4-D (dead, diseased, disabled, dying) livestock. So please- take the time to read those labels and understand what they mean. Find a premium dog food that can assure you that your pet is receiving only the best nutrition. There are brands out there like Wellness dog food, which produce dog treats and food made of mostly whole foods like human-grade chicken and lamb meat. It may cost a bit more than the cheap brands, but it pays off more: you’ll have a healthy, happy canine companion. Buying premium dog food can help you avoid harmful ingredients that can be found in many dog food and dog treats brands today. Those cheap brands have animal and grain byproducts which come from questionable sources and can lead to problems like digestive diseases and obesity. Manufacturers like Wellness dog food is one of the brands out there that contain only the freshest, most nutritious ingredients, so that you dog is happy and disease-free. – Melinda Smith --- ## Dog Food: Healthy Options URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-food-healthy-options/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 It is always a great joy to own a pet. Upon coming home, you can look forward to your dog greeting you enthusiastically, making the stressful work day easier to bear. It is important to maintain your dog’s health so the moments you spend last. You can give your dog a longer life by giving them healthy dog food. Commercially available dog food is usually available in wet canned form or dry form. Dry dog food does not easily spoil and comes at cheap prices. About six to 10 percent is the measurement for moisture. Though the dry food is a practical alternative budget-wise, many of its ingredients are unhealthy fillers. The dog’s absorbance of nutrients works based on the brand’s fillers. White rice gives some nutrients while oats and beans give nothing. Carbohydrates from corn and potatoes have less nutritional value than rice. Cheaper brands that use corn meal also do not help with nutrient absorption. These cheap ingredients can cause unfortunate side effects like appetite loss and diarrhea. Buyers should note the descending order in which ingredients are listed. The unhealthy options place barley, rice, or corn first. You are better off buying brands that list beef first. In terms of protein, the Association of American Feed Control Officials advises that meats are weight before cooking when listing the corresponding amount. Sojos food is a healthy alternative to commercially available dog food. This brand uses healthy ingredients such as sea vegetables, safe grains, and herbs. Ingredients stick to the basics, leaving out any fillers and preservatives. It is a long-term health guarantee for you and your dog. Wellness pet food such as sojos provides dog owners less worries and a better money investment. Dry dog food appears cheaper and more practical but will actually lead to more vet and medicine charges. It is better to spend on more now and less later. Choosing the right dog food for your pet guarantees easy and hassle-free canine care. Look for brands that use wholesome and safe ingredients. Most commercial brands use fillers such as corn meal that can damage your dog’s health. To avoid this, look for preservative-free alternatives in brands such as sojos food. This is a wellness pet food that every dog will enjoy eating. – Melinda Smith --- ## Why Is Natural Dog Food Better For You Pet URL: https://healthierdogs.com/why-is-natural-dog-food-better-for-you-pet/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Many people are quite concerned about their nutritional habits these days, so it seems logical that the the next step would be to take a good look at what they are feeding their pets. Most dog foods are loaded with filler ingredients and animal byproducts that no human could consume. If you wouldn’t be able to eat it, why would you want to feed it to your dog? Luckily, there are numerous types of natural dog food on the market. Natural dog food is dog food made with all natural ingredients without artificial chemicals and additives that are not only unhealthy for your dog but can actually cause your dog to eat more. Because these additives contain no nutrients, they don’t fill your dog up the way organic dog food does.Natural dog food should be made out of items which are safe to feed your pet. When you go to a pet store next time compare a branded dog foods with a natural dog food. You can observe the organic dog food and its ingredients and know what they actually contains. There really is no downside to putting a little more thought into what you feed your dog. Not only will the food bills go down as your dog eats less, your pet will be healthier and, very probably, happier. The filler in dog food is not so far from the junk food we’ve all learned to avoid, and can leave your dog slow and sleepy. Another good thing you can do is to make your own dog food. This is a good way to make sure your dog is getting good ingredients, as you’ll be the one putting them into the dog’s food. Still, you should keep in mind that canines have different nutritional needs than humans, so make sure your dog is getting the right vitamins and nutrients. When considering dog food, it is wise to thoroughly research the ingredients you are putting into your dog’s body. You may choose to feed your dog homemade food, or you may choose to purchase premium quality natural dog foods, or you may do a combination of both. No matter your choice, your dog’s health is well worth the extra expense of better quality foods. Most dog foods are full of filler and animal byproducts that are not fit for human consumption. Dog food such as natural dog food is made with all natural ingredients without artificial chemicals and additives that are not only unhealthy for your dog but can actually cause your dog to eat more. Because these additives contain no nutrients, they don’t fill your dog up the way organic dog food does. Another great option is to actually make your own dog food. This is a great way to have complete control over everything your dog eats. – Jennefer Poultson --- ## Finding Effective Dog Diarrhea Cures URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-diarrhea-cures/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Despite the nasty clean-up that follows it, diarrhea is not necessarily a bad thing.  It is actually the dog’s internal defense to eliminate harmful substances from his body.  As such, do not be alarmed when his increased stool movement is accompanied with some vomiting. As long as the canines do not show signs of lethargy, bloating, extremely high-fever and have bloody stools a home  will suffice. You need to get to the source of it all and commence a 24 hour fast for your dog it is the first step of an effective dog diarrhea treatment. Don’t worry; this will not kill your dog. After a day has elapsed, resume feeding but cut his usual intake in half. Do not s’erve table scraps, commercial pet food and keep away from outdoor food sources like grass or twigs. Serve bland meals throughout the day. It should consist of one part lean meat and two parts rice or potatoes. You can use skinless chicken and turkey, scrambled egg, cottage cheese all unseasoned. Avoid any snacks and food that have oils and sugar in them. You can reintroduce his regular meals after three to seven days depending on the condition of his tummy. Pumpkin is also said to help in both diarrhea and constipation. Add a few teaspoons into the dog’s meals, or water bowl. Administer probiotics like Lactobacillus Sporogenes to his meals. They are available in powder or liquid form in many online stores and pet shops. This will soothe the canine’s tummy, as well as help restore the stability of his intestinal tract. Probiotic supplements are recommended dog diarrhea cures. Engage your dog in moderate exercise regularly. This will lower stress levels as well as improve his digestion. A 20 minute walk around the block daily will do a lot in his over-all health. Do not however introduce a major exercise program while the dog is recovering from diarrhea because it will only aggravate his condition. Diarrhea is a natural healing mechanism of the dog; but if the diarrhea continues beyond a few days with no improvement, you need to bring him to the veterinarian right away. After a while of chronic diarrhea, he loses important nutrients and the toxicity in his body will be damaging to him. Because detoxification mechanism lies partly in his intestinal tract, his immunity system will not be able to heal effectively. This becomes a destructive cycle that will be difficult to reverse so monitor physical and behavioral changes at the onset of diarrhea.  When it is detected early on, your vet will be able to recommend the best diarrhea treatment for your dog. Fresh water, good diet and regular exercise your dog will be at his happy, healthy self again before long.Click on the above bottle to order: --- ## Can a Dog Die From Eating Chocolate? URL: https://healthierdogs.com/can-a-dog-die-from-eating-chocolate/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 What Happens if a Dog Eats Chocolate? Can a dog die from eating chocolate? It’s a good thing this does not apply to human beings but yes, the heavenly substance is unfortunately harmful to canines potentially leading to their untimely demise. It is important to know this because sometimes we unwittingly feed our pets scraps from our table without realizing that there are chemicals in them that prove to be hazardous to our pets. One of them is chocolate. The main culprit on this is a substance called theobromine and it is found inside every cocoa bean the amount of which varies per type of chocolate. So we know that the theobromine causes the damage in a canine’s system but what happens if a dog eats chocolate? Upon the first few hours of ingestion, the dog will begin to show harmful symptoms such as vomiting, hyperactivity and/or diarrhea. When this happens, rush him to the vet immediately. If left untreated, you will notice the animal will exhibit more alarming signs like restlessness, muscle twitching, increased urination, an accelerated heart rate and excessive panting after several more hours. This means that there are higher levels of toxin present as it is absorbed in the canine’s bloodstream. Of course, how chocolate will affect dogs will vary on several factors like the weight, age and the general health of the particular animal, as well as the type of chocolate. A small block of white chocolate will not cause critical problems to a 60 lb dog as it will to a pup. The darker the chocolate, the less chocolate that is required to cause serious problems if your dog ingests it. To be safe, I strongly advise the reader to avoid feeding any amount of chocolate to their pets. It is proven that the dog will crave for more of chocolate when they get the opportunity to taste it. It is best to prevent this by supplying him with healthier dessert fare like fruits and alternative treats. We know what happens if a dog eats chocolates; so what can we do when they have already ingested it to prevent the danger to escalate? The first thing you should do is induce vomiting immediately. It takes an average of 24 hours before the danger of theobromine reaches its peak which is evidenced with epileptic like seizures, hyperthermia and coma leading to death. If  your dog has diarrhea, supply him with large volumes of water to consume. If you have an animal first aid kit, that will be helpful in treating the dog until you reach the veterinarian to get proper medication. The vet will most likely also administer activated charcoal to your dog. What the activated charcoal does is draw the chocolate to it so that it may be eliminated without much danger. In the recovery phase, your pet should be given plenty of fluids, oxygen and his progress should be monitored regularly. Can a dog die from eating chocolate? Yes – but fortunately we can make the necessary provisions to keep them away from this danger. Now that you know better, do the best that you can and enjoy the company of a healthy and happy dog without the worries. by Madeline Keite --- ## Pet Food: Finding The Right Type For Your Dog URL: https://healthierdogs.com/pet-food-finding-the-right-type-for-your-dog/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Most people give their animals pet feed that is designed for their specific needs. Because dogs are man’s best friend, we should treat them that way. They deserve nutritious food. Next time you take a trip to the pet store you will find that there are many different kinds of dog food for your pet. There are two main types of ready-made dog food, wet and dry. Choosing the best one for your dog will take a bit of research and probably some trial and error. Dry food has the water removed before processing. Wet food is usually available in a can. When feeding dry food it is important to always have fresh clean water available for your dog, since there is no water in the food. However, you should always have a fresh water supply for your pet even when feeding wet food. Your dog will be extremely contented by your choice of giving him dry dog food. Due to recent problems with contaminated food, there is a trend for homemade dog food with its ingredients purchased from specialty stores, or from the local butcher and grocer. You have the option to choose between natural or organic food, and food with or without low levels of preservatives. Moreover, food with a component generally called the brewers yeast, in small amounts may be an option for its natural cure for vermin like fleas. While selecting a pet food, it is essential to consider the age of your dog. The level of fat should be comparatively higher in puppies’ food as their growth is still in progress and they need to grow bigger. If you feed your dog the food actually meant for puppies for a long time, he will become fat. Of late, the problem of obesity is increasing. Alternatives also exist if your friend is not as young as he used to be. Many foods are formulated specifically for the needs of middle aged and elderly canines. Chief among the concerns which can be partially treated with diet is joint and hip pain. Humans are not the only ones that struggle with the pain and inflammation of arthritis. One excellent alternative is Merrick dog food. Of course you desire that your pet is as vigorous as possible. You should sincerely look into healthy pet food. Your dog’s precise needs will also determine the type of dog food you buy. There arespecialty foods for small dogs, as well as food made especially for large dogs. Most dogs are regularly fed pet food that is made with their needs in mind. Everyone is aware of the adage that dog is man’s best friend. We ought to acknowledge that by feeding our dogs the nutritious canine chow that they deserve. When you set off for the pet shop, there are numerous types of dog food you can purchase for your pet. The needs of your individual dog will help you choose what kind of dog food to buy. A great choice would be merrick dog food. There’s also been a drift towards homemade dog food due to the recent scare with contaminated food. – Melinda Smith --- ## Pet Food To Maximize A Dog’s Health URL: https://healthierdogs.com/pet-food-to-maximize-a-dogs-health/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 If you have an animal such as a dog then you would only want what is best for them. Providing them with the best pet food that is healthy, nutritious and great tasting will make them a happier and healthier dog. Innovations are taking place with the typical pet food. All-natural, holistic, and high-end dog food products are currently offered to improve your dog food’s quality. You might not realize what ingredients some of the various dog food brands utilize in the manufacture of their product. Be sure to always read the label to ensure your dog is getting healthy food. You may ensure this by purchasing one of the kinds of dog food mentioned above. Pet food nowadays comes in a variety of new versions. You can find ones that are organic and/or holistic and/or “premium” to improve your canine companion’s nourishment. Perhaps you don’t know what some standard brands use as ingredients in manufacturing their products. You should always scan their labels to be certain your dog is getting healthful items. It’s easier to ensure this if you purchase one of the versions previously mentioned. Organic dog food provides your pet a healthy well balanced meal every time and has no by-product. Due to this your dog have more energy, less disorder, a healthier weight, a better immune system and have a better quality of life. Every pet owners want their dogs to live a long and healthy life and this is possible only when you provide them proper foods. Holistic dog food is another great approach when deciding on the type of pet food for your dog. These foods are all natural and are advertised as human-grade which only refers to the quality of ingredients used in their products. Wellness dog food provides all natural ingredients in their dog food and would be a reliable way to feed your dog. Purchasing premium brands over cheap, generic brands is often more sensible and cost effective in the long run. The quality of the ingredients contained in dog food decreases as the price of the product decreases. Therefore, if you want to feed your dog the healthiest meal possible, then you should choose a premium brand dog food. If you feel adventurous enough to attempt to create your own pet food go right ahead. With this method you’ll be completely informed of what your dog is consuming, and you may simply follow recipes for dog food to do this. You can find this type of recipe on the internet as well as from books or even your vet. Just remember next time when you go to the store to by pet food to look at the ingredients. Look into alternative foods such as organic, holistic, or premium brands. This way your dog can live a healthy and happy life with you. Pet owners, including the owners of dogs, just want to give them what’s best. Giving them the optimal pet food – one that is healthy for them, nutritionally balanced and tasty – results in a happier, fitter dog. A trusted product is the wellness dog food, purely having natural ingredients in their dog food. If you feel adventurous enough to attempt to create your own food for your pet go right ahead. With this method you’ll be completely informed of what your dog is consuming, and you may simply follow recipes for dog food to do this. – Jennefer Poultson --- ## How To Select Wholesome Dog Treats URL: https://healthierdogs.com/how-to-select-wholesome-dog-treats/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 It’s simple to locate dog treats for sale, but a lot harder to find ones that have real nutritional value for your pet. Make sure to read the labels and see what ingredients are contained in the dog treats. Just as with human food labeling, dog foods legally must list their ingredients, in order from the largest amount down to the smallest. When looking at the active ingredients in dog treats you want to concentrate on the first four ingredients. These are the most important components of the treat and should be carefully examined. Try to avoid ingredients like any type of corn, meat by-products, glutens, and soy. Corn, glutens and soy serve as fillers and provide no nutritional value. Meat by-products are animal parts not fit for human consumption. Other ingredients to be avoided are butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), and ethoxyquin, these are known as carcinogens. Propylen glycol, often used in dog treats is commonly known as anti-freeze! Homemade dog food and treats are an excellent option. By making your own treats, you can control exactly what goes into them. Plain yogurt mixed with things like honey or peanut butter and frozen in an ice cube tray are exceptionally nice. Fresh vegetables such as carrots, cherry tomatoes, or steamed green beans are good, nutritional, filling treats for the dog that’s overweight. Dried sweet potatoes are another favorite. There are some foods such as grapes, raisins, and macadamia nuts that are toxic to dogs, so do some research to learn what is safe. An alternate food option that most all dogs like is raw beef bones. They are a good food source in their natural form, raw bones are also a good way to clean your dog’s teeth . Other benefits from this form of dog snack are keeping your pet occupied for an extended period of time. Feeding a raw diet also means less clean up after the dog. The marrow in the bones is also a healthy delicacy for your pet. Do not cook bones in any way, as it could result in splintering. Always keep an eye on your dog when giving raw bones, so as they don’t choke. While discussing the types of treats for your dog with your veterinarian is certainly an option it should be done with caution. Many veterinarians do not have extensive training in pet nutrition; in fact much of their education on the subject comes from the manufacturers who are promoting their products. This is the reason you see the brands for these companies in their offices. The best education is to read the labels of these products for yourself, you will be surprised at what is actually in these vet recommended products. It is pertinent that you continuously read the labels on the back of your pet foods and treats; even if it’s something you’ve done before. Even manufacturers of premium pet foods are changing their ingredients in an effort to cut costs. For example, one company started using fish that had been preserved in the chemical ethoxyquin, arguing that it was perfectly safe. They finally discontinued this practice after a deluge of complains from their customers. Canidae dog food, as another example, has recently changed the ingredients in their lamb and rice formula. While the product is certainly comparable, the ingredients – which were somewhat inferior to begin with – are now even more so. Although there are many dog treats available from the market, the better solution is to discover the most excellent, most wholesome treats you can. Before concerned pet owners protested the change, one company was using fish preserved in ethoxyquin to cut corners. Other examples are less extreme. The Canidae dog food changed some of the ingredients in its lamb and rice variety, lessening the quality of what was not a premium dog food to begin with. Therefore, it may be a good idea to prepare homemade dog food and treats yourself so you can determine precisely what they consist of. Always supervise your dog when giving raw bones. – Melinda Smith --- ## Pet Food To Keep Your Dog Healthy URL: https://healthierdogs.com/pet-food-to-keep-your-dog-healthy/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 A healthy diet is essential to your dog’s health and wellbeing. Feeding your dog a wellness dog food such as Flint River dog food is the foundation of a healthy diet. Proper pet food and nutrition will improve your dog’s health and keep it healthy for years to come. Many dog owners treat their pets as if they were members of the owner’s family or even like their children. As a result, many dog owners food their pets food intended for humans instead of dog food. While owners believe that this is a way of showing their dogs that they are loved, they may actually be doing unnecessary harm to their dogs. Human food may not fully fulfill their dog’s nutrition requirements the way that quality pet food can. Although owners often treat their pets as humans, dogs and humans have very different dietary needs. Healthy dog food is the best thing owners should feed their dog. This could be food that you make at home, because fresh is always best. But it needs to be food suitable for dogs, including a basis of meat or other protein, with a little added vegetable matter. There are a variety of different brands and types of dog foods on the market. Because of this, dog owners are often so overwhelmed by the selection that they simply pick the food that they are most familiar with through advertisements. Other times, they will select food from a major manufacturer under the false assumption that the most popular food must be the best. Owners would better serve their dogs if, instead of using these quick methods of selection, they considered all options thoroughly as the food dogs eat has a major impact on their health. Upon purchase, owners should immediately flip the package over and pay no mind to what branding is on the package or which company manufactured the product. Instead, purchasers should focus on the information on the rear of the package, most notably the vital information contained there like the listing of ingredients inside of the package, what country the product was manufactured in, and the daily nutritional content of the product. A person can determine whether or not the product fits into a healthy lifestyle and nutritious diet by reading this information on the package before eating the contents. While reading the ingredients, the owners should ask themselves if the ingredients are fit to eat. Although dogs should not be fed human food, they should be fed food fit for humans to eat. By selecting food with natural, organic, wholesome ingredients, owners can provide their pet with a healthier diet. A healthy diet makes a healthy dog, and a healthy dog will be a loving part of the family for more years. A quality pet food will fulfill your dog’s nutritional needs much better than human food can. You just need to make sure that it is food that includes meat or other protein, with a small amount of vegetable matter, which is suitable for dogs. Food with organic and natural ingredients is more likely to be healthy for a dog than other kinds of food. The base of a healthy diet is using wellness dog food to feed your dog like Flint River dog food. Using the correct food and nutrition will have good results on the health of your dog for now and the future. – Jennefer Poultsen --- ## Dog Information Is Essential For The Health Of Your Dog URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-information-is-essential-for-the-health-of-your-dog/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 A canine’s behavior, joy, long life, and health are all indisputably linked to his dietary regimen. As with all of us, a dog’s requirements for proper nutrition should be adhered to precisely. Even more complicated is the fact that those needs are different from one breed to another. For instance, while your initial pet might have thrived on a specific dog food product, that might be utterly incorrect for your present pet. For this reason, dog information is crucial. The easiest way to know if your dog is not be getting the nutrition he needs would be if he is showing signs of allergies. Believe it or not, most commercial dog foods are lacking in key nutrients. After some time of eating this food, your dog will start to show hypersensitivity to his environment by developing allergies.An unrecognized deficiency disease is another term for allergies. Try to look up enough dog information about this. When you are able to identify nutritional deficiencies, you will be able to save yourself a lot of frustration and you can adjust your dog’s diet accordingly. Some foods for your dog of widely differing nutritional value are Sojos food and pedigree dog food.  In summary, Sojos food is good, and Pedigree dog food is bad. The variety of dog foods available differs widely in their value and quality.It can be a little daunting to investigate all the dog information out there and then arrive at an educated solution. Ignore the ads, they just want you to buy the product. Instead, you really need to look at what goes into the food. Price should not be the overriding consideration- if it’s expensive, that doesn’t mean it’s better than everything else, but if it is too cheap, then the ingredients aren’t good ones. Your dog is a carnivore and is not a vegetarian. He requires meat. His teeth are quite different from ours and they are made for shredding and tearing meat. They do not have in the mouth for grinding up grains. The dog’s digestion starts in his stomach and not in his mouth. All the enzymes in his body are geared to breaking down meat and raw foods. So there is no doubt that your dog is a carnivore.  A dog body is made up of units called cells and those cells need 45 different nutrients in order to function correctly. Proteins consisting of nine to twelve necessary amino acids, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals and water are essential for a properly functioning dog body. Proper proportion of all those nutrients is vital in order to have correct chemical reactions of digestion, absorption, transportation and elimination. Your dog’s actions, happiness, longevity, health and overall well-being are inextricably connected with the feed that you give your pet. Dogs, just like everyone else, have precise nutritional needs. And, to make matters even more complex, the needs of individual dogs vary. Look up ‘dog information‘ on the internet to get more details about the food that your pet dog can enjoy. When you are able to identify nutritional deficiencies, you will be able to save yourself a lot of frustration and you can adjust your dog’s diet accordingly. So do you remember whether Sojos food or Pedigree dog food. is the food that’s great?  Yes, that’s it – Sojos dog food! – Melinda Smith --- ## Natural Dog Food For Your Best Friend URL: https://healthierdogs.com/natural-dog-food-for-your-best-friend/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Studies have shown the harmful effects of processed foods in humans. The different studies have been undertaken, the chemical addatives in these tinned foods can cause cancers. Though the body of the dog is susceptible to these foods. As human, that could have negative effects on your healthy body may also affect the body of your dog. The best natural dog food that you can give your dog is meat. Almost all the dogs have a need for meat protein. Try to pick fresh meat for your pet. They love fresh meat. If possible buy the meat from a slaughter house or from where they process meat. They will be fresh, and can be purchased in bulk for good pricing. You can also get them to cut up or mince the meat if required. Some dog foods contain chemicals that can cause cancer or other problems in your dog, but natural dog food uses only organically grown plants and animals. The health and vigor of your dog will increase as they eat only organic plants and animals. When compared to dogs that only eat dog food with preservatives those that eat organic dog food have more muscle and are more active. If you belong to any type of dog club, you can check with the other members for a recommendation on what kind of dog food they use. Just remember that the information you receive might or might not be any better or wiser than your own information regarding your dog’s health. It’s often hard to find the right brand of natural dog food for your pet. Lots of companies across the globe claim to make natural pet food, but these claims should be extensively researched if you don’t know a lot about the backgrounds of these firms. Plenty of natural dog foods are simply regular food with nicer packaging. On the other hand, there are also lots of reliable pet food manufacturers, who specialize in natural foods. Solid Gold is one of these genuine natural foods, and its chosen by lots of informed pet owners. In almost in all the cases, dog lovers are interested to share their thoughts about how to give good care to their pets. Many dog lovers are very passionate about their dogs that they frequently speak about their dogs like conceited parents. But before taking advice from other dog lovers, make sure they have already done their research and know exactly what they’re talking about. Otherwise, you could be doing your dog a great disservice. Making sure your pet is being fed the right kind of dog food can be a challenge and should take some research by the pet owner. Studies conducted recently have shown that dogs fed primarily with organic dog food have better built frames and muscles when you make a comparison to the dogs that have been fed the preserved foods. Always check the ingredients before buying for your pet. Solid Gold dog food is a good dog food used by many informed pet owners. The best natural dog food that you can feed you dog is meat. Dogs love fresh meat, if possible from a butcher. – Brigitte Smith --- ## Dog Information: The Best Dog Food URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-information-the-best-dog-food/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 All machines consume some form of energy. This energy may come from a source providing electricity or any other form of energy. Every living organism’s body requires a similar source of energy to live; and this comes from food. Food molecules break down to provide the energy needed for metabolic processes. No wonder then that we should devote a major portion of our dog care efforts towards finalizing a holistic dog food regimen. Like humans, dog need vitamins, proteins, carbohydrates, minerals, and roughage in their diet. However, the composition of the diet should reflect the unique needs of these canines. They require, for example, more protein and more calcium than humans. Therefore, every food item that we eat is not necessarily good for our dogs. Furthermore, good dog food should not be confused with pricey dog food. Many companies try to make pet lovers spend a fortune on pet food monthly. They are using the love you have for your pet in order to make you believe that your dog’s nutritional needs cannot be achieved by homemade dog food. When you provide Natural Balance dog food, try selecting a diet plan geared to your dog’s breed. In order to obtain this dog information, ask your veterinarian. If you can’t obtain sufficient dog information, try magazines published for canine lovers. If this fails, you can also try searching the many Internet websites solely dedicate to canine care to find dog information. Always keep in mind that you will have to look at several different sources to the right information on holistic dog food that would be perfect for your dog. You must, of course, meet your dog’s nutritional needs as well as taste requirements. Check out a few different recommended foods until you try Life’s Abundance dog food. Give a few foods a try, but don’t go crazy or you could cause damage to your pet’s health. A dog’s diet must be well balanced; raw meat, which contains high protein content, is a necessity in a balanced diet. Calcium that is needed to build strong and healthy bones for dogs is attained from bones that are eaten. Eggs also provide a source of proteins and vitamins that are essential in a dog’s diet. Raw meat, bones, and eggs with the addition of vegetables or other desirable foods will provide a diet that is very delicious and nutritious! Just like a human, your dog needs its necessary vitamins, minerals and other nutrition in its diet. However, each dog is different and their diet should reflect that fact. To give your dog a Natural Balance dog food, you should pick food that is tailored to your type of dog. To get dog information you should talk to someone who is trained in that area. Remember that there is no single source that can provide you with perfect information regarding holistic dog food that suits your pet’s nutritional needs. It is all about experimenting with different ideas until you feel that you have discovered Life’s Abundance dog food. – Melinda Smith --- ## Pet Vaccinations Facts URL: https://healthierdogs.com/pet-vaccinations-2/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Here is some quite comprehensive information about pet vaccinations – and whether or not you should vaccinate your dog (or cat). The author is Dr. Jean Hofve, DVM – one of the relatively few vets who pulls no punches, and will tell you that annual vaccinations are NOT needed! Read on … Vaccination Overview by Dr. Jean Hofve, DVM You probably get a postcard or email from your veterinarian at least once a year recommending an annual examination, and one or more vaccines. While it is important to have your pet seen by a vet regularly, many commonly used vaccines are unnecessary, and possibly harmful. Pet vaccinations can help prevent serious illnesses, but they stress the immune system, can cause serious adverse reactions, and may contribute to long-term chronic diseases. The decision about vaccinations depends on your pet’s individual lifestyle, risks, and needs and it is always your decision, not your vet’s. For all pets, but especially puppies and kittens, try not to get multiple vaccines at the same time. Schedule vaccinations at least three weeks apart if, possible. And NEVER vaccinate a sick animal, or one with chronic health problems such as asthma, allergies, diabetes, autoimmune disease, thyroid disease, Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD), recurrent infections (indicating an impaired immune system), kidney disease, or cancer. What is vaccination? While the terms inoculation,vaccination, and immunization are sometimes used interchangeably, they are all different processes. Inoculation is simply the introduction of an organism; the term includes vaccination, but also such benign processes as adding bacteria to milk to make yogurt. Vaccination is the purposeful introduction of a disease-causing organism in order to produce immunity; most commonly by injection. Immunization is the goal of vaccination, but not all animals will respond as intended. Such individuals may have a genetic defect, or have another condition that inhibits the immune response; or they may be on immune-suppressing drugs. Those non-responders have been vaccinated, but are not immunized. The purpose of a vaccine is to stimulate the body to produce antibodies (germ-fighting proteins made by specialized white blood cells) and memory cells, so that if the animal ever encounters that particular disease again, his system will be primed and ready to defend against it. It turns out that many vaccines are so good at this that they don’t need to be boostered every year if at all. And some are so poor at it that using them may not be worth the risk of potential adverse effects. Which vaccines does my pet need? Just a few vaccines are considered core, or necessary for every dog and cat; they are typically given to animals starting around 8 weeks of age. The most commonly recommended core vaccines for kittens are feline panleukopenia (distemper)/rhinotracheitis/calicivirus (often combined in one shot) and rabies (to be given at age 3 months or older). Rabies vaccination is required by law in most states, even for indoor cats. There is now a feline rabies vaccine (Purevax by Merial) that does not run the same risks of cancer as most killed vaccines. Request it from your vet, or find one that carries it. Purevax is an annual vaccine, while most killed rabies vaccines are approved for use every 3 years. Still, the risk of cancer is too high with all killed vaccines (including rabies, feline leukemia, and feline immunodeficiency virus or feline AIDS); try to avoid them. For puppies, core vaccines include distemper/parvo/adenovirus/parainfluenza and rabies. Killed vaccines very rarely cause cancer in dogs (although there have been a few cases reported), so the killed rabies vaccine is fine; but be sure your vet uses one that is certified for 3 years. If your companion’s risk of exposure is small, you may wish to avoid non-core vaccines, such as FeLK (feline leukemia), FIP (feline infectious peritonitis), FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus), ringworm, Giardia, and rattlesnake venom. Coronavirus, Bordatella (kennel cough), and Chlamydia vaccines are not very effective. Leptospirosis and Lyme disease are common in some parts of the country; so discuss them with your veterinarian to determine whether your dog’s risk is high enough to warrant vaccination. Even without vaccines, it is still essential for your veterinarian to give your animal companion a thorough wellness examination every year (make that every 6 months for chronically ill or elderly animals). Booster vaccinations Multiple studies have shown that the vaccines for parvovirus, canine distemper, and feline panleukopenia provide extremely good, long-term protection from disease 8 to 10 years or more. This is true whether your pet received the puppy or kitten series (with the last vaccine given at or after 16 weeks of age), or for older animals after a single vaccine. Rabies produces very good immunity as well, but because of the public safety risks of the disease, it’s still necessary to follow the laws in your area. As the problems associated with over-vaccination have become more widely known, veterinary schools and organizations have altered their vaccine recommendations. Most now advocate 3-year vaccine intervals instead of the traditional (but not science-based) annual schedule; but even that is probably excessive for most vaccines. The vast majority of adult pets do not need further vaccination for the diseases covered by puppy and kitten vaccines. Booster vaccines do not increase the animal’s immunity, but they do increase the risk of adverse reactions. Natural disease prevention A healthy immune system is the best defense against disease, and that starts with good nutrition without the right building blocks, the body can’t hope to fight disease, or repair damage if an infection does strike. So start by feeding your pet a good natural diet, and enhance it with Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and other good immune support supplements. The bottom line Vaccination is a medical procedure with risks and benefits. Ask your veterinarian about the purpose of every recommended vaccine. Ask specifically why your pet should receive it based on current health status, lifestyle, history, and risk factors. Make sure you understand and agree that each vaccine is justified. Don’t let anyone including friends, neighbors, kennels, veterinarians, technicians, or Internet experts bully you into complying with their outdated or inflexible ideas. And don’t fall for the money-saving idea of vaccinating your pet at home with products bought online. Unlike your veterinarian, online sellers won’t be there to support you if your pet suffers an adverse reaction. As much as we all love animals, nobody cares about your pet as much as you do so it’s up to you to do the right thing where pet vaccinations are concerned! --- ## Dog Information: Bones And Raw Food Are A Good Nutritional Choice URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-information-bones-and-raw-food-are-a-good-nutritional-choice/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Helping you to select a healthy dog food for your pet … There are many myths which are frequently associated with different brands dog foods. This dog information will help you to choose a healthy diet to your dog. Options There are a wide variety of options available for dog food. You will see them in grocery stores, pet stores, and online. Some types of dog foods include holistic dog food, natural dog food, and organic dog food. The main two types of dog foods are those that are dry and an uncooked, raw dog food diet known as BARF. BARF, the second option, is the healthiest food option to feed your dog. Most dogs today are fed a diet that consists mainly of dry dog food. The availability along with the small amount of time it takes to prepare and the low level of difficulty is what draws today’s working men and women to use it. The egregious number of dog information half-truths promulgated by the main pet food brands in regards to their products is very concerning. The issue, really, has to do with what those big brands are not telling us. How Food Impacts Your Dog’s Health Your dog’s health can really suffer if you choose any of the dreadful dog food brands that are sold at your local stores. You can find some great dry foods out there, but they are few and hard to find. In order to select the best food for your dog’s needs, it is essential for you to do a dog food comparison of different companies. Another kind of dog food listed above is known as the Bones And Raw Food, or BARF, diet. Overall, this is the best food you can give your dog. The idea is that your dog will get most of its nourishment from foods that are as close to nature as possible. These include beef, liver, bones, heart, and tongue, with some human-grade foods added for the dog’s benefit. The BARF diet is easy, as well; you can buy all of the ingredients yourself or purchase ready-made patties for convenience. You should consider it when doing a dog food comparison. Reliable Information is Key The need for reliable dog information   is great. At HealthierDogs we aim to provide information about the types and quality of dog food available. In addition to the traditional dry dog food and uncooked food diets, holistic dog food, organic dog food, and natural dog food are also important to know about. This dog food comparison article lets you know that there is both misinformation and lack of information on the subject. Many of the brands sold at your local stores are of poor quality. The Bones and Raw Food Diet (BARF) is a diet for your dog that is natural, wholesome, and convenient. – Melinda Smith --- ## Pet Food: How Safe Is That Doggie Chow You Choose For Your Pet? URL: https://healthierdogs.com/pet-food-how-safe-is-that-doggie-chow-you-choose-for-your-pet/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 In addition to the appropriate balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fat, pet foods are usually enhanced with several vitamins and minerals to supposedly provide proper nutrition. Pet foods also contain various additives, including either artificial or natural preservatives and colorings. Like people, dogs flourish on a nutritious, well-adjusted diet needing, in particular, correct amounts of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. Many people are turning to premium dog food with all natural, human grade ingredients. It never hurts to do a little research. There will be information on the dog food you are considering online that you should be able to find by performing a simple search. You will get some ideas on the types of things you check on your dog food ingredient label. You have made the decision to switch to an all natural dog food and now you want to make sure it is the best. You will want to find a dog food that formulated with properly balanced nutrition. You will want a food that is easily digested, and has a high degree of important vitamins and minerals. It is important to your pet’s health that you feed them the finest food available. However, understanding the ingredients labels can be difficult. Prior to feeding your dog again, go over these tips for finding the best food for your pet’s well-being. You can be assured that your pet’s nutritional needs are being met if you feed him food made with quality ingredients. The food you feed your pet should be nutritionally balanced and meet or exceed AAFCO guidelines. Try to find a pet food that is concentrated for trouble-free digestion, resulting in fewer cleanups of stools and a lower cost for food. As a rule, natural dog foods will not include fillers, chemical preservatives or other additives, resulting in a healthier dog. All of these requirements are met by dog food made by Flint River Ranch. The company offers premium dog food using only natural ingredients slow-baked in small portions in an oven with painstaking supervision. This pet food uses only natural and whole ingredients in addition to the required vitamins and minerals, and are made above and beyond nutrition guidelines. This dog food is superior for every phase of your pet’s lifespan. It’s essential that when switching your dog to a different food you do so gradually so that you don’t upset his digestive system. The dogs adjustment to the change will go much smoother if you gradually introduce it, adding a little of the new food to the old. After several days, increase the amount of the new food. Continue this method, adding more of the new food every few days for about a month, which will help your pet’s digestive system adjust to the new brand. Your dog is an important part of your family, and as such, you care about what they eat. Most commercial pet food contains preservatives, colorings and other additives. Many people these days are researching dog foods, and have decided that purchasing a food with quality human grade ingredients is the healthiest for their dog.  is made with natural whole ingredients, along with the necessary vitamins and minerals. Their premium dog food exceeds the standard nutritional requirements for your dog at any age. Remember to change your dog’s food gradually over a period of days, to help eliminate digestive upset. – Melinda Smith --- ## Get Your Dog’s Health Diagnosed URL: https://healthierdogs.com/get-your-dogs-health-diagnosed/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Your dog is just like a member of the family. He is your best friend, companion, and guardian. For the times when he is feeling less than himself, the last thing you want to do is worry that there is something seriously wrong. Consequently, you need to go to the veterinarian for a dog health diagnosis. Truth be told, instead of always procrastinating to the very last moment, he should try to do this regularly. Your family vet could assist you in understanding what symptoms to be watchful for if you believe your dog may be sick. When you make your regular trips to the vet to get his basic needs seen to in order to make sure your dog remains healthy, you should check several things first. Canines should always be inoculated as puppies. Dogs fall victim to many different deadly diseases. Your dog should have his rabies shots, once in the first year and then every three years, distemper, and treatments for fleas. Treatment by a trained veterinarian is the most beneficial treatment for older dogs that could experience asthma or a type of Alzheimer’s. Having regular check ups for your family pet, are as important as check-ups for your children. Many times dogs can get the same illnesses people get. From a common cold to full-fledged fevers, malignancy also. In order to maintain your pet’s excellent physical condition, always follow a regiment of frequent check-ups. A great way to ensure the constant good health of your pet is to take your pet to the veterinarian on a regular-basis for its check-ups. both of you will experience much more happiness. You may become worried because your dog appears to be moping or he is acting like he doesn’t feel well. Similar to a youngster who cannot communicate what is plaguing him/her, when your dog does not feel well, He can’t tell you about the pain in his stomach or in his head. He is relying on you to make sure he is healthy the same as he depends on you for being fed, walked, cleaned, and cared for. You have many options for taking care of your friend’s emotional and physical health. The family veterinarian might suggest holistic methods to maintain your dog’s best health. Making sure his diet is one that is recommended for his age and his particular needs can make the difference between having an energetic, healthy pet and one that does not feel like playing or leaving his bed. Commercial brands of dog food containing high concentrations of preservatives and sugar are not your best bet. You need to really focus on exercise, and consider it from this point of view. While it is beneficial for your canine companion, it is good for you as well. Take your dog to the vet for a physical to make sure there are no health issues. even if they are little ones that could turn into something more serious later. After all, if you find out a few things about how to keep your dog healthy and happy, he will be around for a long time to be a faithful companion to you. Without any reservation will he cherish you, your dog will acknowledge your arrival at home, and the best thing is, he will always be your friend. For a quick reference guide on a dog health diagnosis for your dog, the premier Dog Health resource has all the info you need. – Melinda Smith --- ## Dog Treats – Should You Make Them Yourself? URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-treats-should-you-make-them-yourself/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Dog owners now a days are more aware of their pet’s nutritional needs and they increasingly recognize the advantage of providing their pets with natural dog treats. Natural dog treats usually contain no added chemical preservatives or fillers, leaving your dog with correct nutritional value. Natural treats are also known to use the highest grade of edible products and processing techniques to ensure they’re even fit for human consumption. Some brands of natural commercial dog treats contain pig ears which most dogs love to eat. They contain some fat which dogs love in addition to the flavor which most dogs find delicious. Treats containing pig ear are usually baked rather than processed with chemicals and usually have no added preservatives or colorings but check the package label before buying. Another type of dog treat is Greenies, which are used to freshen the dog’s breath with the help of chlorophyll. Artificial flavors, extra colors or preservatives are not added in Greenies. Most of the pets like them and their owners feel that the pet’s breath becomes fresh in a safe manner. The dog’s teeth are cleaned by chewing these treats. You might be surprised to know that natural dog treats exist right in your refrigerator, or in your garden. Carrots, apple slices, and celery are all wonderful natural dog treats, providing vitamins without added chemical enhancers. Just give these treats a thorough wash before giving them to your dogs. Whether commercially made or straight from the garden, natural dog treats are a great way to give your dogs a dash of extra nutrition without any artificial ingredients. When choosing a dog food for our four legged friends you have an amazing array of dog food to choose from. Even though there are many different brands, all dog food falls into three general categories. One of these categories is grocery store dog food which may be purchased at your regular store when shopping for groceries. This type of dog food is generally mass marketed but does have the drawback of containing inferior ingredients to those found in specialty stores or at your veterinarian. The second category of food is premium dog food. This food is unlikely to be found in your local grocery store. The best sources for this type of dog food are your veterinarian’s office or local pet store. Usually these foods are more expensive as they are made of higher quality ingredients. However, you still need to be aware of the ingredients in the dog food as some packages will claim to be premium quality when in reality all they are is over priced “discount” grade dog food. Before buying any dog food, weather it be buying dog food online or from a physical store, always be sure to check the ingredients list. Most authentic premium dog food will also say it is human grade dog food. The third and final category is homemade dog food. More and more people are starting to make their dog’s food at home rather than buying commercial formulas. Homemade dog food does not contain any substances that could possibly be harmful to your dog’s health like artificial coloring and artificial flavors. You can also buy dog food online. You can find the price of various dog foods through the internet. These days, animal owners are more cognizant of their pets’ dietary requirements and they see the benefit of giving them natural dog treats. They also consist of a very high level of ingredients and are packaged so carefully that they could even be eaten safely by people. Homemade dog food is what the final category is called. There are growing numbers of people who are now making their pet’s food at home. You are also able to purchase dog food online, which can provide you with the prices for various dog foods. – Melinda Smith --- ## Dog Treats – Cater To Your Pet URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-treats-cater-to-your-pet/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Ever heard the phrase “he doesn’t know he is a dog”? Dogs aren’t just “dogs” anymore. They are celebrating their own birthday’s, have Christmas presents, have their own chair to sit in, go where we go, and are considered just as big a part of the family as the kids, grandparents, or crazy Aunt Buhela. Along with their status of family, they also get their own personal gourmet dog treats. All natural and gourmet treats are increasing in popularity. Most find that dog treats made with ingredients that are similar to those we find in our own food a satisfying change from what is found in commercial brand dog treats that we buy from the stores. Many alternative natural pet diet advocates are extremely pleased with gourmet dog treats, as are pet owners who want nothing more than to give their pet a variety of delicious, nutritious snacks that look better, no matter what they feed their dogs on a daily basis. At pet food bake shops, dogs can now bring their owners and shop together for their freshly baked doggy donuts, cakes, brownies, and cookies in all shapes, flavors and sizes. Don’t you have a pet food bakery in your town? There are a number of ways to get gourmet dog treats for your pet these days. You can find natural, preservative free treats at pet stores, gift shops, supermarkets, department stores and on the Internet. It is also possible to find treats that are vegetarian, low-fat or ones that are specially made for pets that have food allergies. Be careful with dog treats if your pet is overweight. Remember that “healthy” doesn’t always mean “low calorie.” Although gourmet dog treats are made with healthful, high-quality ingredients, they often contain a lot of fat and calories. If your dog is heavy, check labels and choose treats that are lower in fat, and restrict the amount of treats to less than 10 percent of his daily diet. If you are a baker by avocation, you can make wonderful doggie treats in your kitchen at home for much less than what you would pay in the store. There are almost certainly a lot of the ingredients for these dog food recipes on the shelves of your pantry right now, particularly if you bake breads regularly. Even though the mixing and baking is similar to regular cookies, they typically take longer to bake because the recipe is greater and the dough is thicker. Flint River Ranch dog food is something else you can try for your dog. Dogs are no longer called just pets. In many homes, they are actually part of the family. They are considered our fur kids, our babies, and our grand dogs. Many pampered pooches are also eating gourmet dog treats. Many alternative natural pet diet advocates are extremely pleased with the available gourmet options. The food you give your pet is also vital to them enjoying a long life. You can try Flint River Ranch dog food, a completely natural alternative. You can make food from scratch using any of a number of dog food recipes. – Melinda Smith --- ## Pet Food: Making The Right Choice For Your Dog URL: https://healthierdogs.com/pet-food-making-the-right-choice-for-your-dog/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 It can be really hard to find the perfect pet food for your dog. How can you tell what your dog really needs? What will your dog like? If you don’t know what you are searching for, it can be hard to do a dog food comparison. First of all, you can go online and read reviews of dog food. Both happy and disgruntled owners are usually more than willing to share their experiences with the food they have bought. Keep this in mind when you are reading the reviews. The kinds of food you search for will depend on what results you want to see. Try searching for “wellness dog food” or “less shedding dog food.” If you haven’t tried these searches before, you will be amazed at how many different kinds of dog food are out there. Dog food often comes as dry or crunchy varieties. Apart from the nutritional content, crunchy dog food keeps your dog’s jaw muscles strong and their teeth clean. Some canned foods are formulated specifically for a type, size, or breed of dog. The caloric value of these foods is tailored to meet the needs of the specific dog. Many dog foods can have an unpleasant odor, but there are some that are made from human-quality food. Literally you and your dog could both eat the dog food. Many pet food stores often carry samples of the more expensive pet food brands in order to help you let your dog decide what he or she likes. However, switching foods continuously can be bad for a dog’s digestive system. Dogs are not able to digest a large range of foods at one time. It is best if, once you have chosen the right food, you let your dog remain on that food for one to two weeks. You will probably want to change the dog food if you start to see changes in your dog that are negative. On the other hand, if there are good changes then you should keep the food. Your dog loves you no matter what pet food you give them. It can be really hard to find the perfect pet food for your dog. If you don’t know what you are searching for, it can be hard to do a dog food comparison. You can search the Internet for reviews of dog food. Try searching for “wellness dog food” or “less shedding dog food.” There are many choices to make when choosing a dog food. Some are dry and crunchy, providing stimulation for the jaw and tooth cleaning benefits. Others are soft and moist. So experiment, if you like. Be aware, however, that continuously switching your dog’s food can be bad for its digestive system. – Melinda Smith --- ## Natural Dog Food: The Best For Your New Pet URL: https://healthierdogs.com/natural-dog-food-the-best-for-your-new-pet/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 When you get a new dog one of the most important decisions will be what type of food to feed him. There are so many brands and varieties of dog food available that it can be a perplexing task for a new dog owner. If you do a little studying before buying you will find that natural dog food is the best thing you can purchase for your new dog. There are generally three different types of dog foods on the market today. The most abundant brands are known as grocery store brands. These brands of dog food are found nearly everywhere, and are the cheapest of all the different dog foods available. These foods may be easy on your wallet, but they generally do not contain top of the line ingredients. At a somewhat higher level than supermarket dog food products are the ones that are referred to as premium brands, and you can’t find those anyplace except in pet shops. Although some of them are truly quality merchandise, others include carcinogenic additives among their ingredients as do the supermarket versions. The highest quality foods that are on the market are called natural or organic dog foods. These foods can be hard to find and may be quite a bit more expensive than the grocery store brands. The thing that sets these brands apart from the lower quality brands is the fact that they are full of wholesome and beneficial ingredients. This natural dog food can be found at high quality pet stores and some natural food stores. It’s true that they may be double the price as a grocery store brand, but the benefits will be shown in your dog. Human grade food products and natural ingredients are all these foods contain, and this will provide energy and good health to your dog. Lifes Abundance Dog Food or Innova Dog Food are good organic natural foods to feed your new dog. These are both good natural dog foods that are available for your dog. These foods are high quality nutritional foods and are worth the price since you will see the reward in a happy, healthy dog. Choosing the right food for your pet dog can be confusing. You should do some research before deciding and remember that natural dog food is best. There are three types of dog food: cheap store brands, good quality premium brands, and the highest quality dog food – the organic or natural foods that contain beneficial ingredients that will boost your dog’s health. Though more expensive, these are made with human-grade food products. You can find these foods at better pet stores and natural food stores. Two names you can look for are Lifes Abundance dog food and Innova dog food. – Melinda Smith --- ## Dog Food: Make A Good Choice! URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-food-make-a-good-choice/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 A wide variety of foods are available for pets, but even so, you may feel that most do not contain the ingredients that are necessary for your pet’s well-being. Surely you are familiar with the pet food recall, in which some pet foods were injurious to the pets, actually being fatal to some. It is your responsibility as the caretaker of your pet to learn about the various foods in order to select the one that is most appropriate for your dog. A plethora of information about dog food is available on the Internet. Numerous pet centered sites discuss the wide array of foods that are available. Some of these sites provide honest and insightful reviews; however, some sites are biased advertising for specific dog food companies. Beware of the agenda of the site before you put too much stock in their information. There are three basic kinds of food for your pet available. When looking around at different stores that sell pet food, you will be able to pick out these three basic types. The first type you will see are the types available in your regular grocery store. These are the cheapest of the three varieties and are available in every grocery store with pet supplies. Pet food brands available at your local grocery store can include fillers which reduce their cost, but can be harmful to your pet. Many pet owners would be surprised to find out what’s really in the pet food they buy. You should always familiarize yourself with the ingredients in your pets’ food before you put it in their bowl.  Dog food has currently many types. Premium food is the next in these types. Pet stores sell this type of food, which can be a better choice for your dog. Reading the ingredient before buying any of these types is important. The reason is that sometimes premium food is the same as regular types you find at the grocery store. Lastly, you can find holistic or organic dog food. It will cost the most. Two brands you might want to look for are wellness pet food and Honest Kitchen. They’re made with high end ingredients, fit for human consumption, and have no fillers or chemicals in them. This is the highest grade food you can buy for your pets. Whichever kind of food you decide on for your pets, make sure you know just what it is that you’re feeding them. There have been problems with some brands, so you need to be aware. A high quality diet is important if you want your dog to be healthy. We have heard about the pet food recall scandals, so we know that some of the products are actually harmful to our pets. You therefore have a duty to learn all kinds of dog food that are available so that you can select one that is truly healthy. The most expensive type of pet food in the market is called organic or holistic food. Honest kitchen and wellness pet food are two examples of this kind of food. These pet foods are made with human grade ingredients and contain no extra fillers or chemicals. This type of food is the very best that you can choose for your animals. – Melinda Smith --- ## Natural Dog Food – What Is It? URL: https://healthierdogs.com/natural-dog-food-what-is-it/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Your dog will derive many benefits from a natural dog food diet. Among them will be an improvement in total health. Dog owners who have changed to a natural dog food diet have listed numerous positive differences in their pet, including improved coat appearance, breath, temperament, energy, and longevity. There are many tips and hints for instituting a successful natural dog food diet. First, always use a quality of food that you would serve a human guest. Don’t just feed your canine leftover food from your plate. Don’t assume your dog shares your tastes and nutritional requirements. It’s possible for a dog to become addicted to junk food, the same as a human. A healthy diet is important to make sure your dog thrives and doesn’t develop diseases. Commercial dog food is generally made up of both plant and animal protein. This is most likely to be done for cost considerations. Because meat, more than any other ingredient, is susceptible to chemical contamination, it’s a good idea to offset the meat component with sources of plant protein such as legumes. Many vets do not recommend a “raw meat” diet for dogs. The food many have salmonella and listeria contamination. It is preferable to give a dog a high quality natural dog food diet. The dog will get the nutrition he needs and contamination should not be a problem. Eggs and dairy are great sources of protein in addition to meat and can be included in your dog’s diet. Dairy is not the single source of calcium in a natural dog food diet. Dogs need a lot of calcium, and they need bone meal and calcium supplements mixed in with their food to give them the amounts needed, and to provide the correct ratio of phosphorus to calcium. If you feed your dog raw meat and bones, additional bone meal and calcium supplementation is not necessary for adult dogs. Correct ratio of phosphorus to calcium is required. Otherwise the calcium cannot be used by the body. Carbohydrates supply over half the diet for dogs when taken by dry weight, according to commercial standards. Grains are carbohydrates that need to be cooked. Sources of carbohydrate can include cornmeal, polenta, millet, oatmeal, and bulger. Dogs can also be fed legumes like lentils, split peas etc. Vegetables are also great sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for dogs. They can be mixed with other ingredients in the dog food diet. Now a days many have turned to feeding their pet organic dog food, often available only at specialized shops or over the Internet. Organic dog food is big business and many dog owners swear by it. Many people have started making their dog food at home. Although it takes much more time than buying it at the store, it has health benefits that far outweigh the cost. If you search the internet you are sure to get some great homemade dog food recipes which your dog will love. Due to recent pet food contamination issues, many dog owners are looking for alternative dog food sources. They no longer want the regular store brands. Natural dog food is one alternative. Organic dog food is another. Both of these, however, are still produced by others. This has some dog owners making their own dog food. There are numerous homemade dog food recipes available. Most of them use ingredients that can be found at the local grocery store. Eggs, dairy products, grains, beans, and peas are all ingredients that are good for your dog and are available in the grocery store. – Melinda Smith --- ## Dog Food: Organic Is Worth The Hunt URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-food-organic-is-worth-the-hunt/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 There are millions of people who have come to understand the benefits of living a healthy lifestyle and have made the commitment to become more attentive to their health and fitness. But good health should not be reserved just for humans. Dog owners also need to recognize the importance of a healthy lifestyle for their four-legged companions. Dog lovers serious about their dog’s well being would not think twice about about buying holistic food to nourish their dog. They can see right away that their dog would be benefit from being given holistic dog food. You may maintain your sincere friend in good physical condition by feeding him with holistic food. Of late, many pet stores are beginning to stock holistic dog food, although there are many more stores located where the idea of truly top quality holistic food is yet to catch on. If you can’t find organic pet food at your local pet store, you may have to look for it through online sites or at health food stores, as well as specialized pet stores. There are certain types of food for your dog that do not have any chemical additives that would be detrimental to your pooches health. Realistically, whole pet foods are not changed at all. What is done instead is make them using things that are made from natural methods. Long ago, at the time organic foods first appeared in stores, their price was exorbitant. The price sometimes continues to appear high when you make the comparison between organic and commercially prepared pet food. However, there are two answers to this – one, due to the better quality you’ll discover in reality you’ll feed your dog a smaller amount, and two, don’t you think it’s worth the higher cost to help guarantee your dog a longer and healthier life?  Your pet may be pretty choosy when it comes to his foodstuff, and perhaps you are worried that he may perhaps not like his holistic pet food. An easy way to overcome this is to introduce your dog to this organic food slowly. Sojos food andare two great quality foods you can introduce to you dog, either immediately, or a little at a time until your dog gets used to the better quality food than he’s probably eating now. It is important to keep our pets in good physical shape. If you own a dog you should apply the same concept to your pet’s standard of living and dog food as you do to yourself. Feed them a high quality diet. If you are switching from a traditional brand, start by giving him only a little of the food at a time to help him get used to it. If you choose either Sojos food or Solid Gold Pet food, you’ll know that you’ll be offering a high-quality diet that is better for him than the food you’ve been feeding him. – Melinda Smith --- ## Natural Dog Food Is Healthier For Your Dog URL: https://healthierdogs.com/natural-dog-food-is-healthier-for-your-dog/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Several people who have dogs rely primarily on canned and dry foods for their diet. Despite claims by advertisers of these dog foods, dogs on commercial food diets are typically lacking the nutrition they would receive from natural dog food. Commercial or Natural Dog Food? Many dog owners, similar to their human diet, feed their dogs highly processed foods rather than a more natural dog food. Raw foods are generally healthier for dogs than processed food, such as kibble. Although it may be easier for the dog owners, it could lead to significant nutritional deficits for our cherished pets. Many dog-owners don’t realize the harm they do to their dog by feeding it the wrong diet (which leads to health issues and skin problems for their best friend). It’s not intentional, but with some education on the proper diet, dog owners could save themselves a lot of money in veterinary bills later on — and save themselves and their dog the stress of an unhealthy life. A dog’s poor diet can cause unnecessary digestion and health problems, such as skin irritations and persistent gas. These problems can be eliminated by shifting to a premium natural dog food that provides the proper nutrition for your active canine. Within our cells, we all have enzymes which are present in nature. Plants, as well as animals, and without a doubt humans all have enzymes. If a dog is deprived of necessary nutrition, then he becomes inclined to have many health related problems such as skin conditions, extra gas and a lack of energy. Processed or Natural Dog Food? Nowadays the dog’s diet often includes food that is highly processed. Even enzymes that occur naturally are not found in processed foods. Since digestive enzymes are found naturally in the body, putting them back into the dog’s diet can help and balance the digestive system. Chemical reactions are set off by enzymes and that will aid in digesting food. Honest Kitchen provides dog food that is similar to home made dog food. Many dog owners feed their pet commercially prepared dry and canned food. Most of these foods deprive dogs of the essential nutrients necessary to lead a healthy and active life. If a dog is deprived of necessary nutrition, then he becomes inclined to have many health related problems such as skin conditions, extra gas and a lack of energy. By simply changing to a first-class natural dog food, skin and digestion problems can be abolished. Constant gas can also be eliminated. Orijen dog food makes a dog food that is almost like home made dog food. – Melinda Smith --- ## Prevent Your Pet From Acquiring Diseases With Healthy And Natural Dog Food URL: https://healthierdogs.com/prevent-your-pet-from-acquiring-diseases-through-healthy-and-natural-dog-food/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Many dog owners do not consider the type of food their dog eats to be very important. Normally, they tend to purchase the dog food that is on sale or whichever appeals to their interest at a particular period. Admit it or not, many of us are more fond of the cute dog that canine food advertisements utilize than we actually know the ingredients contained in the food that these ads sell. Because of this practice, it is not surprising to know that many dogs get sick, and majority of the owners of these pets are not aware that it is the food that causes these illnesses because the diseases are only apparent when they are already on their late stages. Without a quality dog food, your dog simply will not reach its potential. Poor quality generic pet food products are usually made with less attention to nutritional balance than the company’s bank balance. To simply put it, cheap food products are cheap in all aspects – they are made up of cheap ingredients that are processed through cheap means with the use of cheap materials and equipments. As such, when you give these food products to your pet, it is probable that your dog would acquire one or more of the dog diseases associated to these cheap products. Of course, with the market profuse with all sorts of canine food products, you’re probably thinking which one is truly worth your money. More than ever, the canine food market is massive and holds a whole range of dog products. With this fact in mind, you should pay close attention to the dietary needs of your dog and know what goes into the food that you intend to feed to your pet. It is also a good idea to check on your dog stools, which can be good indicators of canine food quality; a good pet food is digestible and the dog stools are small but firm. The sad truth is that there are only a handful of canine food lines out there that offer high quality nutrition and health safety to our furry friends and Sojos food is one of those concerned pet food lines. The makers of Sojos pet food mixes (to which you simply add fresh meat) made sure that their products contain the nutritional value that your dog needs, and are guaranteed safe by veterinarians. This means, every pack of their dog meals are manufactured without any fillers, preservatives and other synthetic ingredients that could harm your pet. You can also be assured that all of their canine meals are made from all natural and human quality ingredients. In addition, most of their pet food products are easy to prepare and serve. Hence, you will not overlook the feeding needs of your pet. If you’re still not convinced with these ideals, Sojos food has been around since 1985, which simply suggest that they have been serving dog owners and their pets long enough to be regarded as one of the frontrunners and leading advocates of healthy meals in the canine food market. In addition, they offer 100% money-back guarantee for their clients, which just implies how positive they are about the quality of their products. Always bear in mind that the best dog food in the world will not work the way it is designed to if the dog owner is inconsistent with his or her actions. The number of feedings, along with the amount of food to be served as well as the overall appearance and condition of your dog are all important factors that should be taken into consideration by an aware dog owner. In this respect, any dog owner should realize all these elements before they pick their pet’s food. It is only by doing so that your dog will be properly attended and fed. Feeding the right dog food to your canine pet is very important to make sure that he would reach his full potentials. Because of this, as a dog owner, it is necessary to pick the right dog products that is nutritionally balanced and made with healthy ingredients. Sojos food is one of the best canine food lines that offer nutritious food for pets. All their edible canine products contain the right amount of nutritional value that your dog needs. – Melinda Smith --- ## Dog Treats – Healthy And Tasty URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-treats-healthy-and-tasty/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Boring old biscuits are out because new and unique dog treats are now flooding the market. There is a wide assortment of cool dog treats that not only provide health benefits but also give your dog a taste that will surely please. There is so much more variety in water for your dog than just plain tap water. Pet stores carry many different flavored water options. It is easy to find meat flavored waters made especially for dogs. For more expensive tastes, there are also pricier dog waters and sports drinks. Another option is to buy dog treats online. If you can’t find these dog treats, consider creating your own treats from scratch. Simply use a portion of unsalted beef, or add some gravy to the dog’s water dish. With these easy ideas, you’ll be able to help your dog enjoy a new and different kind of treat. You can get Frosty Paws which is a very tasty nondairy dog treat. It is an ice cream which is prepared especially for dogs. Dogs generally like the taste of this tasty treat. You may get them from the local stores near your home. Many are unaware that fresh fruit is not only healthy for your dog but is also very tasty to them. If you are willing to slice up a small portion of fruit and put it out in the dog’s food dish you will provide your cherished pet benefits of antioxidants and improve their overall health. There are many recipes for making dog cookies. You can find several different books on the subject. You can also search on the Internet for recipes so that you can make healthy treats for your dog. If you require healthy recipes for a treat, then do a search for “dog cookie recipes” and you will receive many options. Many dogs also really benefit from fresh vegetables. You may try to make vegetables more attractive to the dog by adding together a little peanut butter to the clean carrot sticks. This is considered to be one of the best treats that you can offer your dog. You can also give Wellness dog food which is rated quite high in the dog food ratings. There’s a wide assortment of dog treats that provide both health benefits and great taste. You can also make your own treats. Add some salt free beef or chicken gravy in the dog’s water for a simple treat. Frosty Paws is a non-dairy treat specially formulated for canines. Fresh fruit is not only healthy for dogs but tasty too. Slice up a small portion of fruit and put it out in the dog’s dish. Many dog cookie recipes are available in books and online. Dogs also benefit from fresh vegetables. You can also give wellness dog food which is highly regarded in dog food ratings. – Melinda Smith --- ## Pet Food: Make Sure You’re Getting The Best Quality URL: https://healthierdogs.com/pet-food-make-sure-youre-getting-the-best-quality/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Most pet owners want only the best for their beloved pets. This is especially true when it comes to healthy pet food. Whether for dogs or cats, nutritious, appetizing food makes pets healthier, happier, and more energetic. Innovations are taking place with the typical pet food. All-natural, holistic, and high-end dog food products are currently offered to improve your dog food’s quality. You might not realize what ingredients some of the various dog food brands utilize in the manufacture of their product. Be sure to always read the label to ensure your dog is getting healthy food. You may ensure this by purchasing one of the kinds of dog food mentioned above. Pet food nowadays comes in a variety of new versions. You can find ones that are organic and/or holistic and/or “premium” to improve your canine companion’s nourishment. Perhaps you don’t know what some standard brands use as ingredients in manufacturing their products. You should always scan their labels to be certain your dog is getting healthful items. It’s easier to ensure this if you purchase one of the versions previously mentioned. Organic Pet Food Dog-lovers want their pets to have long and healthy lives, which is possible if you give them the right food. Organic dog food doesn’t contain any impurities. It provides your dog with a healthy and well-balanced meal. Your pet will be more energetic, suffer less digestive problems, and have a healthier weight and stronger immune system. All in all, it will have a higher quality of life. Wellness Dog Food You should seriously consider holistic products when you’re choosing pet foods for your beloved canine companion. They are completely natural and are made of human-grade constituents which should reassure you as to their quality level. So-called wellness dog food offers totally natural ingredients and allows you to provide nourishment to your dog confidently. It is often better to purchase premium brands over generic and cheap brands. This is because the quality of the ingredients typically goes down the cheaper the dog food is. So, if you want your dog to have a high quality meal then you should go with a more expensive premium brand. Recipes for Dog Food If you are a pet lover and are concerned about what exactly is in store bought pet foods then maybe you should try making your own. There are many recipes for dog food. You can find recipes in books, at your pets doctor’s office or online. Just remember next time when you go to the store to by pet food to look at the ingredients. Look into alternative foods such as organic, holistic, or premium brands. This way your dog can live a healthy and happy life with you. Pet owners, including the owners of dogs, just want to give them what’s best. Giving them the optimal pet food – one that is healthy for them, nutritionally balanced and tasty – results in a happier, fitter dog. A trusted product is the wellness dog food, purely having natural ingredients in their dog food. If you feel adventurous enough to attempt to create your own food for your pet go right ahead. With this method you’ll be completely informed of what your dog is consuming, and you may simply follow recipes for dog food to do this. – Jennefer Poultson   More on Wellness Dog Food --- ## Natural Dog Food: Is It Right For Your Dog? URL: https://healthierdogs.com/natural-dog-food-is-it-right-for-your-dog/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 A lot of concerns have come up in regard to the hazards of feeding pets commercial dog food. Such concerns have caused dog owners to begin making naturally honest dog food for the beloved pets, which is not just safer but also healthier and easy. You must learn which kinds of foods you ought to feed a dog, what not to feed it, and the resources for finding safe, commercial dog food when you are not able to cook for the dog. Dogs love fresh raw meat. Your best bet is to buy it from a butcher. That way the meat will be fresher, and you can get it at bulk pricing for your hungry carnivore dog. Select vegetables to add for natural dog food. The best veggies for the dog are squash, pumpkin, zucchini, carrots, cucumber, beets, yams, parsnips, broccoli, and sweet potatoes. These will give the dog needed nutrients. Again, pick produce which is as fresh as you can get. When preparing homemade dog food recipes you need to chop meat and vegetables into bit-sized pieces that your pet can easily eat. For maximum nutritional value, cook meat to rare, just past raw, leaving the meat full of nutrients, juicy and tender. Overcooking the meat can kill many of its nutrients. You should lightly steam vegetables before adding them to the cooked natural dog food. Be sure to only add the recommended vegetables listed above. Also stir the meal and test different areas to make sure there are no hot spots before you give it to your dog. Always allow the cooked food to cool before serving. On those occasions when for any reason you can not cook for your dog, commercially prepared dog food may be served instead. There are commercial brands which are safe, and that use quality meat. Life’s Abundance brand is one of these. For more information on feeding your dog a safe and healthy diet of homemade dog food and natural treats, plus information on the few safe commercial dog foods available, there are some reliable and informative sites online. Remember always that dogs need meat protein as the primary ingredient of dog food. Recent concerns about the safety of the food we serve our pets have many consumers investigating natural Honest Kitchen dog food options. Many dog owners are seeking out human-grade commercial products made especially for pets, such as those sold by the Life’s Abundance dog food company. You can also prepare quality meals for your dog following a number of suggestions and homemade dog food recipes. For example, learn where to buy your meat and how to best prepare it. Or, learn the techniques of serving fresh vegetables to your dog. Dogs are living creatures and should be given the very best resources for a long, healthy life. – Melinda Smith --- ## Dog Treats: How To Get The Best For Your Pet URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-treats-how-to-get-the-best-for-your-pet/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 I have always fed my dog the healthiest food and dog treats I can get my hands on. I wouldn’t eat food made with sub par ingredients, why would I feed my dog sub par ingredients? I have fed my dog foods like Flint River Ranch Dog Food and Wysong Dog Food with great results. Recently I have been looking into new options for organic and other natural dog treats. I like to give my dog treats when he does cute tricks. The dog treats I have been giving him are made by a company who makes organic dog food so I assumed they were organic as well but I recently discovered that they are not organic. Organic pet food and dog treats are not only better for my pooch, they also help to preserve the environment. When I buy organic pet food I know that it was grown in a way which did not add pesticides to our water. Farmers have so many non-polluting growing options these days. There is no reason for them to increase environmental pollution. There are certain things to look out for when you are thinking about making the switch to organic dog foods and dog treats. Producers of these products typically market the products as organic. A quick internet search can tell you for sure whether or not the product is indeed organic. The status can be verified by many sources besides the producers. Several consumer sites also exist which track organic products. Some of them have processes by which they certify a company or product as organic. If you can locate a company which is approved by several such sites, you’re on the right track to locating a fine product. Some will be concerned when changing to organics. Once worry is that these products might be too expensive. While organics can be somewhat more costly than non-organics, the cost difference is generally minimal and well worth it when one considers the kind of superior quality offered through these products.  A further issue that concerns some dog owners is that their dogs might have a problem if they change their pet’s food or treats. I and other people I know have varied our dogs’ food and there were no problems. In fact, my dog was livelier and seemed to have improved wellbeing. When it comes to feeding my dog, I want it to have the best food available, and that includes dog treats. I like the improvements I have seen by feeding my dog such products as Flint River ranch dog food, and Wysong dog food. My dog seemed livelier and healthier. Some people will be concerned about changing to organics. One worry is that these products might be too expensive. While organics can be somewhat more costly than non-organics, the cost difference is generally minimal, and well worth it when one considers the superior quality. – Jennefer Poultson --- ## Dog Food – Some Interesting Information URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-food-some-interesting-information/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Wouldn’t you like your dog to remain healthy and active? One thing you can do to ensure his health is feed him natural dog food. In addition to feeding your dog the proper kinds and amounts of dog feed, it is important that you take him for walks and runs. You will feel a sense of satisfaction knowing that you are feeding your dog the best food possible for maintenance of his health. Most likely you watch what you eat, selecting healthy foods for yourself and your family. Doesn’t your dog deserve the same? It is so much simpler than you might imagine. Nowadays, one has no trouble finding top-grade, nutritional dog food items. Your supermarket and your local pet shop showcase a wide variety of pet meals that claim to be the most nourishing you can buy for your canine companion. But a look at the elements present in most of these products will reveal that they contain just bulky fillers like wheat and other grains that provide no nutritional benefits to your dog. Natural dog food is the best for your beloved pet. There has been an enormous amount of research into dog food lately. It has been discovered that some of the common ingredients found in many brands of dog food could actually be contributing to cases of canine cancer. They are known to have a detrimental effect on the animal’s immune system and ability to fight off threats to its health. These compounds and animal-grade foods are present in almost all brands. Even most of those that claim to be premium brands contain these ingredients. They may be tagged as human-grade material. Sadly, consuming these on a long term basis is not good for your dog’s health. If you are looking for a healthy alternative to many commercial dog products, you should try Sojos food. You can mix Sojos with fresh meat to provide a well-balanced meal that is part of a healthy diet. This is an excellent way to support your dog’s immune system by providing nutritious high quality ingredients. Unlike many foods on the market that claim to have real meat, it does not have more bones and byproducts than actual meat. Not only is it great for dogs, but most dogs love the taste. You love your dog and want him to remain healthy and active. Feeding him the right natural dog food and ensuring plenty of exercise is the best plan. Many types of food claim to be best, but finding the best is easier than it may seem. Look at the ingredients on the bag. Fillers and grain have no nutritional value and may even be contributing to cases of canine cancer. Mixed with fresh meat, the high concentration of protein, fruits, and vegetables in Sojos food gives your dog balanced, quality nutrition and protects his immune system. Sojos has no bone fragments like other dog products, and the dogs love it! – Jennefer Poultson --- ## Canine Flatulence URL: https://healthierdogs.com/canine-flatulence/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Dogs suffer from many of the same problems that humans do; and, unfortunately, gas is no exception. There are a number of causes of canine flatulence, and sometimes the help of a veterinarian is needed. Once you figure out -or at least have an idea- what is causing the gas, then you can work on ways to reduce the occurrences from your pet’s life. As with many other pet issues, trial and error may be your choice method. In most cases, canine flatulence isn’t a big problem. Just like human flatulence, it is more bothersome and embarrassing than anything. But, there are times when excessive gas is a sign of a major health issue. Gastrointestinal disease is often first detected when owners notice that their pooches have become quite gassy. If the gas is overpowering and happens more than just here and there, then make an appointment with your veterinarian. Realize that a little gas is completely normal, but a constant upset stomach is not. If you have any doubts about your pet’s health, or if he seems a little under the weather, then taking a trip to see the veterinarian is not a bad idea. If your pup seems to be feeling well, then it’s up to you to figure out what may be causing the gas. One cause of gas deals with the way dogs eat: many dogs “inhale” their food. As soon as you put the food in the bowl, it is gone within seconds. A dog that inhales his food may also be taking in lots of air, causing the air to build up inside the dog. Watch your pet as he eats. If it seems like he’s swallowing the food without chewing, then you may have identified the cause. Many owners claim that feeding your pooch less food more times each day may help curb his desire to inhale. Elevated dog feeders are also thought to reduce the amount of air that enters a dog’s stomach. Perhaps the most common cause of gas is a dog’s diet. Even though dog food is formulated to meet dogs’ nutritional needs, it is not always full of the best ingredients for their bodies. Many of the fillers in the dog food are not easily digestible. Look for food that has one or more sources of protein as the main ingredient. You can identify the main ingredients by the way they are listed on the label: the first ingredient is the main ingredient, while the last ingredient contributes the least amount to the product. Better quality food is more expensive, but your dog will eat less of it (because it is more filling) and he will feel better. If you choose to change food, then do so slowly. Let your pet eat the food for at least two weeks before you try something new. For many dogs, diet is more than just what is fed from a bag of dog food. Many owners sneak their pooches delectable items from the dinner table. Although you may mean well, realize that dogs’ digestive systems are different than those of humans. Just because something agrees with your stomach, does not mean that it will agree with the dog’s. Refrain from feeding a dog from the table, unless you are feeding raw, meaty bones. Some types of table scraps and excessive treats can cause gas. In addition to buying higher quality food and cutting out the human snacks, exercising with your pet is one of the best things you can do to ease his flatulence. Essentially, exercise leads to a healthier pooch, promoting a healthier intestinal tract. If you have tried of all these suggestions with no avail, then stop by your local pet store. There are products on the market that are developed to lessen the flatulence. Similar to human Bean-O, these products are given orally. But, don’t rely on a miracle cure, because each pet responds differently. If you can’t handle your pooch’s foul gas anymore, then you need to start looking for ways to help. If the gas is excessive or occurs throughout the day, then a veterinary visit may be in order. Otherwise, check your pet’s diet for any signs of a cause. You may need to change his food, limit his table scraps, or purchase a supplement at the pet store. If all else fails, try exercising! This article was provided by pet-super-store.com an online pet shop featuring this months dog houses and dog doors. Dog Flatulence Remedy – click here!   --- ## Common Dog Health Problems URL: https://healthierdogs.com/common-dog-health-problems/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 If you have a dog, then undoubtedly at some time your dog will experience a dog health problem of some description. If you look after your dog’s health in a holistic way and focus on natural dog foods and natural dog remedies including non-chemical natural flea treatments, natural worm prevention including natural heartworm prevention, then you’re likely to come across far fewer dog health problems than if you’re feeding your dog a commercial dog food, applying chemical flea treatments and worm treatments, and so on. But nevertheless, dog health problems can and do arise occasionally even in the healthiest dog. Here are 5 of the most often asked dog health questions, according to one veterinarian: Top 5 Dog Health Problems by: Chris Suckow Dog Owner’s commonly ask me the same questions repeatedly. This article aims to help dog owners prevent and find information about the most common dog health problems. Understanding the basics of these problems will go a long ways to helping your canine friend live a long healthy life. 1. By far the most common question I get asked from dog owners is a desperate call about their dog’s vomiting. Vomiting can have many causes, but the most common cause is eating garbage, or wolfing down food. In most cases the easiest cure is to withhold food from your dog for 24 hours, but continue to give water. Then after 24 hours, start by giving small meals again. This rest period will allow the stomach to heal. If vomiting continues after this you should see your veterinarian. 2. The next most common question I get asked are reproduction questions. These questions range from breeding their dog, questions about whelping, and about raising puppies. While it is beyond this article to cover everything, here are some basics to keep in mind. Dogs come into heat every 6-7 months which is the time to breed them. The gestation length ranges from 59-63 days. Breeds that can have trouble with whelping are the [tag]Pug[/tag], [tag]Bulldog[/tag], [tag]Chihuahua[/tag], [tag]Boston Terrier[/tag], and the [tag]Pekingese[/tag]. Whelping, the act of giving birth, can take from 2 to 24 hours. With several hours in-between the time puppies are passed. 3. Third, are questions about [tag]skin problems[/tag] These questions range from masses and bumps, to scratches and rashes. Whenever you find a mass on your dog it is important that you show it to your veterinarian. Most masses are benign lipomas, which are fatty tumors. Another common tumor of female dogs are tumors of the mammary gland. You can greatly decrease the risk of your female dog getting a mammary gland tumor by spaying your dog. One of the most common skin tumors owners are likely to see are Mast cell tumors. Mast cell tumors can appear anywhere on the body, and can range from benign to very aggressive. 4. Fourth are questions about the musculoskeletal system. Two possible causes of limping in dogs are arthritis and torn anterior cruciate ligaments. Arthritis is common in older dogs. To treat arthritis try some joint supplements like chondroitin. For dogs with torn anterior cruciate ligaments, surgery is needed. The anterior cruciate ligament is a ligament in the knees of dogs. Signs of this injury is when the dog is running and all of a sudden the dog whimpers in pain and starts to limp on its rear leg. 5. The fifth most common question is about [tag]allergies[/tag]. Many dogs suffer from allergies. The most common clinical signs are the dog chewing its paws, reddened skin, and scratching. For a definitive diagnosis allergy testing can be done by your veterinarian. Allergies are often treated by antihistamines and in severe cases steroids. With a little knowledge pet owners can be more proactive in the health care of their pets. With greater knowledge you can help your veterinarian come up with the best treatment plans for your pet, and are able to give a more complete history on your pet which can lead to a quicker and more accurate diagnosis. About The Author Dr. Chris Suckow, DVM lives and works in Los Angeles, CA.To get answers for all your dog questions visit him at http://www.free-online-veterinarian-advice.com/doghealth.html . Dog health problems affect all dogs, so it’s really good to be prepared. One resource I highly recommend is from another vet – one who specifically advocates natural treatments and remedies for dog health problems. Dr Andrew Jones course – Vet Secrets – is one that all dog owners interested in keeping their dogs healthy should have. So if you’re interested in saving on vet bills over the long term, his course is invaluable. --- ## Dog Emergencies URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-emergencies/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Dog Emergencies – What to Do Caring for your dog doesn’t only involve feeding, grooming, exercise, and ensuring that your dog has suitable space for living and running around. Dog care also extends to health care, and perhaps even more importantly, keeping your dog safe from mishaps, and educating yourself so you’ll know exactly what to do for your dog’s care if an unexpected event, or even an emergency, happens. Holistic dog care is a passion of mine, but there are things that cannot be prepared for in advance. You can keep your dog in great health, but even then, accidents and other mishaps can and do occasionally occur, and you need to know how to care for your dog in such circumstances. Have you ever thought about what you need to do should your dog or another dog ever suffer a serious, life-threatening injury? What if they have a severe allergy to an insect bite or a bee sting? It’s great to know your vet’s phone number, but what if something happens during off hours? What if you don’t know where the closest emergency animal clinic is located?Any emergency is stressful and scary, and a dog emergency is no exception. The toughest of owners can be instantly reduced to helpless balls of mush if something is wrong with their dog and they are unable to figure out what to do. 1. Preparation is key. The key to getting through a veterinary emergency is preparation. You may think you have that covered with a first aid kit and having the phone number to your vet handy, but what if there isn’t enough time to move your dog? You need to be well-versed in some of the more common animal emergencies just in case a situation ever arises. And hey, if a situation never arises, you’ll still feel more confident knowing that you have the ability to deal with one.   2. Know how to care for dog wounds. Did you know that you shouldn’t use hydrogen peroxide on a bleeding wound? Nope. It slows clotting to the area, which means your dog could actually lose more blood than he would if you didn’t use the peroxide at all. In fact, the best way to treat a deep, severely bleeding wound is to apply a clean cloth and hold it in place for five minutes, then tape the cloth to the wound. That original cloth should never be removed that also slows clotting and should instead be layered with more clean cloths if blood soaks through. 3. Know what to do about dog poisoning. Did you know that certain varieties of toads, salamanders, newts, and other amphibians are poisonous if licked? Hey, guess who loves to hold little woodland critters in his mouth! Your dog. If you notice your pup drooling, whining, and wiping at his mouth after a trip into the forest, get him to a clean water source and rinse his mouth thoroughly. While the poison can be fatal if left in the mouth, it is fairly easy to cleanse from the tongue and glands. Now imagine all of the dog emergencies that can happen to your dog, from fractured limbs to choking. Do you really want to risk not knowing how to handle them? Well you don’t have to, since Paul Kleinmeulman wrote “Secrets to a Healthy and Happy Pooch” to help you learn how to cope with nearly any dog emergency as well as have the basis for handling all of the everyday and lifelong problems and situations you’ll face with your dog. From choosing toys, to cancer, and everything in between, it’s all in the book as well as how to create the most effective dog first aid kit and handle the most common emergencies. Listen, even the most experienced dog owner needs a little help and advice now and then. “Secrets to a Healthy and Happy Pooch” can be that constant source of help and advice. If you a looking for a an informative book dealing with everything to do with dog health in a lighthearted, but informative way, than you can’t go past “Secrets to a Happy and Healthy Pooch.” Let me know what you think! --- ## A Natural Diet Improves Your Dog’s Health URL: https://healthierdogs.com/a-natural-diet-improves-your-dogs-health/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 A Natural Diet Will Improve Your Dog’s Health by: Brigitte Smith It goes without saying that your dog needs suitable nutrition to remain healthy. But just what is suitable nutrition for your dog? It’s difficult to know just what natural dog food is, because vets and pet food manufacturers often have vastly differing views on what is appropriate nutrition for your dog. Why are commercially prepared foods routinely recommended as part of an adequate, or good, diet for your dog? – particularly in view of the fact that commercial pet food manufacturers are motivated in large part (or wholly) by profits. You may be in a position where your vet or perhaps the dog breeder you purchased your dog from may approve of commercially prepared foods as your dog’s sole diet. Many experts in dog nutrition, however, tend to prefer a largely natural diet for dogs, which is invariably comprised of meat and bones. Raw is preferable to cooked, as some of the minerals are definitely lost in the cooking process. There are very, very few commercial dog food manufacturers that produce nutrient-rich food for pets. And of the few that do have some nutritive value, they’re not the brands you’ll find in your supermarket, or even in most pet stores or veterinarians. All dogs must obtain reasonable nutrition from their food to maintain excellent health and performance. The main nutrients required by your dog are water, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins. Vitamin or mineral deficiency in dogs fed a commercially manufactured diet today is not widely publicized. But then again, the slosh and dried formula which are readily available from your vet or the local supermarket are definitely not your dog’s natural diet. If ever your dog was left to fend for itself in the wild (assuming it could manage to adapt, that is), s/he would choose to eat raw meat. One of the reasons why meat, and especially bones, are so good, is the chewing action and the teeth cleaning function which the bones perform. Of course, there are also commercially prepared substitutes which can also effectively clean your dog’s teeth and satisfy his/her need to chew. Some of these are better than others. There are some very good treats that can help clean your dog’s teeth. A lesser known fact is that to feed your dog only meat (with no bones and no cereals or other carbohydrate source) may result in quite severe deficiencies: your dog could become lethargic, and sick. It is said that even death has been known to occur from an all meat diet. But what about dogs in the wild, I hear you ask? Isn’t meat a dog’s natural diet? Isn’t that what you just said, Brigitte? Well, yes and no: in the wild dogs eat the whole of their prey, not simply muscle meat – they thus obtain vegetable matter from the digestive tract of their prey, and calcium from the bones. In addition, wild dogs will occasionally add to their diet with plants, fruit and berries. Most dogs relish some raw fruit and vegetables in their diet, so long as they’re used to eating those types of foods. A dog who has been fed commercially prepared dog food all of its life won’t be used to the taste of fresh food, so may well turn up his/her nose if you introduce such healthy food later in life. But do persevere – you could try hand feeding pieces of carrot or apple to begin with. And if your dog is still very young, all the better. Start as you intend to go on – feed your puppy some raw fruit and vegetables from time to time – natural dog food. Remember, though, meat should be the staple of your dog’s diet. Preferably raw meat – natural dog food. But certainly not over processed food that barely looks or smells like fresh meat any more. Your dog’s health will benefit! (c) 2007, Brigitte Smith, Healthy Happy Dogs About The Author Brigitte Smith is the author of HealthierDogs.com and HealthyHappyDogs.com. For more information on healthy food for dogs, click here. For some specific dog food reviews, and more on natural dog food, click on the hyperlinks to go to other helpful articles here in the Healthier Dogs site. --- ## Home Based Business in the Pet Industry URL: https://healthierdogs.com/home-based-business-in-the-pet-industry/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 If you’ve ever considered setting up a home based business in the pet industry but didn’t know where to start, you’ve come to the right place. Whether your interest is in setting up a pet boarding kennel, or how to start a dog grooming business, a pet sitting business, doggie day care business, or other home based business in the pet industry, there are plenty of ideas on pet related businesses available, including the following top notch training materials (click on the banner for more info): --- ## How To Care For Dog Emergencies – Bleeding Wounds URL: https://healthierdogs.com/how-to-care-for-dog-emergencies-bleeding-wounds/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Knowing what to do for your dog in various emergency situations is always useful – in fact, on occasion it could actually be life saving. Here are some useful tips on what to do if your dog has injured himself and has a bleeding wound. Knowing what to do when faced with a dog emergency, may mean the difference between life and death for your pet. Dog owners, who spend more time outdoors with their dogs during the spring and summer months, should be prepared to face any injuries or emergencies that might happen to their dog. Any emergency is stressful and scary, and that includes emergencies that involve your pet. The first thing to keep in mind is to remain calm. Not only will you be able to think more clearly, but it will have a calming effect on your dog during a time of high stress for them too. The best way to care for deep bleeding wounds is to apply a clean cloth and hold it in place for five minutes, and then tape the cloth to the wound. The original cloth should never be removed, and instead be layered with more cloths if blood soaks through.Get your dog veterinary attention as soon as possible.  If your dog should get a hold of the wrong type of amphibian in his or her mouth, it could lead to poisoning. If you notice your dog drooling, whining, and wiping at his or her mouth, especially after a trip to the forest, get your dog to a clean water source and rinse their mouth thoroughly. Calvin Brown of www.dog-owners-manual.com says it’s pretty easy to clean most of the poison from your dog’s tongue and glands. But if the poison is left in your dog’s mouth it could be fatal. So it’s still best to get your dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Mr. Brown goes on to say The biggest factor in a dog’s survival, is how prepared the dog’s owner is to deal with any emergency that might happen. – I couldn’t actually raise anything at the site referred to, but I’ve found an alternate resource with a similar title – the Dog Owner’s Guide. See what you think. --- ## Kennel Cough Treatment – Effective And Affordable URL: https://healthierdogs.com/kennel-cough-treatment/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Kennel Cough Treatment Effective Kennel Cough treatment options are readily available. What is Kennel Cough? Kennel Cough is caused by a virus. This condition is an upper respiratory problem that will have your cat or dog out of sorts for several days, although the duration can be as long as six weeks. Typically when pets are close together and one contracts Kennel Cough, then pretty much the others will develop the symptoms as well, as this disease is so highly infectious. Animals can contract Kennel Cough in public places such as grooming salons, doggie day care, dog parks, boarding facilities, and catteries, to name a few. Basically anywhere where dogs congregate can be a breeding ground for Kennel Cough, which is why vets and boarding facilities like to insist on Kennel Cough vaccine for all pets. But do you want to subject your dog to yet another annual vaccination? The good thing about Kennel Cough is that healthy animals are less likely to pick up the virus and need a Kennel Cough treatment, but even if Kennel Cough is contracted, it can usually be treated quite easily. The problem is, as with almost all viruses, there will often be no clue that anything is wrong until your dog or cat becomes sick, since the virus cannot be seen with the naked eye; and with the incubation period being anywhere from two days up two weeks, you may have a hard time tracing back your foot steps to figure out just where your dog or cat may have contracted the virus. Kennel Cough Symptoms The Kennel Cough symptoms that you should look for include the following: * A constant, dry hacking cough that sounds as though something is caught in the throat * Vomiting or gagging after any excitement or even after light physical activities * Vomiting or gagging after any small amount of pressure to the trachea * You can also see retching, snorting and sneezing * In the vast majority of cases, you will not see a runny discharge from the eyes or nose unless your cat or dog also has something like the Canine Flu * In some cases a fever can be present – but not always So if your dog has these symptoms,  Kennel Cough treatment remedy of some type may well be required. All of this sounds bad, but the one silver lining is this usually is NOT a life-threatening problem. You will be able to get your pets healthy again by using a straightforward Kennel Cough home remedy that is easy to use, requires no specialized equipment (and that means no needles either), and organic. Kennel Cough Treatment There are various kennel cough treatment modalities on the market, but make sure you find out if they are chemical-based drugs – if that is what they are, then don’t be surprised to see side-effects (both short- and long-term), and this will just make matters even worse as you will now have additional problems to deal with. Natural Kennel Cough Treatment But don’t worry, we located an effective, safe organic Kennel Cough remedy that will have your cats and/or dogs back on their feet (or under your feet) in full spirits again after a few treatments of easy drops that you add to some fun liquids or foods they enjoy. Just two times per day for one week and there will be no more hacking coughs – in fact, a couple of doses is often all you need to see some relief. Learn more about this organic Kennel Cough treatment and get your pet some much-needed relief immediately. Kennel Cough Treatment – Click Here! --- ## Homemade Dog Biscuits URL: https://healthierdogs.com/homemade-dog-biscuits/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Every pet owner loves to do something nice for their pet. We tend to spoil our dogs, at least on occasion. Many of us choose to give our dogs treats such as dog biscuits; however, as pet owners, we worry about the commercially produced dog foods and dog biscuits with their many fillers and additives, which may be unhealthy for our pets. For this reason, a growing number of dog owners are choosing to make their own homemade dog food and homemade dog biscuits. Homemade dog biscuits especially give us a chance to thank our pets for the companionship and love which they give us and add our own personal touch. It’s easier than you may think to create your own homemade dog biscuits for your pet. There are of course ingredients which you should steer clear of which are unhealthy for dogs. These ingredients include grapes and raisins, chocolate in any form, garlic and onions and potato skins (dogs are very sensitive to the solanine which is found in potato skins).  There are many homemade dog treat recipes available online and in cookbooks made specifically for dog owners. So what ingredients are good to include in your homemade dog biscuits? One ingredient which is good is a favorite of nearly every dog peanut butter! This is something which dogs love and is healthy for them (note:  if you dog is overweight, you should probably avoid making them homemade dog biscuits which contain high fat ingredients like peanut butter; if your dog is at a healthy weight, though, they’ll love you for these).  Here’s one recipe for homemade dog biscuits: 2 cups whole-wheat flour 1 tbsp. baking powder 1 cup peanut butter (chunky or smooth) 1 cup milk Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Mix the flour and baking powder in a bowl. Mix the peanut butter and milk in a different bowl, then add this mixture to the dry ingredients and mix well to make your dough. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface and roll it out to about ¼ inch thick. Use a cookie cutter to make the desired shapes and place cookies on a lightly greased baking sheet. These will take about 20 minutes to bake, they should be just starting to brown when they are done. Cool and store in an airtight container. Go ahead, give one to your dog before storing them (but after letting them cool); they’re probably already begging for one after smelling the peanut butter. It’s easy and fun to make homemade dog biscuits for your pet. This is just one recipe, there are many others which you can try and there are homemade dog treat recipes for dogs with special diets and dogs with finicky tastes. If you have children, they may enjoy helping you make these homemade dog biscuits and of course, they’ll love feeding them to the family dog. If you are a pet owner who is concerned about the impact which commercially produced dog biscuits may have on the health of your pet, then you should try making your own homemade dog biscuits. For more fabulous dog food recipes, including homemade dog biscuits, click here. --- ## Dog Information Every Pet Owner Should Know URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-information-every-pet-owner-should-know/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 There is a strange, little known fact about pet nutrition that many pet owners are not aware of – your vet may not be the best source of dog information, particularly in relation to nutrition. Veterinary schools’ nutrition courses tend to be rather short and incomplete, and pet food companies tend to push their products on vets and patients rather aggressively. It is of utmost importance that a pet owner do research on canine nutrition to be armed with the dog information he needs for his furry friend’s health and well being. Here, the most essentian pieces of knowledge on dogs and nutrition will be discussed, in the following paragraphs. As carnivorous animals, dogs eat meat in the wild and their food as pets should always contain a good quality, meat-based source of protein. In the ingredients listing of your dog food, look for a named meat source, like beef or turkey, rather an a generic “meat”. More than one of these should be listed in the first five ingredients on the list. Animal by-product, is another story and should be avoided, as it can contain meat from dying and diseased animals. Dogs need carbohydrates too, and a dog food should contain some vegetable starches to provide these. Rice, potatoes and oats are sources that a dog can easily process, while corn, corn meal, wheat gluten and similar items are not. These are not necessary for canine nutrition and can cause problems like food allergies in dogs. There are a lot of labels like premium, organic and human grade that are used on dog foods. Premium and human grade are regulated very little, if at all, and may not be very beneficial for your dog. Organic dog food should follow the standards for organic food, meaning they should be grown without chemicals. Organic foods are thought to prevent things like cancer by not introducing possibly dangerous chemicals into the body. Many dog owners also opt to feed raw in order to ensure that their dogs get the same diets as they would in the wild. There is a lot of dog information out there on the benefits or raw feeding. However, for the more squeamish pet owner, home made dog food, while more time consuming than commercial feeds, may be the best and most cost-efficient way to give your dog the best nutrition we can provide. Any pet owner needs the right dog information to educate themselves on what foods their dogs need in order to live happy and healthy lives. They need to learn to read labels on their pet food to know exactly what their dogs are putting into their bodies. Many commercial pet foods contain ingredients like grains and by-products, which provide little benefits to pets. Organic dog food, home made dog food and raw feeding are excellent alternatives to commercial feeds. – Melinda Smith --- ## Dog Information on Food Allergies URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-information-on-food-allergies/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Dog Allergies Not only do dog allergies refer to our allergies to dog hair and dander, but also to dog’s allergies to things in their environment, such as chemicals, pollution and food. Dog allergies can manifest themselves in skin problems, like itching and hair loss, and in more advanced cases, loose bowel movements and vomiting. Dog Allergies to Food Dogs sometimes develop allergies to foods they have been eating for a long time, and it’s not always easy to identify which component of ingredient is the real cause. If you suspect that your dog suffers from allergies of any kind, it is best to first visit your vet for allergy testing and dog information, and advice on how to treat them. Be armed with reliable dog information about dog food and health, from reliable sources. for example, corn and wheat are grains that are unnecessary in your dogs’ diets. They are used as low-cost fillers and are a bog source of canine allergies. Chemicals are another problem, and if these are what’s making your dog sick, you might choose to switch to organic dog food to avoid them altogether. Make Your Own Dog Food to Avoid Dog Allergies to Food Making your own dog food is the best way to really isolate all of the ingredients being fed to our pets. There are many sources of dog information on dog food recipes and how to prepare them. Protein, vegetables and a carbohydrate source like sweet potatoes are the essential components of a well-balanced dog food. Here’s one dog food recipe that your pooch is sure to love. Take one pound of turkey meat and sautee in olive oil. Then, add another pound of cooked, mixed vegetables. Add potatoes (1/2 to 1 cup) and bone meal or a dog vitamin supplement. After feeding your pet a balanced home made or organic diet, you might first notice some of the more superficial signs of improvement. Your pet’s coat might become softer and smoother, and his mood might improve too. But these are nothing compared to the benefits to your dogs’s lifespan, and overall well-being. Dog allergies sometimes manifest themselves over time, triggered by components in dog food, and environmental factor. By feeding your dog organic dog food and preparing home made dog food recipes, you can avoid some of the possible allergy triggers, which include grains, and chemicals used in commercial dog food preparation. Remember to consult with your veterinarian for dog information on allergies and nutrition – Melinda Smith For more dog food recipes, discover 180 Gourmet Recipes for Dogs – your dog will thank you and his dog allergies are likely to improve as well! --- ## Dog Treats Are a Way to Your Dog’s Heart URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-treats-are-a-way-to-your-dogs-heart/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 With literally hundreds of dog food brands out there and dozens of kinds to sift through, choosing the right one for the family pet can be a little tricky. But making sure that the beloved four legged family member gets the best out of his nutrition is important. In order to find the right kind of dog food, it is important to know the wrong kind first; some dog foods are made with ingredients that are harmful to our dogs. So the better choice to start off with is a brand that is made with fresh, all natural ingredients. When choosing a brand, select those that are made with fresh and all natural ingredients. Human grade labels are even better as they are of the highest quality, safe even for human consumption. If certain brands of dog treats are labeled as such, you can rest assured that the quality is top notch. When choosing your brand of dog food or dog treats, try out brands like wellness dog food and innova dog food. Both brands are made with the highest quality fresh human grade ingredients. They are balanced for optimal nutritional development to ensure your dogs wellbeing. Dog foods that are made with preservatives or by products like intestine and bone are not very healthy to the animals’ development. All natural dog treats are made with fresh ingredients; they are also especially made with optimal dog wellbeing in mind. Sure it is easy to serve the ready made ones for our convenience, but when your dog encounters health problems, then you will realize how much better all natural dog meals are. Selecting the right kind of dog treats may indeed be difficult, but knowing that all natural and fresh is the best way to go is a great way to start. Select brands that can make your dog healthier and happier. With this, you can be sure that you will be spending more good times with your pet and less trips to the veterinarian due to health concerns. So go fresh and natural and in the long run you will actually spend less. Selecting the perfect kind of dog treats can be difficult with the hundreds of brands and dozens of kinds to choose from. However keeping in mind that healthy brands like wellness dog food and innova dog food is made from fresh all natural ingredients that is nutritionally balanced to ensure optimal development can make it easier. Go all natural today! – Melinda Smith --- ## Dog Food – Healthy Is Better URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-food-healthy-is-better/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 It’s very important to pay special attention to what your feeding your dog when choosing the right dog food. A lot of the dog foods are made chock full of fillers which has very little nutritional value for your dog. You shouldn’t waste your money on buying food for your dog that won’t give them the right nutrition. While you are searching for the correct dog food, there are a couple things to bear in mind. To begin with, checking the list of ingredients would be wise. Corn being good for humans, has very little importance for a dog. However, there are many brands in dog food which show corn as one of their first ingredients. Corn is currently used as an ingredient in dog food. This means that it’s added only to build up the food and not to give your dog vitamins. The problem with this is that they can sometimes cause your pet to eat more since the food is full of bulk and not what they need. This can cause you to waste money on extra food and might cause your dog to become overweight. You also want to look for foods for your dog that are organic. Just like you want your own food to be made with ingredients that are free of pesticides and are easy on the environment, you want your pets to eat foods like this as well. There are many organic options out there. Honest Kitchen and Wellness Pet Food are two organic dog food brands that stand out at the top of the list. Your pet’s health is a top concern, and these brands are both made with that reason in mind. When using organic brands such as these, your pet will eat less because they do not contain a lot of filler. This will be better for your pet as well as your wallet.  Most people don’t think much about what kind of food they’re feeding their pets, beyond price. However, buying healthy foods for your pet can lengthen their lives and prevent costly health problems. It’s important as pet owners that we take our pet’s health seriously and do what we can to ensure we care giving them the best food possible. It’s very important to pay special attention to what your feeding your dog when choosing the right dog food. A lot of the foods are made chock full of fillers which has very little nutritional value for your dog. These fillers create problems, because they force your dog to overeat in order to get the minimum nutrition that he needs. Honest Kitchen and Wellness Pet Food are among the top organic brands of food. Once your pet start using these brands, you’ll definitely see a difference. Your pet will eat less food which is also saving you money. – Melinda Smith --- ## Benefits of Dog Grooming URL: https://healthierdogs.com/benefits-of-dog-grooming/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 What can you do to improve the health of your dog, its coat, and its skin that is cheap and effective? Grooming that’s what! The small investment of time and money involved for grooming can yield numerous benefits for your dog’s health! Is your dog’s coat looking dull, tatty and matted? Is your dog’s sad looking coat causing you to worry about his/her overall health? Sometimes the simple things can often provide very effective benefits, and in the case of the health of your dog, grooming is one of these simple measures that can yield big results. Dog health and grooming go hand in hand as the act of grooming has numerous benefits that can help prevent many dog health problems before they arise. Like humans, regular grooming and attention to changes in the skin, eyes, and teeth can help maintain health and prolong the life of your pet, as many indications of possible health problems are noticed and addressed before they progress to something more sinister. Health Benefits of Grooming Grooming removes dead hair leaving only the healthy hair behind, which immediately looks better. It also lets air circulate through the coat better reducing any odor, keeps the dog cooler, and looks cleaner. It is also a good idea to bath your dog regularly with a quality dog shampoo to further improve the benefits of general grooming. Grooming stimulates blood flow, which in turn improves blood supply to the hair follicles working wonders for the health of the overall coat. Grooming also stimulates the lymphatic system, thus having a positive affect on the dog’s overall health in the same way that a massage does for humans. Residual Benefits of Grooming  Aside from the more obvious physical health benefits of grooming there are other benefits such as: – Bonding with your Dog – While grooming your dog you are helping to create a bond between you and your pet because of the physical touching and interaction. This also has a positive effect on the dog’s emotional state as it feels more comfortable and safe in your hands. Dogs always love the attention they get during grooming. Knowing your pet – While grooming your dog you get to know your pet better and know what he/she likes or dislikes, and its favorite and least favorite places to be touched or brushed. Knowing your pet will help you to notice any changes that may indicate a health problem, for instance if your dog suddenly flinches when touched in an area where it usually loves to be touched would alert you to investigate the cause of the tenderness. Spot Possible Health Dangers – While grooming your dog you can check the skin for possible skin rashes and problems like hair loss or lumps. Also check for signs that your dog has been scratching a certain area of the skin which would indicate some sort of irritation such as worms, fleas, mites or ticks. Ticks in particular can be deadly if left undetected and a thorough visual check of the dog’s skin should be a regular part of your dog health and grooming strategy. It is a good idea to check the eyes for any signs of sight or health problems while grooming your dog. Also check the pads and nails of the paws for problems that may require attention along with the teeth for signs of decay or gum problems. Possible Bonus Benefit for you If you find that you enjoy grooming and become quite competent, you may consider starting your own dog grooming service to make a few extra dollars or perhaps turn it into a full time business. Dog grooming services are in high demand and can be very profitable. There is nothing better than making a living doing something that you enjoy. What You Need to Start? It is important to get the right grooming tools and information on grooming techniques. The internet has is a wealth of information about grooming along with numerous sites that sell a range of grooming tools. Other sources are local pet supply stores or alternatively most towns and cities have a local dog association where dog lovers can meet and exchange ideas. Public libraries may also have books on dog grooming. The benefits to your dog’s health by regular grooming far outweigh the small outlay of money for the grooming tools, and time spent grooming. Your dog’s coat will look shiny and healthy and the health of your dog’s skin will also be improved. Spend a little time on your pet and he/she will love you for it. © 2006 Colin L Wolfenden Colin L Wolfenden is webmaster for http://www.impressiveebooks.com/ and http://www.my-resource.com/ and is author of numerous health related articles For more on dog grooming, and keeping your dog’s skin and coat healthy, click here. And for the best de-shedding tool on the planet, see below:   Furminator – Small – $ 39.99 Furminator – Medium – $ 49.99 Furminator – Large – $ 59.99 Guaranteed to reduce shedding better than any brush or comb, and helps bring out your pet’s natural oils, leaving a shiny, healthy, topcoat. --- ## Dog Obesity URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-obesity/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 How Do I Help My Dog Lose Weight? by: Russell Richer Much like their owners, more and more dogs worldwide are showing signs of obesity. Besides limiting their enjoyment of life as a dog, extra body weight can lead to to joint and heart problems, shorter lives, and sometimes behavioral issues. The easiest way to tell whether or not your dog is obese is to examine his body. Try the following: Have him stand up, then stand above him. Does his body slope inward at the waist? Run your hands over his sides from front to back legs. Can you feel his ribs fairly easily? Feel the base of his tail. Are the bones easily detectable? Look at him from the side. Does his tummy slope upward as it gets closer to his tail? If you answered no to any of the questions, your pup is probably overweight. If you answered “What waist/ribs/tail bones?” and “Upward? Really?,” your pup is probably obese. The methods for treating obesity in dogs is fairly simple: eat less, exercise more. Eat less If your dog has a constant supply of food, remove it. Buy a food scoop with measuring lines and portion his food based on the charts on your food labels. Create a feeding schedule and stick to it. Whether you split the amount among two feedings or one larger meal, stay with the routine and he’ll adjust to it. Be forewarned, though. Dogs are survival eaters and don’t react well when their food supply is threatened. She may suddenly, start raiding the trash or taking food off of the counter. Exercise more It won’t take any convincing to get your dog to exercise more, just get the leash and head out for a walk. Plan to spend an hour total every day walking. I realize that it’s hard these days to find the time. If you have kids, drag them away from the TV and go for a family walk after dinner. If you work out yourself, figure out a way to incorporate your dog into your routine. On the weekends, head to the park with a tennis ball or a Frisbee. Think of it this way: Would you rather see your dog running, tongue out, tail wagging for 10 years, or that he lay around the house for five? How many people get to have a to-do list that includes “Play with Dog”? The right diet and exercise can make your dog more social, more obedient, and more dedicated to you due to the extra time you spend together. Wasn’t that the whole reason you decided to get a dog in the first place? – Some great ideas there for keeping your dog health and trim. I love the idea of keeping fit and healthy ourselves while at the same time benefiting our dogs. – Not to mention spending quality time with them as well! But if your dog has serious obesity problems and you’re finding that reducing the quantity of food is not working adequately, you may want to look at a dog obesity food that’s ready made and will help your dog lose that unhealthy additional weight. Naturally, if you’re at all worried about your dog’s weight, you should always consult your vet for advice. An overweight dog is not a healthy dog, and there may be reasons other than overeating, that your dog has become overweight. --- ## Dog Information To Keep You Pet Healthy URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-information-to-keep-you-pet-healthy/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 You will find many books and websites dealing with dog information, which will teach you how to take care of them properly. Many of them deal with all types of dogs that will be beneficial to you. The responsibilities that you now incur as a dog owner are assessed in these books. Allowing your dog to exercise is an easy task that just about anyone can accomplish. Taking your pet to the park or backyard and allowing them to run around and play catch are ways to help your dog exercise. Other ways are to help you dog exercise is by letting them run around with other dogs. Other dog advice you should accede if demography affliction of your pet is the blazon of aliment you augment him. There are holistic, organic, natural, and exceptional dog foods for you to accept from. Each blazon of aliment has altered allowances so it’s acceptable to go over the advice on the label. Dog owners love their pets and want they to be as healthy as possible so more of them are turning to natural dog food. Most natural dog foods have less chemicals in them and more genuine food, almost comparable to what humans eat. Lifes Abundance dog food is one brand that offers premium all natural food for your dog. Lifes Abundance add protein and probiotics to ensure a healthy digestion. They do not put harsh preservatives or other chemicals into their food which could potentially be harmful to your pet. Merrick dog food is another great brand that provides a good meal or treats for your dog. They keep their ingredients as natural as possible and also do not include coloring or preservatives. They only sell their foods in specialty pet shops or online. Neither Lifes Abundance dog food or Merrick dog food have been the subject of a pet food recall. Knowing the proper dog information is useful when determining which dog food you should purchase for your pet. The more natural the food products are the better they will be for your dog. This may mean a small increase in price at the pet shop or online but it will be worth it and your dog will thank you. Many books and websites offer dog information that teaches you how to take care of dogs properly. Do not overlook the importance of the food you feed your pet. There is a wide selection of organic, holistic, all-natural and premium dog foods available today. To have a long life, a dog should consume healthy all natural food for dogs. A good brand of quality all natural pet food is Life’s Abundance dog food, made with added protein and probiotic supplements. Another good brand is Merrick dog food, which provides a quality dinner or treats for your pet; they maximize the use of natural ingredients, avoiding additives like preservatives. – Melinda Smith --- ## An Excellent Treatment of Pinworms and Roundworms URL: https://healthierdogs.com/an-excellent-treatment-of-pinworms-and-roundworms/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 If you are thinking of acquiring a dog, be prepared of dog worms. There is a high chance that your dog has worms already breeding in his body. While this sounds disgusting, be comforted in the fact that worms are relatively easy to treat and prevent. There is an effective treatment of pinworms and roundworms that is available for the suffering dog and the worried pet owner. First of all, let us find out something about this infinitesimal foe of ours. What are worms? More specifically, what are pinworms and roundworms? The more you have knowledge about something, the better you are able to find the right treatment for it. Pinworms are tiny, ivory colored strings of parasitic worms that are prevalent in crowded places like kennels, schools, puppy mills, hospitals, etc. They can grow up to 13 millimeters and is contracted through ingestion of contaminated water and food. Pinworms fester in the anal region especially during the night. Therefore the infected host can have thousands of these worm’s eggs found in the first stool in the morning. One of the most obvious signs that your dog has pinworm infestation is if he seems to always have an itchy rear end. He will drag his butt across the floor or scratch this area in a pole or furniture to relieve it of intense itch. Be careful not to handle him or his stool too much because pinworms can be transmitted to humans as well. Roundworms on the other hand are spaghetti-like parasites that are probably the most common type of internal worm. They usually congregate in dirt and soil is transferred to the animal when he ingests the contaminated soil. Sometimes, roundworms migrate to the heart (heartworms) and can progress to a more critical condition when not treated appropriately. You will know if the canine has roundworms if he has a pot belly. He will also show symptoms like lethargy, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss and a lackluster coat of hair. Oftentimes, roundworms hatch and mature in the dog’s intestines. They can cause intestinal bleeding and even anemia. Home treatment for pinworms and roundworms should be practiced regularly. It doesn’t mean if you de-worm your pet today, he will forever be protected from having worms. Remember, he will always be exposed to worms. It is recommended that he undergoes de-worming treatments every two months or so for maximum results. Because de-worming treatments are so frequent, be very careful that you only use natural products to do this. Harsh medications that aim to kill worms contain harsh chemicals that will progressively damage the internal organs of the dog. Some of these adverse side effects include cancer, dizziness, visual disorders, reproductive problems, etc. Look to reliable canine websites for the best natural treatment of pinworms and roundworms. Do not forget to have your pets regularly examined by the vet to check for worms or any canine diseases and give him a good diet to boost his immune system to help fight worm infestation. --- ## What You Need to Know About Hook Worms URL: https://healthierdogs.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-hook-worms/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 If you ever had been a dog owner for more than a few years you know that a common condition that our pets have is dog worms. These parasites can be found everywhere and anywhere, depending on what kind of worm we are talking about. Find out more about hook worms and what can be done about it in this article today. Dog worms are so prevalent that many times puppies are born into the world with hookworms already. Either it has been transmitted to them while they were still in the womb, or other times it can be that they will contract it through nursing from a mother also infected with worms. The dangerous thing about this is that when nothing is being done, worm infestation might worsen and this will likely kill the young pup. It is therefore very important that puppies are de-wormed 2 weeks after they have been born. If dogs are not born with these worms, they can get it through the soil. Hookworms breed in soil and dirt. They can be transmitted to their host by simple contact. If your dog walks through a contaminated soil, it is highly possible that he can get infected right away. It can also be transferred through accidental ingestion so be careful that your dog does not eat soil or even worse, his feces. You will not be able to actually see the worms wriggling on your pet. These internal parasites are miniscule, invisible to the naked eye. You will need to bring your pet to the vet to undergo some tests to know if your pet does have worm infestation. The vet will likely take a stool sample of blood tests to diagnose your dog accurately. Hookworms may enter the dog through the skin and mouth, but it often migrates to the intestines where they fully develop and mature. They stick to the intestinal wall and suck the blood out of their poor host. Therefore an infected animal will usually have blood in their stool and anemia. Other symptoms include skin irritation, diarrhea, pale gums, loss of weight, abdominal bleeding and very low energy. When nothing is being done about this, hookworms will multiply and his condition will progressively get worse. His intestines can experience bleeding and if the dog is very young and doesn’t have a strong immune system yet, this may even result in death. There are many medications that you can use to de-worm your dog. Choose those that are the mildest and makes use of herbs and natural elements. The more organic the treatment, the better for your dog’s over-all health. Take your dog for follow-up exams every two weeks to see what his condition is. If his system is clean, still bring him to a vet regularly for de-worming and periodic health check-ups. Hook worms are quite common but fortunately, easily preventable. There are many organic treatments available so make full use of these wonderful products to ensure your dog’s best health. --- ## What Is A Good Tape Worm Medicine for Dogs? URL: https://healthierdogs.com/what-is-a-good-tape-worm-medicine-for-dogs/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Isn’t it annoying how our dogs have to suffer through the attacks of such a small creature, a worm? We can’t even see these dog worms most of the time and yet, they are capable to cause our pet canine diseases that they would not otherwise have. Read on for a good tape worm medicine for dogs that will help you solve this problem today. There are actually many kinds of dog worms types. The 5 main types are the roundworm, whipworm, hookworm and tapeworm. The dog can generally get them through accidental ingestion or contact with an infected host. These worms breed in soil, dirt and feces. Therefore it is vital that we practice good hygiene in order to reduce the risk of our pets having to suffer through worm infestation. It is important that you take your dog to the vet a few weeks after he was born to begin preventative worm treatments. You may not know it but more often than not, puppies are born already infected and if the worms are not properly dealt with, the new puppy and his weak immune system may not be able to survive the attacks of these internal parasites. How will you know if your dog has worms? The general symptoms of a dog suffering from worms are the following: vomiting, diarrhea, a dull coat of hair, general weight loss, a pot belly, coughing, low energy and unusual appetite. The symptoms may vary depending on the type of worm that your dog has. For tape worms, the victim may also suffer from abdominal pain, extreme itchiness is the anus, dizziness, nervousness, allergies and possibly anemia. Be forewarned though that when these symptoms do manifest, it might be that the tape worm infection is more severe already. You need to bring him to the vet for immediate treatment. Find a holistic vet who can recommend an excellent natural tape worm remedy. Too many medications contain synthetic drugs that will do more harm than good for your pet. The harsh chemicals have been known to cause sometimes irreparable damage to the host, which could have been prevented by using organic products. These organic worm treatments contain natural herbs that specifically work to kill internal parasites without harming your dog. Neem leaf is an herb that has antibacterial properties to fight infection and kill parasites. In addition to that, the neem leaf safely treats inflammation, diarrhea, fever, skin diseases and even urinary disorders. Papaya leaf is another helpful element that kills internal worms. More than that, the substances in papaya leaf lines the animal’s intestinal wall with proteins so that the worms will not be able to stick themselves to it, effectively preventing the worms to draw blood off their host. These herbs are excellent natural ingredients you should look for in tape worm medicine for dogs. Give your dog a nutritious diet and regular exercise because a healthy dog is less likely to be infected by dog parasites, both the internal and external kind. --- ## Understanding Tape Worms In Dogs URL: https://healthierdogs.com/understanding-tape-worms-in-dogs/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Dog worms are a common foe that our dogs often have to deal with. It seems like a small enough matter, but actually if nothing is being done about them, they can cause serious health complications to your pet. There are many kinds of worms, one of which is the tape worm. What are tape worms in dogs and how can we avoid this? Tape worms are characterized by its tape-like, segmented appearance that is actually visible to our naked eye. You can even see the broken pieces still moving around the infected dog’s anus and stool. These internal worms are typically transmitted to the animal through ingestion of infested feces or by fleas. You need to have your dog checked to verify is he does have these worms present in his body. A dog with tape worms will not always have symptoms. However, if there are a lot of worms inside his system, you will notice some of these signs. Excessive scratching, abdominal pain, headaches and diarrhea will show up. As his condition worsens, digestive problems, vomiting, dizziness, allergies and anemia will manifest. When this happens, you need to have your dog examined right away for a more accurate diagnosis. Remember, there are different kinds of worms, and oftentimes these worms will have different symptoms and treatments so it is important that you know what it is exactly that is besetting your dog. Many de-worming over-the-counter medications are available in drugstores and canine shops. It is highly dangerous though that you use strong drugs to kill the internal parasites, because you are inevitably damaging your dog’s internal systems as well. Especially since de-worming taking medications are not a one-time event, they need to be consistently administered to prevent re-infestation. Harsh chemicals, even in small doses, given to the dog regularly will be more detrimental to him in the years to come. I cannot stress the use of natural de-worming treatments strongly enough. Organic herbs contain natural properties that safely kill the worms and furthermore, improve your dog’s state of health. Check out the links in this article for a natural treatment that is trusted by many pet owners world wide. How can you prevent your dog from getting worms? The most important thing is to practice good hygiene. Clean your hands thoroughly after you pet and play with your dog. Remove feces from your home and backyard as soon as you see them, and sanitize his area with saline solution and let dry. This is said to effectively kill the worms that might be present. Have your dog tested for worms every six months to make sure he is clean. Tape worms in dogs are common occurrences, but they are not fatal or super hard to get rid off if you take the necessary preventative actions. It is also important to build up your dog’s immune system so that he will be more able to fight infections that may come to his body. Give him fresh, healthy food and beneficial health supplements regularly. --- ## What You Need to Know About Dog Eye Care URL: https://healthierdogs.com/what-you-need-to-know-in-dog-eye-care/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Dog Eye Care – How often do we get something in our eyes? There are so many opportunities to have eye irritation just by outdoor factors and sometimes, we accidentally poke our eyes as well. Regardless, it’s an easy enough matter for us to wash eye gunk off and be done with it. Unfortunately with our pets, there is more to dog eye care than that. Dog Eye Care is Important!   Think about it, what would you do if you were a canine that got something in his eye? You would scratch your eye in an attempt to free yourself from said irritation, right? Well, just imagine all the places our dogs have been and the many dirty things that they might have handled. That means that if they scratch or poke their eyes, they might further irritate it and possibly make it worse. Healthy canine eyes are clear and just a bit damp. You will know that you need to bring your pet to a vet for an eye check-up if his eyes are red, swollen, inflamed, cloudy and opaque. Many times their eyes have discharge and you can find them rubbing their eyes with their paws or against furniture/ground to alleviate itchiness and soreness. More often than not, canine eye conditions are not as life threatening as other dog diseases, but they are very inconvenient and painful for the dog. When you regularly interact with your dog, check their eyes to see if they are as healthy as healthy can be. Common Dog Eye Care Problems What are some of the common eye problems that our dogs encounter? Dog cataracts, eye inflammation, corneal ulcer, ingrown eyelids, dog pink eye and dog dry eyes are fairly common occurrences that our pets experience. Fortunately, there are dog eye care homeopathic treatments that can be availed of to effectively cure them of their condition. Some of these dog eye care homeopathic treatments are conventional eye drops, liquid capsules and herbal eye washes. You can find these products in many reliable pet care sites that give free advice, great discounts and useful tips for your dog’s best health. Choose a product that contains natural ingredients with essential vitamins, minerals, oils and herbs that specifically target to rectify eye problems. There are some things you can do to prevent these eye conditions. One of them is to regularly trim the hair around your dog’s eye to prevent accumulation of dirt and irritation to get in his eyes. The strands of hair can also cause scratches in the dog’s cornea. Be very careful in cutting his hair because active dogs can suddenly jump or turn and scissors in the eyes will definitely not help your dog’s eye condition. See Your Vet for Dog Eye Care Problems  As soon as you see your dog with an eye problem, consult with the vet right away. Aged dogs are more susceptible with health problems concerning the eyes so be prepared to make the necessary adjustments in their lifestyle and diet to help him. Dog eye care is an essential part of his life and it would benefit your dog greatly to have you be on top of things in this area. --- ## A Guide To Dog Whipworms URL: https://healthierdogs.com/a-guide-to-dog-whipworms/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Dog worms may be miniscule, but they can cause serious damage to your pet if nothing is being done about them. There are many kinds of worms that infect our pets, a few of them can even be transmitted to human beings whipworms are one such canine villain. What you know about whipworms in dogs will help you save your dog from this potentially harmful internal parasite. Whip worms are slender and whip-shaped worms that can be found in the dog’s colon. It is not often visible with our natural eyes so you need to have your dog examined by a vet to see if these worms are present in his body. They can grow as long as 30 centimeters so you must have your dog treated right away to avoid whip worms to become obstructions in your dog’s systems. When the larvae of these worms are hatched in the dog, they can migrate to other parts of his body by passing through his circulatory system. They can travel to the lungs, breaking pulmonary capillaries and return to the intestines where they develop and mature. When this takes place intestinal blockage may result, causing intense abdominal pain to the host. Other symptoms include weight loss, flatulence, lethargy, anemia and traces of blood in the stool and mucous. This may not manifest entirely until worm infestation has reached more critical levels though so it is advisable that you have your pups checked by the vet as early as two weeks old, and regularly after that. When you do find out that your dog has worms, do not give him drugs with chemicals to kill the worms. These are a weaker form of pesticide, but pesticide nonetheless. If these chemicals are allowed to be administered to your dog often enough, it may result in really bad complications. Some examples of these health hazards are cancer, reproductive problems, vision abnormalities, seizures, lack of coordination, muscle tremors and kidney, thyroid, liver and bladder damage. That doesn’t sound too good now does it? Unfortunately, it is a reality that the abovementioned symptoms are the outcome of pesticides being administered to your dog. Even if you don’t give your dog a large amount of these drugs, you will be giving him small doses over a long period of time. That adds up and spells BIG TROUBLE for the poor dog. Fortunately, there are many alternative de-worming treatments that you can use for him. Special herbs that safely kill internal parasites and help boost the dog’s immune system are contained in these great, organic products. You can find a really good worm treatment by clicking on the links displayed in this article. They are effective and more importantly, safe for our beloved pets’ use. Whipworms are terrible little monsters, but they can be eliminated and kept away with the right treatment. Practice good housekeeping (remove feces, sterilize the dog’s quarters often) and wash your hands when you handle your dog to avoid spreading whipworms in dogs. --- ## Understanding Heart Failure In Dogs URL: https://healthierdogs.com/understanding-heart-failure-in-dogs/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Heart Failure in Dogs Congestive heart failure in dogs it is said that roughly 1 out of 10 canines are diagnosed with this condition every year. It is caused by the gradual weakening of the heart muscle which results in its inability to pump adequate blood. The organ then tries to balance this out by beating faster, which eventually just makes it worse. While it is highly unlikely that your pet completely recovers from congestive dog heart failure, there are treatments that can be done so that he can still enjoy a relatively good quality of life. Visit the vet for a thorough check-up so you will get an accurate diagnosis of your dog’s sickness. You don’t know if he has underlying health conditions that need to be factored in when deciding on what treatment he should have. Treatments for Heart Failure in Dogs Common treatments for congestive heart failure in dogs are the employment of diuretics, ACE-inhibitors and Inodilators. Diuretics are prescribed medications that function to get rid of excess fluid that has built up in critical organs like the lungs and abdomen. ACE-inhibitors like enalapril, benazepril, and ramipril and Inodilators are used to treat hypertension by opening up constricted blood vessels. Again, you need to keep in mind that your dog’s treatment is largely dependent on the current health status of your dog, his age and the severity of his heart condition. You must never attempt to treat his condition yourself. What are some of the symptoms of dog heart failure? Coughing, difficulty in breathing, lack of appetite, fainting spells, fatigue, unwillingness to move about, lethargy and bluish/grayish gums are positive signs that your dog is suffering from a heart condition. Many times, sufferers also have distended abdomens due to fluid build-up in the abdominal cavity. These symptoms will not be obvious at first but as his condition worsens, the symptoms will progress as well. Heart Failure in Dogs – Birth Defect or Acquired Disease? While congestive heart disease is due to a birth defect in the animal, there are also instances wherein heart failure can be acquired. They are also more common so you need to be very vigilant about some of the possible causes of acquired canine heart failure. These include heartworms, parvovirus, bacterial infection, thyroid complications and deficiencies in the diet. A lack of essential vitamins, namely vitamin E can bring about heart problems. You can avoid acquired canine heart failure by providing him with a nutritious and healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Look for supplements that specifically target to improve cardiovascular health in canine stores online. Regularly engage your pet in light exercise to enhance his heart performance, and always make time to visit the vet for periodic check-ups to detect early signs of heart disease. Heart failure in dogs is not the best news you want to hear for your pet, but it should not define his life. Do the best you can and enjoy each other’s company as often as possible. When you do, you will have no regrets only a stronger relationship built on amazing memories for years to come. --- ## Dog Worms – What to Do URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-worms/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Worm Treatment for Dog Worms   If you have a dog, the odds of him/her having an infestation of dog worms sufficient to require a worm treatment, at any given time is, believe it or not, extremely high.  Dog worms are in fact, a major problem for our canine pets.  The most commonly found worms in dogs are Roundworms, Tapeworms, Hookworms and Whipworms.  Cats, too, suffer from high levels of worm infestations. In many cases, you won’t even know about it.  Just because you don’t see any dog worms, or because your dog does not exhibit any syptoms or behaviors suggestive of the presence of dog worms, does not necessarily mean your dog is in the clear. And just because you are not aware that your dog may have worms does not mean that your dog is not being affected by these parasites.  Any dog worm infestation is affecting your dog’s long term health.  There is no question about this. Left untreated, your dog can develop many and varied health problems as a result of intestinal worms, not least of which is a weakened immune system, which in turn can lead to a multitude of illnesses and disease.  Dog worms can also cause premature ageing and even death. Worm Treatment Options for Dog Worms Dog worms should always be taken seriously, and should be treated immediately there is a suspicion that your dog has worms.  One thing your vet has told you is absolutely correct – you should use a worm treatment and preventation agent.  Worm treatments should be given regularly. One thing your vet may not have told you, though, is that chemical worm treatments are not the only option you have open to you for treating dog worms.  Natural worm treatment options are available, and do work well. So why should you bother with a natural worm treatment when your vet recommends a chemical pesticide for worms, and probably tells you it’s safe? Well, let’s just think about this for a moment … how could ingesting a pesticide not have potentially serious health issues for your dog?  Health authorities recommend that we rinse our fruits and vegetables before eating them so as to wash off any residual pesticides in order to protect our health. And those residues would be minute compared to actually swallowing a tablet laced with sufficient pesticide to kill off parasites within your dog’s body.  So imagine what potential damage these chemicals can do to your dog’s health. Eliminating Dog Worms With a Natural Worm Treatment A natural worm treatment, on the other hand, can effectively eliminate dog worms without the harsh side effects of the chemical worm preparations.  Wouldn’t you like to avoid the risk of your dog developing liver damage, kidney failure, cancer, seizures, skin disorders, and many other serious health problems that can arise from the use of the chemical worm treatments? Well, the good news is that dog worms can be kept under control, treated, and prevented by a herbal combination of Gentian Root, Neem Leaf, Cloves and Papaya Leaf.  These herbs are fatal to dog worms, whilst not affecting your dog’s health otherwise. And what’s even better, is that they keep the worms away more effectively than those toxic pesticides.  Most people are not aware that worms can return only a matter of days after being killed off by chemical worm treatments.  Don’t believe me?  Ask your vet! Click here for more information on a natural worm treatment for eliminating dog worms (and cat worms, as well), and keeping them away! --- ## Home Remedy For Whipworms in Dog URL: https://healthierdogs.com/home-remedy-for-whipworms-in-dog/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Is your dog losing weight? Does he have traces of blood in his stool? Is he listless and have low energy for no apparent reason? If this sounds like your dog, it might be that he is suffering from a case of worm infestation. Discover a great home rem when you read this super helpful article today. What are whipworms? There are several types of worms in dogs. These worms may have different appearances, symptoms and treatments, but they are all equally detrimental to your dog’s health. Let’s find out more about whipworms and what we can do about it. Whipworms get their name from how they look like. These are long, whip-shaped parasites that cannot be seen with the naked eye. The vet will need to take a stool sample and blood tests in order to determine if your dog does have this particular worm. Unfortunately, whipworms are zoonotic in nature, meaning they can be passed on to humans. These internal parasites usually reside in the animal’s colon and intestines. However they have been known to travel to other parts of the dog’s systems as well. When they do, they will cause severe complications to the host’s health. Severe worm infestation can cause fever, lung and digestive problems and anemia. So what can we do to treat worms in dogs? There are many medications that claim to kill the worms that are living in your dog’s system. You need to administer de-worming treatments regularly to ensure that the worm eggs are killed, and prevent the development of any new worms. The problem with this is that most of these pharmaceutical drugs contain harsh chemicals that will be more damaging to your dog’s health in the long run. It is highly recommended that you give your dog natural and holistic remedies when treating their dog worms. Cloves are a safe and effective worm killer that has been used for many, many years now. Black walnut hulls, pumpkin seeds and garlic are also known to be really good in removing parasites from the animal’s digestive system. Ask a vet highly knowledgeable in holistic remedies what other herbs he can recommend to give a wormy dog. You can buy these ingredients individually and mix it all together to give to your dog. There are also excellent supplements that contain these ingredients to specifically target and eliminate worms in your dog’s body. You can find these valuable products and resources by clicking on the link provided in this article. Many pet owners have used these products faithfully and experienced a significant improvement in their pet’s over-all health. Do not just give an effective home remedy for whipworms in dog, aim to consistently provide a healthy diet for him as well. A well-balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and nutrients will keep away internal as well as external parasites from your dog. Moreover, a strong immune system will make sure that your dog will be able to fight bacterial infections that dogs always encounter. --- ## Causes, Symptoms and Treatment for Heart Murmur in Dogs URL: https://healthierdogs.com/causes-symptoms-and-treatment-for-heart-murmur-in-dogs/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Heart Murmur in Dogs Have you ever tried listening to your dog’s heartbeat? I have. A regular, fully functioning dog will have a heartbeat that sounds like short, rhythmic beating. A dog with a heart condition will have a heartbeat that sounds like soft, prolonged thumps. If this is your dog, then your pet is most likely to be suffering from heart murmur in dogs. Is heart murmur in dogs a serious condition? For some dogs, when signs are detected early on and appropriate treatment is given, they can enjoy a relatively normal life for a long time to come. However, in some cases where the situation is more severe, it may lead to canine heart failure. Possible Causes of Heart Murmur in Dogs There are several possible reasons for heart murmur in dogs. One is that the puppy is born with a defect in his heart. Congestive heart failure in dogs is distressing but about 3 million dogs a year are diagnosed with it. While it cannot be completely cured, there are treatments that can be done that can help your dog enjoy a good quality of life nonetheless. Anemia caused by dog parasites can also be the cause of heart murmur in dogs. You must make it a point to bathe your dog regularly and comb his hair with a fine tooth comb to prevent parasite infestation. Mitral valve disease is another possible cause of heart murmur in dogs. High blood pressure, age or compounding heart conditions produce weakened mitral valves. The outcome of this is that instead of pumping blood out like it should, blood leaks to the atrium and the consequence is audible heart murmur sounds. This is the most dangerous cause of heart murmur in dogs and must be attended to as soon as possible. Be vigilant if your dog gets tired easily, has fainting spells and has difficulty breathing. These are a few signs of heart murmur in dogs. He will not want to eat and move around much. A dog with heart murmur will also likely have bluish/gray gums and have a problem with water retention. If you these behavioral and physical symptoms manifest in your dog, you must bring him to the vet for a check-up immediately. Tests to Determine Heart Murmur in Dogs Aside from monitoring his heartbeat, the vet will also have your dog undertake several tests to accurately determine his condition. Electrocardiogram, chest x-rays, heart ultrasound and blood and urine tests will be administered. Once your dog’s condition is determined, you can proceed to plan out what is the best course of treatment to take for him. If the case is not to severe, a low sodium and vitamin rich diet can be sufficient. Many times medications like Enalapril, Lasix or Benazepril are used to lower blood pressure and improve heart contraction. For the more serious cases, surgery to rectify damaged valves may be the only option left. Dogs with serious health problems should not be bred to avoid passing on congestive heart failure in dogs to their offspring. Senior dogs that acquire heart murmur in dogs must be taken cared of well to ensure longevity and quality of life. Make sure to provide a good diet and regular exercise plan for your pet to improve his chances for cardiovascular health. --- ## Worms in Dogs And How to Treat Them URL: https://healthierdogs.com/worms-in-dogs-and-how-to-treat-them/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Worms in dogs are a common problem that all knowledgeable pet owners know about. You might be a new owner, or probably a more experienced one looking for new information on dog worms. Whoever you are, if you are a lover of animals you are welcome to stay as long as you like. Let’s share tips and information on ways on how to make our beloved pets healthy and happy. More than 90% of all puppies are reported to be born with worms. This happens when pregnant mothers have not been de-wormed properly and have transferred these parasites to their offspring without meaning to. Sometimes, the mothers can also transmit the worms as they nurse their young. It is critical that you find an excellent worm treatment you can administer to your puppy as soon as possible. When your puppy does not receive the right worm medication, it can cause severe damage to his internal organs. Remember, his immune system is not yet properly developed; hence he has little strength to fight against these little monsters invading his body. When he reaches two weeks, bring him to a holistic vet for check-up and treatment. A natural treatment for dog worms cannot be stressed enough. Pharmaceutical companies have de-worming treatments available, but be very careful about using some of these medications. Because the goal is to kill off the worms, the same chemicals used in pesticides are used in many of these drugs. Even if the amount you use is small, over a long period of time it will add up and be the cause of more damage to the dog’s system. Some of the side effects that pesticides are known to inflict on our animals are as follows: cancer, reproductive problems, tremors, nausea and vomiting, tumors, kidney/bladder/liver damage, visual disturbances, seizures and heart complications. Yes–the list seems to contain every possible canine disease there is, so be sure to avoid giving your dog harsh drugs whenever possible. Fortunately, there are natural remedies to treat canine worms. These holistic therapies make full use of healing properties found in plants and herbs. These organic treatments are known to kill the internal parasites safely and effectively. You should also make it a point to give your dog a nutritious and well-balanced diet. For some reason, fleas and worms do not usually like healthy animals to be their host. Serve him fresh vegetables and fruits in addition to the meat you put in his meals. If you are not able to prepare fresh and natural fare, look for premium healthy dog brands and supplements to give your dog the essential vitamins and nutrients that he needs. Severe itchiness, coughing, nausea, lethargy, blood in stool, a pot belly and a dull coat are some signs of worms in dogs. If your dog is exhibiting these symptoms, take him to the vet for a thorough examination right away. The earlier a canine sickness is detected, the better the chances of your dog of complete recovery. --- ## An Effective Pinworm Treatment URL: https://healthierdogs.com/an-effective-pinworm-treatment/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Is your dog exhibiting lethargy and an unusual appetite? Does he have diarrhea and unexplained weight loss? He might be developing a pot belly and a dull coat of hair and you don’t know how this came about. If this is your dog, it is highly possible that he has dog worms. Discover the best way on  with this great pinworm treatment. Pinworms are some of the most common internal parasites there are. They are not only a bane to the existence of our animals; humans are also in danger of contracting them as well. These tiny parasites can often be found congregating in really crowded places like schools, puppy mills, hospitals and parks. You need to protect your dog consistently with a good pinworm remedy to ensure that he doesn’t get infected easily whenever he goes outdoors. I would advice that you find a holistic vet to help you handle your dog’s concerns. Many times, the medications we give our pets to treat them of various disorders have harsh chemicals that eventually make them even sicker than their original state. Using a safe and organic remedy is not only gentler on his internal systems, it will improve his over-all health as well. This is especially true when looking for worm treatments. De-worming, after all, is not a one-time event. You have to consistently administer these treatments to make sure that worms do not ever stay long in your dog’s body. Larva can hatch and develop in a span of a few weeks, and more than that, there are always opportunities for your dog to get infected whenever he goes to outside to play with other possibly infected animals as well. Find medications that have herbs that specifically target to kill worms. Neem Leaves and Cloves are excellent antiseptic herbs which contain healing properties to eliminate parasites safely. Many times, these natural elements also have added health benefits that will improve his over-all condition also. Having a good diet is another effective way on how to get rid of pinworms. It is reported that worms do not like having healthy animals as hosts. Provide a well-balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and nutrients to boost his immune system. When your dog has a strong immunity, he is able to fight off infections and parasites that come his way. Also, prevent dog worms by keeping your home as clean as possible. Feces and dirt are breeding grounds for these harmful organisms. Take out feces in your home and backyard to significantly reduce the chances of worm infestation. Remember also to wash your hands very well with soap and water after you handle and play with your pet. Use a natural pinworm treatment and these prevention tips to help you have a worm-free dog. Our dogs are our best friends, do your best by them and have no regrets in life. Enjoy great bonding experiences with your happy dog today! --- ## Important Information About Dog Worms URL: https://healthierdogs.com/important-information-on-dog-worms/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Dog Worms – a Real Problem Dog worms are a common enemy that our beloved dogs have to deal with. These infinitesimal health hazards can be found almost everywhere dirt, soil, feces, sand, etc. What are some of the things we need to know about dog worms? There are several types of worms that our dogs can suffer from round worm, hook worm, pin worms, tape worm and whip worm. The most common of these worms that our pets have to deal with are round worms and hookworms. Unfortunately, these particular internal parasites can be transmitted to humans (also called zoonosis). Children are found to be more susceptible to these because they are often in close contact with the pets and may accidentally ingest the larvae of these parasites. Dog Worms Infestation Some people don’t think much of worm infestation but if your pet is not treated properly, it may lead to other health complications. Larvae migrate to other organs of the body and can do irreparable damage to them. Many dogs with worm infestation that were not treated in a timely manner have suffered from serious internal health problems. How do you know if your pet does have worms? The common symptoms of worm infestation is weight loss, lack of appetite, a dull coat of hair, a pot belly, lethargy, coughing, diarrhea and vomiting. When you see these symptoms, you must bring your pet to the vet right away. It is important to accurately diagnose your dog’s symptoms so he will get the appropriate treatment for it. Worm Treatment Options for Dog Worms You can find many over the counter medications that cure internal parasites. Be very careful about the drugs you administer your pet though because many of these are actually mild forms of pesticides and a prolonged usage of such drugs over a period of time may result in more damage to his health. Opt instead for natural alternatives that are effective for worm treatment. Several responsible companies are coming out with herbal products that naturally flush out the parasites from your dog’s system without the use of unnecessary toxins. The natural elements used in these healthy supplements more often than not, also have other health benefits that your pet will enjoy. You can find these natural products from reliable pet-care sites and forums.   Of course, it is always better to do your part in preventing worm infestation. Make sure that you and your other family members wash your hands thoroughly after handling your dog. Remove feces from your home and/or backyard as soon as you are able. Keep your dog from mingling with animals that may be dirty or are dead. A saline solution sprayed over your dog’s crate or beddings is another good way to prevent further worm infestation. Make sure that you take your dog to the vet regularly for health checks. It is wise to  consult your vet with any worm treatment medication you are giving your pet even if it is herbal. Do what you can in preventing and treating dog worms and enjoy a healthy and happy pet! --- ## Safe and Effective Pinworm Treatment URL: https://healthierdogs.com/safe-and-effective-pinworm-treatment/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 There are many kinds of dog worms, one of the most common ones is the pinworm. It is a parasite that holds office in your dog’s small and large intestines and can be very dangerous when left untreated. You need a safe and effective pinworm treatment that you can give your dog. When you do, you are giving him a better quality of life that every pet owner wants for their beloved dog. It is recommended that you begin de-worming treatment for your dog as early as 2 weeks old, and regularly after that. After all, pinworms are oftentimes found in crowded places like kennels, schools, hospitals, and such your pet can contract this pesky parasite easily enough if he is not protected adequately against these. Ask your vet how what is the best way to go about this. There are many medications that claim to help you with this problem. Yes, there are synthetic drugs available in the market that can kill dog worms. However, these drugs, when given regularly over a period of time, become a serious deterrent in your dog’s health. Some of the more serious side effects include kidney, liver and heart complications; reproductive abnormalities; seizures; muscle tremors; vision deficiencies; and cancer. This is why more and more people are opting to use natural and more holistic remedies in treating their pet’s problems. The herbs that are contained in a natural pinworm cure contain properties that eliminate worms without doing damage to the rest of your dog’s system. There are no toxins; therefore, you can expect a better response from your dog when you give him an organic medication. What are some of the ingredients in a natural pinworm cure that are effective in worm elimination? One of the most powerful ingredients in treating worms is cloves. It has been used for centuries not only to get rid of worms, but to cure toothaches, fight infection and bring relief to pain. Papaya leaf is another excellent substance that coats the lining of the dog’s intestines, making it extremely difficult for worms to latch on to the intestinal walls of the host. Pinworms can also be contracted by humans so you should make it a point to do whatever you can to keep this unwanted visitor as far away from your home as possible. Children are especially vulnerable to catching internal worms. Common symptoms of pinworms in humans you should watch out for is bed wetting, nervousness, nausea, teeth grinding and an extremely itchy butt. Prevent the proliferation of pinworms by practicing good hygiene and excellent housekeeping. Remove feces from your home and backyard immediately and wash your hands thoroughly after handling your pet. Dog worms are tiny, but as you can see, they can cause a lot of problems for both humans and animals. Give your dog a natural pinworm treatment to prevent this from happening. It is an investment that every pet owner should make. Enjoy a healthy and happy dog today! --- ## What Happens If There Are Worms in Dog Stool? URL: https://healthierdogs.com/what-happens-if-there-are-worms-in-dog-stool/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Do you see worms in dog stool? If you do, it can only mean one thing your dog has worm infestation and you need to give him a de-worming treatment right away. Yes, I know it must be a disgusting sight to see, but if you must know the truth, dog worms are among the most common problems that dog owners have to deal with. Majority of all puppies born already have these internal parasites even before they don’t do anything. If this is so, then is there any hope left for all the dogs out there? The answer is yes. You can have a worm-free dog with the right preventative measures and treatments. First of all, understand that there are many kinds of canine worms. You have the roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, pinworms and whipworms. They may vary in appearance, but they are all equally harmful to your pet. They will not only inflict pain, but cause severe health complications when left untreated for long. Female pinworms often reside in the animal’s intestines, but they are reported to travel down the anus at night to lay their eggs. If your dog has pinworms, you can find worms in their stool especially if it is the first stool of the day. Long, segmented tapeworms can also be found in the dog’s feces. Many times you can see tiny, wriggling, broken pieces of the tapeworms moving around in the stool. If they have worm in their feces, it is highly likely that they are experiencing extreme itchiness in their anus region. Your pet might be often found butt scooting or dragging his butt across the floor to relieve him of some of the itchiness. If not, he will scratch his behind on a post or furniture because of the itchiness these worms are causing him. When you see this, be careful in handling your dog. Several of these worm types can infect humans by accidental ingestion or even simple skin penetration. Always wash and sanitize your hands after you hold your dog. Immediately take him to a holistic vet to ask for a natural de-worming remedy you can give him. There are many herbs that can help in keeping your dog worm-free safely and effectively. Now that you know that feces is a breeding ground for canine worms, do your best in making sure that your home is clean from this at all times. Get rid of stool even in your backyard as soon as you see it. Sometimes, puppies lick stool and this is a surefire way of internal parasites getting into his system. If he is vomiting or is experiencing diarrhea, have him checked right away. This is another sign of worms in dogs. Do not wait to find worms in dog stool before you give your dog a good de-worming treatment. Give him a healthy diet always and use natural remedies in de-worming your dog regularly. You can be sure to enjoy a healthier and happier dog when you do. --- ## What You Need to Know About Dog Worms URL: https://healthierdogs.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-dog-worms/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Dog Worms Did you know that most puppies are born into this world with dog worms? If their moms had a worm infestation problem that was not properly addressed, it is almost a sure thing that these worms will be transmitted to the baby still in the womb. I know that doesn’t seem fair, right? There are some things you can do to help your dog deal with the problem of dog worms, and have a healthy life. Puppies should be de-wormed 2 weeks after they are born. After that, you should regularly maintain worm treatment for preventative measures. A roundworm larva that develops into a full grown adult worm that lays eggs usually takes a month, so a monthly treatment would greatly help the chances of your dog not having to suffer worm infestation. Types of Dog Worms Of course, there are many kinds of dog worms. The roundworms that look like spaghetti, and tapeworms that look like segmented flat ribbons are the most common of them (other worms would be whipworms, hookworms, heartworms). Unfortunately, these two kinds of worms are also zoonotic meaning transferrable to humans; hence extra care must be given so that we do not risk our family’s health through this. Humans usually get worms from their dogs through improper handling of the dog and exposure to worm infested feces. You should make it a point to remove feces from your home and backyard as soon as possible to lessen the risk of this from happening. There are more reported cases of children being contaminated with worms in dogs because they are always in close contact with their pets, and also because they usually have weaker immune systems than that of adults. That means that you can avoid worm infestation if your immune system is strong enough to fight off bacteria and infections that these internal parasites cause. The same is true for our dogs. If you want to protect your dogs, start from the inside out. Create a diet that has a high nutrient content and have a lot of vitamins to boost his autoimmune system. This will be good for his over-all health as well. Treatments for Dog Worms There are many products out there that can help you out in dealing with worms in dogs. Suffice it to say the more natural the ingredients the better. Look for organic supplements that aim to rectify dog worms safely. These special herbs usually also have many health functions that will really benefit your dog a lot. Opt for natural instead of synthetic medications because chemical drugs will harm your dog’s health in the long run. Be vigilant with any behavioral and physical changes in your dog. Nausea, weight and appetite loss, diarrhea, lethargy and dry hair are symptoms of dog worms. Bring your dog to the vet immediately for an accurate diagnosis. The earlier any canine sickness is detected, the better the chances for complete recovery. Worm infestation may seem insignificant but without proper and timely treatment, it can progress to more serious health complications. Be safe and maintain vet visits regularly. If you do all of this, you should find that your dog will never be bothered by dog worms of any type! --- ## Discover the Symptoms of Worms in Dogs URL: https://healthierdogs.com/discover-the-symptoms-of-worms-in-dogs/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Dog worms are one of the most common problems that all pet owners have to deal with. Roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, pinworms and tapeworms are examples of the internal parasites that our dogs often have to deal with. Unfortunately, because they are so small, we don’t always know if our pets already have worm infestation. You need to be aware of the symptoms of worms in dogs so you can treat the problem effectively. Typically, worm infested dogs do not look good. They have dull hair, a red and pimply skin, runny eyes, pale gums and rancid breath. Many of them also may have a pot-bellied appearance that is not normal for them. Because of the parasites residing inside them, you will also notice that these dogs will have lost weight and suffer a significant loss of muscle mass. An easy, albeit extremely unpleasant way to know if your dog has worms is through observing their stool. Look for moving string-like worms (roundworms), and flat, segmented tapered worms (tapeworm) in the feces. If you don’t mind getting even dirtier, take a closer look at your dog’s behind. Sometimes you will find these little parasites around the dog’s anus. The other worms are too tiny to be seen with our eyes so if you don’t find any of these but suspect worm infestation, take a stool sample and wait for the results. Dog worms will also cause the animal to have unusual eating and excretion habits. He may or may not be super hungry one day, and have no appetite the next day. He will have chronic diarrhea and will urinate often. Vomiting, restlessness, coughing and low energy are other symptoms to watch out for. If your pet is displaying many of these signs, it is important that you have him examined by a licensed vet right away. Worms may be small and start out as a mere nuisance, but they have been known to cause really bad health problems later on. Larva that migrate to critical organs, and later fully develop and hatch eggs in your dog’s system will undoubtedly bring about damages that are sometimes irreparable. Heartworm is a type of worm infestation that has unfortunately brought about the demise of many of our poor canine friends. Different worms sometimes have different symptoms and treatments. You have to get your dog to the vet and get an accurate diagnosis of his condition. The treatment and medication will vary depending on the type of worm and the severity of the infestation. As much as you are able, use holistic remedies to cure your dog’s condition. Synthetic drugs have harsh chemicals that can be more detrimental to your pet’s health in the long run. Now that you know the symptoms of worms in dogs, make sure you share this information with your other pet owner friends as well. Healthy dogs are a precious gift that we should share with precious friends. Enjoy many happy memories with your healthy pet today! --- ## Helpful Tips on Worming Dogs URL: https://healthierdogs.com/helpful-tips-on-worming-dogs/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 If you are a new pet owner, there is something you must know about 95% of all dogs have worm infestation. You might be thinking I’ve been pretty good with my dog, I doubt he has worms. Well, that’s good but think about this, most puppies are born already with worms so however well you’re taking care of your pet, there are still many things you can learn about worming dogs that can help save you from needless canine medical expenses. How can learning about dog worms save me on my vet bills? Dog worms fall under the small but terrible category. These parasites are almost invisible, but they get into the animal’s system and migrate their way into the other areas of his internal systems. When the larvae mature, or if adult worms lay even more eggs in critical organs of the body, serious health complications may arise. That is why puppy worming is highly recommended. Go to the vet and have the new dog examined thoroughly for worm infestation. It doesn’t mean that if you don’t see it, it’s not there. There are several kinds of worms (round worms, tape worms, whip worms, hook worms, etc.) and there are different ways of treating them. Bring the pup to the vet 2 weeks after he was born and check what the best preventative worm medication you can use for him is. If the worm infestation is very severe, there are many drugs that are available to immediately remove these parasites from your dog’s system. Be very vigilant of the chemicals that are getting into your dog though. Many of these drugs are too potent for animals and are dangerous when used consistently over a period of time. Opt instead for natural products that contain organic compounds that will cure your dog’s condition. How will you know if your dog has worms? Common symptoms are vomiting, lack of appetite and weight loss for animals. Typically, he will also have chronic diarrhea and his coat will look dry and dull. If your pet has internal parasites and his immune system is shot, he will be even more susceptible to other canine diseases. It is very important therefore, to provide him a nutritious diet that will boost his immune system. Do whatever you can to avoid worm infestation. Roundworms and tapeworms are very common parasites that make its way into our dog’s system. The unfortunate thing about this is that these worms can be easily transferred to humans as well. Remove feces (a breeding ground for bacteria), and clean your home well to reduce chances of worms from invading your home. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling your dog to avoid the risk of accidentally contaminating yourself with worms. Worming dogs is a basic and important responsibility of pet owners. Use this helpful information to help you get started on it right away. It only takes a little effort from you to prevent this from happening, but the lasting consequences are worth it. --- ## A Guide To Canine Worms URL: https://healthierdogs.com/a-guide-to-canine-worms/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Canine worms are something all pet owners have to deal with. Indeed, it is one of the most common problems that our pets have. The good news is that there are ways to prevent and cure it easily enough. However, when left untreated, it can escalate to more serious health complications that can endanger your dog’s life. Usually these internal parasites make their abode in the animal’s digestive tract or intestines. Let us take a quick look at the four main types of dog worms and their symptoms in this article today. Roundworms are perhaps, the most prevalent of these internal parasites. They look like wriggly spaghetti-like organisms that breed in feces and dirt. They feed on the digested food in the dog’s intestines. Hookworms on the other hand, latch on to the intestinal wall and suck the blood out of the dog. Being infected with hookworms can be very dangerous for puppies. Tapeworms are interesting canine intestinal worms. They have no mouth. Instead, they absorb their host’s food by skin contact. Dogs contract tapeworms by ingesting contaminated fleas. Whipworms are long parasites that are often found in the dog’s colon and feed on the dog’s intestinal wall. They are said to be the most difficult to completely eliminate from the host’s system. The symptoms for dog worms sometimes vary per type of worm but generally, they display the same signs: vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, weight loss, unusual appetite, dull coat, distended belly and lethargy. In some cases, the dogs may have stool with traces of blood in it. As worm infestation worsens, anemia and intestinal bleeding occurs. This can be very dangerous for the dog, especially a puppy with a weak immune system. Hookworm infestation, in particular, is not an easy condition to detect and puppies with severe hookworm infection can likely die without much warning. It is important that you bring your dog to the vet to have them tested for the presence of these internal parasites. Because many of these worms are tiny and invisible to the naked eye, stool sample and blood tests may be conducted. Do your best to provide a healthy diet for your pet because a healthy animal is less likely to be infected by worms. There are also excellent natural worm remedies you can get that are safe and effective for animals. Papaya leaf, for example, lines the intestinal tract of the dog making it almost impossible for the intruders to stay there for very long. Clean your home frequently to avoid worms. Feces, in particular, are exceptional breeding grounds for canine intestinal worms. Did you know that around 10,000 worm eggs are found in a gram of dog poop? Disgusting I know, but helpful to know. Remove feces immediately and disinfect that area with a saline solution to ensure that all eggs are killed. Now that you know about canine worms, do your best to keep them from making their home in your beloved pooch. Take care of your dog and enjoy a beautiful and happy dog today! --- ## What Are Pin Worm Symptoms? URL: https://healthierdogs.com/what-are-pin-worm-symptoms/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 If you are a pet owner, you cannot help but want the best for your pet. It makes you happy when you see your dog in all his tail-wagging glory. Conversely, it’s a frustrating feeling to see your dog in the throes of some sort of canine condition and not know what it is. When you know the symptoms of a certain dog sickness, you can take the necessary actions to treat it effectively. Here are common pin worms symptoms that you should know about. First of all, you might be wondering what are pin worms? These are a type of worm that besets the canine population. Unfortunately, it can be transmitted to humans. It is said that more than 200 million people all over the world has pin worm infestation. If you suspect that your dog has worms, isolate him from children. It is very possible that pets transfer this internal parasite to people through frequent contact. Pin worm in dogs are very common. They often dwell in the intestines and lay their eggs in the area of their host’s anus so if you want to check if your dog has this, his first stool in the morning should be checked. The female pin worm will lay around 15,000 eggs at any given point. You will notice that one of the symptoms of a person or a dog that has pin worm is an itchy butt. A person will often scratch this area and will likely get the eggs of the pin worm in his hand. If he doesn’t wash his hands with soap and water, he will cause this infestation to spread. Dogs are prone to scratch their butt, or drag their behind over the floor to relieve it of itchiness. If you see your dog doing this, have him examined by the vet right away. Other symptoms of worm infestation include diarrhea, low levels of energy, loss of weight, a dull coat of hair and coughing. There are many medications out there that will treat the symptoms but be very careful about what you give your dog. Remember, you need to treat the root and not just the symptoms. Moreover, when you pump too much chemicals in your dog’s system, it will be more detrimental to his health and this may show up after a few years. To avoid spreading this worm, you need to practice good hygiene. Wash your hands thoroughly after you play with your dog and teach your children to do so as well. Children are more susceptible because they spend more time with pets and they have weaker immune systems than adults. Remove feces as soon as you see them lying around in your home or backyard because this is where the eggs are. Disinfect the place when he eliminated. Pin worms symptoms are not always obvious so you must be vigilant of any behavioral and physical changes in your dog. Take him to regular vet visits and provide him with a well-balanced and nutritional diet at all times to ensure his best health. --- ## What About Pet Health Insurance? URL: https://healthierdogs.com/what-about-pet-health-insurance/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Almost all pet owners I know treat their dogs like they were a member of the family. The dog is prepared good meals, has excellent living arrangements, groomed well and most of all, is loved by everyone. Wouldn’t you expect to give the same care to him with regard to his health care as with the rest of your family? Most people would and this is why pet health insurance is a good idea. Not everyone is familiar with the concept of having their pets insured. I mean, we do this for a variety of things, why not our pets, right? They deserve the best life that we can give them. I understand that this isn’t for everybody, but if we truly love our pet, we are compelled to seriously considering providing our pet with insurance to secure his future. One of the biggest expenses there is to having a pet is veterinary costs. Yes, animals get sick and it is very costly to get them well most of the times. The medications and the fees can eat up a lot of our savings which can sometimes catch us by surprise. It’s not as if we can just let our dogs get by on their own they need us for their very survival. I’m sure you do not want to even see your dog suffer much so you are left with very little choice but to do whatever it takes to help him get well. That is why it’s good to have pet insurance. What will you do when your dog needs an urgent treatment that requires more money than what you have set aside for the month? Nobody wants to borrow from friends and relatives, or take out a loan if they don’t have to. If you have insurance specifically for this cause, you can spend as low as $20-30/month and be secured that your dog’s health costs will be covered for the specified duration of time. Before you decide on which one to take, take the time to compare pet insurance thoroughly. What exactly does the plan cover? Some plans cover monthly check-ups, some do not. Other plans have an age limitation that you need to be very careful about. There is nothing worse than having a plan and discovering later on when you need it that your dog does not qualify for it because of some detail in the fine print that you’ve missed. Now, it’s good that you have pet insurance, but don’t feel that you need to get the most expensive package if you don’t think that you need it. Perhaps you are more comfortable with an insurance that will cover your dog for emergencies only. Decide on what you want and shop around for a plan that’s affordable and practical for you. Pet health insurance is a good investment that all dog owners will do well to take. We have beautiful and loving dogs that we want to have around for as long as possible and having the right protection will help make it so. --- ## Simple Dog Commands URL: https://healthierdogs.com/simple-dog-commands/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Do you ever wonder what it’s like to have a dog that knows all sorts of tricks? Maybe you’d like your own Lassie, but that seems almost impossible with your lovable but unruly mutt always messing around. Well, let me tell you a secret every talented dog started out just like yours. When they learn the basic dog commands, they can progress to the more complicated and entertaining tricks you’ve always wanted your dog to do. How about you are you up for the challenge of training your pet? Sure you won’t get the results overnight, but it’s a worthwhile endeavor to pursue. As long as you are consistent and patient, you can accomplish great things in dog training. Before you commence your personal dog obedience school, keep in mind one critical factor: you must establish your position as the alpha dog of the pack. This means that your dog knows you are his leader. Do this by being kind but strong and firm when giving the commands. Do not concede to your dog’s wishes when he whines or cries or throws a tantrum. The sooner he knows that you are the boss, the easier and faster the training will be. Because dogs do not possess the same language skills as us humans, you can communicate with him through operant conditioning. This simply means that you reward him for good behavior and scold him for bad behavior. Simple enough right? Let’s see how this works with the simple, basic commands. To teach him how to sit, you can say “Sit!” and gently put him in a sitting position. When he gets in the right position, praise him profusely and give him a treat. Use the exact command each time and pretty soon he will understand what you mean. “Come!” is a command that can help save your dog from dangerous situations. Call out your dog’s name and say “Come!” while you run in the opposite direction. Let him chase you and when he catches up with you, give him a treat and praises. Make sure he hears you loud and clear so he can associate the word with the desired action. Another potentially life-saving command is “Drop it!” Put a toy in his mouth. Dangle a doggie treat before him and say, “Drop it!” in exchange for the treat. When he drops the toy in his mouth, be sure to give him lavish praise. You can also do this for “Leave it!” Walk by a toy and when your pet goes near it, say “Leave it!” and gently pull him on his leash. When he walks away, give him doggie treats and more praise to encourage him that he did the right thing. Dog training is extremely effective when you use positive reinforcement. Remember, be patient in teaching these dog commands and enjoy this bonding time with him. It won’t be long before you have a well-trained dog that anybody will be proud to have. --- ## Puppy Worming Information URL: https://healthierdogs.com/puppy-worming-information/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 It is said that almost all puppies that are born are already infected with worms. And even if the puppy is born without worms, it is very easy to contract these internal parasites outdoors. What do we need to know about puppy worming and when should I start de-worming treatments for my pet? You can start de-worming your puppy as early as 2 weeks of age and every 2 weeks after that until they are about 2 months old. Some other vet may recommend a different schedule for your particular breed so you should definitely consult a vet first before proceeding in worming your dog. Find a vet that is well-informed with holistic and natural remedies for canine sicknesses. I mean, you have an idea of how frequent de-worming treatments will take. Can you imagine giving your dog medications with drugs that often have a detrimental effect on his over-all health in the long run? You must be aware that many of these de-worming drugs actually contain mild forms of pesticides to kill the worms inside your dog. Don’t think that just because they sell it over the counter that it’s OK to give it to your dog. Many times we have to exercise extreme caution in our dog’s health because after all, canine pharmaceutical companies is a big business that can package these medications to only highlight it’s immediate effect, not the potential side effects. More than that, medicines oftentimes only treat the symptoms of the sickness and not the root, making it a very ineffective treatment for your dog. Make it a point to give your dog organic products as much as possible. For example, did you know that neem leaf is an excellent antiseptic herb that contains properties to kill internal worms safely? They have been used for centuries as a fantastic medicinal herb that many people and animals have benefited from. Look for supplements that have these helpful and natural elements in their ingredients. Aside from these treatments, make sure that you give your dog a nutritious and well-balanced diet. Especially if they are young, you need to build up your puppy’s immune system so he can resist the infections of these internal parasites. Feed him fresh food as much as possible, or if not, find healthy dog food brands that contain the least preservatives. Your investment in your dog’s healthy diet is well worth it. Think about it, you will spend less on vet bills and treatments when you do. Keep your home as clean as possible to avoid the proliferation of these worms. Disinfect your dog’s crate and beddings often and remove feces from your home and backyard when you see them. Keep in mind that many of these canine worms can be transmitted to humans so wash your hands thoroughly after cleaning or handling your pet. Puppy worming is an integral part of keeping your dog healthy. Keep these helpful information in mind when worming your dog. Enjoy the company of a happy and worm-free dog today! --- ## The Different Dog Worms Types URL: https://healthierdogs.com/the-different-dog-worms-types/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 One of the most common problems all our dogs have to deal with is worm infestation. I mean even pregnant dogs that have worms transmit them to her unborn baby, which means the little pup will be born already with worms. There are different kinds of worms and many times, each kind will necessitate a different approach and treatment. Here are the common dog worm types that beset our pets today. Roundworms. These worms have a spaghetti like appearance and the symptoms of these include diarrhea, vomiting, loss of weight, a dull coat and a pot belly. Roundworms can grow up to around 7 inches which makes it dangerous if they are left untreated because they will cause obstruction to the passageways of critical areas in your dog’s body, namely the intestines. Keep in mind that soil and dirt are breeding grounds (no pun intended) for the roundworm. Of course you cannot stop dogs from going out and playing around in the dirt but take the necessary measures and keep your home as clean as possible. Do not let the dog inside all the rooms and disinfect his particular area as often as possible. Hookworms. Hookworms are internal parasites that latch on the intestinal wall of its host and suck the blood, causing intestinal bleeding. They are thin worms with sharp teeth and the symptoms of this are diarrhea, anemia, low energy and a bloody stool. Unfortunately, hookworms can be transmitted simply by contact (walking on infested soil, contact with an infested animal). Moreover, hookworms can be fatal to pups so veterinary check-ups are extremely important. Tapeworms. Tapeworms are usually transmitted through fleas, and its symptoms include nervousness, pain in the abdomen, vomiting and itching in the anus. They are long and tapered parasites that can be found in dog stool, and even his anus. Whipworms. Whipworms are similar to the hookworm as they also feed off the intestines of their hosts, causing severe bleeding in some cases. They are quite difficult to completely remove so consistent de-worming remedies should be faithfully given to dogs with this particular infestation. Symptoms of whipworms include anemia, flatulence, loss of weight and blood in the stool. Pinworms. As with most worms, pinworms can be suffered by dogs and humans alike. These worms are pearly-white strands of wiggling parasite that can grow up to 2 to 13 millimeters long. Female pinworms lay eggs in the anus region of their hosts in the evenings so expect dogs with pinworms to suffer severely itchy butts. If he often “butt-scoots” or drags his rear-end to relieve it of its itchiness, he probably has some form of worm infestation. Identifying worms can be impossible with the naked eye. You need to have the dog’s stool sample checked by the vet to verify what particular internal parasite your dog is dealing with. The earlier you discover what ails your dog the better so you can treat him with the proper remedies right away. Share this useful guide on dog worms types to your friends and help them help their dogs have a better life today. --- ## How To Get Rid Of Canine Worms Safely URL: https://healthierdogs.com/how-to-get-rid-of-canine-worms-safely/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Canine Worms   Canine worms are a common malady that many of our furry friends have to deal with. Often, the dogs are infected in birth and they carry it with them until adulthood if nothing is done about them. There are many treatments available to cure these internal parasites, but it would be wise to study what you give your dogs so as not to aggravate their current situation. Too often, when a dog is prescribed with having worms, the conventional treatment is to go to a pharmaceutical company and get a specific medication that kills the worms. Now, while it may serve its immediate purpose for a while, you are actually doing your dog a disservice when you do so. Giving him medications and drugs will more likely make him develop health complications that will not be easily repaired in the long run. Why is that? Well, think about it. Many of these drugs contain chemicals that are similar to those found in pesticides. So if you are always giving your dogs these medications, as you should in de-worming practices, you are slowly poisoning your dog without even knowing it. Some long term health effects of giving your dog toxins as found in pesticides are: cancer, nervous system disorders, kidney damage, internal bleeding, lack of coordination, depression, seizures, excess production of saliva and tears, thyroid problems, vision abnormalities, headaches and nausea. Getting Rid of Canine Worms Holistically Now I know that sounds really bad but the good news is, there are safer methods on treating dog worms. Look for holistic vets who are familiar in what herbs to use to cure specific internal problems in dogs. When you use organic products instead of chemicals, you are prolonging the life of your pet and giving him a better quality of life as well. Neem leaves are a great example of safe and effective de-worming remedies for canines. They have natural properties that kill internal parasites without harming the dog’s systems. Moreover, this natural Indian folk medicine has been known to cure skin diseases, inflammation, urinary tract disorders, fever and diarrhea. Look for supplements that have neem leaves or other equally helpful herbs in the ingredients. Treating Canine Worms It is very important to treat your dogs when you discover that they do have worms. Canine tape worms and round worms are often transferred to humans because of poor hygiene and accidental ingestion. Children especially are more prone to contract these internal parasites. When these worms are allowed to mature and multiply, this can cause serious intestinal problems. For dogs, it can even cause their deaths. You can avoid this from happening by making sure that your home and backyard are rid of feces as soon as possible. Feces are a breeding ground for canine worms and when your dog takes a nip at it, you can be relatively sure he has ingested some of these eggs. Wash your hands thoroughly when handling your pet and sanitize his living area (crate, beddings, etc.) as often as possible with saline solution to reduce worm population significantly. --- ## How To Manage Canine Diabetes URL: https://healthierdogs.com/how-to-manage-canine-diabetes/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 What is canine diabetes? Most pet owners hate the thought of their beloved dog being sick and indeed, dog diabetes is a common and dreaded canine sickness. Fortunately, it can be managed easily enough with the right treatment, diet and exercise. Diabetes in dogs is also sometimes referred to as diabetes mellitus. This is caused by the dog’s pancreas  inability to produce sufficient insulin that his body needs. His body then responds by generating excess glucose that oftentimes cannot be effectively processed by his kidneys. Therefore, you will notice that a common symptom of diabetes is polyuria or frequent urinating, and polydipsia or extreme thirstiness. Other symptoms include weight loss, unusual appetite, intolerance of exercise, dehydration and visual problems. If diabetes is left untreated for a while, he may develop more alarming symptoms like depression, vomiting, weakness, foul breath and rapid breathing. The treatment administered to dogs with diabetes is threefold: insulin treatments, the right diet, and regular exercise. When you make a concentrated effort to improve upon his diet and exercise, as well as give his insulin therapy faithfully, your dog can enjoy a relatively healthy and happy existence. You can have your dog take his insulin shots by a vet. However, if you prefer to give his shots yourself you can, just have your vet educate you on the proper handling, administrating and storing of the medications. Do not keep pricking the same site when you give the injection, otherwise the dog might develop scars that may impede insulin absorption. Only use the appropriate syringes and dispose of them properly after use. A good diet is critical in ensuring your diabetic dog’s well-being. Give him healthy food that is rich in fiber and complex carbohydrates. Natural Balance is an excellent dog food brand that you can give him. This dog food brand uses only the best ingredients. Natural Balance does not include artificial flavorings and colorings which is very good because the closer the ingredients are to their natural form, the more organic and beneficial they are to your pet. Even if you do give your dog healthy food, monitor his meals and snacks consistently. An obese dog is more likely to develop diabetes and other canine sicknesses (like arthritis and heart problems). Look for dietary supplements with helpful herbs that specifically target to impede the progress of this disease. Some examples of these herbs are Chromium, Gurmar, Bilberry and Bejak. Exercise is not only valuable because it keeps the canine’s weight to a minimum it also aids in the better absorption of insulin in his system. This significantly reduces glucose concentration levels, thereby improving his health. Take your dog out for walks, swims or regular play time. There you have it, the three best ways in managing canine diabetes. Take care of your pet as best as you could and don’t forget to have fun with him. When you do, you will have great memories and experiences that no sickness can ever take away. --- ## Causes and Treatments For Dog Itching URL: https://healthierdogs.com/causes-and-treatments-for-dog-itching/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 I know dogs scratching themselves are a fairly common sight. There are times though that his itchiness is a little more severe than usual. Many dogs scratch so much that they do not get relief at night even causing them to develop wounds and scars from it. Does this sound like your pet? If so, find out the causes and possible treatments for dog itching in this helpful article today. In order to know how to cure your dog’s itch, you need to isolate the problem and find the exact cause for it. Excessive scratching can be because of a number of reasons but one of the most common ones is the presence of mange and fleas on his body. The vet may have to do some skin scraping to verify if this is the case. While both parasites are extremely annoying, the difference between mange and fleas is that the latter is external while mange resides on the outer surface of the animal’s skin. Ease mange bites by applying yogurt, olive oil or lemon juice over red and infected spots. Use essential oils to rub in your dog’s skin to repel fleas. Be sure to bathe them frequently with mild shampoos and brush out their coat regularly as well. Allergies are another possible cause of itching in dogs. It may be that he is allergic to certain food ingredients, detergents, pollens, etc. It may take a few weeks to determine what the actual origin of his allergic reaction is. It is best to ask the advice of a vet who is well-informed in dermatology for the appropriate treatment for this. A dog that itches a lot may be the result of dry skin, which is a symptom of a nutritional deficiency. Take an inventory of the food ingredients that you are serving him. The best kind of diet to give dogs is a raw food diet. Fresh meat, vegetables and fruits have valuable vitamins and nutrients which not only boost his immune systemaE”  it will improve his skin condition as well. Now, if you are unable to prepare a natural diet for your pet you can give him healthy dog food instead. Don’t buy those random commercial pet feed in grocery stores, find a premium and healthy brand that is rich in essential minerals that he needs. Life’s Abundance dog food is one such brand. This brand is created by a holistic veterinarian familiar with the safest food processing procedures and the healthiest ingredients. Serve your dog premium quality healthy dog food and watch him transform into a more handsome dog in no time at all. Sometimes, dog itching is a symptom of dog anxiety. If you think this is the case, then find ways to make your home environment as calming as possible. Certain herbs like lavender encourage relaxation. Gently massage your dog and brush his coat to ease stress and tension in his body. Be patient in treating your pet regardless of whatever the cause of his condition. --- ## What You Need to Know About Puppy Worms URL: https://healthierdogs.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-puppy-worms/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Did you know that the majority of dogs in the world are born with puppy worms? That sounds disgusting, but it’s true. Pregnant dogs that have been infected with worms pass it on to their offspring even while he is still in her womb. The larvae migrate to the womb to the baby and when the young pup is introduced to the world, he is not alone he probably has more than a few wormy fellows residing in him already. That is why many vets recommend that puppies are de-wormed as early as 2 weeks from the time of birth. It doesn’t stop there though. Dog worming treatments should be continued on a regular basis to significantly reduce the chances of worms from breeding in your dog’s system and endangering his life. Roundworms, when left untreated, can grow quite long and be an obstruction in your dog’s intestines. How will you know if your dog has worms? The common symptoms of worms in dogs are vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea, and weight loss. His coat will become dull and dry and he will likely have a pot-belly appearance as well. Depending on the type of worm in his body, you might also expect your dog to have an itchy butt, dragging his behind on the floor or scratching it against furniture to alleviate the itchiness. Because you will need to be regular in de-worming your dog, it is imperative that you find an excellent treatment for him. Be very careful about the medications that are out in the market today. They may claim to kill the worms inside your dog, but at what cost? These contain drugs and are actually mild forms of pesticides that will progressively bring more serious damage to your dog’s health in the long run. Opt for holistic and natural remedies to cure your dog instead. There are herbs that effectively eliminate the presence of dog worms without being too harsh on your dog. These really good organic products are available in many pet-care store sites. Ask a reliable vet, well-informed on holistic and alternative therapies for animals for his recommendation. Do your part in making sure that your home is as clean as possible from these pesky intruders. Practice good hygiene by cleaning your hands thoroughly after holding and playing with your dog. Remove feces from the house and his area immediately. Stool that was handled or ingested accidentally is one of the most common causes of worm infestation. Clean his area well and apply a saline solution over his crate and bedding and let dry this is said to help in minimizing the existence of worms. Puppy worms may seem trivial for some, but they can really be dangerous when nothing is being done about it. Often times, the dog finds himself lodging several hundreds or thousands of worms in his intestines which can bring about intestinal bleeding, anemia and even death. Do what you can in keeping your dog healthy and your reward is a happy and handsome pet. --- ## Raw Dog Food – Is It Best? URL: https://healthierdogs.com/raw-dog-food-is-it-best/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Is raw dog food best for your dog? Do you remember what a good nutritionist always says? The closer to the natural state the food we eat is – the better it is for our health. The same is true for canines. If you think about it, animals have lived off organic substances in the wild for thousands of years and survived, why should right now be any different? Feed your pet delicious raw dog food and get him in his healthiest and best shape yet. Raw dog food is convenient to make – you don’t have to cook or make elaborate preparations to get it going for your pet. Break turkey and chicken necks, backs and legs with the skin that covers it and mix it in your dog’s meals. This supplies the calcium and fat in your dog’s nutritional requirements. Serve meat and organ meat with fresh vegetables like broccoli, carrots and cucumber for added variance.  Chop the food well to avoid any choking incidents. As you are planning Fido’s meals, always remember to add whole grains and fruits in your dog supplies. Fruits especially give the needed antioxidants that will help protect your pet from certain diseases. You can season the meals with special herbs and spices to make it more interesting. Garlic is a good ingredient to put in but mind how much of it you add – too much garlic may be bad and result in unfortunate digestive problems for the pet. When walking the dog, there will probably be times when he will eat the grass on the park and your neighborhood’s lawn. Do not yank the leash when he does, let him be. Grass will cleanse his colon and more than that, assists in the elimination of whatever undigested food left in the dog’s system. A benefit of serving your pet a raw and natural diet is a set of beautiful white teeth and fresh breath on the dog – as fresh as a canine’s breath can be at least. It is because of the enzymes contained in organic food. There is also less toxins in natural food which is the usual culprit in bad breath on dogs when bits of food get stuck in between the animal’s teeth. Another good excuse to change to a raw diet is the significant decrease in the amount of dog poop; as well as the foul smell this usually gives off. You can know how to improve their diet with how their stool looks like. Soft and mushy stool needs to have more bones included in the meals. If the stool looks too hard on the other hand, you need to increase vegetable portions in the dog’s meals. The best thing perhaps in serving this kind of diet is that you do not really need a lot of dog supplies in terms of ingredients, and the gains you achieve for your dog can certainly be significant. Allergies and wounds are healed faster; coats take on a glossy sheen; your dog will have boosted energy levels, and on the list goes. Really, aside from regular check-ups, you will not be seeing your vet a lot anymore. Make the transition from processed food to natural food gradual but begin as soon as possible – it may be the best thing you will ever do for your pet. Raw dog food – yes, it IS best! --- ## Home Made Dog Food – Raw Dog Food Recipe URL: https://healthierdogs.com/home-made-dog-food-raw-dog-food-recipe/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27   For 180 dog food recipes, including home cooked dog food, raw dog food recipes, and lots of dog treat recipes, click here. Or try this one! Raw Dog Food Recipe: 3/4 pound Raw Meat – *see Note 1 raw egg 1/2 clove garlic – chopped 2 tablespoons yogurt 1 teaspoon honey 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar 1/2 teaspoon flax seed oil – **see Note 1 teaspoon kelp seaweed powder – **see Note 1 teaspoon alfalfa powder – **see Note 1 cup raw oats (optional) Mix together and serve. *Note: raw beef chunks (not ground), raw chicken, mackerel, or lamb etc. May include bones. Twice a week you may use liver or kidney. **Note: found in health food store or pet store This raw dog food recipe will be sufficient for approximately 1 meal for a large dog, 2 or more meals for a medium dog, and 4 or more meals for a small dog. For more dog food recipes, including home cooked dog food, more raw dog food recipes, and lots of dog treat recipes,   click here. --- ## Raw Dog Food for a Healthy Dog URL: https://healthierdogs.com/raw-dog-food-2/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 Raw dog food – a healthier alternative for your dog. How many of us like our steak rare? I mean, so rare that the waiters took it out of the freezer and straight to our plates. It doesn’t sound very appetizing now does it? Interestingly enough, this kind of diet is said to be good for our pets. Yes, raw dog food is a recommended type of diet our pets will benefit from. Raw dog food is also known as the BARF diet. BARF is the acronym for Bones and Raw Food, or Biologically Appropriate Raw Food. With so many commercial pet food recalls the recent years, people are starting to realize that maybe the best alternative is to just serve their dogs raw and natural food instead. If you think about it, it actually makes sense. Before we humans ever domesticated our canine friends, they lived in the wild and they did just fine. In fact, more than fine, they flourished and multiplied in number. What was the food they were eating? There weren’t any groceries then where they could queue up and order up their food. These dogs were on a raw dog food diet. That means they were eating uncooked meat and plants that grew straight out of the ground. This may be a new concept to many people but actually, dogs that are on the BARF diet actually have a smoother, shinier coat and skin, clear eyes and over-all better health. One of the concerns raised about dogs being on the BARF diet is that uncooked food might give rise to Salmonella or other parasitic infection. Well, the truth of the matter is that dogs on a raw food diet have an excellent immune system that is able to fight off infections that are coming against his system. Canines’ saliva and stomach acids have enzymes that also help protect them against bacteria. This is not to say that ALL pet food sold in the supermarket are bad for their health. Not at all. There are several really good premium pet food brands that are able to closely duplicate the nutrients a dog will get on a BARF diet. However, you must be very careful with your selection of these food products because most of the cheaper variety of processed pet food are not only devoid of nutritional value, they are detrimental to the animal’s health. I know some of you are a little worried because putting your dog on a raw food diet will entail more effort and higher costs. This is not necessarily true. If you are able to plan and prepare your dog’s meals properly, you can actually end up saving more money. Cook his meals in advance and store it properly so you don’t have to spend a lot of time in the kitchen whipping up doggie treats. Raw dog food is the healthier alternative for the pet owner who wants the best for his dog. --- ## Raw Dog Food URL: https://healthierdogs.com/raw-dog-food/ Type: post Modified: 2020-07-27 It has often been said to us that the closer the food we eat is to its natural state, the healthier it is for us – the same applies to our canines. Think about it, the natural habitat of animals is in the wild; they lived off the most organic of food and survived throughout the centuries. If you want to see your dog in its healthiest, most natural state – the best thing to do is feed him a delicious raw dog food diet. Raw dog food is quite simple to prepare. Turkey or chicken necks, backs and legs supply the needed calcium and crunch in the dog’s diet. Make sure that you include the skin to put in fat which is valuable to a dog’s nutrient requirements. You can also serve small blocks of raw meat and mix it in with fresh vegetables like carrots. Chop into small pieces the bones and the other elements to ensure the animal doesn’t choke on his food. As you prepare his meals, keep in mind that grains and fruit should also be included in his dog supplies. Fresh fruits in particular, provide necessary antioxidants that help in preventing certain diseases to come upon your pet. Seasoning the meals with flavorful herbs and spices will make it more interesting for the dog. Garlic is a healthy additive but take heed in the doses you give – too much can cause digestive problems to rise up. When you walk your dog there are times he will eat the grass that cover the park or your neighbor’s lawn. Unless it is illegal, do not stop him from doing so. Grass will help cleansing his colon. Moreover, it will aid in the proper absorption of undigested bones and meat left in the dog’s system. One of the most noticeable benefits of serving a raw diet to your pet is seeing their beautiful white teeth and them having fresher breath than their processed food fed friends. The reason for this is most likely because of the natural enzymes found in fresh food and the decreased amount of toxins that may be caught in between doggie’s teeth. Another cause of switching to a raw diet is the marked reduction in the amount of poop the dog eliminates. You can also determine how to better improve their diet with the appearance of the stool. If the stool is too squashy, then add more hard bones; if the stool is too hard, increase vegetable servings in his meals. You will also observe that there is very little foul smell as well. The great thing about serving raw fare is that you need very little dog supplies – but the advantages you gain are considerable. Their allergies and wounds heal faster; their coat takes on a glossier shine; their stamina and energy levels increase; and aside from the regular check-ups to the vet, you won’t see the inside of the vet’s office anytime soon. Transition should be gradual but be sure to begin making that change as soon as possible. --- ## Merrick Dog Food Reviews URL: https://healthierdogs.com/merrick-dog-food-reviews/ Type: post Modified: 2020-02-05 Many of the Merrick dog food reviews note that this brand is a household name in dog foods. Choosing the right food is one of the most important tasks of a pet owner. So much of a dog’s life and vitality depends on the nourishment they receive. Healthy pets are characterized by their clear, bright eyes, brilliant coats, clean teeth, vitality, and a happy and playful disposition. Just as in humans, the kind of food that goes into a dog’s system has a great impact on the over-all health, behavior and lifespan. It is therefore the pet owner’s responsibility to be thorough in choosing the right dog   food brand, and moreover, checking the ingredients they contain. Merrick dog food is one of the more well-known premium dog food brands and its line includes seven dry dog foods. Merrick also manufactures two varieties of its dry dog food – Classic and Grain Free. Many dog foods contain grain sources but unfortunately many dogs are also allergic to grains. The fact that Merrick dog food accommodates this concern is welcomed by many pet owners. Both varieties are made from wholesome ingredients. Notably, a variety of meat sources are used as the primary ingredients including buffalo, venison, salmon meal and lamb meal. Meat meals are concentrates that actually provide 300% more protein than whole meats – beneficial to dogs as they are primarily carnivores. The Merrick Classic dog food use whole grain while the Grain Free dry dog food combines the meat with fruits and vegetables such as carrots, peas, and potatoes. Both varieties are also free of preservatives and artificial flavorings and colorants. Moreover, the brand does not use cheap fillers such as soy, corn or wheat. When it comes to determining the right dog food – the right ratio of ingredients is an important part of deciding whether or not to try the brand out. Getting that sort of information might take some research but Merrick publishes its percentages right on the bags for easier and more convenient reference. For example, Merrick’s Real Buffalo and Sweet Potato Recipe is composed of 70 percent meat and 30 percent vegetables while its Classic Chicken, Brown Rice and Green Pea recipe has 60 percent meat, 20 percent grain and 20 percent vegetables. A pet owner may then decide which recipe to buy, depending on his or her pet’s needs. Puppies, for instance, need more protein to aid in their growth and development. From the various Merrick dog food reviews, dog owners are keen on the fact that this brand offers a high percentage of meat alongside suitable levels of carbohydrates and vitamin supplements. Dog owners have found that their pets like the smell and taste, owing most probably due to the addition of beef fat which is not only appetizing to dogs but is also a good quality source of fat. The absence of corn, wheat and soy are also plus points as these ingredients do cause allergies to many dogs. Instead, oatmeal and barley are good alternatives that contribute fiber and B-vitamins to a canine’s diet. The addition of probiotics also aid in digestion while boosting immune system. Some pet owners however have noted gastrointestinal problems after switching to this brand. As a final word for seekers of Merrick dog food reviews, pet owners must remember that just like us, every pet is unique and has unique circumstances. No single dog food can answer every individual need. As a responsible dog owner, it is your task to find out as much as you can in order to give your beloved pet the best food suited for him or her. --- ## Merrick Dog Food URL: https://healthierdogs.com/merrick-dog-food/ Type: post Modified: 2019-12-16 “A good man is concerned for the welfare of his animals” Proverbs 12:10. This is the credo that Merrick Pet Foods have stood by for years. It is, in fact, displayed in the products of Merrick dog food. With a noble and outstanding maxim to live by, you can be sure that you are getting only the best when you buy one of their excellent products. Merrick Dog Food Brand If you are a dog lover for any number of years, you know that Merrick is a brand that you can trust. Most experts will agree with me on this as evidenced by its high standing in dog food reviews and comparisons from different individuals and organizations. They use only the highest quality of ingredients in all their products and are guaranteed to be loved by your beloved pooch. What makes Merrick dog food stand out from the rest of the pack, no pun intended? Well, there are only a handful of premium dog food brands that are as “pet health conscious” as Merrick. Merrick Pet Food is a family company that started out with a simple goal – create pet food that are as natural and healthy as possible. That was a few years ago –  they have reached it and they have now expanded to make more innovative and new formulas that canines from all over the world absolutely love. They have a simple philosophy. The great individuals behind this excellent company believe that the less they do with the food and ingredients, the better. Merrick eliminates any steps or processes that are not needed. They do not use artificial flavorings and additives that too many commercial pet food use nowadays. No Preservatives in Merrick Dog Food and Treats You may not realize it but these preservatives are very detrimental to the animal’s health. Chemicals added to food are known to be the cause of many canine sicknesses that could have been easily avoided in the first place with proper dog nutrition. It is vital that you find a company that is responsible and will not compromise on the quality of the products that they offer their consumers. Merrick is one such brand. There are several types of Merrick dog food products that you can choose from: Merrick Campfire Trout Dog Food, Merrick Cowboy Cookout Dog Food, Merrick Grammy’s Pot Pie Dog Food, Merrick Puppy Plate Dog Food, Merrick Senior Medley Dog Food, Merrick Turducken Dog Food and Merrick Wilderness Blend. Famous Merrick Dog Treats These foods are delicious meals that you can serve your dog. Merrick is perhaps even more famous for its healthy, delicious dog treats that your dog cansnack on as well. Flossies, bully sticks, taffy sticks are some favorites that you can use as rewards and treats in your next dog training session. Don’t be surprised if you have a fast learner in your hands when you use a handful of these treats for training. Click on the images to find these wonderful Merrick dog food products everybody has been raving about. Your dog’s health is an investment worth banking on. --- ## Great Home Prepared Dog Food for Poodle URL: https://healthierdogs.com/great-home-prepared-dog-food-for-poodle/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-28 Did you know that a poodle is among the top three most intelligent canines in the world? You probably have a poodle right now and you know exactly what I mean. He (or is it she?) is super smart, affectionate and not to mention really good-looking. Naturally, you only want the best for your pet right? Get a great home prepared dog food for poodle in this excellent article today. Dog Food for Poodle Poodles are highly energetic canines. Make it a point to serve him a diet that has 20% crude protein and 20% fat regularly. You can get this from high-grade and fresh meat. It is reported that Poodles do not process turkey and pork too well so stick with beef and chicken servings. Chop them into very small pieces and make sure to remove the bones to prevent any choking incidents. Raw Dog Food for Poodle As much as possible, give your pets a raw dog food diet. In addition to meat, include fresh vegetables and fruits to his meals. You will see a big difference in their general well-being and their appearance. More than that, you can be sure that the natural nutrients as found in natural fare will greatly improve their health. Poodle Health Problems This particular breed of dogs is more susceptible to certain canine diseases. As such, it will be extremely beneficial to your pet that you give him food that contains the minerals to impede the progression of these diseases. What are some of these sicknesses that Poodles are more inclined to contract? Some of these are eye problems like cataracts, skin issues, allergies, hip dysplasia and Von Willebrand’s disease. Improve your dog’s vision by giving him leafy green vegetables, purple berries, carrots and sesame seeds. Chamomile and Echincea are two herbs that have excellent anti-inflammatory properties that can also be used topically to ward off eye infections, or serve as a saline solution to his cloudy eyes. Celery, mango, papaya, parsley and asparagus are ingredients that help delaying the progress of arthritis. Yogurt, cottage cheese, fish oils also contain important minerals that are very beneficial to the dog’s health. You can also boil liver and slice it in bite-sized pieces to give your dog for treats. Be careful not to give him too much organ meat however, because doing so may be toxic to him. Monitor Your Poodle’s Food Monitor your Poodle’s meals carefully. It is better to give him three to four small meals throughout the day, rather than the typical one or two big meals. Check the amount of snacks you feed him. Sometimes we do not realize that we are already exceeding the recommended daily calorie intake of our dogs because of unsupervised doggie snacks. Be aware of this because overweight dogs have a tendency to be more vulnerable to many canine diseases. Home Prepared Dog Food for Poodle Now, you may not always be able to provide a home prepared dog food for Poodle so do the best with what you have. Serve him the best healthy dog food you can find and add fresh meat or a scoop of cottage cheese in the dish. You can also give him supplements and you should take him out for light exercise daily. --- ## Problem Solving Dogs URL: https://healthierdogs.com/problem-solving-dogs/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-28 One of my readers, Sarah,  sent me this interesting story about how she gives her dogs problem solving, fun, activities, and the differences in how they deal with these situations. So here is Sarah’s story … Here’s an activity I do with our dogs to encourage their problem-solving skills. I read it in a book entitled, 101 activities for a Bored Dog. Maybe you know it alright, but if not maybe try it with your dogs and what they do, watch their breed tendencies surface and their personality come alive. Use an empty toilet paper roll. Push one end under and put a favorite treat inside. Let your dog see you put it in there the first time or a couple of times, depending on how he/she responds. Then push under the remaining open end and give it your dog, telling them to “go find it” or “find the treat” or whatever key phrase you give your dog when you give them treats. (Note: This is an activity you have to monitor because some dogs like to eat the cardboard. I’ve read that a little cardboard wouldn’t hurt them and somewhere else I read that it could cause problems. So, I choose to monitor and collect the shreds to ensure no problems.) The first time I did this activity with Lady and Snowball it was amazing to see how they approached the situation. It was completely different. This activity not only helps them in problem-solving but brings out their personality. Snowball took his prize to his corner where we call his bed. It consists of a pillow I made big enough for his whole body. He then tore into the cardboard package and tried eating the cardboard in the process. I really had to keep an eye on him the first few times I did this activity and collect every piece I could get my hands on and teach him that the cardboard wasn’t his treat. I don’t have that problem now. He now can tear apart the cardboard and get his treat leaving the packaging behind and alone even if I’m not in the room. I come in and out frequently to do check-up in his progress because I’ve advanced the game for him. Lady was completely different in her responses. Once she got the package she too took it to her bedroom (which is a crate with a pillow and a blanket on top to partially cover her to give her privacy and a sense of feeling protected.)  She then laid down and started gently tugging here and there and turning it over and around with her paws. She saturated the cardboard before she was able to open the package and get her treat. She too was interested in the cardboard. (Note: if you really don’t want the dog to eat the cardboard do not put peanut-butter or squeeze cheese in this package as a treat.) You can vary this activity by not allowing them to see you put the treat inside, just put it down in front of them (with a treat inside of course). Once the master that you can then try and hide the package somewhere and tell them to “go find it” or “find the treat”, or whatever phrase you use with them when giving them treats or rewards. Since Snowball conquered this activity really fast, I decided I needed to find something to challenge him more. I gathered an idea from another book I read, How to Raise the Perfect Dog, By Cesar Millian. It involved baby food jars. I didn’t have any of those but I did have a half pint jar. So, I put the treat under the jar (Place the jar upside down so the treat is covered) and told them to “go find it” or “find the treat” Snowball immediately started to survey the situation. He circled this way and that way, nudged it with his nose and toppled it over. The second time I (since he got that challenge rather quickly I increased the jar size to a pint jar. This time he looked at it and picked the jar up with mouth and dropped it on the other side of the treat and gobbled up his reward. SO, I was back to square one on how to challenge him. I tried combining the empty toilet paper roll with this glass jar. And this worked wonderfully. It kept him busy for awhile. I think fifteen minutes. I placed the roll in the jar upright and put the jar on the floor upright. He picked it up in his mouth, brought it to his bed and began to try to put his mouth in the jar to pull the package out. The funny thing is that one time he got it out and then the jar slipped from between his paws and the package fell back inside. Another time he got the package out while I slipped out of the room and when I returned (which was no more than 2-5 minutes later) he looked up at me as if to say that was it and looked at the shredded cardboard beside him. I picked it all up and praised him for a good job and then I went to retrieve the jar I realized why he looked at me the way he did. The treat was still in the bottom of the jar and he didn’t know it. So, I reaffirmed to him to “go find it”, “find the treat” and gave him the jar again and he worked at getting it out. He was successful. The last tried and true challenge for Snowball is placing the package sideways in the jar, wedging in the bottom. He never gives up despite the challenge. He eventually gets it turned upright and gets it out not too long after that. I haven’t had any other need to further challenge his ability at problem solving but continued to give him the last activity on a regular basis just to get him mentally challenged for a while. He loves it. Lady on the other hand when given the half-pint jar looked at it and cried (well, she started to whimper). I had to really encourage her to “go find it”, “find the treat” She nudged it with her nose a little and walked around it nudging it and then started to whimper again. If I left the room for a short time (Still in eye view of monitoring them) she lost interest or she just gave up trying, feeling frustrated or (whatever). I would return and encourage her again and she would return and try again this time getting her paws involved. She noticed Snowball pick it up with his mouth and she eventually tried that method but couldn’t pick it up. I suppose she didn’t like the feel of it in her mouth. So she went back to getting her paws on it and eventually knocked it over and got her reward. Since she took a little longer with conquering this activity I did it the same way for a few days until she was successful, until she mastered it with no challenge. I then increase it to involving the toilet paper roll like I did with Snowball to further challenge her problem-solving. With each new challenge I gave her, she responded in a more interested manner and more active. She didn’t seem to give up easily. Success is the key before moving to more challenging feats. --- ## Dog Information: Try Making Your Own Pet Food! URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-information-try-making-your-own-pet-food/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-28 Have you ever gone shopping for some pet food and wondered about the dog information found on the label. You should do some research on what products might harm your beloved animal if you often worry about your pet’s health. Every pet owner would like to ensure that their animals are well taken care of! Many pet owners are looking for ways to take better care of their animal friends. If you are one of these people, it should be your goal to search for useful dog information on a healthier way to take care of your animal. There are a number of highly dangerous processed and artificial food which is not recommended for your pet! Purchasing meals with the right nutrition is a way to keep your beloved pet healthy. Making Your Own Pet Food A good option to take is to make home made dog food. This way, you know that there are no artificial add-ons to your pet’s meals. You can now make sure your pets live a long and healthy life while utilizing innovative nutrition, ensuring your animal’s happy and healthy life. You can rest assured that your pet is safe and protected by addressing all your pet’s nutritional needs. Sojos food is something which offers pet owners a ready mix. These are meals which are easy to make. You work with only fresh and natural food for your animal, so you do not have to worry much about their nutrition. Create great meals by supplementing this with fresh foods for your pets overall health. You can also try working with your local butcher to provide the best meals for your loved animal. If raw products are not something you would like to feed your dog, supplement your Sojos food with cooked meat, or, if you must, only the best canned food that is ideal for your animal’s diet. You should always make sure that you only purchase products which are fresh and very high in nutrition. Food that will harm your pet are those which are loaded with artificial flavors and preservatives. You can be sure that you are doing a good job as a owner when your pet is healthy and happy. A great way to do this is to keep up with the latest dog information on the best foods to purchase for your pet. Always make sure that you feed them with food which is healthy and high in nutrition! A great way to do this is to keep up with the latest dog information on the best foods to purchase for your pet! If you would like to keep up with the best and latest ways to better take care of your pet, you should try searching for some useful dog information over the internet. Any pet owner who would like to make sure your animal gets only the best food, try whipping up your own home made dog food. To help you do this, Sojos food can be a great help! Just supplement it with raw or cooked meat. – Melinda Smith --- ## Pet Food That Your Dogs Will Surely Love URL: https://healthierdogs.com/pet-food-that-your-dogs-will-surely-love/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-28 Choosing the Right Pet Food Being able to choose the right foods for our dogs is crucial in order for them to be healthy and strong. We have to be informed on what can be beneficial to their bodies. Actually, it’s quite easy to find pet food that can be nutritious and tasty to them. What foods you ask? Read on as they are provided below. One of their favorites is raw meat. They’re absolutely crazy for raw meat. A meal of this for a week will make them healthy and strong. Mixing this with rice and mashed potatoes is a good idea and you’ll even lessen your expenses. You may always try home made pet food variations. A good idea for home made pet food is raw bones with meat. They contain calcium and phosphorous which are essential for your dogs’ health. Also, they’re very cheap. You don’t even have to buy them as leftovers will be enough. You may also feed them legumes and eggs. Will Your Dog Love Canidae Dog Food? If you want a manufactured product, then you can try Canidae dog food. They have all the minerals and nutrients that dogs need. Why not try preparing a meal schedule for your pets? Try a combination of meat, bones, vegetables and this product. This is a surefire way of how you can give your pets a balanced diet. You should also be informed on what pet food are to avoid. Chocolates are poisonous to them so it should never be given. Bones also cannot be given to puppies. They do not have the proper digestive capabilities yet so bones may damage their organs. Milk and meat are good options for pups. You can also mix the product above with rice. Of course, there are other pet food concoctions that may be beneficial to your dogs. Some owners give their pets oatmeal. You may want to consult a veterinarian however so you wouldn’t have to worry about a thing. Pet Food Your Dogs Will Surely Love – Canidae Dog Food! Choosing the right pet food is very critical for our dogs. Home made pet food such as meat, vegetables, mashed potatoes, bones and rice can be given. Canidae dog food is also a good choice. – Melinda Smith --- ## Top Ten Best Dog Foods URL: https://healthierdogs.com/top-ten-best-dog-foods/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-28 Top Ten Best Dog Foods What are the top ten best dog foods? Many of the well known brands would have you believe that their brand of dog food is in the top ten best dog foods. But are they? The short answer – absolutely not! Purina dog food coupons is one of the most highly searched dog food terms on Google. But all that means is either that many pet owners are looking for a cheap option (one for which they can use dog food coupons), OR that Purina does a good job of advertising and getting pet owners to believe that their product is one of the top ten best dog foods when, in my humble opinion, it definitely is not. Diamond dog food is another popular search term, and again this food would come nowhere near my list of the top ten best dog foods. So What Are the Top Ten Best Dog Foods? Now Blue dog food is another matter. Blue dog food is becoming quite popular, and yes, in my opinion it probably does make the list of the top ten best dog foods. Blue dog food is also known as Blue Buffalo dog food. It’s a great food for your dog! So what are some others? How about Nutro dog food? Or Iams dog dog food? Hills dog food perhaps (also known as Hills Science Diet dog food)? – In my opinion, none of these come anywhere near the top ten best dog foods. But wait, don’t most vets recommend Hills Science Diet, I hear you ask? Yes, many do, but the majority of vets know little about animal nutrition (sad, but true, because the commercial pet food manufacturers control vet schools!) Orijen dog food, on the other hand, is an excellent dog food, as is Taste of the Wild Dog Food. Both of these probably make my top ten best dog foods list. Merrick dog food is another. As is Innova dog food.  But what about the very popular (and cheap) Pedigree dog food? And even the Royal Canin dog food? – they sell that one in veterinary surgeries, after all … well, neither Pedigree nor Royal Canin are on my list – nowhere near it, in fact. Nature’s Variety dog food is another excellent food that makes my list of the top 10 dog foods. And Canidae dog food is not too bad either.  So if you’re asking me who makes the best dog food, then the above should give you a clue … and to top off the top ten best dog foods, I would certainly include Honest Kitchen, Life’s Abundance, Sojos, and of course, Wysong. Top Ten Best Dog Foods Yes, I know, I’ve mentioned 11 dog foods for my top 10 dog foods, but who is counting?! by Melinda Smith And if that’s not enough info for you, for more on the Best Dog Foods Ranked, click here. --- ## Are You Feeding Him the Best Dog Food? URL: https://healthierdogs.com/are-you-feeding-him-the-best-dog-food/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-28 How do you know what the best dog food in the market is? How do you separate facts from advertising or paid press releases? How do dog food ratings fair as a credible resource for factual information? Best Dog Food? As pets become more than just household displays or guard dogs, more and more brands produce products at premium prices. They realize the power of the emotional hold a pet has over his owner. Pets today are not just animals, but companions and confidants that we love. In fact, the pet product industry is actually a 41$ billion business in America today. With every brand wanting a big cut of the pie, they start producing better advertisements and get well known celebrities to vouch for their products. Sometimes they use “emotional” ads to get you to trust their brand. Sometimes with all the ads that are being made, it becomes harder for pet owners to know what the best dog food is out there. This is actually not an easy question to answer. You have the old and strong big brands that share a bigger part of the pie, but you have smaller players creating their own niches using organic food and other unique mixtures of ingredients which many believe are a healthier alternative for your dog. How to Choose the Best Dog Food for Your Dog The fact of the matter is, every dog is unique. Each dog food caters to a specific need. For you to find out what the best dog food is for your dog, you have to take the time to know what the current health situation of your dog is and what he needs to ensure he lives a long and healthy life. This is where dog food ratings come in handy. You can find various ratings online and in print material. These ratings have various categories. Once you have identified the kind of diet your dog needs, then check out the different ratings per category. This, together with the information given by your veterinarian, will help you decide what the best dog food for your furry friend is. Finding the Best Dog Food for Your Dog It seems like a lot of work, but once you have done your homework you will see that it was well worth it. Nothing is more heartbreaking than having your pet go through a series of painful visits to the veterinarian just because he was not eating the right dog food for him. So how credible are these ratings? Truthfully, a lot of the ratings out there are paid by the different brands. So you might have to check reliable blogs, sites and official organization’s ratings on dog food before you actually create your own top 3 brands. These ratings should basically be considered as references but should not dictate your final decision. Ultimately, it is your dog that will be the judge of what the best dog food is. --- ## What is the Best Dog Food? URL: https://healthierdogs.com/what-is-the-best-dog-food/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-28 What is the best dog food? This is a question that most, if not all pet owners want to know. After all, one of the major proponents of animal health is nutrition so to have a healthy and happy pet you need to know what is the best dog food out in the market today. Best Dog Food The primary consideration when looking for the best dog food is the ingredients included in the meals. I mean, can you imagine how bad your health will be if you eat ice cream and chips all day for a month? All that junk may taste good, but it will take its toll on your body because you don’t have the nutrients and vitamins that your body needs to function properly. It’s the same with our dogs. They need the best dog food we can provide for them. Sure these four-legged creatures may not be joining us on the dining table, but that doesn’t mean that they can eat just anything we can throw together in the pantry. Our dogs are, after all, our family and that means that we need to find the most appropriate food that we can give them for them to enjoy a fantastic quality of life. Ingredients for the Best Dog Food So we know that the ingredients should have the necessary nutrients for dogs in any type of food that would be considered to be in the category of best dog food. What are examples of these? Dogs require a high level of protein in their diet – this is especially true for performance dogs, racing dogs, pregnant dogs, nursing mothers and growing puppies. The absolute best source of protein is meat – therefore, meat should constitute a large part of your animal’s diet. Serve your dog raw and fresh meat as much as possible. Chicken, lean beef and turkey are excellent. Chop up the meat in bite sized pieces and include the bones for added calcium and minerals. Now, most of you are probably thinking, I don’t have the time and luxury to prepare fresh food for my dog – are there other alternatives that I can give without compromising his health and well-being? The answer is yes! There are some really great dog food brands that are specially formulated to address your dog’s nutrient requirements. Meat should be listed in the first five ingredients of the dog food label, but make sure it includes other beneficial ingredients as well. Avoid meat by-products and grains. Grains are a lower quality meat substitute that have been known to cause poor health, and meat by-products are what you call the leftover, inedible parts of the meat (beak, feet, claw, snout, etc.). They may be more inexpensive, but your dog’s health will suffer from it. Cheap dog food may save you a few dollars, but you have to think of the long term effects of this to your dog’s health. There is a reason why some dog food brands are really cheap – it is because the quality of the products are substandard and this can result in canine sicknesses and disease in the future. It’s better to invest in the best dog food now, then pay for expensive medical bills in the future. Processing Methods for the Best Dog Food In Cans or Bags If you prefer to give some type of commercial dog food, another factor you might want to consider when choosing what is the best dog food is the method of processing used. You can give your pet dry dog food or canned dog food, depending on your dog’s preference and needs. When choosing dry dog food, opt for those that are dehydrated or freeze-dried. These are the gentlest forms of processing. The closer to the original form the ingredients look like, the better. If you are using dehydrated food, make sure you soak the dish in warm water for 15 to 30 minutes before giving it to your dog. You can add in chopped pieces of meat or vegetables to increase the amount of nutrients of the meal. Canned dog food is ideal for the more finicky dogs. This kind of dog food is usually more aromatic and will stimulate your dog’s senses to want to eat more. Canned dog food also contains more moisture so if your dog needs to have more water in his diet, give him canned dog food for his meals. I know there are a lot of companies that claim to have products that are good for your dog, but these are some of the brands that I personally think are awesome: Natural Balance dog food, Taste of the Wild dog food, Solid Gold dog food, Acana dog food, Innova dog food, Canidae dog food, Fromm dog food, Chicken Soup dog food, and Blue (Blue Buffalo) dog food. Click on the links in this article to find out more about these premium dog food brands today. What is the best dog food? I’ve given you the tools and the tips – now take your pick. Invest in your dog’s best health and give him the absolute best life when you give your dog the best dog food. --- ## Orijen Food URL: https://healthierdogs.com/orijen-food/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-28 Have you ever wondered why Orijen food is one of the most recommended dog food in the world today? Many pet owners and experts recommend this brand to other dog lovers out there because it simply is, one of the best dog food brands in the market today. So what does Orijen food have that other dog food brands do not? After all, if you are going to invest your hard earned dollars for your pet’s food, you should know why this premium brand is considered the best among the rest. Commercial pet foods use cheap, substandard ingredients in their products. Dogs are carnivores and they require generous servings of proteins in their diets. Unfortunately, many cheap dog food consider meat too expensive and so they turn to grains as a cheaper alternative to protein in dog food. The problem with this is that grains are generally not recommended because dogs cannot digest grains are well as meat. Grains are also said to cause allergies, food intolerance, obesity and dull skin for dogs. On the other hand, Orijen believes that our dogs and cats evolved to be our pets today, but they retain the physical structure and needs of their carnivorous ancestors. It is believed that these pets can survive on a meat diet since these are the type of food that they would naturally feed on in the wild. The philosophy that this brand espouses to is simple- create diets that mirror the animal’s natural diet in the wild. This is what is the most beneficial for them and should not be compromised for the sake of a bigger profit margin. You will notice that many of Orijen’s food have high inclusions of meat in their products. The many formulations have high ratios of whole meat, liver, cartilage and marrow- specifically excluding cheaper ingredients that have high glycemic carbohydrates and plant proteins that may not be suitable for the dog’s natural physiological needs. Yes, the end product may cost a few more dollars than the average commercial kibble, but what you get far surpasses the quality of many other dog food products out in the market today. Orijen food prides itself in using only the freshest and best quality regional ingredients in their dog food. The ingredients of nest laid eggs, ranch raised meats, cage free poultry, freshly caught wild fish, and sun ripened fruit and vegetable produce ensure that what is fed to the pets is only of the highest quality. The farmers and producers of these different quality ingredients are personally known and approved by the makers of Orijen pet food. What this means is that unlike many pet food products that are outsourced to the highest bidder and the brand only markets the product, Orien makes the effort to carefully choose the producers and formulates the products themselves. Orijen performs every step of the process- from choosing the producers of the specific ingredient, to cooking, processing and packaging the food. Another unique quality of Orijen pet food is that their products need no water to be added to it. Many times, commercial pet food have been processed so much that what is left are the powdered excess of its original form.  Not so with Orijen. The fresh ingredients are more expensive than processed “water needed” food, but they contain the nutrient packed  natural juices of the ingredients. The food is steamed or cooked in very low temperatures to ensure that the nutrients and natural flavors of the food are retained for the benefit of the dog. The freeze drying process of Orijen is extremely healthy. Orijen kitchen flash freezes the fresh regional ingredients. Then with -50 degree temperature and a special pressurized chamber, the food is subjected to an 18 hour freeze drying process that removes the water into food without removing the vitamins and minerals as well. What is left is organic and the freshest food with locked in nutrients that will make your dog strong and healthy. There are three freeze dried, biologically appropriate dog food that has the Orijen standard of excellence. These are the Orijen Adult Dog, Orijen Regional Red, and Orijen Tundra. Orijen biologically appropriate Dry Dog Food includes Orijen Puppy, Orijen Puppy Large, Orijen Six Fish Dog, Orijen Adult Dog, Orijen Regional Red and Orijen Senior. To find out which particular dog food you should feed your dog, you can ask the vet on what will benefit your dog the most. Aside from dog food, there are also dog treats that is also available with Orijen food. You can use these yummy treats as a good motivator for obedience training. Remember to monitor your dog’s calorie intake because obese dogs are more susceptible to dog sicknesses and diseases. Consult the vet on how to best improve your dog’s health with his diet. --- ## Diabetes in Dogs URL: https://healthierdogs.com/diabetes-in-dogs/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-28 Diabetes in Dogs We dread the thought of our beloved pet suffering from any sort of disease but unfortunately, Diabetes in dogs is becoming more and more common.  It is said that 1 out of 500 dogs suffer from diabetes mellitus. While diabetes in dogs may of itself not be quite as serious as some other diseases, if it is not detected and addressed appropriately, it can lead to heart disease, liver disease and kidney complications. In the more serious cases, the Diabetes in dogs may induce coma and eventually death in a dog. Diabetes in Dogs Defined Before we define canine diabetes, let us take a short side trip to how food is processed in the canine’s system. The pancreas is responsible for producing a hormone called insulin. Insulin regulates glucose production and makes sure that unneeded glucose is stored away in the body. Dog Diabetes, as with human Diabetes, is a deficiency of insulin which means glucose production cannot be controlled or stored properly. It can also mean that the body cells are insensitive in its response to insulin. The result of this is that blood glucose concentration increases and your dog’s system will attempt to flush this out through urination. You will notice that diabetic dogs will urinate more. Because of this, they will be thirstier so aside from excessive urination, increased consumption of water is also indicative of canine diabetes. Also, because the food is not being converted properly, your dog will be losing weight in spite of all your efforts to feed him hearty meals. While this may be a reason for concern for the worried pet owner, a dog diabetes treatment is easily accessible to help you deal with this efficiently. Diagnosis of Diabetes in Dogs Once your dog is correctly diagnosed with canine diabetes, consult with the vet on the best dog diabetes treatment to give your pet. He will most likely recommend that you proceed with insulin therapy right away. Be aware that insulin must never be ingested in tablet form as this will only go straight to the intestines. Allow your vet to monitor your pet regularly to determine the right dosage to administer to him. There are also natural supplements available that will improve the insulin production of the animal. Take this in conjunction with a diet that is high in fiber and complex carbohydrates. This will help regulate glucose levels in the blood. Avoid food that are rich in fat and sugar; it will complicate the already unstable sugar level condition. Remember to ask your vet before you include the supplements in your dog’s diet. Regular Exercise Can Improve Diabetes in Dogs It is also very important that the dog has regular, consistent exercise. This will greatly enhance the ability of the cells to absorb insulin – and this lowers the concentration of glucose in the blood. The consistency of the exercise regimen of the dog cannot be stressed enough; alterations on his program may possibly induce hypoglycemic coma. Ask an expert to plan the exercise program around the age, condition and stage of diabetes he is in. Diabetes in dogs is unfortunate, but it is manageable. Stay in regular contact with your vet and report any changes in his condition.  And make an informed decision on whether to treat your dog’s diabetes with natural remedies or with insulin. – Click Here! for more on natural remedies for Diabetes in dogs. --- ## Dog Health Toolbar URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-health-toolbar/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-28 Sorry, the dog health toolbar was really cool, but unfortunately it’s no longer available. Go to our homepage! --- ## Homemade Dog Food URL: https://healthierdogs.com/homemade-dog-food/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-28 Cat’s and dog’s diets have changed drastically since their domestication, as they have gone from hunting their own food to relying on their owners to feed them pre-packaged dried kibble. In the wake of the many pet food recalls in recent years, many pet owners want to know how to feed their pets safe and nutritious food. How is a pet owner to know how to do this? Homemade Dog Food The first step is for a conscientious pet owner to research on how to pick out a commercial food. Many books, internet articles and dog food ratings can give us information about how to select a food with the right combination of vitamins, proteins and carbohydrates. But the best way to ensure that your pet gets a chemical-free and balanced diet is to prepare your own pet food. A homemade dog food with chicken can be made using the freshest ingredients, and still cost a lot less than a commercial food. While it can take some time and planning to prepare, your pet’s health will certainly thank you for it, and he will show these benefits in his coat and energy levels in a very short time. Basic Homemade Dog Food Boil one cup of chicken, save a cup of broth for later. Add 1/2 cup each of boiled rice and vegetables, and the chicken broth. Brown rice contains more fiber and nutrients than white rice, and is healthier for your pets as well. Add a canine multivitamin supplement for extra vitamins. Store leftovers in a refrigerator for up to three days. Pets can be picky with new foods, so a gradual switch might be in order. Begin by mixing larger and larger portions of the new pet food with the old so that your pet has a chance to become used to it. Cooked bones can fragment and become lodged in a pet’s throat and digestive tract and should be avoided in a dog food. So should ingredients like chocolate, nuts, garlic and onions and mushrooms. More pet food recipes can be researched on the internet and pet nutrition books. Soon both you and your pet will become accustomed to eating healthy, balanced diets, and you will see improvements in his coat and temperament. Cooking for your pet may not be as easy as feeding commercial food, your pet will thank you for his healthy diet, cooked with love. Melinda Smith is a dog lover who advocates intelligent pet food choices for all pet owners. They believe that, armed with the wealth of information available on the internet and through books, dog food ratings from reliable sources, and the wealth of homemade raw dog food recipes, dog owners have all the right information at their fingertips to make these often confusing decisions. – Melinda Smith --- ## Best Dog Foods Ranked URL: https://healthierdogs.com/best-dog-foods-ranked/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 I’m often asked about the a list of the best dog foods ranked in order of preference. As you probably know, my preference is for fresh, raw food for my dogs. But I appreciate that many pet owners are going to opt for the convenience of a pre-prepared food no matter what. So if you’re one of this group, this article is for you. I’m going to be giving some tips on how to compare dog food and have sufficient knowledge to make an informed decision on what is the best dog food for your dog. Best Dog Foods Ranked   The best dog foods ranked, always include natural dog foods – the convenience variety, but as natural as you can get from a bag. So how do you compare dog food in order to find out what are the best dog foods ranked, from among the multitude of so-called top rated dog food. There are various labels applied to supposed grades of dog food that you need to be aware of when comparing dog foods – premium dog foods, healthy dog food, wellness dog food, holistic dog food, organic dog food, natural dog food, natural organic dog food, and even exclusive dog food. But what do they all mean? Well, actually not a whole lot. Some of the above “grades” of dog food are pretty much interchangeable with each other, and none of them are a guarantee of top quality natural dog food for your dog. For example, organic dog food has to be the same as natural organic dog food, right? Because an organic product is of its very nature a natural product. And healthy dog food is pretty much identical in type to wellness dog food and also holistic dog food. And as for premium dog foods, and exclusive dog food – well, you need to ask exactly what “premium” dog food ingredients or “exclusive” dog food ingredients do these foods contain, and exactly why are those ingredients “premium” or “exclusive”. When you think about it, an exclusive dog food is not necessarily a healthy dog food at all. I’m sure it’s what the manufacturers mean to imply, but in theory a pet food manufacturer could call its product exclusive dog food because it contains chocolate – it would be extremely harmful to the dog, but still an exclusive dog food, since no other dog foods contain chocolate. Yes, I’m being a little silly, but I’m trying to make a point here. So just how is it possible to evaluate the best dog foods when comparing dog foods with each other? What makes a top rated dog food? Well, there are five main areas to look at … One of the keys is in the list of dog food ingredients. The first ingredient must, of course, be a meat (or chicken or other animal protein source). Not as obvious, but just as important, is that the vast majority of the first 4 to 6 ingredients must be meat (or chicken or other animal protein source). A common “trick” of pet food manufacturers is to list a meat as the first ingredient, and then to list 2, 3 or 4 grains. So what is the main ingredient? – The combined grains. There could be three or four times the amount of grain as compared to the amount of meat. Not good. And most people have no idea that this is the case. Secondly, you need to take note of the types of grains that make up the food. Many experts believe that wheat is only desirable in fairly small quantities. And corn is not a good ingredient in dog food – it’s not good nutritionally for dogs and can cause allergies in some dogs. Oats are good, rice is not bad, particularly brown rice, and millet, rye and barley are okay. But again, make sure that the total grain content is small compared to the meat content. Next after the dog food ingredients, is the manner in which the dog food has been processed. Freeze dried dog food is a good method of processing. Dehydrated is another. Baked could be okay, if it really is baked in the normal way you or I would understand something being baked in a normal oven. Canned is not so good because of the high temperatures required. And extruded (kibble processed at extremely high heat) is the worst of all. Fourthly, we go back to the dog food ingredients – the food should preferably have some vegetable, fruit and/or herb content. This is not absolutely essential for a top rated dog food, but does provide a good nutritional balance for your dog. Lastly, some dog foods, including those classified as natural dog foods, have added supplements – e.g. food formulated for older dogs will sometimes contain a supplement to assist with arthritis, and some dog foods contain probiotics which are great for the digestion. These supplements are certainly not essential, and some people prefer not to have supplements added to the dog food they buy, as it is easier to give fixed dosages when giving supplements separate to food, and you can choose what types of supplements to give as well. Best Dog Foods Ranked in the Marketplace So okay, you don’t want to have to go through this exercise with each and every dog food on the market – you’ll need spend weeks reading through labels in supermarkets and pet stores! Even if you do your research online it will take you hours and hours and hours to look through all the dog food brands out there – Pedigree dog food, Nutro dog food, Purina dog food, Iams dog food, Innova dog food (also known as Evo dog food), Alpo dog food, Beneful dog food, Diamond dog food, Canidae dog food, Merrick dog food, Royal Canin dog food, Joy dog food, Nature’s Variety dog food, Orijen dog food, Solid Gold dog food, Natural Balance dog food, Science Diet dog food, California Natural dog food, Eagle Pack dog food, Timberwolf dog food, Blue Buffalo dog food, Flint River Ranch dog food, Life’s Abundance dog food and so the long, long list goes on! And to make matters worse, your list (and the above list) may not even contain the very best dog foods. As I alluded to earlier, the commercial dog food manufacturers that are most well known to us are the dog food brands that spend the most on advertising – NOT the ones that are best for your dog. In fact, some of the biggest spenders have that money to spend on their advertising budget because of the exceedingly low (and cheap) quality of their foods. I don’t pretend to have undertaken any really comprehensive dog food comparisons, but a number of people have asked me for a list of the 10 best dog foods. Well, I tried, but so far could only come up with 7 natural dog foods that I can truly recommend – So here is my list – and please note, it’s only my opinion – I’m sure there are other great quality dog foods out there that perhaps I’ve missed, and if so, please post your comments below and list your favorite healthy dog foods. Here are mine (roughly, but not necessarily exactly, in order of preference) : Best Dog Foods Ranked 1 to 7 1. Life’s Abundance dog food 2. Honest Kitchen dog food 3. Wysong dog food 4. Nature’s Variety dog food 5. Flint River Ranch dog food 6. Timberwolf dog food (also known as Timberwolf Organics) – NO LONGER RECOMMENDED. Since writing this post, it has come to my attention that this company is associated with the infamous Menu Foods company, and not only that, it is attempting to hide that fact rather than be upfront about it. See the comments below for further info. 7. Sojos dog food (also known as Sojourner Farms) – NO LONGER ACTIVELY RECOMMENDED due to problems that you can read about in the comments section here (which involve apparent similar attempts to hide facts from the public).  I understand that the problem that existed has been fixed, and the food IS currently of excellent quality, but I was very disappointed by the lack of transparency exhibited by the owners of Sojos. Click on any of the above links for more info on these natural dog foods. Let me know what you think! (and please note that some of these brands have canned food options.  I do not personally like canned food at all, and do not recommend the canned food varieties of the above foods). So there you have it – my best dog foods ranked! --- ## What Is Therapy Dog Training? URL: https://healthierdogs.com/therapy-dog-training-2/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Let me ask you something why do you have dogs? What about dogs do you like? I guess if you are like me, the answer would be another question”what’s not to love? They are loyal, affectionate, playful and completely devoid of biases and opinions. Dogs make people feel good and that’s one of the reasons why we have therapy dog training. What is therapy dog training? Therapy dog training is founded on the principle that dogs are amazing creatures that help make a person feel better. Of course this may start out emotionally, but if you keep this up, this will carry on to the human’s health as well. When dogs trained in this particular field walk into a room, you can almost see the atmosphere of the room change for the better. Of course, there are some dogs that might be more predisposed to being therapy dogs because they have a loving and social nature. However, with the right training, almost any breed can be trained here. Do you want your dog to be one? Here are some tips to help you develop a good therapy dog today. One of the first things you should ever teach your dog is socialization skills. This is basically teaching the animal how to be comfortable with new people and unfamiliar surroundings. Puppy training should begin as early as possible. It is harder to train them the older they get (which is not to say it’s impossible, just a lot more challenging). Bring your dog outside to public places and in areas where there are a lot of people. Introduce your dog to your friends and encourage him to be friendly with people. The park is a good place for the dog to interact with other animals, people and be accustomed to loud and unusual noises. He should be good with people and trained enough not to feel threatened if a child pulls any part of his body playfully. Leash training is also highly recommended Make sure that your dog knows the basic obedience commands. You can enroll him in a good dog obedience school or you can buy a dog training DVD and train your dog yourself. Make sure your dog knows what actions are not desirable (excessive barking, chewing, aggression, uncontrolled rowdiness). Replace unfavorable behavior with good through positive reinforcement. Most dogs are naturally protective, but it is important for therapy dogs to not pounce on people who are touching you or any other person for that matter. Remember, if you are training him, you will also be on the job caring for people alongside him. Sick and needy people can be more touchy-feely and this should not bother your dog. Therapy dog training is one of the most fulfilling things a pet owner can ever accomplish. It’s one thing to enjoy a loving and affectionate pet– it’s an entirely different matter to see your dog be a source of comfort and healing to another human being. Start training him and be inspired when you do. --- ## Dog Kennels And Runs URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-kennels-and-runs/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Did you know that before dogs were domesticated, they lived in the wild and looked for shelter in caves and dark crevices? This is why kennels and crates can be a place of haven for them instead of torture as some people might think. Dog kennels and runs can be one of the most valuable things you can ever get for your dog. What are dog kennels and runs? These are fenced off areas that will contain the dog to a certain place. This is an excellent way to keep them safe from hurting themselves, other people or property and things. If you are thinking of getting this for your dog, here are some of the things you need to consider. First of all, where are you going to put your kennel? You can choose to put them indoors or outdoors. Indoor kennels are smaller though so if you are thinking of using kennels to give your dog a chance to have some exercise without him damaging anything, you might want to consider an outdoor kennel instead. Outdoor kennels are a great idea because your dog won’t feel too constricted and he will get the sunlight and exercise he needs. Make sure you position your outdoor kennel in a safe place. Pet owners usually put these at the backyards of homes. They can also serve as dog houses where your dog can retire for the night, just make sure that the weather is good and you leave some water inside his kennel in case he gets thirsty. Check the door latches and locks so that your dog will not be able to accidentally escape and get into trouble. What material is the kennel? This is another important consideration when purchasing dog kennels and runs. Plastic is pretty cheap but can easily break when it collides against a strong enough force. In fact, some larger breeds are known to have broken through some plastic kennels so you need to be careful about that. A few crates are made out of wood but this is also not the best material in which to house your dog. First of all, if they are not properly sanded down, it might wound the dog. Moreover, it can be dangerous because the dog might lick the kennel walls and paint is toxic to his health. Perhaps the best material to use for kennels is galvanized steel and chain links. This is a sturdy substance that can withstand the impact of overly rowdy dogs. Go with a friend when you buy them to make sure that its steel and not aluminum that the kennel is made off. Aluminum breaks and rusts easily. Go to the links provided in this site to find the best dog kennels and runs for your dog. Most of the kennels even have roofs and floors so to provide your dog optimum safety from the elements outdoors. When you purchase these trusty kennels, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your dog is safe and secure inside his little home. --- ## Puppy Kennels URL: https://healthierdogs.com/puppy-kennels/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Bringing home puppies are one of the best things in life ever. When these bundles of joy look to you like the sun rises and sets over your shoulders you just feel like you have received the best gift in the world! If you want the best for your little friend, you need to look for great puppy kennels that will provide him with the sense of security and safety he needs. What are puppy kennels? Are they the same as dog crates? Yes, a kennel is another term used for dog crates and has been a subject of debate for many people for quite some time now. People think that putting a dog in an enclosed space is animal cruelty and should not be practiced by any loving master. While it is understandable why some people may think this, it is precisely because you are a loving master that is why you are going to start crate training him. Think about it, wouldn’t you like having a quiet and secure place that you can go to when you’re stressed out? If only all our bosses were as kind! It is always best to commence kennel training when the dog is still young. After all, you CAN teach an old dog new tricks but it wont be as easy as training a puppy. Older dogs will have habits that they need to unlearn before you can teach them anything new. So what do you need to look for in puppy kennels? Purchase puppy kennels that are comfortably large enough for them to move around in when they reach their adult size. Don’t make the crate too big though or else they may use a section of it to defecate (dogs don’t like pooping and peeing in the area they sleep in). You want to use the crate to help potty train him and a large crate will basically render your potty crate training useless. Check the material used in the crate. Are they made of plastic, wood, aluminum or steel? Plastic kennels are not the best choice for the large and rowdy dogs because they can break it. Wooden kennels are usually painted and the danger of this is that dogs sometimes lick the walls of their crates and paint is poisonous to them. Do not purchase aluminum because they are unreliable, opt for stainless, galvanized steel kennels that will do the job in containing your dog. Clean the kennels every so often to prevent bacteria from festering on them. Spray the whole place with saline solution so that any infestation of parasites will be dealt with immediately. Make his crate comfortable and cozy by putting in dog toys and soft, warm blankets to keep him toasty warm in cold weather. Visit this fantastic site to find great puppy kennels you can use for your dog. Remember, you are purchasing your lovable new dog his own safe haven so make sure it is as sturdy and safe as possible. Enjoy! --- ## Best Dog Foods URL: https://healthierdogs.com/best-dog-foods/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 You won’t believe some of the horror stories I have heard about loving pet owners who have given their pet cheap dog food and lived to tell the tale. The commercial brands they may have used are different, but they are all unanimous in one aspect, if they had known, they would have invested in given their dogs the best dog foods instead. Commercial dog food isn’t bad because they are cheap. Of course not. The problem is that realistically, healthy and high quality ingredients are not cheap. The reason why some brands can afford to lower the price on their products is because they use by-products of human food industries. That sounds horrible, right? Well, it’s true. Many pet food brands are actually subsidiaries of human food and agricultural industries and they maximize their profits by giving these “leftovers”to their pet food division. Obviously this won’t look palatable or taste as appealing so they add in chemicals and preservatives to make it better. Unfortunately, over a period of time, harmful chemicals result in serious canine illnesses. Avoid going the more expensive and worrisome route of having your dog sick and giving him treatments and medicines by ensuring that he has a healthy diet in the first place. Canine nutrition is an integral part of having a healthy and happy dog. The best dog foods are still those that are natural and raw. There is nothing like feeding your dog excellent quality meat, fruits and vegetables in his meals. These are a great source of vitamins and minerals that your beloved canine needs. However, if you are unable to plan and prepare his best diet plan, it’s alright. You can find some really good dog food products in the market today. One thing you have to remember about premium pet food is that the ingredients should be of the best quality. This will obviously be priced higher than the commercial fare but as we have mentioned before, a healthy dog is well worth the investment. Make sure that the first ingredient listed is meat. This means that this is the primary food group used. Dogs are carnivores and they need meat in their diet. If the products used have no meat and are more supplemental in nature, then simply buy raw meat, chop them up, and mix them in your dog’s meal. Raw bones are also a great source of calcium and minerals. Chewing on them also helps in preventing bad doggie breath. The most ideal processing method is by dehydration or freeze drying. This is virtually removing the liquid out of the ingredients so that the nutrients are more concentrated. When you soak them on water or thaw them out, your dog is getting food closest to its natural form. Find out more about what make the best dog foods when you read other helpful articles in this site today. I now you love your dog and you want him to be as healthy and happy as possible like how I do mine. Enjoy! --- ## Dog Food Reviews URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-food-reviews/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 I bet you just hate having to plough through all those pet products. You want the best for your pet but you’re not sure which ones are the right ones to get. Nobody wants to waste hard earned money so you look for reliable dog food reviews to help you out. Finding Reliable Dog Food Reviews One thing you need to be careful about some dog food reviews is that some of them recommend products only because they are tasked to advertise them. People make a lot of money promoting products and services and they don’t even take the time to really try out what they are recommending their readers. This is something I am strongly against. I care about my dogs and it would really bother me if another person would recommend something that will cause potential damage to my pet’s health. You can be sure that whatever you find in this site are those that I have studied and truly believe will be beneficial to your dog. After all, if you love your dog as much as I do, I know you would appreciate honest reviews and excellent recommendations. Dog Food Reviews Here on HealthierDogs.com When it comes to dog food, you will find that my standards are particularly high. I believe that nutrition is one of the cornerstones of optimal canine health. When you invest in his nutrition, you will find that you will do away with so many of those painful canine sicknesses by simply adding or removing some things from his diet. Supplements are also great ways to boost his immune system and enhance the functioning of his internal systems. The best diet is still the raw and natural diet. Some people may have a problem with serving their dogs raw meat, but if you think about it, they had no cooking stoves in the wild, yet the ancestors of our dogs thrived. Besides, the intestines of dogs are acidic and short, making it a hostile home for salmonella and other harmful bacteria. But if you are not able to prepare a natural diet for dogs, don’t worry. There are several high quality dog foods on the market that are replete with the vitamins and nutrients that he needs. Avoid commercial pet food. Cheap dog food is harmful because the ingredients included in them are often by-products from human food and agricultural industries. The manufacturers then add in chemicals and preservatives to stabilize the appearance and improve the taste. Over time, these artificial additives cause several health complications in the dog’s health. Look for dog food brands that use the mildest processing methods and healthy ingredients. Meat should be the first ingredient in the label. Some of the best pet food in the market today are: Life’s Abundance, Honest Kitchen, Wysong, Nature’s Variety and Flint River Ranch. These premium pet food companies invest in the highest quality ingredients and technology to produce the best meals and treats for animals. Browse this site for more dog food reviews and other valuable resources you can use for your dog right away. --- ## Top Rated Dog Food URL: https://healthierdogs.com/top-rated-dog-food/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 My dog is important, he is family. And because he is a member of the family, I always want to take care of him, and I make it a point to give him the best things in life. If you feel the same way that I do, then you are in search of a top rated dog food that you can give to your dog. It’s not easy to find a top rated dog food. After all, there are countless of commercial pet food that cram the shelves of grocery stores, not to mention those that you can get in virtual pet stores. You need to be very careful in what you choose because your choices can play a large role in determining your pet’s best health. Do not let the price tag have a casting vote in deciding what food you get your dog. Of course you should have a budget and not stray too far away from that. However, if you invest in giving your dog high quality pet food, he won’t be as sickly and you will be able to save on future medical bills that arise from poor canine nutrition. You should be wary of cheap dog food because if you make a careful study of the companies that produce them, they are usually a subsidiary of a human food and agricultural industry. This means that leftovers or by-products that are rendered useless for human consumption are carried over the pet food division of their company. Why is this harmful? First of all, scrimping on ingredients is never a good thing. Secondly, preservatives will be added in to cover up the bland taste of the product. Small amounts of chemicals over a period of time will result in various kinds of canine diseases. If you want a top rated dog food, look for a brand that will not compromise on the quality of the ingredients they use. Meat should be the primary ingredient because dogs are carnivores by nature. Healthy vegetables, fruits and grains are other ingredients that are good in supplementing your dog’s health. Also, the method of processing is equally important in finding the best dog food choice. Dehydration and freeze drying food is considered the most ideal method by many experts in the industry. If you find that the separate food ingredients look different in every bag, do not be alarmed. This only means that no chemicals were added to stabilize the appearance and taste of the food. Carefully check the labels in the food that you buy. Some dog food are best combined with natural food. If this is so, add in chopped pieces of fresh meat, fruits and vegetables in the meals. Always consult with the vet with regard to your dog’s best diet. Your dog might have some health concerns that warrant a change in his diet. Go to the links in this site to find out more about top rated dog food reviews and articles. Your dog is important, make those quality choices in his lifestyle today. --- ## Sojos Dog Food URL: https://healthierdogs.com/sojos-dog-food/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Do you have a friend with a dog? If they were anything like me, they love their pets and they only want the best for them. If you have a friend like this and you would like to give him something that will make him and his pet happy, then Sojos dog food for his beloved pet is a gift he would truly appreciate. Sojos Dog Food   It’s not easy finding good pet food nowadays. I mean, sure you can see aisles and aisles of pet food in the grocery store, but this doesn’t mean that you can just pick any one of these bags to open and pour out in your pet’s doggie dish. Most of these commercial food are not good for them. You need to give your dog food that are as healthy as possible. This is where Sojos comes in. Sojos dog food is known for being one of the most responsible and premium canine food companies around. They use high grade ingredients in every bag of meal. The food is dehydrated (the mildest form of processing for pet food) which means that the vitamins and minerals are concentrated into the ingredients. Sojos has made it a point not to include preservatives and artificial additives in their products so don’t be surprised if you find the items in the bag have different shapes, colors and sizes. Most pet food put in chemicals that stabilize the appearance of the food, which can be extremely detrimental to the animal’s health as time goes on. The good thing about Sojos is that they also do not use fillers in their products. Fillers have almost no nutritional value and without it, your dog feels more satiated after eating. This is actually helpful and will save you more than a few dollars because you will not have to use up more food than what he actually needs. How to Use Sojos Dog Food How do you use Sojos dog food? It’s simple. Get a bag of food and pour it in his dish. Pour warm water on the food and let it soak for about 30 minutes (or more depending on the type of food, check the label for details). It is important to soak the food thoroughly to improve digestibility. Grains in particular, have more complex properties that is more challenging for the animals to digest. Sojos dog food is more supplemental in nature, meaning you need to add in meat, (and even additional fresh fruits and vegetables if you prefer) in the mix before serving it to your dog. Chop up raw meat and put a few pieces over the meal. Dogs are carnivores so don’t be worried about feeding him uncooked meat. If you are uncomfortable with this, you can lightly cook the meat before adding it in the dish. Sojos Dog Food for a Better Quality of Life! You really can’t go wrong with giving your friend pet premium pet food for his beloved pet. It will not just mean a longer life for your dog, but a better quality of life as well. Sojos dog food – a gift that keeps on giving. --- ## Dog Food Analysis URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-food-analysis/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Dog nutrition is one of the foundations of good canine health. What goes in your dog will greatly affect how he will look and the quality of life that he will live. Here is a short dog food analysis guide that will help you make the right decision when it comes to your dog’s best health. A natural and raw diet is the most recommended by all experts of the field. There is nothing like giving your dog vitamins and nutrients from the rawest form available. Some people are not comfortable in feeding their dog raw meat so if this is you, lightly cook the meat, but remove the bones before you do (cooked bones splinter). Add in the chopped raw bones in the meal afterwards. Of course because of the busy lifestyle many of us lead, it is not always possible to plan and prepare fresh food for our pets every single day. It’s alright. There are several healthy dog food brands in the market today that DO give your dog the essential vitamins and minerals that they need. First of all, do not buy cheap commercial dog food. It’s not that I have something against cheap stuff, but you have to remember that quality ingredients can be fetch a high price. The reason that many commercial dog food are cheap is because the ingredients used are by-products of human food and agricultural industries. You only want to serve your canine ingredients with the highest nutritional value possible. This means you need to look for pet food that undergo the mildest processing so that the nutrients are retained. Most dog food analysis reviews agree that dehydration and freeze processing are the most optimal processing method that can be used. If the ingredients inside the bag are unusual and different in every bag, then that is most likely a good sign because the manufacturers did not use chemicals to stabilize the appearance of the different ingredients. Check the labels of the pet food that you are using. There are many brands whose products offer the complete nutrient requirement of the animal. However, there are some that are only supplemental to your pet’s diet, meaning you have to add in some meat, fruits and vegetables in his meals. When you do, remember to chop it in bite sized pieces so that it can be easily chewed and digested by your dog. You can find the best dog food brands today when you click on the links provided in this article today. I know what it’s like to only want the best for your best friend so I only recommend food that I really believe are up to the standard that I would give my own dogs. They may be a few dollars more expensive than the commercial pet food you find in the grocery store, but it is definitely worth it because you will see your dog living a healthy life. Forward this dog food analysis guide to your friends and share many happy memories with your dogs. Enjoy! --- ## Buy Dog Food URL: https://healthierdogs.com/buy-dog-food/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 I don’t know who you are but I am sure about one thing, you are a good master to your pet. Why else will you be taking the time to read articles on how to improve your dog’s health and nutrition? You are probably browsing the internet looking for tips on how to buy dog food that are beneficial for your pet. Purchasing dog food is not something all people know how to do. They think that all pet food are basically the same so they choose the ones that they will spend the least dollars on. This is not the smartest move to make. Cheap dog food does not just have very little nutritional value in them, they can also be very detrimental to your dog’s health. The pet food industry is a booming business. You will find a lot of these big corporations are connected to the human food industry and they will use the by-products and leftover ingredients. These by-products do not taste very good so they are covered by artificial flavorings and preservatives to mask the taste. So if you think about it, if you give these kinds of pet food, you are feeding your dog scraps of food infused with chemicals. That is why there are a lot of sick dogs around. It’s really a sad thing when you see a listless and sick canine that has a dull coat and skin. It usually means that he has been fed a bad diet and is suffering the consequences of it, health-wise. Make sure that your dog is not one of them by giving him only the best premium dog food in the market today. Now don’t think that you need to buy dog food that is unreasonable expensive. Yes, premium pet food will cost more than commercial dog food but for good reason. The ingredients you will find in these excellent pet food will more than compensate for the price when you discover that you have one of the healthiest dogs on the block. Think about it. A healthy dog means you don’t have to spend on vet bills and medicine to treat whatever sickness that crops up due to a weak immune system or sickness caused by harmful chemicals in his body. More than that, natural and high quality dog food will have high-grade ingredients that will make him full faster consuming less food is a really good a money saver as well. When you buy dog food, look for companies that are committed to giving your dog the best ingredients using the mildest processing methods. They are a bit more expensive because they will not compromise on the ingredients that they get and the technology that they invest in. Go to the links in this site to find the most recommended pet food in the market today. --- ## Good Dog Food URL: https://healthierdogs.com/good-dog-food/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 What is good dog food? There are so many commercial pet food in the market today that a well-meaning pet owner can make a mistake and buy one that may be bad for their beloved pooch’s health. The absolute best kind of food to give your pet is one that is closest to its natural form that means the rawer the better. There are people who may not agree with me on this. They have qualms in feeding their pets uncooked food which may in turn give their pets viruses and bacterial infections. Well, if you think about it, dogs come from a long line of animals that learned to live and thrive in the wild. There were no stoves and microwaves in the outdoors, but they managed to survive through a diet of raw meat and plants. These natural instincts have never left our dogs despite our repeated attempts to domesticate them. If it is a simple salmonella virus we are worried about, a robust immune system acquired through a diet of the freshest fare will be able to fight it off. Dogs are carnivores so make sure that the largest portion of what you feed your dog is meat. If you plan to cook the meat first, remove the bones first because cooked bones tend to splinter when chewed. These can present a choking hazard to your pet. Include the bones in the meals though. Bones are excellent sources of calcium and other essential minerals. They also help regulate the dog’s breath. While protein is an important part of his diet, do not neglect to give your dog vegetables and fruits as well. The anti oxidants found in these delicious treats help to prolong the animal’s life and provide him with vitamins that improve his skin and coat. Make sure you remove all the seeds, pits and stems in the vegetables and fruits because these can be toxic to the dog’s system. Not all ingredients in our cupboards can be qualified as good dog food. There are several food substances that are very dangerous to their health when ingested. Some examples of these are onions, grapes, macadamia, caffeine and chocolate. Organ meat are healthy in small amounts but too much of it can be very dangerous to his health. Ask your vet for a list of ingredients that shouldn’t be fed to canines. Now while a fresh and natural diet is ideal to give to your pet, there are other alternatives for busy pet owners who want the best for their dogs. Healthy and high quality pet food are available that will provide your dog with the nutrients that he needs to enjoy a long and healthy life. Look for brands that use the mildest processing methods and the best quality ingredients in their products. Click on the links in this site to find out which brands you can trust your dog’s health with. Good dog food is a foundation to good canine health, enjoy a healthy and happy dog today! --- ## Wysong Dog Food URL: https://healthierdogs.com/wysong-dog-food/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Feeding Wysong Dog Food is one way of showing your love to your dog. It is important that you spend quality time with him, but there is nothing that shows how much you care than making sure that you provide him with the best products that ensure his optimal health. One great way to help you here is by feeding your pet Wysong, which, according to many experts, is one of the best dog foods on the market today. There are many commercial pet foods in the market today, but not all of them are good for your dog. Sure, you may be spending less dollars for every trip you make to the grocery, but if you think about it, you may be endangering your pet’s health and vet bills can get pretty expensive. If there is anything I know – cheap dog food is something you shouldn’t give your pet because they do absolutely nothing to improve your dog’s health. Premium pet food like Wysong, on the other hand do not compromise on the quality of the products that they offer to pet owners. They invest in technology that will preserve as much of the nutrients of the ingredients in their meals. Wysong uses Cold TNT (True Non-Thermal) Processing for all their pet products, neutralize the toxins that may be found in the ingredients, and even uses methods that increase nutrient levels in their food. Wysong uses the mildest form of processing because raw and natural food is always best to give animals. Dogs are carnivores by nature and they need fresh, high quality meat to be included in their diet. In fact, it is recommended that you use Wysong dog food in conjuction with raw food. This is the most ideal arrangement that will bring about the most benefits for your pet. Uncooked bones are a great source of calcium, phosphorous, protein and other essential oils. Organ meat like kidneys and hearts are also great snacks to give, but don’t give in excess because too much can cause toxicity. Fresh fruits and vegetables provide the vitamins and minerals that will improve the functioning of your dog’s internal systems, and enhance his skin and coat as well. If your dog is on a commercial pet food and you want to start feeding him Wysong dog food, make the transition slowly. The shift of a commercial pet food’s diet to Wysong may be a little challenging for pets at first because their digestive system is not used to a higher concentration of natural elements as found in Wysong products. Feed him Wysong in small doses (around 10%) and gradually increase it until he is completely on the new diet. This may take about a month so be patient keep your eye on him for any physical and behavioral changes. Check with the vet before you begin for any health concerns that your dog may have. Nothing shows your dog you love him better than a good meal of Wysong dog food. --- ## Low Protein Dog Food URL: https://healthierdogs.com/low-protein-dog-food/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Our dogs need us. That is a fact that will never change. They might be strong and can do a lot of things we cannot do, but when it comes down to it, they need us to survive. They have health concerns that they will not know how to treat. For example, sometimes dogs need to have a low protein dog food diet in order to have better health. For the most part, dogs are carnivores. They require meat and large amounts of protein in their diet? If this is the case, why would they need low protein dog food? Won’t this be detrimental to his health? The reason why some dogs need to be on a low protein diet is because they have health concerns that need to be addressed by rectifying their protein intake. You need to have your dog regularly checked up by the vet to monitor his condition because otherwise, putting him on a diet with minimal protein can be very dangerous. What are some of the health concerns that warrant the implementation of such a diet? One of the most common causes is those associated with the urinary tract. When protein is not broken down by the body properly, they are converted to uremic wastes. These wastes in large amounts, compounded by the fact that the kidneys aren’t able to adequately process protein, will result in serious kidney health complications. You will notice senior dogs are often beset with chronic kidney failure. Other than chronic kidney failure, there are other sicknesses that will require you to put your dog on a low protein diet. Some of these canine sicknesses include: acute kidney failure, congenital kidney disease, Glomerulonephrititis, parasitic or bacterial infections, bladder stones and even congenital heart disease. Signs that your dog may be experiencing some internal problem are extreme thirstiness, frequent urination, nausea or vomiting, weakness, easily fatigued, loss of appetite, depression, unusual bad breath and diarrhea. When this occurs, you need to bring your dog to the vet immediately. Look for low protein dog food that are known for its high quality. Keep in mind that this doesn’t mean that you totally eliminate protein from his diet, rather that the protein used should be easily absorbed by the body. This is called “bio-availability” and will ensure that there will be less toxic wastes accumulated in his system. Because the kidneys are already working overtime to filter the wastes in the dog’s system, compensate by providing your dog a good diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as fatty acids are excellent nutrients that every dog can benefit from. Don’t use cheap dog food that contain a lot of preservatives or phosphorous. Go to these links to find some really great low protein dog food that you can give your pet. It is important that you give your dog only the best quality dog food so that his health will not be compromised. Do your best and enjoy many more happy years with your dog! --- ## Premium Dog Food URL: https://healthierdogs.com/premium-dog-food/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 There is nothing like seeing the happy wagging tail of your dog when he sees you. If you want to see this a lot, there is no better way that to feed him with premium dog food all the time. Premium Dog Food – the Cost   Now, I know what you’re thinking – premium dog food sounds expensive. Well, it depends on how you look at it. If you’re thinking of the immediate price, then yes, it will cost more than your commercial run of the mill pet food. However, if we’re talking about long term benefits, then my friend, you are going to save so much money and stress when you go the premium pet food route. Premium Dog Food or Cheap Dog Food? What do I mean? I don’t know if you know this but cheap dog food can be seriously detrimental to your pet’s health. It doesn’t cost a lot because the ingredients used in these products are leftovers or by-products of human food ingredients. This means that not only is there no nutritional value retained in these substances, the artificial flavorings and preservatives added to make the food palatable will be bad for the dog’s health. Premium dog food on the other hand, spare no expense in ensuring that the ingredients included in the products are only of the highest quality. Responsible brands source these ingredients from different parts of the world and do not allow chemicals used to preserve or stabilize the food appearance in their products. That is why you will find that many of these excellent dog foods have ingredients that have a variety of colors, shapes and sizes. Look for food that use the mildest processing method. Dehydration is probably the best method there is today, although I’m sure many companies are trying to come up with better ways to preserve the food. What this does is taking away the liquid from the ingredients so that the nutrients are retained. Often, these dishes can be ready by soaking the dry food in warm water for around 30 minutes or so. Many of the premium pet food have the required amount of nutrients in every pack already. However, if you wish to supplement your dog’s diet with more vitamins and minerals, you can also add in a few pieces of fresh fruit and vegetables. Doing so will really boost your dog’s immune system to fight infections that are constantly trying to come against him. Of course, dogs are carnivorous so make sure that meat will always have the biggest portion in his diet. Check with his vet with regard to the best combination you can add to his meals. Remember that even if you are feeding your dog healthy food, always monitor his calorie intake. Too much food may result in an overweight dog, and this can lead to serious health problems in the future. Look no further than this site to find information on some of the best premium dog food products there are in the market today. --- ## Dog Food Comparisons URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-food-comparisons/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Don’t you just want to give your dogs the best things in life? I don’t know about you but I treat my dogs like my own family – not just pets that I have around the house. I imagine you do too that’s why you’re taking the time to really study and find out more about dog food comparisons that you know will affect your dog’s health greatly. What do you know about dog food? There are numerous pet food products that are being sold in groceries and online pet stores nowadays and it’s a challenge to pick out which ones are poor, which ones are good, and which ones stand out above the rest. Many times websites that offer dog food comparisons and reviews are paid by the pet food company, thus giving a less than accurate report on the products that consumers are considering. Personally, it is very important that I only recommend things that I really believe in. After all, I am a pet owner myself and I know how upsetting it is when I use particular products that are harmful to my own pets. The brands and products that you will find in these sites are those that I have proven (or sincerely believe, if I haven’t had the chance to try them yet) to be beneficial to canines. Of course if you have your own preferences with the food you serve your pets, your comments will be more than welcome. I would greatly appreciate any additional information that other sincere pet owners, like you and me, will find useful for their own dogs. Some of the most critical things you should look for in dog food comparisons are the company, the ingredients and the processing used to package the food. Dog food business is a big industry and many times, they are a subsidiary of a company that operates a business with human food ingredients. You should be wary of this because many times, these companies use the by-products of these food ingredients and mask the taste with artificial flavorings and preservatives – chemical additives that are harmful to your dog’s health. Look for brands that not only endeavor to give the highest quality ingredients in their products, but invest in technology that preserve the food the best. The mildest form of processing is dehydrating the food. This retains most of the nutrients that is found in its original form. Freeze drying is also another processing method that you can consider when choosing the dog food brand for your pet. Remember, the really good dog food brands will cost a little bit more than the commercial pet food you see in the grocery aisles. It’s worth it. A few extra dollars is surely a small price to pay to ensure your dog’s best health, right? Imagine all the vet bills and treatments you will save because you have a healthy and happy pet. Share this dog food comparisons guide to help your other pet owner friends enjoy a healthy pet today! --- ## Natural Dog Food Recipes URL: https://healthierdogs.com/natural-dog-food-recipes/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 How would you like a trip to the health farm – everything healthy and guaranteed to make you feel better and live longer? That sounds good, right? Well, we can give our pets the benefits of enjoying great health when we use natural dog food recipes. Dog Food Nutrition and Natural Dog Food Recipes Dog food nutrition is super important – I think we can all agree on that. Another thing all experts agree in is that the way to do this is through regular exercise, supplements and a nutritious diet. Using fantastic natural dog food recipes will help you achieve just that. Now, when we talk about natural, this doesn’t have to mean yucky tasting. Definitely not. If we don’t like how it tastes like, it probably won’t fare well with our pets either. There are many healthy food ingredients that we can feed our pets that are not only good for their bodies, but for their palates as well. Dogs and cats are natural carnivores so if you have these pets in your house, it is essential that the diet you serve them consists largely of quality-grade meat. Chicken, beef, veal and turkey are just some excellent sources of protein that your dog needs. Raw Natural Dog Food Recipes Many people recommend food that is raw and natural, but a lot of people are also uncomfortable in feeding their pets food that have not been cooked. If this is you, then you can boil the meat beforehand. Keep in mind that cooked bones tend to splinter when bitten so remove bones before cooking. Slice the meat in small chunks to make it easier for your pet to chew and swallow. Vegetables and fruits should also be added to your dog’s meals. Tomatoes, carrots, peas, corn and green beans are excellent nutrient-rich veggies that you should include. Green beans, in particular, are good for an overweight dog’s diet because it will satiate them faster and better, causing them to eat less. When you give your pets fruits, be sure to remove the seeds because it has toxic properties that will harm them. Do not put grapes, macadamias and raisins in the treats you make because they are harmful to their bodies. The dog food doesn’t have to be super complicated or boring to be healthy. Have fun with it! You can use cookie molds or cutters in fun shapes (like paw prints and dog bones) for delectable doggie treats. Add a dollop of yummy peanut butter to really make your dog love you even more. Boil vegetables or meat in water infused with garlic to make it extra tasty, then serve it to your pet during meal times. You can find the best natural dog food recipes when you go to the links in this article. Your dog will enjoy healthy and great tasting meals that are simple and fuss-free. Can you imagine the wagging tail and the happy bark that you will face every single day? I don’t know about you but that sounds like an offer I simply cannot refuse! Enjoy a healthy and happy dog today! --- ## Solid Gold Dog Food URL: https://healthierdogs.com/solid-gold-dog-food/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 If you have had a pet for any number of years, you know that feeding him a diet rich in vitamins and minerals is critical to keep him as healthy as possible. This is best achieved with a raw and natural diet. However, if you are unable to provide this to your dog you can do the next best thing and feed him premium healthy pet food like Solid Gold dog food. Solid Gold dog food is one of the best pet foods around in the market. They have been around since 1974 when the founder, Sissy Harrington-McGill recognized that the Great Danes in Germany lived longer than their American counterpart. So she took it upon herself to research and analyze quality ingredients so that she would be able to formulate the best dog food to feed to canines at home, hence the Solid Gold Health Pet Products, Inc. was born. This stellar company believes in the efficacy of holistic dog food to prolong and improve the life of animals. Traditional treatments regard every sickness as an abnormal functioning of an isolated organ/system. The holistic philosophy views the body as a single unit that should be enhanced as a whole. In doing so, the individual sicknesses will take care of itself naturally whilst achieving optimal over-all health. Solid Gold dog food only uses quality ingredients from all around the world. They are hermetically sealed so that the food is safe from external factors and easy to store. There is usually an expiration date stamped on each package but it would be ideal to use up the food around 3 months after opening. For canned pet food, use up in 3 to 5 days only. I would suggest that you use dry dog food instead of canned food because the process used in canning food is not as healthy as that used with dry food. They have several excellent dry dog food products available. Sun Dancer Gluten Free dog food, Hundchen Flocken Puppy, Wolf-Cub Puppy, Hund-and-Flocken Adult Dog and Barking at The Moon dog food are just some examples of these really great products. Choose the Solid Gold dog food product that will best serve your dog’s needs. For example, the Barking at the Moon dog food is a high-protein and low-carb dog food that a canine with a specific diet can benefit from. For puppies, the Just a Wee Bit dog food in appropriate amounts will serve your little friend well. Pet owners recommend the Holistique Blendz Adult dog food for senior dogs. When you transition your pet from natural to pet food, make sure you don’t do it abruptly. Doing so will cause stress and even health complications. You can mix in some pieces of fruit or organ meat as treats, but always check with the vet first. A healthy dog means a good-looking and happy dog that any master will be proud to own. Look for the best Solid Gold dog food products for your pet today. --- ## Dog Food Brands URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-food-brands/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 With all the dog food brands out there, how do you know which ones are actually safe to give to your pet? I mean, you don’t want to give them just anything from the shelf, right? Here are some important points to consider when looking for the best food for your beloved pet. Keep in mind that as much as you are able, you should feed your dog fresh and organic fare. There is nothing like providing your dog vitamins and minerals from the most natural sources. Top grade meat, vegetables and fruits are chock full of essential vitamins that do a lot in boosting your dog’s immune system. Of course if you do not have the time to plan and prepare food for your dogs, it doesn’t mean that your dog is doomed to suffer a life of malnutrition. There are a lot of really good dog food brands that are good for your dog’s health. Perhaps the most important thing you should look out for is the ingredients included in each product. Dogs are carnivores so it is critical that the largest portion of his meal is meat. Check the label of the package. The meat should be the first one listed because it means that this is the biggest part of the food. Chicken and turkey meat are especially good for canines. Really good dog food brands make sure that the quality of meat is good and not just leftovers from human food establishments and companies. While meat should consist of a large part in the dog’s diet, you should not neglect giving your dog other kinds of food as well. Fruits, vegetables, oils and grains are great sources of vitamins that will benefit the dog’s health. The vitamins and minerals contained in these healthy food greatly reduce the chances of the dog to get sick. Because premium dog food are made only of the best ingredients, expect that they will be priced higher than the regular commercial food. I know the cost will always factor in any decision but in this case, keep in mind that the better the food you give your dog, the less likely you will spend on vet bills and medicine, helping you save money in the long run. Choose dog food brands that maybe more expensive, but will ultimately be better for your dog than cheap dog food.  Also find out how the dog food is processed. The best kind of processing are the mildest ones so that the nutrients are preserved. Look for freeze dried or dehydrated dog food. The ingredients should look as close to its natural form as much as possible. If you are changing your dog’s diet from natural to pet food, do so gradually so as not to cause your dog stress. Use these dog food brands tips to help you give your pet the best life possible. A healthy and happy dog is the best reward that you can give yourself at the end of the day. Enjoy! --- ## Wellness Dog Food URL: https://healthierdogs.com/wellness-dog-food/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 If you are reading this I’m sure you are a loving and responsible pet owner in search of the best possible pet food to buy for his pet. You’ve come to the right place. If you want to give your dog premium pet food, then Wellness dog food is just for you. Wellness Dog Food   Wellness pet food goes as far back as 1926 when Old Mother Hubbard started baking and selling her delicious dog biscuits to extremely happy dogs and their owners. In 1961, Jim Scott, Sr. saw the potential in these dog biscuits and took on the challenge to develop the business further with the primary aim to sell highly nutritious treats for pets. Through the years, the well-loved recipes keep getting reformulated to make sure that the dogs are getting the highest standard of quality in every bite they take. It expanded to include other product lines and eventually in 1990, the platinum standard for pet food was born – the Wellness company. Wellness dog food offer pet food products that are synonymous with delicious and healthy treats for canines. They do not compromise on the level of quality for every single one of the ingredients included in the bags of dog food. When you feed your pet Wellness, you know they are getting only the best kind of dog food available. What sets Wellness pet food apart from the rest of its competitors is that they actually give thoughtful preparation in the products that they offer. They understand the basic needs of the canines and endeavor to deliver it in the best way possible. For instance, dogs are carnivores and they require high levels of protein in their diet. Knowing this, they have developed a product called CORE that contains 80% more meat than the typical dog food you will see in the market. You will also notice that the amount of fat in their products is lower than the average dog food. This is particularly important because many dog sicknesses are exacerbated when the dogs are more overweight than usual. Aside from the top grade quality ingredients, Wellness dog food also includes Omega 3 fatty acids, Glucosamine, Chondroitin and Taurine. The dog’s excellent skin and coat are largely attributed to fatty acids, Glucosamine and Chondroitin are tandem in improving joint health, while Taurine is a major factor in enhancing the animal’s cardiovascular health. Wellness Dog Food – a Premium Brand As with all premium dog food brands in the market today, expect Wellness to be priced higher than the average commercial pet food. Processed dog food brands, although more economical, can be very detrimental to your dog’s health. Research and studies have shown that major pet food brands include useless by-products of human food substances in their dog food rendering it bland. To cover this up, artificial flavorings and chemicals are injected in large quantities in the food – substances that cause serious health complications for the poor canine. There are several products on Wellness dog food you can choose from, depending on your dog’s needs. --- ## Innova Dog Food URL: https://healthierdogs.com/innova-dog-food/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 With the countless commercial pet food available in the market today, which ones are the most beneficial to your dog’s health? You need holistic dog food produced by a company that truly cares about your dog’s needs – in other words, you need Innova dog food. Innova Dog Food Products   Innova dog food products are among the best premium pet food you will ever find. You only need to look for other pet owners to know that this is a brand that they can entrust their dog’s health with. Innova really focuses on health, in fact, the whole product line of Natura does. Natura is the company that Innova is under in. Natura Pet Products is known for combining the highest quality of healthy food to make some of the best tasting pet food around. Don’t expect a boring diet of nuts and tofu with Natura products – they have the most interesting food that your dog will surely love to chow on! Innova Dog Food Brand – Natura The Innova dog food brand is Natura’s answer to your dog’s complete dietary needs. Every single product you find here will incorporate the essential elements where our animals can get their nutrition namely: protein, dairy, vegetable, fruits, and grain. They also have fats and oils that are a great source of fatty acids, and make the food taste really good also. Dogs are meat eaters so they need a generous serving of meat daily. Lean protein as found in chicken, turkey and beef contain amino acids that promote the animal’s best health. The grains in Innova pet food are natural whole grains which are a rich source of B vitamins, iron, fiber, selenium and carbohydrates. These boost and sustain the energy levels of your pet. The dairy, vegetable and fruits found in Innova products are enriched with vitamins A, B and C. Vitamin A, as we know, improves eyesight, encourages bone and teeth development and enhances the immune system of the animal. The vegetable ingredients like carrots, potatoes and alfalfa are not processed like the typical commercial pet food so you can expect all the nutrients that are locked in these meals will greatly benefit your pet’s health. Compare Innova Dog Food to Other Pet Foods When you compare Innova dog food to other commercial dog food, you will find that it lives up to the highest standard of dog food there is. Of course with the quality comes the price. Innova is valued with a higher price because Natura pet foods will not allow low-quality ingredients, artificial additives, and substandard human food processing by-products in any of their products. The by-products incidentally, is what makes the other commercial dog food cheaper – and is devoid of any nutritional value. If you are not so sure whether a high quality dog food brand is worth the price, it is. Imagine – you will have a healthier dog which means that they will be less likely to be sick and need expensive medicines and vet bills. On top of that, your dog will look more attractive as well. Invest in your dog’s life and buy Innova dog food for him today! --- ## Pet Stores Dogs URL: https://healthierdogs.com/pet-stores-dogs/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Do you love shopping? Most people do. They love browsing through aisles and aisles of whatever it is that they love to indulge in and get lost in their own world. Have you ever wondered how it would be like for our dogs? They probably feel the same way when they go with you in fantastic pet stores for dogs. Of course due to obvious language barriers, you pet cannot adequately articulate his wishes to you. He cannot tell you what color he thinks work best with his eyes, or what particular leash makes his behind look smaller. What you do have are your best intentions and this should be more than enough for your him. What can you buy in pet stores for dogs? There are so many things that these places offer you. Whatever you need, they will probably have. If you are excited at the prospect of shopping for your pet, it’s probably a good idea for you to make a list of the things he will need. After all, you don’t want to go on a shopping binge and buy 5 kinds of dog collars of different colors just because they’re so cute. The top things you will have to consider getting are those that are directly related to his nutrition and healthy. Look for food and supplements that you believe will be most beneficial for him. When you prioritize his health, he will not be prone to contracting dog ailments that will cost you money to have treated. Training tools are also other things that are an excellent investment to make towards your dog’s best life. This is not just advantageous to you but for him as well. Did you know that a trained dog results in a happier and well-rounded pet? Look for training DVDs and training equipment that will help you in your quest for a more obedient pet. Many times it’s difficult to find good pet stores for dogs in your area. Fortunately in our day and age, you can find almost anything with the use of the internet. An online shop is not only more convenient for you, it is also usually stocked with more goodies and tools that you can use for your dog. Delivery and payment options are virtually hassle-free so you can pretty much order something from the other end of the world and have it delivered on your door step in a few days time. Go to the links in this article to find a fantastic dog pet store. This site has an array of all the best products that are excellent for canines. Countless of pet owners have this site bookmarked as a reliable go-to place for all their dog’s needs. So what do you need for your dog? Isn’t it great to know that everything your dog will ever need is just a click away? Go ahead and shop in great pet stores for dogs with your best bud today,  you know you want to. Enjoy! --- ## Puppy Obedience Training URL: https://healthierdogs.com/puppy-obedience-training/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 At last! You have your very own puppy and you can’t wait to play and do all sorts of master-dog bonding things together. You want the very best for him because he deserves it. That’s great! Do you know one of the most important things you can ever do for him? Puppy obedience training. Dogs that are trained early on are found to be friendlier and better in adapting to new situations and people. Consequently, puppies that have not been brought up with the proper training can be aggressive, domineering and difficult to have around. There is nothing pleasant about a destructive and stressed out canine. You need to put in hours of training when he is still young to prevent this from happening. Now, hold on. You might be thinking this requires some extreme torture or stringent disciplinary measures. You just want to love on your new dog and what’s the fun in putting him through dog training? Wait, whoever said training can’t be fun? When you do it right, puppy training is a great experience you both can share together. Dogs and humans have different language skills. It’s a pretty obvious fact but surprisingly, people forget easily and become annoyed when their pet cannot understand what they are being told to do. When you train your dog new commands, be sure to give him the exact same word each and every time so he will not get confused. Be aware also of your body language and voice inflections as dogs pick up on this and react accordingly. So if logic and reasoning do not factor in when communicating with our dogs, what can we do to get through to them? Simple, we do what is called “parent conditioning”. This is rewarding the behavior that they displayed appropriately. If he does something you do not approve of, scold him and give him a light spray to the face (dogs don’t like this); if he completes the task you asked him to do, praise him lavishly or give him a doggie treat. He will learn gradually to do the right things by associating the sensations to the act itself. Of course, you should never be excessively harsh to your pet. Positive reinforcement is the best way to train your pet, and only scold him exactly when he is doing the undesirable act otherwise, he will not understand why you are scolding him and confusion sets in. There are various tools that can be utilized for dog training. A dog clicker and leash can help in reinforcing your training. You can also avail of some fantastic resources in this article to further help you in your endeavor to build a happy and well-trained dog. You will find that these are the best investments that go a long way in improving your dog’s quality of life. Puppy obedience training should be the priority of every loving and responsible dog owner. You won’t regret it. Enjoy many memorable years ahead with your amazing dog! --- ## Outdoor Dog Kennels URL: https://healthierdogs.com/outdoor-dog-kennels/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Do you know what one of the best ways of keeping your dog in a safe place without making them feel constricted and frustrated is? Building them! These babies are a great tool for keeping your dog and your furniture happy. While kennels or crates have been misunderstood by a lot of people for some time, more and more people are appreciating the benefits of having a kennel in their home (or backyard, whatever the case may be). Not only will this give their dog a place of safety that inevitably makes them less destructive, it also gives the pet owner peace of mind that their pets are in a specific place, protected from potential accidents. Indoor kennels are not a bad idea, but for some pet owners, they prefer having a bigger space wherein their dogs can roam around more freely. You don’t want your home to be cramped because of the indoor kennel you crammed in the kitchen or living room. Besides, smell-wise, outdoor dog kennels are the best option for those who don’t always appreciate the scent of eau de canine to meet them when they go home at the end of the day. What do you look for in outdoor dog kennels? First of all, what are they made out of? There are some plastic kennels in the market, but these are not sturdy enough to hold some of the stronger dog breeds. The same is true with aluminum which can rust fairly easily, especially when you place it outside where environmental elements can accelerate oxidation. Stainless steel is the best material for dog kennels. You can either choose between a portable and a modular type of kennel. Portable kennels are good if you have a small outdoor area and you want to move the kennel around. If, however, you have a large enough back yard, modular kennels are great accessories you can have in your home. Modular outdoor kennels are equipped with flooring and roofing that will adequately shield your dog from the hot summer sun or cold rain. Because it usually comes with a sturdy material for flooring, you don’t have to worry about constantly cleaning up the lawn for the poop and pee of your pet. Simply bring your dog out and tie his leash on a post while you wash and sanitize his kennel. Where can you find good kennels? The links in this site will direct you to a page where you can buy some of the best outdoor dog kennels in the market. They are used by satisfied pet owners all over the world so you can be sure that you get your money’s worth when you purchase the products seen here. Buy the best kennel you can afford because it can last you a long time and will provide your dog the protection and safety he needs. Now isn’t that an investment worth making? --- ## Yorkie Grooming URL: https://healthierdogs.com/yorkie-grooming/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Yorkies are one of the cutest dogs there is. They are a happy and lovable bunch that everybody just loves. Make sure your yorkie gets all the positive attention by keeping him clean and sweet-smelling all the time. Find out more about the best yorkie grooming tips in this helpful article today. As we all know, dog grooming is an essential part of being a responsible pet owner. Did you know that a dirty dog can lead to a sickly dog soon enough? That’s right. If your pet is always dirty he becomes a breeding ground for all sorts of yucky parasites and bacteria and there are a lot of bacteria out there. External and internal parasites are extremely hazardous to the canine’s health. I don’t want to scare you but there have been several cases wherein a dog worm or an untreated wound caused by a parasite has led to really bad complications to a dog’s health, even death. So do whatever you can to always make sure that your dog is getting the best care there is. If you are grooming your dog for the first time, it’s best to take him to a professional groomer and watch how it is done. Yorkie grooming in particular can be a little tricky because yorkies actually have different kinds of coats, silky and wooly. Observe the products and technique how your dog is bathed and trimmed so you can do it yourself at home. There are some things you need to know about grooming your pet. First of all, never attempt to trim him if he has dirty, matted hair. Rinse him thoroughly and gently apply dog shampoo to his coat. Do not rub the shampoo in his hair because it will only tangle it more. Canine shampoos are formulated to lift the substances off his hair so be gentle when you are handling him. Rinse your yorkie a few times to make sure that there is no residue left. Dry him and use a wide-toothed comb to take out the tangles. Trimming matted hair is a painful experience that you do not want your beloved yorkie to go through. Sometimes it’s challenging to get the yorkie to stand up to be groomed, especially if the clipper and dryer used are loud. Find dog grooming equipment that do not emit loud noises and are as gentle as possible to the canine. If you are just starting out, ask someone to help you groom your dog by holding him while you trim his coat carefully. Don’t forget to clip his toenails once every two to three weeks. Brush their teeth with a doggie toothpaste and use an ear cleaning solution to clean his ears. Never use Q-tips as it may harm your pet’s delicate ears. Yorkies also have watery eyes so you might have to clean his eyes from moist dirt every so often. These helpful yorkie grooming tips will help you have a fantastic looking dog that anyone can be proud of! Enjoy! --- ## Service Dog Certification URL: https://healthierdogs.com/service-dog-certification/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 There have been a lot of talk about service dog certification. What is it and what is the contention all about? Learn the truth of this matter when you read this informative article today. First of all, let us find out what a service animal is. A service animal is defined as an animal that is specifically trained to assist people with disabilities and medical conditions. Many of these dogs function as hearing dogs and guide dogs. A hearing dog would alert a deaf person of sirens, telephones, name call, buzzers, or whatever loud noise that merits attention. Guide dogs steer visually-impaired individuals to safer routes, busy streets and business establishments. According to American Disabilities Act Recognition (ADA), these service dogs are not considered as “pets”, so they are allowed to accompany the disabled person in public places and establishments. Because the stipulations included in this act is vague, many people do not quite understand it and this has become an opportunity for many scammers to maximize. The ADA only stated that disabled people are allowed to have service dogs, they never specifically mandated these animals to be certified. The government itself has no service dog certification facility that addresses this issue. Some people in guise of an official sounding organization approach individuals and offer their services to “certify” their service dog for a fee even though the law does not require it. While a service dog certification is not required, some people still take the time and effort to certify their service dogs when their service dog training is completed. This is because having a dog that is acknowledged as service dogs will make it more convenient for the handicap to have them around. After all, some people have tried to pass off a regular dog as a service animal in some establishments (this is against federal law by the way). What are some of the prerequisites of these certification programs? Evaluation for an official certification includes (but is not limited to) proof of the disability of the individual requiring a service dog; assessing the service animal’s obedience and socialization skills; and showing at least three tasks that the service dog can perform for the person with disability that he will be helping. Tags and harnesses are among some of the proof that will show that the dog is indeed a service animal. Good service dogs are usually trained at a very early age. These dogs are taught not to be distracted by other people if he is in his job, and should obey commands without much trouble. There are many dog training requirements that these exemplary dogs should exhibit, but I will not further elaborate on these requirements in this article. It’s good to have a service dog certification for your convenience, but remember that it is not a legal requirement so report any individual who tells you that it is. Share this information with other people to help raise awareness of this very important issue today. --- ## Poodle Grooming URL: https://healthierdogs.com/poodle-grooming/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 If you are reading this, you probably have yourself a poodle. Let me ask you something why did you choose to adopt a poodle? I bet it’s probably because poodles are beautiful and striking looking dogs, right? If this is so, then you really need to learn the basics of poodle grooming so you can continue enjoying the benefits of having this gorgeous pet at home. As you may have already guessed, poodle grooming will require a longer time than the other breeds. Not only do they need to be bathed, brushed, and nail trimmed their sometimes afro-looking hair needs to be styled as well. It’s well worth any effort though. When you’re done with them, they will look like the best looking dogs in the neighborhood. There are basically three main poodle cuts that you can choose from; the Continental, the English Saddle and the puppy trim. Of course, if you want to be creative and give them a Mohawk, that’s alright too but for the most part, these are the standard looks that you can expect from the average poodle. The first step in any dog grooming is to give the dog a bath. Rinse your dog with clean water. A good tip is to begin soaping him from the neck down to keep away any fleas that may creep up to his ears. After soaping him with a mild canine shampoo, dry him off thoroughly. You can use a dog dryer but exercise caution by holding the dryer at a safe distance. You don’t want to burn your dog’s skin accidentally and give him some wounds. Next choose a cut you want and start trimming his fur with the use of a dog clipper. Keep in mind that dog dryers and clippers may emit loud whining sounds that can upset the dog so be very careful in handling them. Tie their dog leash loosely around a nearby pole so they do not run off. If you have a friend with you, have them hold the dog firmly while you trim him, particularly around the neck and face. Comb out the hair around his body. A longer coat will protect his vital organs better and provide him warmth, but shorter coats are easier to manage. Use dog shears in trimming the hair around his face and rear end; hold his face gently but firmly to prevent him from moving around and accidentally piercing him. Don’t forget to trim his nails also. Now, if you are a new poodle owner, poodle grooming is a difficult task. Take him to a professional groomer first and watch how he does it. If you think you can do it, then try it out with your pet at home after a few weeks. Don’t worry, if you made a mistake somewhere along the way, hair grows back and you can try again after. Poodle grooming may be challenging but it’s one of the most fun things you can do with your pet! Enjoy this terrific bonding experience and appreciate a fantastic looking poodle when you do! --- ## Self Service Dog Wash URL: https://healthierdogs.com/self-service-dog-wash/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Do you have extra time in your hands? Do you want to know how to make some money? Are you a dog lover? If you answered yes to all these questions then I may have just the thing for you– self service dog wash. If you are a responsible pet owner, you know as well as I do that grooming is an important part of having a pet. There are several reasons why this is so. First of all, I highly doubt that you like romping around with a mangy dog (no matter how much you love him). And let’s face it, when you bring him out for walks a matted fur, dirty paws/long nails and questionable odor is not something you would be proud of. It is said that dogs that are well groomed also have better self-esteem. Most importantly, a clean and groomed dog is less likely to breed parasites’ serious health deterrents that should be avoided at all costs. The problem is that many times even the best pet owner doesn’t have the time, energy and space to groom their pets properly. What’s a good solution for this? Bringing him to a canine grooming service station. Dog grooming is a very profitable business you can get into. Almost all pet owners I met love their dogs and treat them like family. They only want the best for them and are always looking for a good way to improve their welfare. This is where you come in. While there will always be a need for professional groomers, more and more people are getting into the self service dog wash concept. What is this? A self service dog wash is an option for people to go to a pet grooming place and rent the tools/equipment needed to bathe and groom their dogs. A self service tub, canine bathing products and dryer can be used for a significantly lower fee than if you would have your dog groomed by a professional. There is a growing demand for this kind of dog wash because many dog care takers find it a challenge to clean their pets at home. For them, it’s too much trouble to prepare and clean up the area for washing, in most cases the bathroom and the bath tub. While people still would hire a professional groomer to trim the nails and sometimes trim and style their dog’s coat, many prefer washing their own dogs themselves without the hassle of cleaning up after. You can find a lot of valuable information on how to start and maintain a lucrative pet-care business in the links provided in this article. Like with any other business, the more you know about what you are getting into, the higher the chance of your eventual success. The resources you will find here are definitely worth the investment that you will put in. What are you waiting for? Learn more about self service dog wash and other pet care tips today! Your dog grooming empire might be just around the corner. --- ## Oster Dog Clippers URL: https://healthierdogs.com/oster-dog-clippers/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Do you know one of the best things you can do for your dog? It is to make sure that you keep him as clean and groomed at all times. To do this, you need some of the best dog grooming tools and this includes Oster dog clippers. Of course we all do our best to provide our pets the best diet and take them to regular vet check-ups. However, many well-meaning pet owners neglect the essential task of grooming their dogs. It’s not that they do not care about them definitely not! It’s just that with all the busyness of life, sometimes the task of keeping them clean and trimmed is relegated on the bottom of the priority list. If this is you, I strongly recommend that you take time to groom your pet regularly. Why is this? A dirty and mangy dog can attract external and internal parasites. When left untreated for long, these pesky vermin will lead to more serious health complications. Avoid this by always keeping them clean and checking their hair regularly. Dog clippers is an essential tool in your dog grooming kit. These helpful babies are what will trim your dog’s coat to make them all neat and clean. If you are just starting out, it will be helpful to watch how-to videos or read helpful resources like these to learn valuable tips on how to groom your dog yourself. First of all, before you use your clippers, your dog should be shampooed and combed free of tangles so you won’t run the risk of painfully pulling your dog’s hair. Don’t cut beyond the undercoat of your pet if he is double-coated so the hair will grow back more naturally. This will also give your dog better protection against the natural elements which they regularly have to deal with. Electric clippers and dryers can also make canines very nervous. The loud whining noises scare the puppies and sheltered dogs. This is why it is highly recommended that you use tools that are specifically designed for dogs. There are fantastic Oster dog clippers that are not just light weight and durable, they are also a lot quieter than the regular electric clippers. There are many Oster dog clippers designs that you can choose from. Most of them are high-speed which will help cut your grooming time in half. Most of the products come with free lubricants and attachments that can make the whole grooming experience a lot easier for the frisky dog and you. Always cut in the direction of the hair growth and be especially careful around the ears, face and his rear end. You can purchase Oster dog clippers in the links included in this site. Many satisfied pet owners do not use anything else. Go check out the different styles and designs and pick one that will fit your dog’s needs the most. Keep them sanitized and dry after every use to prolong the life of these quality dog clippers. --- ## Electric Dog Collars URL: https://healthierdogs.com/electric-dog-collars/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Dog training is an essential part of being a responsible pet owner. I mean, it is one thing to have a fun and loving pet to greet you when you get home, it is an entirely different matter to have a well-behaved and obedient dog you can be proud of. It is vitally important that your dog will not prove to be a hazard to other people outside your house. There are several tools that professional dog trainers use, one of which is electric dog collars. What are electric dog collars? If you have an image of accidentally pressing a button that zaps your dog to a crisp, rest your fears. These collars are nothing like those and I will never recommend something that will harm your dog. I will, however, present options available to you in the most objective way possible. There are several types of electric dog collars. The one that gains the most controversy is the shock collar. A shock collar is a device which transmits static electricity in varying degrees through the collar of the canine. While most of the pet owners who use this profess its efficacy and safety by only applying the lowest possible frequency level, many people are still uncomfortable with the idea of letting their dogs undergo a mild “shock” treatment just to get them to avoid bad behavior. Definitely users of this have sincere and noble intentions, but excessive and improper use of shock collars can result in aggressive or fearful dogs that most pet owners will rather not risk. Fortunately, there are other types of electric dog collars you can use. Some dog collars emit sounds that startle the dog into stopping the act that he is doing. If you use this, always start with the lowest volume and only increase it if the dog does not respond to the noise that is emanating from his collar. Now, there are also dog collars that vibrate. This is perhaps one of the most effective tools you can use in canine training. It will not harm your dog, but it can surprise your dog sufficiently to stop whatever he is doing. This is particularly helpful in certain circumstances wherein your dog is off running somewhere that might not be safe, or is about to pick up something that can be harmful to him. When using these special dog collars, make sure that you do not let your dog see that you are holding the device that is operating the sounds or vibrations that his collar is producing. Otherwise, he might be fearful of you or distrust you. Keep the device in your pocket and only use it when needed. It is always better to use positive reinforcement in training your canine to be obedient. Electric dog collars are just one of the many tools that you can use in training your pet. Find out more helpful tips and information on dog training when you click on the links in this article today. Enjoy! --- ## Dog Dryer URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-dryer/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Aside from feeding him healthy food and taking him out for regular exercise, dog grooming is an important aspect of owning a pet. A dirty and smelly dog is not only unpleasant to have around– he becomes a breeding ground for parasites that can eventually make him very sick. A well-equipped grooming kit is a must in every responsible pet owner’s home. One of the tools included here is an excellent dog dryer. A dog dryer is similar to human dryers in look and function. Of course, specialty dog dryers will have added features that will greatly help in making grooming easier for both you and your dog. For one thing, these dryers can be up to 90% quieter than human dryers. Why is this important? Electric clippers and dryers emit loud sounds that are scary for dogs, especially young pups. Remember, a dog’s ears are more sensitive than ours so they are not just being fussy, it can be really painful for them to hear these noises. Just think, these loud noises will make them panic, thus making it especially difficult for you to continue grooming them because they will be all fussy and jumping all over the place. When you are going to groom your dog for the first time, keep the dryer on the lowest level first. Let your pet get accustomed to the sound of the equipment. Talk to him reassuringly while you shampoo, clip and dry him so he doesn’t feel scared. Praise him and let him feel like he is the best doggie ever as you groom him so he doesn’t associate grooming with painful experiences that he will want to avoid. Some dog dryers are hand held. Some are fitted on a stand. Find a design that will meet your specific needs. For instance, it is more convenient for many owners to have a stand because they want to be able to brush their dog’s coat even while the hair is being dried out. If your dog is a long haired breed, you might want to look for a dog dryer that can be mounted on a stand beside a table (where your dog will stay while being groomed). If you are thinking about going into the dog grooming business, you will need to invest in quality equipment and tools. Remember, you only the best for your dog– other dog owners will want the same for their own beloved pooches. Start small if you must, but never compromise on the quality of your service. Canine grooming is actually a very lucrative business to get into so your investment will be well worth it. You can find the best products on the links provided in this article today. Many pet owners from around the world have used the tools found here so you can be sure that you get your money’s worth. Get a great dog dryer, clippers and shears to complete your canine grooming kit when you visit this fantastic site today! --- ## Dog Food: Towards A Happy And Healthy Life URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-food-towards-a-happy-and-healthy-life/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Everyone loves dogs. However, they must rely on man’s care before they can survive and grow. This is the reason why owners should only give them only the best and healthiest dog food available in the market today. Many owners give importance to dog health and care. Dogs are not mere dolls and toys which you can play with but have no obligation to. In order to remain strong, dogs should be fed with healthy food containing appropriate nutrients. Dogs that are fed with the right amount of vitamins tend to remain healthier and more active. Experts highly recommend natural dog meals as they are made from all natural ingredients which can give your dog the boost that it really needs. One of the up and coming natural dog meal today is sojos food. This kind of dog meal is drawing attention to many dog lovers and health enthusiasts because of the health benefits that it provides. This kind of dog meal is rich in supplements and does not contain additives which can ruin your dog’s healthy meal. Your dog will live longer and grow faster, thanks to these amazing dog meals. But the vitamins are not sprayed on at the end, as is the case with most commercial dog meals. Good thing there is sojos which is considered as one of the up and coming dog meals today. The main characteristic of Sojos food is the manner it is prepared. You can simply mix this dog meal with other vegetables and meat to create a hearty and healthy dog meal. In order to come up with a healthy and good dog meal, you can simply add water and other healthy ingredients to this dog meal. In this manner, owners are given the privilege to create their own hearty dog meal specially for their own dog. Unfortunately, many dog foods and dog meals in the market claim that they are the best and healthiest dog meal. Bad thing majority of these dog meals contain preservatives and added fillers which contain no vitamins and minerals. To make sure that you are giving your dog the healthiest and the best, you must give them all natural dog meals. You must also rely on dog meals that are cooked in low heat. Did you know that some commercial dog meals are merely sprayed with vitamins at the end of the process? Provide your dog the care and love that they really need. Give your dog the best and healthiest dog meals and surely they will love your in return. The healthiest dog foods can give your dog the boost that they need. Always keep in mind that your dog will receive the right amount of nutrients. Give your dog the best and the healthiest dog meals in order to stay strong and healthy. Dogs that are fed with the best dog food tend to enhance their vitality and longevity. Sojos food are drawing more attention because of the health advantages that it provides. Gone are the days of those tired and weary dogs, because with all natural dog meals your dog will be as healthy as ever. Always give importance to dog health in order to give your dog the proper rearing it deserves. – Brigitte Smith --- ## Pet Clippers URL: https://healthierdogs.com/pet-clippers/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Dog grooming is a big business nowadays. Pet owners love their dogs, but they don’t always have enough time or energy to groom them the way they would want. If you love dogs and are interested in making some money on the side, you might want to go into a pet-care grooming business. If you do, one of the things you will need is excellent quality pet clippers. Before you start your business, learn as much as you can in grooming dogs. Not all pet owners might have your vision of a Mohawk-ed poodle so you might want to find other conventional styles and varieties that will be appreciated. Practice on your dog and the dogs of other family and friends so you have a lot of experience before grooming a paying client’s beloved hound. You should look only for the best tools. Of course, you want the highest quality for your dog– it’s the same thing with every loving master. Do not look for the cheapest products, they might conk out on you and even harm the dog. Go online and participate in forums. Find out what other pet owners and expert dog groomers have to say on the various kinds of canine grooming tools around. There are several kinds of pet clippers and blades available on the market. You need different blades for different types of coats. There are some dogs that have double coating, you need to know how to best shear these types of canines. Invest in durable snap-on combs and reliable dog shears to help you give the dogs the best trim ever. Sometimes the blades in the pet clippers can get too hot. You need to apply a coolant or lubricant on them so you don’t burn your dog. Now when you put the coolant on the pet clipper, wipe off the excess with a clean cloth so you do not smear oily substance on the newly cleaned fur.  If you don’t have any coolant handy, just turn the clipper off frequently to keep it cool, or switch to another clipper. Also, choose a dog clipper that isn’t too loud and noisy. Many canines, especially puppies that haven’t been properly socialized yet, may get scared with the loud buzzing noise that the clipper makes. If they are scared, it will be harder for you to trim them properly. Employ the help of a friend or an assistant to hold the dog while you clip them. When you have successfully groomed your dog, make sure you brush them off nicely. Inspect them to see if you’ve trimmed them evenly, especially around the more sensitive areas like the eyes, nose, mouth, ears and his back area. Give them a yummy doggie treat so they will remember you in a positive light. So, do you think you have what it takes to put up your own dog grooming business? Click on the links in this article to find excellent pet clippers and other quality products that will help you achieve your pet-care business goals today. --- ## Dog Shears URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-shears/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Don’t you just love it when someone compliments your dog? You really make an effort to make sure your pet looks beautiful and it feels really good when people recognize it and tell you about it. Well, dog grooming is an essential part of any loving master’s responsibility. Their long hair, while it looks good, should be regularly washed and trimmed. To do this, you need a good pair of dog shears. Dog shears are special scissors used specifically for grooming canines. It trims away the fur that dog clippers cannot reach like the area around the eyes, nose, ears and genitalia. You need to be very careful in using shears because you will be dealing with extra sensitive parts of the dog. You also have to make sure that the shears that you use are of the highest quality so you will not endanger your dog when grooming him. What do you look for in dog shears? There are many brands and types of shears in the market today. If you are a professional groomer, you may have more than one kind of shear that you use. However, for the typical household, one or two shears are usually enough. You can buy shears online. There are great dog grooming products that are available in the links in this article today. You can find shears, clippers, dryers, and brushes– all of excellent quality. There are several kinds and styles included in the product list so find out what you need before making a decision on what to buy. How do you use shears? First, shampoo your dog. Dry them well before you attempt to cut their hair. Sit your dog on a large cloth that will catch the fur being sheared off. Keep your dog in place by tying his leash to a hook and securing the other end in his dog collar. The tension of the leash shouldn’t be too tight that it makes him uncomfortable, but not too loose that he can run off to different directions while you are grooming him. Talk soothingly to the dog and hold him against your body in one hand. With the other hand, start running the clippers along the fur, starting with the belly. Brush away excess hair. Then use the shears to gently cut away longer hair around his face and backside. Make sure that the dog is very still as you attempt to shear him. If you have a person with you, he/she can hold your dog as you concentrate on giving him a thorough shearing. Make it a point to check if the dog shears you have purchased fit your hand nicely. If you can, choose a pair that is not too heavy because it may cause you to have hand cramps. Replace old shears regularly because worn ones lose its sharpness. Dull blades may cause you to keep going back to the same area of hair to cut, giving you a bigger chance of nipping your dog. --- ## Dog Agility Equipment URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-agility-equipment-2/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 If you have a dog, one of the most enjoyable experiences you can share with him is dog agility training. You and your dog will have loads of fun navigating through the courses and maybe competing with other canines as well. Find out more about dog agility equipment in this article today. An A-frame is a common sight in dog agility competition. What is it? It is two 9 feet planks of around 3 feet wide attached together to form an inverted V or a rough A. The dogs have to climb up and down this sometimes tricky obstacle to get to the other side. Dog walks are around 10 inch wide ramps raised 4 feet from the ground. A teeter-totter is a dog agility equipment that looks like a see-saw you might find in a playground, only wider. Smaller dogs might find this a little more challenging than the heavier dogs. A tunnel walk is usually made of vinyl and wire and can be shaped in different curves or in a straight line. It’s usually around 2 feet wide in diameter and around 10 to 20 feet in length. There are also several jumping hurdles that dogs are tasked to accomplish. Typically, they are of varying adjustable heights. Tires suspended in the air tied in a frame are also jumping hurdles that dogs go through. Wires and uneven spaces are covered securely so that the dog’s coat will not catch and potentially harm the dog. Weave poles are among the more difficult obstacles that the dog must accomplish. This is a succession of 5 to 10 upright poles spaced around 15 to 25 inches apart. Dogs should weave through every pole without skipping poles. You can imagine that this has been the site of frustration for more than one canine and his master. Not all dog agility tasks are about “agility”. There is a pause table that dogs sit on for a measured amount of time. Another variety of this is a pause box. This is a marked box where the canine will be told to either do a “sit” or “down” position, depending on the specifications of the competition or judges. There are valuable benefits that a dog gains from dog agility training the most important of which is exercise. Too many canines have suffered serious health complications because they were overweight. This could have simply been avoided through proper diet and regular exercise. Not only will exercise make your dog healthier, hyperactive dogs also have a positive channel to vent off excess energy making him less likely to get into destructive behavior. This results in a more peaceful home life and longer lasting furniture. How about it? Are you interested in letting your dog participate in dog agility competitions? You can go to the links provided in this article to know more about dog agility equipment that your dog needs to master in order to do well. It’s a fun and extremely challenging activity you can share with your dog. Enjoy! --- ## Stop Dog Chewing URL: https://healthierdogs.com/stop-dog-chewing/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Our dogs are our babies. They are adorable and for the most part, they are perfect. Sometimes though, they do things that really irritate us like chewing. Read on to find out more about how to stop dog chewing in this interesting article today. How to Stop Dog Chewing Before anything else, you have to understand that chewing is a natural habit innate in dogs. There are several reasons why canines chew and this is what you need to know first. Puppies that are teething will have sore gums and chewing is a good way for them to relieve this discomfort. However, if your dog is chewing himself (self-mutilation), it is highly probable that he has some sort of skin disease that is really painful to him. You need to have him checked by a vet as soon as you are able to. Now if these aren’t the reasons, then your pet might be chewing things simply because he is bored and the objects around him seem like interesting diversions he can play around with, with his teeth. If you want to stop dog chewing, you have to make sure he is mentally and physically stimulated with other things so that he pays no attention to the inanimate objects that he can chew. Take him out for exercise regularly and spend quality time with him. At night or when you’re out of the house, leave a rubber bone or any doggie toy that he can chew on. It’s good to have him crate trained so that he is contained in his own space with limited access to things, but never send him to his crate as punishment for chewing. Crates are designed to be his safe haven and not a place of negativity. More Ideas to Stop Dog Chewing If you don’t have a crate, then keep destruction to a minimum by stashing away things that are liable to be chewed. Yes, this may mean a bit of cleaning on your part. Remember, dogs will be attracted to your scent so your shoes, clothes and personal effects may be in danger. Protect them by keeping them out of the canine’s reach. Another way to stop dog chewing is by sprinkling items that dogs always chew with an unpleasant flavor like cayenne pepper. Conversely, rub a little bit of peanut butter to your dog’s chew toys to encourage him to opt for these doggie toys rather than furniture or articles of clothing. If you do want to give real bones to your dog, don’t cook chicken or turkey bones because they easily splinter and might be a choking hazard to your pet. Do not reprimand your dog when you see chewed up things. He will not understand. Only scold him when you catch him in the act so they won’t get confused. Remember that positive reinforcement is the most effective tool in dog training so to stop dog chewing, take away the wrong thing, replace it with the right toy and praise him or give him treats when he chooses the toy. Part of dog training is to stop dog chewing up your belongings! Puppies need to chew and don’t yet understand that they should not chew your shoes, but once your dog is grown, he should know better, and only chew on his own chew toys. So to stop dog chewing other items should be a priority for any puppy owner. --- ## Electronic Dog Collars URL: https://healthierdogs.com/electronic-dog-collars/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Electronic dog collars, anyone? I know we all love our dogs but sometimes they can get really rowdy and annoying. Do you know what I’m talking about? Some of the trainers I’ve talked to about this said that they employ a few dog training tools to help them keep dogs in line, and one method is by using electronic dog collars. Now, I’m not completely convinced with using anything electronic on my dog just yet. It is only fair though that we thoroughly study all sides of this often controversial topic to be able to get a more objective stand that will benefit us and our dogs the most. What Are Electronic Dog Collars? So what are these electronic dog collars? I think what makes this such a talked about subject for many pet owners concerned about their pets is the use of shock collars, a kind of electronic collar. These shock collars emit an electronic pulse through the collar that functions to slightly surprise the dog (or shock them) into stopping the unfavorable behavior. I know, it still sounds kind of wrong but I somehow understand the principle behind this. Some dogs are harder to train and a firm, sometimes don’t do it. The pet owners who use shock collars without abusing it and in the right way are only protecting their dogs from potentially harmful situations. Side Effects from Electronic Dog Collars? There are many harmful side effects that can happen with this form of training though. For one thing, shock collars may malfunction and shock your dog at random times. Faulty collars made by suspicious manufacturers can even act up and cause severe burns on your dog’s neck. More than that, improper and excessive use of shock collars can result in aggressive, fearful or withdrawn canines. Electronic Dog Collars – NOT Shock Collars Now, keep in mind that there are other kinds of electronic collars that people can use for their dogs. There are some collars that only emit sounds that will startle the dog enough for them to stop what they’re doing. Other collars discharge a slight vibration only and will not harm the dog in any way. If you are considering these types of electronic collars, then you should consult with a trainer or look up in the internet how to best use these training tools. For example, always keep it on the lowest frequency as much as possible. Only turn it one notch higher if your dog is not responding to it at all. If you have a really disruptive dog, consider having him trained by a professional. Also, you shouldn’t let the dog see you holding the device that controls their collar. To do so gives your dog advance warning of the noise that is about to occur. Keep the remote control of all types of electronic dog collars hidden in your pocket and operate it discretely. Electronic dog collars may not be for you, but you can always use conventional and proven techniques on training your pet effectively. Go to the links in this article to find more helpful information on dog training today – with or without electronic dog collars! --- ## The Learning Dog: Healthy Treats To Reinforce Your Learning Pooch URL: https://healthierdogs.com/the-learning-dog-healthy-treats-to-reinforce-your-learning-pooch/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Helping your dog to learn new tricks and follow obedience commands can be facilitated in various ways. However, if you would like to use a safe and easy process to encourage him to participate, try feeding him with dog treats to reinforce him. Using treats as the primary component of your reward-punishment system is a good means for your pet to respond to commands easily. If he is able to perform the commands that you asked him to do or if he behaves the way you commanded him to, giving him treats is an action to let him know that he is doing the right thing. If he failed to follow the command or behaves unruly, refuse giving him treats as a means of punishment. Dog treats can be used in several means. You could use it to teach your dog to do what he is ordered to and you could also use these snacks to encourage him to be obedient, to have an active attitude and to behave the way he should in certain situations. Treats are also representations of how pleased you are with your pet’s actions. They are also good replacements for praises and tapping if they don’t work while you’re training your pet. If you are to use dog treats as a part of your pet’s tricks and obedience training, you have to use them interchangeably with praises. Giving him too much treats could encourage him to become dependent on the snacks you provide to him and in the long term would cause him not to follow your commands if there are no treats involved. You must also remember that treats must only be used during the initial stages of his learning process and should slowly be withdrawn and replaced with praising and patting. When not in training, you should not provide the same treats that you give to him when he is learning. There are various kinds of treats; some are quite simple like cookies and can be used as rewards, while others are designed to aid in digestion and clean the teeth of canine pets. When buying treats, it is important that you know what purpose it will serve in order for you to make the right purchasing decision. It would also be wise to opt for treats made from natural or organic ingredients to safeguard the safety and health of your pet against hazardous preservatives and other synthetic ingredients that are usually contained in generic canine treats. It won’t be difficult to find healthy natural or organic treats for your dog because there are many dog food lines today that offer such kinds of edible products and one of them is Wellness dog food. Wellness dog food specialize in natural meals and treats for pooches. All their products, including their treats, are made from all-natural ingredients that are human-grade in quality. If your pet is on diet, Wellness’ “pure rewards” treats will definitely complement him as these treats are free from grains and contain minimal ingredients that are appropriate for the nutritional needs of dieting pets. On the other hand, their “Wellbars and Wellbites” snacks are among the most preferred complementary treats that reinforce the immune system and overall health of pets. Wellness also has this so-called “just for puppy treats” that are ideal for young pooches as they are made from a unique combination of healthy ingredients like salmon, lamb, carrots, blueberries and flaxseed. Aside from Wellness, another dog food company that offer healthy treats for canine pets is Burns dog food. All their products are formulated by a veterinary surgeon, ensuring that pets will receive the healthiest meals and treats they deserve. They offer a wide variety of treats both for senior canines and puppies. Their “Burns dog training treats” are ideal as training treats for pets, while their “Burns venison tongues” are perfect treats to keep your furry friend preoccupied for a short period of time. The said dog food line also created healthy treats for pets with sensitivities to meat or other protein sources which they call “Burns venison ears” and “burns venison hearts.” Using dog treats while training your dog is probably the safest and most effective means for him to learn the commands you ask him to execute. If you are looking for training treats, you might want to try the ones made by Wellness dog food or by Burns dog food. All the products of these dog food lines, including their treats, are proven safe and healthy for canine pets. – Brigitte Smith --- ## What We Can Learn From Our Dogs URL: https://healthierdogs.com/what-we-can-learn-from-our-dogs/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Dr Andrew Jones is one of my favorite vets. If you haven’t heard, he recently walked away from conventional veterinary practice altogether in protest to what his veterinary association was requiring from him in terms of his attempting to get the word out that conventional veterinary medicine is NOT the be all and end all – holistic veterinary medicine does work and sometimes works a whole lot better than the conventional variety. His veterinary association didn’t like what Dr Jones was doing and placed significant fines on him which were payable if he wanted to continue practising as a veterinarian in Canada. So he decided to thumb his nose at them.  Anyway, I digress. What I wanted to tell you about, was Dr Jones’ New Year’s resolution to be more like his pets. In particular, more like his dog. Here is what Dr Jones had to say: With 2011 nearly here, one of my resolutions is too be MORE like my pets… ———————————————— All I Really Need to Know I Learned from my Dog ———————————————— 1. Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joy ride. 2. Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy. 3. When loved ones come home, always run to greet them. 4. Take naps and stretch before rising.  5. Run, romp, and play daily. 6. Be loyal. 7. Never pretend to be something you’re not. 8. Eat with gusto and enthusiasm. 9. If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it. 10. When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently. 11. Thrive on affection and let people touch you – enjoy back rubs and pats on your neck. 12. When you leave your yard, make it an adventure. 13. Avoid biting when a simple growl will do. 14. No matter how often you’re scolded, don’t buy into the guilt thing and pout – run right back and make friends. 15. Bond with your pack. 16. On cold nights, curl up in front of a crackling fire.  17. When you’re excited, speak up. 18. When you’re happy, dance around and wag your entire body. 19. Delight in the simple joy of a long walk. Don’t you love it? I do. It’s priceless. What we can learn from our dogs – we would all be much better people if we paid attention to this! For more on Andrew Jones’ methods – in particular on how to keep your pets healthy, click here! --- ## Dog Training Book URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-training-book/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 How do you like having a pet? Owning a dog has a lot of ups and downs. While you get to spend incredible days with an affectionate, loyal and happy dog, you will also have many days being frustrated at his rowdiness and sometimes stubborn behavior. A dog training book can help you deal with this problem. What Type of Dog Training Book? You might be saying that you are not a dog trainer. Well, you’re not a professional one sure, but anybody can train their own pets, and dog training books can be a boon. If you ask me it’s actually better if the master takes the time and effort to train his own dog because it fosters trust and firmly establishes the relationship that they have. One of the most important things in puppy training is to have your dog recognize you as his leader. If animals know that you are his authority, he will submit to you and strive to behave in ways that is pleasing to you. Don’t think that this will come naturally to the puppy. He will try to get his way by whining and being stubborn. When he does, you firmly reaffirm your stand until he concedes. You can find great ways on how to establish your authority with dogs in an excellent training book. There are many practical and helpful tips on many other things as well. Dog training might be a frustrating sport for some people, but with the right tools and resources, it can be a great way to have fun and bond with your pet. Choose a Dog Training Book by an Expert Look for a dog training book authored by an expert in the field. There are books that can teach you the basics of puppy training, obedience training, advanced dog obedience training and correct improper behavior. These resources will even throw in useful tips on how to take really good care of your pet as well. This article contains links that will direct you to a great dog training book. I know it’s good because I’ve applied some of the things that are found in the book and have discovered it to be really effective. If you have been around dogs as much as I have, you know a good dog resource when you see one and this is definitely one of those. I cannot tell you how much better life is when you have a well-trained dog. You don’t have to worry about a messed up house, chewed up shoes, fights with other neighborhood dogs, or being constantly vigilant that your pet does not do anything that will harm himself. Training is a process that takes time for sure, but the rewards of it are well worth the time and money that you will be spending. Go to the link right now and check out the dog training book I have been telling you about right here. Imagine many years with a loving and well-trained pet right in your home. You are not just purchasing a book, you are buying yourself a gift of a happy and peaceful home life by way of your dog training book. --- ## Tips on How To Compare Pet Insurance URL: https://healthierdogs.com/tips-on-how-to-compare-pet-insurance/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 How long have you had a pet? I have been a happy master of several beautiful dogs for a few years now and it’s been quite an experience. Definitely, I love them – but having pets can be a little expensive at times. This is especially true when they get sick. Read on to find out more on how to compare pet insurance in this article today. First of all, you may be wondering, why do I even need pet insurance? It’s only been getting more popular in the recent years and people have gone by well enough without it before. Why should I even bother purchasing insurance for my dog and add needless expense to my monthly budget. Friend, if you have a dog, you cannot afford NOT to have insurance. As all experienced pet owners know, part of being responsible to your dog is taking good care of his health. The problem is that dogs at some point or another in their lives, will suffer from canine sicknesses. When they do get sick, vet bills and medications and therapies can get really expensive. Of course we always want the best for our pet and avoid anything that might cause them to get sick but let’s just say they do have to undergo a serious treatment or even an operation, what will you do? The urgency and high cost of many medical treatments may have you take a loan from a family member or a friend and this can be embarrassing. Now if you have health insurance for your pet, you will not need to worry about the expenses his medications will incur. Alright so how do we know which is the best pet health insurance we should get? When you get a plan for your pet, always check what is included in it. For instance, some health insurances have a certain age limit beyond that age, the company will not take care of any medication that your dog might need. Some insurance packages have extensive promos and features, while some cover only the most basic only. How much are you willing to spend for your pet’s health insurance? You can pay a one-time annual fee, or you can spread the payment out for the whole year to make it easier for you. Do you want the package to cover only serious sicknesses (surgeries, operations, critical medications), or do you want your monthly vet visits to be included in the plan as well? Make a mental calculation on how much you are willing to allot monthly for your dog’s expenses and factor that in when considering which insurance plan to get. Remember to read the fine print before you purchase an insurance plan for your dog. It is in the details that you will be able to competently compare pet insurance and decide what the best pet health insurance plan is for your dog. It may cost a little bit more, but I assure you having this security is well worth your dollar. Enjoy a healthy, happy and insured pet today! --- ## Natural Heartworm Preventative URL: https://healthierdogs.com/natural-heartworm-preventative/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 For most of us, we treat our pets like our own children; and it is painful to see them suffer through difficult sicknesses like heartworm. If left untreated, the infected dog will most likely die within a few months of contraction. Here are some natural heartworm preventative measures that will ensure the safety of your dog in this matter. First of all, what is heartworm? Heartworms are parasitic worms that are transmitted to the dog’s bloodstream through mosquitoes. Although not all mosquitoes transmit heartworms, when a carrier does bite the dog its larvae will transfer into the canine’s bloodstream reaching his vital organs. As you can imagine, this will be terminal for the dog when the contamination reaches the heart and lungs. The most basic natural heartworm prevention tip is to provide your pet with a healthy diet. A healthy pet will have a better immune system to fight off infections and complications in his body. Processed food generally contain chemicals that may weaken the dog, so serve raw meat, fruits and vegetables instead. Do not use milk or food that contains artificial flavorings and sugar. Mosquitoes are less likely to be drawn to healthy animals. Therefore, strengthen the factors that will improve your pet’s immune system. The liver, specifically, is important because it functions to store glucose, vitamins and minerals as well as removes waste and toxins from the system. Aside from a good diet; keep your dog away from stress and synthetic medication that may introduce harmful chemicals to your dog’s system. Another essential natural heartworm prevention tip is to make sure your dog has regular exercise. Engage in fun physical activities with your pet. Not only will it give you quality time, it will be good for his health as well. What exercise does is improve their heart and circulatory system. The red blood cells take oxygen throughout the body while the white blood cells fight any infection that tries to latch itself on the host. If your pet has a healthy heart, adult heartworms will find it difficult to implant itself in it. If you are in a place where there is a high risk of contracting heartworm, have your pet checked up regularly for sicknesses. A blood test will show if he has been infected with this parasite. Unless the vet strongly recommends a heartworm preventive medicine, do not administer synthetic drugs to your pet. This may cause damage to your dog’s immune system in the long run. It is better to have these natural heartworm preventative measures in place rather than find yourself in possession of a pet that already is infected with heartworm. Medicines that cure heartworm are actually a form of insecticide that when administered regularly, is highly toxic and will eventually lead to serious diseases to the dog’s other organs as well. Animals with heartworm exhibit symptoms like lethargy, a significant weight loss, coughing and difficulty of breathing. If this is your pet, visit the vet immediately as the sickness may already be in its progressive stages. --- ## Dog Rescue: Is it Right for You? URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-rescue-is-it-right-for-you/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Ever had a hankering for a certain breed of dog? Not an obsession, mind you – not the sort of longing that would send you rushing to a breeder, thousand-dollar-bill in your sweaty palm – but just a gentle appreciation for the virtues of the Poodle, Pug or Pyrenean Mastiff? Let’s say you have — but you thought buying a purebred pup was a less-than-ideal use of your family’s resources. If that’s the case, it might be time to look up your local Dog Rescue organization! Dog Rescues are organized by breed, so prospective parents can sign up to be notified when new poodles or pugs come in. What’s the advantage of adopting a rescue dog, instead of a breeder pup? A rescue dog isn’t always cheaper than the breeder’s (though it usually is). The main difference is this: your money equals a new life for a dog that completely lost out on his first roll of the dice. How do I adopt a Rescue Dog? Dog rescue organizations are volunteer-driven, and loosely organized. Your best bet is to “Google” for the one nearest you, using the breed name. So poodle lovers can search for “Poodle Rescue” or “Poodle Rescue Florida,” if they live down south. Once you find an organization, you’ll want to apply as an adoptive parent. This may involve a down payment. It also usually involves a form in which you describe your history of animal ownership, and supply references. You’ll provide some information on your beliefs about dog discipline, your house and yard, and where you plan to keep your newest family member. The dog rescue foster moms and will want to talk to you in person, too, to get a feel for your compatibility with their particular pup. What will I pay for a Rescue Dog? On average, you’ll pay between $200 and $300. If you thought “rescue” adoption was cheap, this might seem like a lot, but the fact is it simply covers basic procedures to bring the animal back to health. Most dogs arrive at the Rescue with skin problems, tartar-coated teeth, out-of-date vaccinations, possible parasites and other issues. How will a Rescue Dog differ from a breeder or pet store dog? In a number of ways. Your new adoptee is likely to be: Older. Few dogs are rescued as puppies. A few are ‘adolescent.’ The vast majority are middle-aged. Cautious. Your adoptee may have a lot of fear and yes, grief, to process. If he felt like a part of his former family, he may be grieving his sudden “ejection.” He may need time and patience to take an interest in food, play, or his general surroundings. If he was starved or kept isolated, he’ll need time and patience to learn to socialize. “Readable.” Buying a puppy means taking a wild guess at the eventual adult. When you rescue a grown dog, you get a much better idea of his personality. It’s easier to make the perfect match. Am I the right type of owner for a Rescue Dog? An important question! You, the owner, are the last and most crucial link in a chain. The chain’s only purpose is provide a “happily-ever-after” for a dog that desperately deserves one. Can you be that happily-ever-after, even for a dog that may have some rough edges? Ask yourself these questions: Do I really care what color the coat is, what sex it is or how many pounds it weighs? If so, you really want a puppy from a breeder, not a rescue. Rescue dogs rarely conform to an exact type. Am I looking to save money? You may not save money buying a rescued dog, even though the initial cost could be $700 or $800 less than from a breeder. Rescue dogs often need more medical care because of the abuse and neglect they suffered before. Is my life relatively stable and my household relatively quiet? All abused creatures, whether dog or human, crave and need an unusually organized household. Many people can be good parents to a rescue dog. But perhaps the best potential parent of all is an older person or couple whose children are grown, and who has time and patience to devote to the dog’s mental and physical healing. Can I provide regular medical care and regular grooming? The deepest wish in the heart of the Dog Rescue folks is each of their dogs never has to go through another minute of hunger, discomfort or pain again. When dogs are starved, they sometimes have incontinence problems that heal only slowly. They may need more regular teeth cleaning than a continually cared-for dog. Some need a house training refresher when former owners didn’t bother. Most were never clipped or groomed, even in the non-shedding breeds. Do you have the time and resources to keep your dog totally safe and comfortable? Can I consider the need and adopt a boy rescue, or an older rescue? For reasons not entirely clear, many potential adopters go for girl dogs. There’s no logic to this: all rescue dogs are spayed or neutered, and boys are as intelligent, witty, loyal, well-behaved and loving as their female counterparts. Perhaps it’s just that the rescue impulse leads us to think of “damsels in distress”! At any rate, that adorable boy that needs a home really deserves your attention. Someone less educated might pass him by for reasons they don’t fully understand. The upshot is, a rescue dog can make the best pet you’ve ever had. He understands exactly what you’re giving him, since he didn’t have it before. Your newest family member will offer you an overabundance of loyalty for the rest of his days. How can I help with Dog Rescues? Dog Rescues are always looking for help. Of course, they need financial contributions, and kennel and medical supplies. They also need ‘foster moms’ who perform the difficult task of patiently rendering a dog adoptable, then giving it up to its final owner! So if you have skills in this area and want to help, contact the small and amazing group of volunteers that make up your local Dog Rescue. ———————————————————- Blake Kritzberg is happily Mom to a rescue dog, and proprietor of former site Poodle-oo. Published by permission of IdeaMarketers.com ———————————————————- --- ## Heartworm Natural Prevention Tips That Can Help Save Your Pet’s Life URL: https://healthierdogs.com/heartworm-natural-prevention/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Heartworm is a condition caused by bites of mosquitoes. Not all mosquitoes are contaminated but if it does carry this infection, it can transmit larvae into the animal’s tissue which travels to its bloodstream. When not treated immediately, the larva reaches adulthood and travels on to latch itself on its host’s vital organs. When this happens, results are oftentimes fatal to the dog. It sounds scary doesn’t it? Well, heartworm is a valid concern for all pet owners; however, there are simple you can employ that will ensure that your dog will not have to suffer this condition. The key to avoiding heartworm is to make your pet as healthy as you possibly can. You can do this through maintaining a good diet and regular exercise for the dog. Many commercial pet foods may contain chemicals that will be detrimental in your dog’s health. A diet of raw meat, vegetables and helpings of fruit is a better alternative to feed him. Regular physical activity also keeps the animal’s heart and circulatory system in top working order. Healthy white blood cells fight infection effectively, further strengthening the dog’s immune system. The liver is a vital proponent in having a good immune system so you can also consider using recommended supplements that encourage excellent liver function. Your dog will not have a chance to develop heartworm if mosquitoes are not able to infect them. Several of these common heartworm natural prevention herbs that are repugnant for mosquitoes are black walnut, turmeric root, spearmint herb and garlic. Garlic and heartworms do not go well together for the simple fact that the pungent aroma is enough to repel the mosquitoes. For dogs under 50 pounds, it is safe to add ½ teaspoon of garlic a day to his meals. For heavier dogs you can go up to 2 teaspoons but consult with your veterinarian first. Too much garlic is also harmful to animals when ingested. It is also a good idea to mix water and garlic together to make a garlic spray. You can lightly cover your pet or around the areas of the house that mosquitoes are most likely to congregate with a thin mist of this garlic spray. While garlic is effective in keeping mosquitoes at bay, you do not want to repel your family and visitors with eau de garlic assaulting their noses when they visit you. A more pleasant version of a natural mosquito repellant is mixing 3 drops each of lavender and citronella oil, 10 Tablespoons of rose geranium oil, 1 Tablespoon of alcohol based black walnut extract with 10 ounces of purified water. Spray this concoction around the house or wherever needed. These natural prevention measures are much better than having to use the conventional preventive medications. These medications kill the heartworms by poisoning them; consequently they too are toxic and harmful for the dog as a whole. Have regular bi-annual check-ups with your veterinarian to test for heartworms so it can be treated as soon as possible. --- ## Staffordshire Bull Terrier URL: https://healthierdogs.com/staffordshire-bull-terrier/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Now, here is a dog breed topic after my own heart – the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.  As you would know if you are a regular reader of HealthierDogs.com or the HealthyHappyDogs.com newsletter, one of my dogs is a Staffie. It always astounds me when I hear about people being afraid of these dogs.  That criminal, unscrupulous, people use them in dog fighting, I suppose, doesn’t surprise me.  My Jet always hated other dogs outside of our home (she’s getting a little mellower now in her old age – but just a little!) – and she would take on a dog of ANY size. But as a family dog – a child’s dog – she is perfect.  I have never, ever, seen her lose her cool with my son who could, if the mood took him, tease her quite mercilessly -unacceptable, I know, but he really loves her to bits and is nice to her the majority of the time.  Anyway, Jet took it all.  She was as hyperactive as they come, but she is always happy and loves nothing better than to play games with her family (other dog and humans alike). In fact, a Staffie breeder recommended Staffies to me as being a superb children’s dog before I got Jet.  And if Jet’s temperament is anything to go by, I would agree with this one hundred percent. Anyway, I’m getting away from myself! Here is an article written by a Staffie breeder about the history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier breed, and all sorts of other interesting information: The Staffordshire Bull Terrier – the Facts Does the mention of bull terrier brings shiver down your spine? This is an unfair justification of the breed but one cannot be blamed, however, for indeed the history of the bull terrier is factually cruel, bloody and violent. However, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, although a descendant of the viscous bull-fighting breed, is none but a loving, docile and well-loved companion of people all over the world. Who wouldn’t be aware of the notorious bloody history of the bull terrier? In England, during the 18th century, a game called bull-fighting is a well-loved past time and it is in this game that vicious dogs are used to attack and kill different large creatures such as bull, bears and other dogs. This trend caused the breeding of several bull-fighting dogs such as the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier and the American Staffordshire Terrier. To create a dog that is a fighter inside the pit and a loving friend outside of it, is the main purpose for the development of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier in the regions of Staffordshire England. The breed brilliantly possessed a fearless, biddable, intelligent, loyal and loving disposition that it became popular in the bull fighting circuit. When the animal welfare law was approved in England, the bull fighting became illegal and was ultimately put to an end. Now being popular as a companion dog, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier became popular as a household pet and was enjoyed by many people in England. In May 25, 1935 it became officially part of the UK Kennel Club and, at the same time, was introduced to the US. It never became as popular in the US and it was only in 1976 that it was officially registered by the US kennel clubs. This breed is also known as Staffie, Stafford, Staffros or Staff and is next of kin to the American Staffordshire Terrier and the American Pit Bull Terrier. Outwardly, this breed definitely looks intimidating but it is actually a loving and docile dog that loves to hang out with people especially children. When it comes to family love and loyalty, the Staff comes second to none. The Staffie is hailed as a great all purpose dog because of its unfailing intelligence, trainability, gentleness and eagerness to abide. Because of these traits, although it was once a fighting dog, it is an undesirable guard or attack-dog. In a 1996 Southampton University study, the Staffie is one of the top ten breeds that are most suitable for families especially children. This creature is a natural athlete because of its medium-sized, muscular and agile body. It possesses great strength, stamina and agility that plenty of activities and exercise are needed. This dog, however, is suitable for apartment living so long as it is taken outdoors for a daily walk. Generally, the Staffordshire bull terrier stands 14 to 16 inches in height and weighs 24 to 32 pounds. Its coat is short, smooth and body-hugging and it gives the breed a polished and sinewy look. The breed may come in colors of black, red, fawn, blue, white, brindle or any combination of these solid colors with white. About the Author: Familiarize yourself with the great all-purpose family dog ever, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Discover helpful information on Staffordshire Bull Terriers and get expert insights from author and breeder Michael Houston. --- ## How to Deal with the Loss of a Pet URL: https://healthierdogs.com/how-to-deal-with-the-loss-of-a-pet/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Experiencing the loss of a pet is the most difficult aspect of pet ownership. Whether the death is a sudden one, or one you’ve had time to mentally prepare for, it’s a traumatic and life changing experience. Below are 9 steps for helping you to cope with the loss of a pet. 1. Burial Spot: Create a special burial spot for your beloved pet or for his ashes. This will give you a place to visit, place flowers and spend quiet reflection time when you’re feeling melancholy about the loss of your pet. Plant a pretty tree near the burial spot and watch as new life grows. 2. Headstone: Order a stone with your pet’s name and the dates of his birth and death. Place the stone near the site of his burial or his ashes. 3. Pet Journal: Purchase a journal and record special memories of your pet while they are still fresh in your mind. Ask friends and family members to record special memories they have of your pet as well. 4. Pet Scrapbook: Create a scrapbook with the pictures you have of your pet. Visit the scrapbooking store and purchase fun printed pages and cute stickers to decorate the pages of the book. Place your pet’s identification tag in a special place in the scrapbook. If you like, use the pages of your journal to guide you in writing special memories on every other page of the scrapbook. 5. Stages of Grief: Accept the fact that you will experience the traditional stages of grief. Traditionally the stages of grief include denial, bargaining, anger, depression and acceptance. You might not feel each stage and it is entirely normal not to feel them in any particular order, but allow yourself to feel each one as it comes. If it helps, journal your feelings in the journal you purchased in Step 3. 6. Find Comfort in Your Friends: Your true friends will encourage you to share memories of your pet which will help to lighten the load of grief you are carrying. Stay away from insensitive people who may not feel the same connection to animals that you have felt. If possible, talk with other pet owners who have also experienced a similar loss. Sometimes those who have experienced similar hardships are those who are able to offer the most comfort. 7. Healthy Activity: Replace the activity that you shared with your pet with an equally healthy one. For instance, if you and your pet often played fetch in the park, maybe you can jog around that same park a few days a week. 8. Include Other Animals in Your Life:  Spend time with other animals. If your friends or family members have pets, envelope yourself in the warmth of those animals. Or, spend time volunteering at an animal shelter. What a productive and selfless use of your grief! 9. Future Pet: Don’t close yourself off to the possibility of future pets. Although you need to spend time mourning the loss of your loved one, you need to keep your heart open to the joys of pet ownership and remember what you loved about that special relationship. If you allow yourself time to grieve and you follow the steps above, you will be better prepared to cope with the loss of your pet. This article was written in conjunction with the authors at pet super store an online pet shop that carries dog beds, patio pet doors, and dog houses. And for further comfort, you might want to read Eugene O’Neill’s classic – his dog’s Last Will and Testament – it’s a wonderful read! --- ## How to Make the Tough Decision to Euthanize Your Pet URL: https://healthierdogs.com/how-to-make-the-tough-decision-to-euthanize-your-pet/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 One of the toughest responsibilities of owning a pet is deciding if circumstances warrant euthanizing your pet. There are many factors to consider, but analyzing your pet’s quality of life will help you in making the decision. I’ve had several requests from readers for an article on this topic.  Personally, I must admit to finding the topic a very emotional one to even contemplate, so I was pleased to get someone else to write this one for me. … So here is a step by step guide to assist you if you are considering the ultimate decision for your pet. If you and your family have found yourselves in the difficult position of wondering whether or not to euthanize your pet, follow these steps: Step 1: If you suspect that your animal’s life is nearing its end, make an appointment with your veterinarian to get a professional opinion on the prognosis of your pet. The veterinarian will be able to talk with you about pain management options and ways you can make your pet more comfortable, but ultimately the decision to euthanize will be in your hands. Step 2: If your pet is ill, consider the factors that will contribute to his care and attention. Do you have the time, resources and finances to care for your ailing pet? If you’re unable to spend quality time with your pet through his illness, or if you are unable to afford the medications required to keep him comfortable, you will need to keep those considerations in mind. Step 3: If your pet is in pain, you need to consider how comfortable you can make your pet during the time he or she has left. If the vet is unable to provide pain management, or if your pet is nonresponsive to the pain management, you may need to consider euthanasia sooner than later. Step 4: If your dog is not in pain but you fear he is no longer getting enough enjoyment out of his life due to his age or other health factors, begin journaling his activities. Make a commitment to journal his activities for a week, making note of his appetite, sleeping habits and exercise or activity level. Step 5: Before you analyze the journal, determine with other family members what criteria you need to see in order to determine if it’s time to euthanize. For instance, if your pet slept for 20 or more hours a day, would you consider that sufficient evidence that he is not experiencing a high quality of life? Or, if he is excited to greet you at the door but remains inactive throughout the rest of the day, is that enough activity to warrant that he is enjoying his life? Only you and your family members can create and answer questions such as these. Step 6: Gather decision making family members to analyze the journal and come to a consensus as to whether or not it’s time to euthanize your pet. Allow the opportunity for all involved family members to share their thoughts and feelings, however try to keep emotions out of the final decision and instead focus on what is best for your beloved pet. Step 7: If you make the decision to euthanize your pet, decide whether he or she will be cremated or buried. Begin collecting special memories of your pet, perhaps a paw print or a few final photos. Above all else, spend as much time with your best friend as possible, making him as comfortable as possible until the time comes to mourn his life. Also, although you will be heartbroken, don’t forget to spend time celebrating the life of your beloved pet and the special memories you’ve shared together. This article was written by the authors at pet super store an online pet shop that carries dog beds, patio pet doors, and dog houses. And remember, if your dog could write a Will, this is probably what your dog would bequeath to you. --- ## Pet Insurance – Do You Need It? URL: https://healthierdogs.com/pet-insurance-do-you-need-it/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Pet insurance is an often overlooked area and is even thought to be superfluous by some. But pet owners soon learn how costly it can be not to have pet insurance when they require expensive, and sometimes urgent, veterinary treatment for their dog. Although there are a large number of pet owners in developed countries, many of these pet owners do not see a reason to have pet insurance. It’s odd, really – most of these same people would state emphatically that their pets are part of their family, and the average American will have health insurance for every human member of their family. Why then, would we not think to provide dog insurance (and cat insurance) for our pets? Vet costs have risen tremendously over the last decade. To cater for this increase, pet insurance providers have increased their premiums, but the premium increases are very small when compared to the potential cost of veterinary care that may be required. So the rising cost of pet insurance protection is one point to consider, but not having it can produce dire consequences. All pet owners need to be prepared for health problems occasionally. And to ensure that when this happens, the cost of veterinary treatment won’t cause financial strain. If an injury or serious illness should occur, the last thing you want to have to worry about is how you will pay for your dog’s treatment, which may well be required urgently. The financial aspect of looking after a pet is something that must be taken seriously. Cash flow problems affect the majority of us from time to time. Raising what may be a rather large sum of money in a hurry can be prove to be financially embarrassing (contacting a relative or friend for the money), time consuming (providing evidence of income and other documents to a bank when asking for even a short term loan), very expensive (using your credit card), or even impossible in some instances. If you do not have surplus cash on hand, and you do not have pet insurance cover, you may not be in a position to spend as much on your pet’s treatment as you would like. Having a pet insurance plan in place prevents these contingencies. Pet health insurance can usually be purchased relatively inexpensively despite recent rises. There are a number of different types of pet insurance and similar plans available that can be purchased from anywhere between twenty to forty dollars a month, or an annual fee of much less (around a hundred dollars), which could save you a fortune in the long term. Some pet care insurance companies offer a discount if you have more than one pet on the plan. Click Here for Pet Insurance Quote Let me know what you think! --- ## How to Register a Service Dog or How to Scam the Disabled URL: https://healthierdogs.com/how-to-register-a-service-dog-or-how-to-scam-the-disabled/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Norm Lanier wrote the following article with that very provocative title. But don’t be alarmed, the article is for people with disabilities and explains how they can AVOID being scammed. The long and the short of the message is if you’re disabled and you have a service dog, you do NOT need to hand over ANY cash to a so-called registration company for service dogs. Service dogs do NOT need to be registered. Here’s Norm’s informative article containing your protections under the Americans With Disabilities Act: I’m often asked how you register or certify your service dog, the answer is “You Don’t”. Companies that claim to register or certify your animal without training are simply taking advantage of the handicapped to make a dollar. In 1990 the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) went into effect which gives handicapped persons with service animals legal protection to be accompanied by the animal in public places. Understanding the ADA So lets first define what a service animal is, According to the ADA, an animal is considered a service animal” if it has been “individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability.” As you see, the word certify or registered doesn’t appear in the law. As a matter fact the US government does not register, certify, license or approve any animal. The ADA Catch 22 Because the definition of a disability is so broad it would be impossible for the government to create any sort of testing criteria other then the vague definition above. Also, since many disabled people live on fixed incomes requiring professional animal training would be an added financial burden that many disabled people could not afford. Unlike a person with a handicap license plate or ID, there is no official identification and service dogs without some form of ID are often assumed to be pets. The ADA also states that a handicapped person is not required to show proof of their disability. So that’s what the law says, but the reality is that having your service animal identified with an ID, vest, cape or bandanna helps identify the dog as a working partner and not a pet. The Registration Scam  It wasn’t long after the ADA went into effect that companies started popping up offering to register or certify your animal. Now please understand that we are not talking about trainers that teach dogs to perform tasks for the disabled. What we are talking about are companies that use official sounding names that in exchange for your money will certify or register your service dog. In exchange they often provide you with a registration number, certificate, patch and maybe a cheap laminated tag. Some shameless companies charge as much as $250 for “registration”. So What’s a Service Dog Owner to do? First, make sure you meet the definition of a disabled person and that your dog is specially trained to perform tasks related to your disability. Trying to pass off your pet as a service animal is a federal offense and comes with severe penalties. Outside of the two requirements spelled out in the ADA you don’t have to do anything. If you feel identifying your service dog will make your life easier then purchase a quality photo service dog tag, vest with patches or a cape. Spot is the owner of www.ServiceDogTags.com and is a prolific writer on matters concerning service dogs and the disabled. Spot lets his owner help him put the web site together and write articles as it’s hard as heck to type with paws. Besides it’s good to throw his owner a bone every once in a while so he feels useful. (formerly DoggyDMV) makes personalized service dog tags. You can learn more about service dogs on our site http://www.ServiceDogTags.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Norm_Lanier Thanks, Norm. (Not sure why you say Spot is the author – seems a bit silly to me, but each to his own). I’m sure your article has cleared up several misconceptions on the part of people with service dogs – not to mention people and businesses who come into contact with service dogs and their owners. --- ## Other Dog Info URL: https://healthierdogs.com/other-dog-info/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25   --- ## Pet Care Insurance – Choosing the Best Pet Insurance URL: https://healthierdogs.com/pet-care-insurance-choosing-the-best-pet-insurance/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Dog Health Insurance and Some Good Sense Tips for Health Care Click here for free pet insurance quote When it comes to proper health care for your dog, nothing is more effective than taking preventive action. By learning some basic knowledge and adding a few simple measures into your daily routine, you can have the peace of mind of knowing that you are getting the best health care possible for your dog. You can help your dog eliminate a lot of discomfort and pain as well as reduce future health problems by acting as his first aid. Applying simple actions such as finding a good vet and knowing the signs and symptoms to look for in an illness will save you a lot of time and money. Taking the time to learn how to take care of your dog, particularly before you bring him home or immediately right after, is a worthy investment to make for the sake of your dog’s health. After getting a new puppy, it is good to know that he is in great shape and free of any specific health conditions or disorders that could affect him later in life. To do this, you should take him to the vet, preferably within the first two weeks after bringing him home. This way, you will know immediately if there is something wrong with him, and be in a better position to fix it right away before the problem gets any worse or develop into something incurable. Consider Dog Health Insurance – Pet medical insurance, often referred to as VPI Pet Insurance, is something to give you peace of mind – something you can fall back on to help cover the cost of your dog’s veterinary care. Pet dog insurance (and don’t forget that this usually includes pet dental insurance – something that people often forget about, which can be very costly without [tag]pet insurance[/tag]) can give you a wide selection of pet health care plans that offer pet medical insurance cover for at least part of the cost of surgery, minor injury, routine checkups, and even dental care. It also helps pay for part of the cost of the financial expenses of a medical procedure such as a transplant or chemotherapy. However, if you are thinking about getting pet care insurance for your dog, you have to be very careful. Do not sign up with the first one that you see, and do not pay anything unless you know exactly what you are getting. Below are some of the things that you should check for before you sign up for a pet health insurance. 1. Read the fine print. What exactly is covered and not covered in the plan? 2. Some plans have high deductibles. Shop around for one that offers the same type of coverage for a lower deductible. 3. Does the plan cover routine checkup and preventive care? 4. Some plans do not cover a dog once he reaches a certain age. Find out if the one you are looking at has an age limitation. So if you’re interested in VPI Pet Insurance, make sure you’re informed. Oh, and if you don’t know what VPI stands for, it’s “Veterinary Pet Insurance”, so the phrase VPI Pet Insurance is a bit of a misnomer, because the words “Pet Insurance” after the “VPI” are actually redundant. Just something I thought I’d point out (I’m a bit of a stickler when it comes to correct writing – not that I always get it right, of course!) Click here for your free pet insurance quote! --- ## Dog Training of a Different Type – Assistance Dogs URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-training-of-a-different-type-assistance-dogs/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Assistance Dogs Dogs that are trained to assist disabled people, called assistance dogs, are not pets; rather, they are trained specifically to help people who are blind, deaf, or physically disabled. They spend their lifetime up until retirement providing independence and security to disabled people. The choice of the perfect assistance dog is based on temperament and size, not breed. Most assistance dogs are mixed breeds acquired from animal shelters, or puppies raised and trained by volunteers of the many organizations formed to help the disabled. In order to acquire a service dog from a formal program, one must fill out an application and be evaluated. Most are placed on a waiting list while a suitable dog is found and/or trained. Some service dogs are available free of charge, while some are quite expensive. Financial assistance may be available depending on the organization, which provides the dog, the person’s medical condition and their medical insurance coverage. Once a dog is found and placed, it will take as much as a few weeks to several months to teach the recipient how to use specific commands. The dog will need additional training geared to the specific needs of the disabled partner, as well as yearly refresher training. Types of Assistance Dogs There are three basic types of assistance dogs: service dogs, hearing dogs, and guide dogs. Approximately 20,000 people in the U.S. use assistance dogs and more than 60 nonprofit programs train and place assistance dogs in America. Signed into law in 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act guarantees people with disabilities the right to be accompanied by a service animal in any area, which is open to the general public. Service animals are trained to behave appropriately in public areas. Service dogs help people who are physically disabled, as well as those who have seizure disorders and other medical conditions. They can pull wheelchairs, open and close doors, retrieve items that are dropped or out of reach, alert a person of an upcoming seizure, turn light switches off and on, bark for alert, find another person, assist by providing balance and stability and many other individual tasks, depending on the needs of the disabled person. [tag]Golden Retriever[/tag]s or [tag]Labrador[/tag] Retrievers make good service dogs. Either a backpack or a harness can identify Service Dogs. Hearing dogs alert a deaf or hearing-impaired person to sounds such as telephones, alarm clocks, oven buzzers, name call, smoke alarms, doorbells, smoke alarms and a crying baby. The dogs can make communicating easier for deaf or hearing-impaired people by alerting when hearing the name of its owner. Small to medium sized dogs make good hearing dogs. The training is more involved nowadays due to the increase in traffic and quieter car engines. Hearing Dogs are identified by an orange collar and leash and/or vest. Guide dogs help blind or visually impaired people navigate safely along busy streets, on public transportation, and through stores and other places of business in their community by helping them avoid obstacles and stop at curbs and steps. To foster communication between the dog and its blind partner a harness and U-shaped handle is used. The blind or visually impaired person’s job is to give directional commands, which the dog may or may not obey, depending on the situation. If an unsafe command is given, the dog may choose to disobey the command in order to insure the safety of the person. Assistance Dogs Training There are many organizations involved in training and providing assistance dogs, as well as schools, which teach how to train them. These special groups allow the disabled to live a secure and independent lifestyle. Article provided by Pet Super Store – A great site to find dog beds and elevated dog feeders. --- ## Dog Training URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-training/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Here at Healthier Dogs you’re going to find lots of helpful information on dog training. Most people associate puppies with training, and yes, we’ll be posting information on puppy house training (often referred to by people who think of their puppies as their babies, as puppy potty training), crate training a puppy, as well as obedience training for puppies. House training puppies, or potty training puppies, can certainly be a chore, but crate training puppies is easier, and a great place to start when you first get your puppy. But what if you have a grown dog that could do with some training? No problem – we’ll have tips on how to train a dog, including how to house train dog and how to crate train a dog, as well as canine obedience training for adult dogs. You’ll also find info here on training techniques for specific dog breeds, including collie training, poodle training, shih-tzu training, maltese training and much more. So make sure you’ve got Healthier Dogs bookmarked, and check back here often, because we’ll be adding information frequently – at least weekly, and often we’ll be doing so on a daily basis. There’ll be lots of material on dog training that you’re sure to find interesting. --- ## Dog Breeds URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-breeds/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Welcome to the Dog Breeds section of Healthier Dogs. Here you’ll find information posted frequently in relation to dog breeds. There will be plenty of information on dog breed characteristics and temperament, so you can make an informed decision on choosing a dog breed that will suit your family and your lifestyle if you’re thinking of adding a dog to your family. Perhaps you’re after information on good dog breeds for children, or maybe you’re interested in one of the new dog breeds, the mixed dog breeds, otherwise known as the boutique dog breeds. You’ll find it all here. Some types of dogs suffer from, or are susceptible to, breed specific illnesses or other dog health problems. Some breeds require grooming peculiar to the breed. And still others have particular dietary requirements. Again, if you come back here often enough, you’re sure to find information on every facet of breed specific information. --- ## Healthier Dogs! URL: https://healthierdogs.com/healthier-dogs/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 How to Have Healthier Dogs!   DISCLAIMER:  Please note that I am not a vet, and I have no veterinary training whatsoever.  I’m simply a dog owner with an interest in keeping my dogs healthy, and passing on any information I’ve found useful with my own dogs, to other people. If you’re a dog owner, then the chances are, you’re interested in having a healthier dog. After all, our dogs depend on us, their owners, to provide dog care for them. Dog Care for Healthier Dogs  Dog care encompasses all manner of dog health questions, dog food issues, and dog training techniques. Here at Healthier Dogs, you’re going to find weekly, and often daily, updates on dog illnesses and dog health problems and their possible resolution by natural means, dog food nutrition and the best types of dog health food, as well as occasional dog recipes for homemade dog food, information on raw dog food and other premium dog food, dog grooming, dog and puppy training, dog products and so much more. Dog health care is something that all dog owners should consider as almost important as their own health concerns. Because they don’t say the a dog is a man’s best friend for nothing. Unconditional Love from our Healthier Dogs Our dogs give us unconditional love and loyalty. In return they deserve for us to do whatever we can to ensure that our dog’s health improves and remains at such an optimum level that our dog’s lives are enhanced and yes, lengthened. All dog breeds today can, and should, live longer than they currently do. Why? Primarily the dog food we feed them. And the shortened life span is also contributed to by pet vaccinations, poisons and toxins in the dog’s environment (chemical flea control products and worming products and more), and the overuse of drugs, particularly antibiotics and steroids for dogs. So stay tuned, and bookmark Healthier Dogs now! Call back here often. --- ## Dog Food: Maintaining A Happy And Healthy Pet URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-food-maintaining-a-happy-and-healthy-pet/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Being a dog owner can be beneficial in many ways. However, it is very important to maintain your dog’s health and in order to do so you need to pay close attention to its dietary needs and hygiene, in addition to ensuring that it gets enough exercise etc. For your dog to grow healthily, it needs the correct training, a clean environment, and fresh food. When men and women eat unhealthy food they can suffer from disease as a result. Similarly, a poor diet can adversely effect your dog’s development. There are very many different breeds of dogs today with differing needs. Dog owners must be aware of the differences between healthy and unhealthy dog foods. Canine breeds not only vary in color and size, but also have different dietary requirements. However, it is necessary to make sure all dogs have good nutrition. Also be certain to keep the doghouse properly clean. Needless to say, walking a dog is extremely important. If your pet is in good health and is properly trained as well, you will be a happier pet owner. And remember that certain foods are simply unhealthy for canines. Foods such as chocolates, coffee grounds, tea, grapes, raisins, onions, and tomatoes are foods that must never be given to dogs. In addition, you should make sure the dog food you purchase does not contain excess salt. Giving your dog cooked bones is also a bad idea and should not be done. Key facts to remember when choosing dog food for your furry friend, is never provide fatty or fried foods, or foods with sugar. Also, a good dog food will not have a large amount of vegetable matter contained in it. Dogs have a terrible time digesting huge quantities of vegetables whether cooked or raw. You can provide small amounts of vegetables as they are quite healthy. Using the Internet as a source of information can provide all the facts you will need. Any dog that is given the correct type of dog food will stay healthy and bring more happiness to you and your family. Most pet shops have a wide array of dog products, and the choice of dog foods can be overwhelming. However, no dog food brand beats Sojos Food for dogs. There are certain things to be kept in mind while keeping a dog. It has to be given proper training, clean shelter, fresh food and regular exercise. If they are not given good high quality food then their growth will be obstructed. There are different breeds of dogs and their dietary needs are also different. Fatty foods and dog foods with lot of sugar and salt should be avoided. You can give small quantities of cooked or raw vegetables. Many pet shops keep a variety of dog products. It is seen that Sojos Food for dogs is an excellent choice. – Melinda Smith --- ## Dog Eye Care URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-eye-care/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Dog eye care can be somewhat “hit and miss”. It’s something dog owners generally take for granted unless your dog’s eyes start to show signs of infection, or perhaps there are signs that your dog’s eyesight is not as good as it once was. We probably take dog eye care for granted because we’ve never stopped to consider that dogs don’t have an effective way of keeping his/her eyes clean. After all, we simply wash our faces with a wet face cloth or by splashing plenty of water on our faces, including our eyes. Dogs, however, when left to care for their own eyes, remove buildup by rubbing their faces on the carpet or against furniture, or perhaps with their paws. None of these methods of “natural” dog eye care is particularly effective, and they’re not particularly safe, either. Rubbing their eyes against surfaces or even their own paws can easily deposit dirt in the eye causing further irritation. So we as pet owners need to provide our dogs with eye care on a frequent basis. You should check your dog’s eyes at least weekly to ensure good eye care. Healthy eyes in a dog are moist and clear. Redness, swelling, mucus discharge or squinting may all be indications of the presence of eye infection in your dog. If you see anything that is of concern, you should consult your vet. But there are steps you can take yourself to improve your dog’s eye care, and ensure your dog’s eye health generally: 1. Keep hair away from your dog’s eyes, as hair can irritate the eyes and can cause tiny scratches on the cornea of your dog’s eye.  2. Particularly if you have a breed of dog that has long hair, you should regularly trim the hair around your dog’s eye.  ALWAYS use blunt-nosed scissors for this, or you could potentially cause severe damage to your dog’s eye if s/he moves while you’re cutting the hair away. 3. Keep mucus to a minimum by using a sterile eyewash or eyewipes. Mucus is not only unsightly, but can easily lead to infection. Eye infections in your dog are often the result of bacteria that overgrow on mucus that is not cleaned away. 4. Take care of your dog’s eyes when bathing your dog. Use a mild, good quality dog shampoo of course – but even shampoos that are non-irritating to the eyes can in fact irritate the eyes if not washed out very well. Help to prevent the shampoo getting in your dog’s eyes by using a protective ophthalmic ointment under the top lid of your dog’s eye before you bath your dog. 5. If your dog is prone to developing “tear stains”, you should clean the hair in the “tear” area just under the inner corners of the eyes on a regular basis (at least once a week) with a tear stain remover product. Some breeds tend to develop tear stains more than others – e.g. Cocker Spaniels, Poodles, Maltese. 6. Older dogs can develop an opaque, cloudy look on their eyes.  This can be a normal sign of aging, but it may be caused by cataracts, which is a degenerative condition of the eye that can result in your dog eventually going blind over a number of years.  There are natural, homeopathic, eye remedies for dogs available that can assist, and even reverse this process. Eye care for your dog is an essential part of your dog’s care. They’re not a part of your dog’s anatomy you want to take any chances with. --- ## Nature’s Variety Dog Food URL: https://healthierdogs.com/natures-variety-dog-food/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Nature’s Variety Dog Food – (Press Release – issued on 2 September 2010) Nature’s Variety is extending its Instinct Grain-Free product line to include its first ever red meat protein option for dogs – Instinct® Beef Meal & Lamb Meal. The Instinct kibble line now features 5 different canine diets specially formulated for rotation feeding. The popular Instinct product line provides allergy relief for most food allergies and helps dogs and maintain a healthy weight. In addition to being grain-free and gluten-free, Instinct also features an exclusive freeze dried raw coating for great taste and nutrition. The products are designed to be rotated easily for variety and optimum nutritional value. “At Nature’s Variety, we have long been believers in the merits of a rotation diet,” said Jill Gainer, Instinct Brand Director – Nature’s Variety. “Pet parents have had the option of their dog enjoying our specially formulated grain-free diets like Chicken Meal, Duck Meal and Turkey Meal, Rabbit Meal and Salmon Meal, so we’re thrilled to now offer a red meat option to complement the others, for what we believe is the best nutrition possible.” The Instinct Beef Meal and Lamb Meal Formula kibble for dogs will be offered in 4.4 lb, 13.2 lb lb, and 25.3 lb bags. The new Instinct flavor is expected to be available in mid-October at independent pet food retailers where Nature’s Variety products are sold. The 4.4 lb and 13.2 lb bags will feature “press-to-close” seals to lock in freshness. To learn more about the Instinct product line, order online, and read customer testimonials regarding the benefits of feeding a grain-free diet, click here! --- ## Treatment for Dog Joint Pain URL: https://healthierdogs.com/treatment-for-dog-joint-pain/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Treatment for dog joint pain is becoming a much more common problem for pet owners, and at an ever earlier age in your dog’s life. Arthritis in humans is an ever-increasing problem, and so it is with your dog. Dog joint pain is caused by inflammation of a joint or joints. Joint pain in your dog is often an indication of dog arthritis. Arthritis can occur in any of your dog’s joints, causing pain. So any dog hip pain or dog shoulder pain or any type of dog joint pain could well be an indicator that your dog has arthritis. In fact, the most common cause of dog joint pain is osteoarthritis, a degenerative disease of the joints. Symptoms are most often a gradual onset of lameness of your dog’s limbs. Limpness and weakness are types of lameness you might notice. Your dog may also be less excited about going for walks, and may play less, and even display some difficulty with going up and down steps, not to mention climbing up on furniture if you allow your dog on the furniture. Stiffness will be evident particularly after your dog has been lying down for a long period – in the mornings and after long naps during the day, or after dinner when your dog may nap for a couple of hours before bed. Your dog may recoil from you, or even whimper when you touch his limbs or particular parts of his limbs. Unless your dog has just suffered an injury, this is a sure sign of dog joint pain. So what is available in terms of treatment for dog joint pain? There is dog pain medicine that will help treat the inflammation. However, there is no need to give your dog aspirin for pain (and you definitely should never give any human medicine such as aspirin or ibuprofen, without veterinary advice – which is unlikely to be forthcoming). And many dog owners find that natural treatments for arthritis in dogs are more helpful. Glucosamine for dogs and MSM for dogs are two of the more natural methods for treatment as herbal remedies. Glucosamine is a naturally occurring ingredient that is found in most foods. It has anti inflammatory components that are best for osteoarthritis. A lot of people have heard of glucosamine, and many have also heard of MSM as components of a treatment for dog joint pain caused by arthritis. But there is also another ingredient that is much less well known (although it has been gaining considerable publicity lately), and that’s Cetyl Myristoleate (or CM8) for short). FlexPet has all three components, and more. It has received some great reviews, as well as testimonials from pet owners whose pets have experienced quite astounding results even when their pet has become significantly disabled with joint pain. Try it by clicking on the below pictures! There’s lots of information at the site about this exciting new product. --- ## Dog Care – Fighting Fleas URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-care-fighting-fleas/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Knowing about the options for flea treatment for pets is essential. Natural flea treatment is the option I personally go for, but I understand that many people either prefer the chemical Advantage flea and tick or Frontline flea treatment, or are simply not aware that natural flea treatments are in fact available. Finding out what do fleas look like is important, because it’s not always possible to prevent every flea all the time. So it’s good to know how to kill fleas, both fleas on your dog and fleas in carpets, where you can unfortunately also find dog fleas when an infestation takes hold. Following is an article on the topic of flea treatment for pets what you can do to get rid of fleas. Apart from the chemical treatments mentioned that I personally don’t like, it’s a really informative article. Here it is: Dog Care – Fighting Fleas Fighting Fleas can be very frustrating. They multiply very quickly and if not caught early enough they will infest your dog and your home. Once infested it is not easy to get rid of them. If your dog is constantly scratching himself that is a sure sign that he does have fleas. Check his skin that is were you will be able to find them. There are different remedies you can try to kill or keep the fleas at bay Bombing your house is one of them but you have to cover the furniture, leave the house for a few hours, who wants to do that? Luckily there are a few ways to stop the fleas before they get to the infestation point. There are many different types of medications that can be applied to your dog, chewable tablets, the old fashion pill form, prescriptions that you may get from your veterinarian and in powder form. Flea and tick collars are also very helpful in keeping the fleas at bay. Here are a few examples: Advantix -A dog will be free from fleas in just a few days. Veterinarian recommended. Frontline – Lasts up to four months. Biospot – Kills up to 75% of fleas, eggs and ticks. It also repels mosquitoes, which causes heartworm in your dog. There are other flea killers that you can use, Hartz, Seargents and many more. Many repellents you just reapply directly to the skin. You can get up to six months supply. Remember to check with your veterinarian for recommendations. Dogs just like humans have allergies so be sure to use the one that is best for your dog. There are natural ways to help fight against fleas. Vacuum your home frequently. Before disposing of the bag make sure you seal it tightly and be sure to double bag it because fleas will jump out. Fleas tend to breed in your dogs bedding. You must keep it clean, washing of the bed once a week with warm soapy water, vacuum the bed frequently and you may also spray the bed with cedar oil to keep the fleas at bay. Cedar is an excellent repellent against fleas and insects. Bathe your dog weekly with a mild flea and tick shampoo or use cedar shampoo. Fleas are attracted to dry skin, try using Linatone Oil mixed in his food. Not only will it help keep the fleas off, it is also works well for dry skin. Brewers Yeast and Garlic tablets create an oder in pets that fleas are sure to avoid. Sold online in tablet, chewable tablet and powder form. Be sure to plant plenty of marigolds around the outside of your home, it repels fleas along with other types of bugs. The breeding season for fleas is in the summer months. If you see one, you know there are many more. Be sure to use one or more of these ideas to keep the fleas at bay. Remember you do not want your dog or your home to become infested. If you are concerned about the mosquitoes causing heartworm in your dog, there are different sprays that you can buy from your pet store. Some are to be applied once a week, some may be applied more or less, be sure to read the instructions on the bottle or speak to your veterinarian about preventative medication. Heartworm can lead to different health problems and sometimes can be fatal. It can be detected by simple blood work. Keeping your dog healthy is your responsibility as a dog owner. Keep them safe, happy and healthy. Michelle Johnson is highly respected in her community for her knowledge about dog care. She also owns www.tailwaggingprices.com. Pet supply store at discounted prices. While you’re at the website be sure to join her free newsletter for vital information on dog care. Also, you will be automatically entered into the monthly prize drawing. ========================= I actually couldn’t find Michelle’s site any more, but she presents some useful ideas in her article. Feel free to leave any comments you may have below. --- ## Looking After Your Dog’s Paws URL: https://healthierdogs.com/looking-after-your-dogs-paws/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Your dog’s paws take him everywhere. Unfortunately, there are times when your pooch may not feel like going anywhere because of paw pain. If you keep your pet’s paws regularly groomed, then you can prevent unnecessary injuries. However, accidents happen and sometimes you are faced with medical problems. If a problem arises, then you should know whether you can care for your pet at home or if you need to take him to the veterinarian. In order to provide at-home care for your pooch, your pet should be comfortable with you handling his paws. That way if some sort of injury comes up, you will be able to help him out. Some pets love for you to touch their feet, while others hate it. Start with the handling at home. Take your pet to a quiet area and just give him a mini foot massage. Be gentle, and pet his feet just like you would his head. Try to work your way up to where you are able to touch his feet anytime you are petting him. He’ll soon get comfortable with the feel, so you will be able to examine his feet if you suspect a problem. Accidents are out of your hands, but there are ways you can prevent unnecessary injuries. A pet can suffer greatly from long or broken nails. You must keep your pet’s nails clipped. If you go to a groomer regularly, then the groomer probably provides this service for you. If you take care of grooming at home, then you should be able to recognize when your dog’s nails need clipping and how to clip them. In addition to clipping his nails, the hair around and between the pads of his paws should also be clipped. Both the nails and the hair should be groomed at least once a month.  If your pooch is limping, holding one foot off the floor, refusing to walk, or is obviously in pain, then you need to check his paws immediately. Your pet is always barefoot, so paw injuries are not uncommon. Be gentle when you check the problem; your pet is in pain and he may snap or bite at you as a way to protect himself. This is where the foot handling that you have been working on comes in handy. If you have had your pooch in the great outdoors, then he could be suffering from an object that is lodged in his toes. Thorns, spurs, small rocks and gravel can all be culprits. Grab a pair of tweezers and gently remove the item. Once removed, cut back the hair on your pet’s paw pad to keep mats and tangles at bay. If the item cut his paw, then wash his paw with soap and water. In the summer, your pet can suffer from burning and blistering caused by hot surfaces. A burned paw may appear raw, while a blistered pay may have a loose flap of skin (just like when a human gets a blister). Don’t remove the blister, because it will come off naturally. Plus, the skin beneath the blister is still raw. Instead, wash the paw and wrap a clean bandage around it. Change the bandage each day for a couple of days until the blister heals. Dry, cracked pads can also be painful for your pup. If his pads seem excessively dry or are cracking, then buy a tube of paw cream from the pet store. It will help soften the pads of his feet. As tough as it seems to be, the paw pad can also be cut. If the cut is deep or bleeding profusely, then you need to see the veterinarian immediately. If the cut is small, then clean out the wound with soap and water. Wrap the paw with a bandage, and change the bandage everyday or every two days. You may need to use a special collar during this time to keep your pet from pulling off the bandage. If the wound is not showing any signs of healing within three days, then take your pooch to the veterinarian. Your pooch depends on his paws and paw pads, so you should take care of them. Being outside can pose many hazards for your pet’s feet, so you need to be able to prevent unnecessary injury and provide care in case of an accident. Blisters and lodged objects between the toes can be treated at home. Deep cuts or non-healing wounds should be treated by the veterinarian. Use your best judgment when caring for your pet. This article was provided by pet-super-store.com an online pet shop featuring the latest in designer Pet Carriers and Dog crates. And for more on dog crates, click here. --- ## Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs URL: https://healthierdogs.com/elbow-dysplasia-in-dogs/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 If you have a large breed dog, then you have probably heard all about hip dysplasia, since it is a common occurrence in large breeds. Hip dysplasia’s counterpart, elbow dysplasia, also occurs frequently in certain breeds. Elbow dysplasia is just as serious as hip dysplasia, so it is important that you are able to recognize the signs of the disease. Your veterinarian can confirm the problem, and a treatment plan can be started immediately. Like hip dysplasia, understanding elbow dysplasia can be pretty tough. Since we aren’t veterinarians or surgeons, this article will keep things as simple as possible. If you would like to find out more about how the problem develops, then do a little research. It’s a not a rare problem, so there is a ton of information about it. (You can start your elbow dyslplasia information search by clicking here). Your veterinarian can also provide you with literature containing pictures and diagrams to help you get a better grasp on what is really going on with your pet. Basically, elbow dysplasia affects the dog’s front legs in a similar way to the way hip dysplasia affects the dog’s hind legs; both are problems with the joints. If left untreated, arthritis develops, causing lameness and extreme pain for the dog. It’s easy to say that large breeds suffer from the problem. But, there are certain breeds that are more likely than others to develop elbow dysplasia. The Bernese Mountain Dog, Chow Chow, English Setter, Golden Retriever, Irish Wolfhound, Labrador Retriever, Mastiff, Newfoundland, Rottweiler, and Saint Bernard (among others) have all been known to suffer from the disease. If you are considering (or have already gotten) a purebred dog, then speak to the breeder about any medical problems in the line. Elbow dysplasia should be reported on the certificate, but it never hurts to ask. A dog with elbow dysplasia can start showing signs of the dysplasia as early as six months of age. Limping, lameness, and a limited range of motion are often the first signs. Normally, the joint will also swell. It is not too common for only one leg to be affected; most of the time, the dog is having problems with both legs. If your dog is in pain, then take him to your veterinarian as soon as possible. Your dog uses his legs and joints in more ways than just walking around; the pain of elbow dysplasia is serious. There are a few ways to diagnose dysplasia. X-rays and CAT scans are the most commonly used diagnostic tools. Your pet will probably be given pain medication (if not anesthesia) for the diagnosis. Once elbow dysplasia is confirmed, a treatment plan will be started immediately. If the dog is still fairly young and the disease is still in its beginning stages, then your vet may prescribe pain medication and a strict exercise and diet plan to help build the muscles around the joint and to keep excess weight off your pet. Sometimes, this plan can keep the disease at bay throughout the dog’s life. Surgery is another treatment option, and veterinarians say that it is the most successful one. After the surgery, your pooch will be placed on bed rest for four to six weeks. During this time, you are instructed not to play with or encourage your pooch to move; however, short leash walks are recommended. Whether you opt for your pet to have surgery or decide that pain medication is the better choice, you must understand that your pet will more than likely suffer from arthritis later on in life. Even dogs that have undergone surgery develop arthritis; although, it is usually less severe and starts later in life than the dogs that did not undergo the surgery. Elbow dysplasia can be extremely painful; and, if left untreated, can cause lameness for the sufferer. It seems that hip dysplasia is a fairly well known topic; but, its counterpart is still relatively unknown. Elbow dysplasia is similar to hip dysplasia. It is very painful for the pooch and can lead to severe arthritis. If you suspect your pet is suffering, then take him to the veterinarian immediately. Your veterinarian can diagnose the disease and get your pet started on a treatment plan. No matter what treatment method you choose, you should keep your pet’s health and wellbeing in mind. And don’t overlook the natural elbow dysplasia treatment options. They really do work well and can be much less stressful on your dog’s body than pain medications. If in doubt, discuss the natural options with your vet, or read the information here. This article was provided by pet-super-store.com an online pet shop featuring the latest in earth friendly dog houses and energy efficient pet doors. --- ## Your Dog – Teamwork and Heirachy URL: https://healthierdogs.com/your-dog-teamwork-and-heirachy/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Dog Behavior Training – Guidance and Leadership are What Dogs Need Naturally speaking, a dog is an instinctual pack animal. A dog prefers the pack and although they are a territorial animal, think along the lines of a necessary partnership with regards to certain aspects of their daily life. This can often be seen when you watch a dog sled team which works together in a pack to accomplish a common goal. You have the lead dog along with a series of followers, and in your house hold, you are the lead dog that will guide your best friend just like you would for your children. Any winning team though requires the input, and training, of all members of the team. Just like the saying goes that there is not  in teamwork, your dog needs you and you also need him. These are the winning characteristics of a family unit for which your dog is now a member of and it is up to you to ensure that he or she follows the rules of the pack in order to survive. Both dogs as well as puppies need leadership and guidance if they want to be an efficient member of the family pack and it is you who is responsible for this task as well as making sure that the dog feels as if it belongs and is a loved and needed part of the family unit. Regardless as to whether you or your partner is the leader in the household, what truly matters is that there is a leader to help guide the entire pack. Even when you have a number of people living in your home, your dog will soon learn the natural hierarchy of your family unit and will fall in line in the unit. This is a natural instinct of theirs that they have kept throughout many generations of domestication. While dog training can certainly assist with keeping the hierarchy, instinct comes first. The biggest issue for dogs is the lack of rules in the pack By remembering that dogs are pack animals and that they belong in a pack which has a natural hierarchy, you can see why without rules, the dog can begin to develop problems. Having rules are important, you are the leader of the pack and as such you have to be strong willed and a good leader. If you fail to offer rules and leadership, the dog will feel as if you are not a worthy leader and will begin to act out in a means of challenging for leadership of the pack. Your Dog Supplies Store offers you high quality dog supplies at very affordable prices. We have weekly blowout sales that are sold at drastically reduced prices. Visit our online pet shop today! And for more on positive reinforcement training and  generally, click here. --- ## Dog Food- Natural Food Is Healthier URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-food-natural-food-is-healthier/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 I’m sure that you want your dog to be active and enjoy good health. In striving to reach this goal, feeding your dog good quality, natural dog food is very important. In addition to feeding him well, you should make sure that he gets plenty of exercise. You will feel a sense of satisfaction knowing that you are feeding your dog the best food possible for maintenance of his health. Most likely you watch what you eat, selecting healthy foods for yourself and your family. Doesn’t your dog deserve the same? It is so much simpler than you might imagine. Nowadays, one has no trouble finding top-grade, nutritional dog food items. Your supermarket and your local pet shop showcase a wide variety of pet meals that claim to be the most nourishing you can buy for your canine companion. But if you consider the items contained in these products, you’ll see that much of the bulk has no nutritional value. They’re just “fillers,” such as wheat, that take up space while providing no meaningful nutrition. The best food for man’s best friend is, without a doubt, natural dog food. Dog food has been the subject of a great many scientific studies which have shown that some components in canned and boxed pet foods might indeed be carcinogenic, lowering your canine friend’s immunity and resistance to disease. In almost any brand, you’ll find these animal-grade ingredients. In fact, even a brand that calls itself ‘premium’ can contain these compounds, which might be deceptively labelled as having passed human quality standards. Unfortunately, they can have a detrimental effect on your pet’s health if consumed on a long term basis. Sojos food is one of the many dog products available as a healthy alternative for your pet. When it is mixed with fresh meat, Sojos gives your dog a balanced meal, maintains his nutrition, and promotes his health. Sojos also has a high concentration of protein, fruits, and vegetables that can strengthen your pet’s immune system. Unlike many other, more costly brands of dog food, Sojos does not contain bone fragments and other byproducts. Ultimately, dogs love eating it! Wouldn’t you like your dog to remain healthy and active? One thing you can do to ensure his health is feed him natural dog food. Sojos is one of the many dog products available as a healthy alternative for your pet. When it is mixed with fresh meat, sojos food gives your dog a balanced meal, maintains his nutrition, and promotes his health. And dogs love eating it! In addition to feeding your dog the proper kinds and amounts of quality food, it is important to take him out for regular exercise and periodic veterinary check ups. – Jennefer Poultson --- ## Dog Food Without the Fuss or the Mess URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-food-without-the-fuss-or-the-mess/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Dogs are said to be man’s best friend, they are the ultimate family companions. They are loyal, give unconditional love and will always be happy to see you. However, some people do not get to enjoy the company of a dog or any pet for that matter due to their constricting daily schedule that leaves little time to go out and get dog food, let alone prepare healthy all natural meals that would be optimal to a dog’s development. Dog owners too sometimes suffer from a lack of time to prepare meals, often finding it difficult to spare time to feed their dog, let alone prepare a well balanced meal that would be optimal to their pet’s health and development. Store bought dog food, though ready to serve, sometimes are a poor substitute to a proper meal, lacking nutrients vital to the dogs health. Sojos food is the best solution to all of these problems! The best alternative to store provided dog food; Sojos food provides an all natural eating experience for your pet. Having no preservatives, Sojos can give your dog the daily nutritional requirements needed for canine lifestyle. Simple and easy to prepare, Sojos is the answer to having little time but wanting to feed your dog nothing but the best. It is also nice to note that Solid Gold pet food makes it a point not to use saturated fat in its products. Quick and easy to prepare, Sojos dog food is the ideal solution for families who don’t have enough time to prepare healthy and nutritional meals for their dog. Its no fuss preparation only requires meat and water added to the food mixture for a complete and balanced meal. Multiple meal preparation is equally easily done, by simply multiplying the portions to how many feedings you need, you can prepare meals in advance as well as multiple meals for more than one dog fast and easy! Sojos is designed with no fuss, so aside from its easy to prepare nature, the food mixture is also resistant to spoiling. Though it has no preservatives, the unmixed portion of the food mixture will keep for 6 to 8 months, saving you the trouble of going to the store to get new packs of food to replace the spoiled ones. Lastly, Sojos can be prepared anyway you like! Though it is perfectly safe to feed your pet raw meat, if you are more comfortable serving your dog with cooked meat, then you may do so. If you wish to add greens and other veggies to your pet’s diet you can easily do so with Sojos as the food mix is versatile and will still offer the same amount of nutrients to your dog! Store bought dog food can sometimes be lacking the essential nutrients your dog needs. Sojos food is the best way to prepare healthy and balanced all natural meals for your dog, having no preservatives, Sojos offers nothing but the best for man’s best friend. Easy to prepare, Sojos is the quickest way to prepare all natural meals for your pet. This product is manufactured by Solid Gold pet food which develops all natural pet products. – Melinda Smith --- ## Dog Heart Murmur Symptoms URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-heart-murmur-symptoms/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 When a dog has a heart murmur, what this indicates is that there is abnormal blood flow within the dog’s heart. This can be caused by a change in the heart valves and their function, or a number of other potential causes. Dog heart murmur symptoms may be caused by an abnormal communication between the left side and the right side of the heart. There are a number of things that may cause this, as they may be congenital or present from birth, or acquired which means the heart was affected after birth because of age or disease. There are two types of heart murmurs in dogs, benign murmurs which do not concern the health of the dog, and much more serious heart murmurs which may indicate the development of congestive heart failure in dogs. Dog heart murmur symptoms often include coughing, poor exercise ability, bluish tinge to the gums or tongue, labored breathing and even fainting. While some of these symptoms can be linked to other health issues, and the symptoms are the same between benign heart murmurs and the more severe forms, you should consult a veterinarian any time you have a concern about your dog’s health. Some of these symptoms can be easily missed, including poor exercise ability and even a bluish tinge to the gums. If you have any suspicion that your dog may be suffering from issues relating to a heart murmur, canine heart disease or the development of congestive heart failure, contact your vet immediately for an official diagnosis. These are symptoms that indicate that something serious is going on with your dog’s health. The best way to identify the source and severity of the dog’s heart murmur is to conduct a thorough physical examination by a veterinarian, however sometimes additional testing is needed including a heart ultrasound, blood testing, an EKG and chest x-rays. The ultrasound offers a particularly enticing list of benefits because it allows your veterinarian to measure the extent of the murmur, defining whatever the cause of the underlying heart disease may be. It is vital that you be able to properly diagnose the cause of your dog’s heart condition because some conditions that cause heart murmurs are treatable, either through surgery or through medication. If your dog has a congenital heart murmur, surgery may be a viable solution to eliminate the problems it creates. On the other hand, specific types of medication may be necessary because non congenital heart murmurs are often an underlying symptom of congestive heart failure in dogs. You cannot be sure about which treatment is going to be the right path to proceed with until you have consulted the right veterinarian and received advice regarding the health of your dog. You should never leave symptoms like these to chance, because not every heart murmur is benign, and serious changes could be occurring in your dog’s heart. For information on keeping your dog’s heart healthy naturally – including natural treatments for a variety of dog heart problems, click here.  It is important to share any questions or concerns that you have with your veterinarian, especially when it comes to your dog’s lifestyle and physical condition. If you do not feel comfortable with a diagnosis from your general veterinarian, consider seeking out an opinion from a veterinary cardiologist or internist, as these specialized veterinarians have special training and expertise in these and similar problems. --- ## Dog Food – How Healthy is Your Pet’s Diet? URL: https://healthierdogs.com/dog-food-how-healthy-is-your-pets-diet/ Type: post Modified: 2018-11-25 Dogs are indeed man’s best friend, a member of the family they can be quite loving and loyal. Pet owners usually try to give their dogs the very best, but when it comes to nutrition, it may get a little difficult. Humans don’t usually try and figure out nutritional values for their pets, hoping that regular store bought food will do the trick. But meeting the nutritional needs of our dogs is very important. The nutritional requirements of a dog vary to the requirements of we humans; as such we have a harder time understanding what can be deemed healthy for our pets. Generally, we are able to figure out if something is healthy for us and if it is not. Dogs however need to rely on their human family to do this for them. But one thing can be said of dog owners wanting the best for their dogs; they want them to have the most nutrition out of their dog food as well. The nutritional needs of the family dog can be easily met by choosing the right kind of dog food. Honest Kitchen offers nothing but the very best dog food for your family pet. Made from all natural ingredients, their food is able to meet the nutritional needs of your pet and keep them healthy and at the peak of health. Made with no preservatives, this pet food is simply the best way to feed your dog. The food mix which comes in a wide range of choices for your pet is made with no preservatives. Using dehydration in order to preserve the natural goodness of fresh ingredients, makes for one very healthy and well balanced meal. Because it is dehydrated, the food mix will keep for up to 12 months, making sure that your dog gets a fresh meal each time – making Honest Kitchen dog food one of the top dog products a busy pet owner should have. Easily prepared, the food mix only needs to be rehydrated with water for 5 to 10 minutes and its ready to serve. Serve it as is or by complimenting it with portions of raw or cooked meats, veggies or ever raw meat bones, the food mix is versatile enough to be loved by most dogs and even the pickiest of eaters. This makes this dog food one complete and wholly naturally nutritional option to store bought foods. Feeding our dogs the best shouldn’t have to be a difficult experience. Easily finding the right kind of dog chow will solve all your dogs’ nutritional needs. By using all natural ingredients benefited by a lack of preservatives, you ensure your dog remains healthy and happy for a longer period of time. Dog food shouldn’t be a hassle to prepare. With Honest Kitchen, you can prepare meals for your family pet that are all natural and made without preservatives. Meet the daily nutritional requirements your dog needs in one feeding with this and you can be sure that unlike other dog products, this one has no saturated fat! Fast and easy doesn’t have to mean low quality, try it out today and treat your dog to a well balanced meal. – Melinda Smith ---