And as a dog parent, knowing basic dog first aid could prove useful in an event where your pooch gets into an accident or suddenly falls ill.

While this is not substitute for veterinary care, dog first aid can play a big part in your pooch’s survival until they make it to the vet to receive proper care.

Learn how to handle an emergency situation and help save your dog’s life with these first aid tips.

It is important to note that first aid is, in no way, substitute for veterinary care in dogs. Its purpose is to reduce pain, minimize injury, and in more serious cases, keep the victims alive before appropriate care can be administered.

Recognizing An Emergency Situation

An important part of dog first aid is recognizing an emergency situation. So, here are emergency situations that you should watch out for:

• Difficulty breathing
• Bleeding that won’t stop
• Loss of consciousness/Unresponsive
• Seizure
• Difficulty moving
• Broken bones
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea for more than 24 hours
• Sudden change in appetite
• Ingestion of toxic food or substances

In the event of any of these emergency situations, it is important to call the vet or, better yet, bring your dog to the vet as soon as possible.

Things To Do In An Event Of An Emergency

Now that you’ve successfully identified an emergency situation, what next? Here are things you should do during the medical emergency:

1. Stay Calm: Being calm is key. This will help you effectively assess the situation and provide dog first aid.
2. Evaluate The Situation: Assess the situation you and your dog are currently in. Are you at home? Are you in a highway with oncoming traffic? Check that you and your dog are out of harm’s way, so you can safely and successfully administer dog first aid.
3. Assess Your Dog’s Condition: Check your dog’s responsiveness, vital signs, their temperature, heart and breathing rate, and even their gum color. If you think your dog’s condition is severe, rushing them straight to an emergency veterinarian (after assessing their condition) is the best course of action.
4. Contact The Vet: Whether or not the condition is severe, immediately call your dog’s vet after securing your pooch and assessing their condition. It is important that you tell the vet all of your assessment, this way they can suggest additional first aid and prepare for your dog’s arrival.
5. Administer First Aid: Administer first aid based on your assessment of your dog’s situation. You can cool down your dog if they are experiencing a heat stroke, or do the Heimlich maneuver if your dog is choking. Furthermore, here’s how you can appropriately administer dog first aid after assessing their Airway, Breathing and Circulation (ABC):
   • Airway: Make sure your dog’s airway is clear of any obstruction. Gently open their mouth and check for anything that may obstruct their breathing.
   • Breathing: Once you’ve confirmed that nothing is blocking your dog’s airway, look, listen, and feel for your dog’s breathing. If they’re not breathing, perform Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
   • Circulation: Check for a pulse and assess for any severe bleeding, from your dog’s head to toe. Elevate the injured area and apply direct pressure to any wounds to stop the bleeding.
6. Get To The Vet As Soon As Possible.

What To Include In Your Dog’s First Aid Kit

You can always buy a pre-made kit at a local pet store, but if you’d like to be more specific with yours, here are items we’d recommend to put on your dog first aid kit:

Documentation

1. A list of emergency contact information (phone number and address) of your regular vet, emergency vet, animal control, and pet poison hotline.
2. Your dog’s medical and vaccination records.

The Basics

1. Sterile gauze pads or gauze rolls
2. Elastic bandages
3. Self-adhesive bandage
4. Cotton balls
5. Heat or cool packs – for hypothermic or overheating dogs
6. Pet thermometer
7. Ear wash/cleaner
8. Saline eye wash
9. Tongue depressors
10. Styptic powder – to stop bleeding
11. Hydrogen peroxide – for cleaning wounds and for inducing vomiting in case of poisoning (3% solution)
12. Medical-grade saline solution
13. Bandage scissors
14. Clean cloths or towels
15. Disposable gloves

Things Specific To Your Dog

1. Your dog’s medication (if they’re currently taking medication, keeping a small supply in your first aid kit will help).
2. An E-collar, leash, and identification tags.
3. A basket muzzle to keep them and the people administering first aid safe.
4. A carrier or a large blanket, depending on your dog’s size, to help safely transport them.

Basic Dog First Aid Procedures You Should Know

Every medical emergency is unique different, but having an understanding and learning basic dog first aid procedures can help save your dog’s life. Here are basic and general guidelines for first aid procedures that you should know about:

1. If Your Dog Is Choking

A dog that is choking will have difficulty breathing, paw their mouths a lot, make choking sounds when breathing/coughing, and may have blue lips or tongue.

Here’s what you need to do if you think your dog is choking:

• Call and inform the vet immediately.
• Carefully look into their mouth and look for any foreign object blocking their airway.
• If you see anything, try to gently and carefully remove it to ensure you don’t get bitten and the object doesn’t get pushed further down their throat.
  To do this, try to use two hands to open the mouth, then use tweezers or forceps to grasp the item to remove it. Of course, you can always ask another person to help you execute this.
• If the object is big (like a ball), you can sometimes dislodge this by placing firm pressure with both of your thumbs underneath the dog’s jaw at the base of the throat and pushing forwards.
• If your dog is small, you can try lifting them up by their thighs and then gently shake them from side to side for three to four times in a downward motion.

If the above dog first aid doesn’t work, you can try the Heimlich maneuver:

• Stand behind your dog or lift them up so that their spine is against your chest.
• Wrap your arms around your dog’s belly, just under their ribs.
• Make a fist with your hands while they’re wrapped around your dog’s belly.
• Place your fist under the soft spot on their belly, and then push up and forward.
• Repeat the process until the object is dislodged enough to be removed by your fingers.

If nothing else works, bring your dog to the vet as soon as you can.

2. If Your Dog Is Not Breathing

If your dog is not breathing, the first thing you must do before anything else is call an emergency vet while you give him the following first aid:

• Stay calm.
• Open your dog’s mouth and see if there is anything blocking their airway.
• Ensure that nothing is blocking your dog’s airway.
• Perform rescue breathing by doing the following:
  • Hold your dog’s mouth closed with your hands.
  • Extend your dog’s neck to help open the airway.
  • Breath into their nose until you see their chest expand.
  • Repeat the process every five seconds until your dog regain consciousness or until you get them to the vet.
• If rescue breathing is not effective, you can start giving your dog CPR. Here’s how you can do it:
  • Gently lay your dog on their back and place your hands on their breastbone.
  • For small dogs, make sure that the heel of one of your hands is directly placed over their heart while the other hand is directly over the first one.
  • For deep-chested dogs (like Great Danes), place the heel of your hand over the widest part of their chest while the other hand is directly over the first one.
  • For barrel-chested dogs (like American Pitbulls), place one hand over the widest part of their chest bone and place the other hand directly over the first one.
  • Push hard AND fast on your dog’s heart 100-120 times per minute (or to the beat of “Stayin’ Alive”).
  • Make sure the chest comes back fully before compressing again.
  • Alternate 30 compressions with two rescue breaths until you feel a heartbeat or until you’ve arrived at the vet.

3. If Your Dog Is Having A Seizure

Seizures in dogs can happen due to a number of reasons. It can be a sign of an underlying problem ranging from poisoning to epilepsy to liver disease.

Symptoms of a seizure include collapsing, jerking, stiffening, muscle twitching, loss of consciousness, drooling, and foaming at the mouth.

If your dog is having a seizure, you can perform dog first aid by doing the following:

• Keep your dog away from anything that could hurt them during their seizure. It could be anything from the stairs to furniture.
• Do not try to restrain your dog.
• Avoid touching their head or mouth, they could bite you.
• Do not put anything in their mouth.
• Time the seizure, if it lasts for more than five minutes, your dog could be overheating.
• If they are overheating, cool them down by turning a fan on your dog or using a cooling pack on their paws.
• Once the seizure has stopped, bring your dog immediately to the vet.

4. If Your Dog Is Bleeding

Bleeding can come in two forms: external and internal bleeding. And we will discuss how to best provide dog first aid if your pooch ever experiences any of them.

External Bleeding

External bleeding can become life-threatening if not properly taken care of. Even bleeding from minor wounds can cause infections. So, before you reach the vet, it’s best to provide dog first aid.

When your dog experiences severe external bleeding, you can:

• Use a clean cloth or gauze pad and apply pressure to the bleeding area.
• Cover and protect the wound with bandages or a clean cloth.
• If bleeding won’t stop even after applying consistent pressure for about 5-10 minutes, bring your dog to the vet.

However, if the bleeding is caused by a minor wound, you can:

• Dry the wounded area and then clean it with a disinfectant.
• After cleaning the wound, apply gauze or bandage, if necessary.
• If you need to wrap the wound, make sure that it isn’t so tight as to cut off circulation.

Internal Bleeding

Internal bleeding is a very serious problem. Because unlike external bleeding, this one can be difficult to detect and usually requires immediate attention.

Symptoms may include pale gums, weak and fast pulse, fast breathing, lethargy, black stools, trouble breathing, and a swollen abdomen.

If you suspect internal bleeding, make sure to immediately bring your dog to the vet.

5. If Your Dog Is Poisoned

Your dog can be exposed to a lot of toxins. And it can come in the form of food, plants, or products such as cleaning products, rodent poison, or antifreeze.

Symptoms of poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, pale gums, seizures, and lethargy.

Here are dog first aid you can learn and apply if you suspect dog poisoning:

• If your dog’s eyes and skin are exposed to a toxic product:
  • Check the label for instructions on what to do.
  • Usually, instructions tell you to flush the exposed area with soap and water, so do that as soon as you can.
  • Bring your dog to the vet.
  • When you bring your dog to the vet, make sure to take the toxic product with you and let the vet know how much of the product your dog is exposed to.
• If your dog ingested anything toxic:
  • Call your dog’s vet or an emergency vet, the Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661).
  • Make sure you have the following information available for when you call the abovementioned: breed, age, sex, weight, symptoms, the name and description of the toxic substance, amount of substance ingested, and how long your dog has been exposed to the substance.
  • You can also bring the toxic substance your dog ingested to the vet, so they know exactly what they’re dealing with.

6. If Your Dog Is Having A Heat Stroke

Heat stroke can be a serious problem, especially during Summer. And dogs that suffer from a heat stroke usually display the following symptoms: heavy panting, difficulty breathing, elevated temperature, excessive drooling, lethargy, seizures, and dry or sticky gums.

If you think your dog is having a heat stroke, here are dog first aid you can do:

• If your dog is in a hot environment, move them to a shaded and cool area.
• Pour cool (not cold) water on their body, especially on their paws and ears. Avoid pouring water on their face.
• Place a wet cloth under your dog and continually replace the cloth (to avoid trapping heat).
• If you can, turn a fan on or open the car windows to allow a continuous flow of air to the dog.
• Take your dog to the vet immediately.

Dog First Aid Could Save A Life

Hopefully, your pooch will never have to experience a serious medical emergency. But in the case that he does, it’s important that you know how to face the situation head on.

We’d like to reiterate that first aid is not substitute for veterinary care, but it can be a crucial step to help your dog survive a medical situation. Remember that being prepared for medical emergencies and knowing dog first aid can help save your pet’s life.

The partnership couldn’t have come at a perfect time as February 22 is National Walk Your Dog Day!

In an Instagram post, both apps announced, “To celebrate, we’re walking in a new way: Fi and Strava are finally in sync.”

According to Strava’s announcement, this partnership will now let dog owners integrate the Fi Collar’s data to Strava.

“Your Fi activities upload to Strava with a graphic featuring stats from the walk like steps, rankings, and strakes,” Strava wrote.

Furthermore, once you’ve synced Fi to Strava, “you won’t have to lift a paw” as the fitness app describes it.

This is because Fi will be able to automatically detect and record any data when you take your dog for a walk and when the said walk finishes.

That means, the new feature can track your dog’s health, including the distance they traveled while walking and the number of steps they took during the walk.

“When your Fi walks are uploaded to Strava they will include a graphic featuring stats on steps taken, and how your dog ranks among other dogs on Fi.”

Other than the data it records while you take your dog on a walk, the Fi Smart Dog Collar offers a lot more than that!

Strava describes Fi as a new breed of dog collar “bringing advanced GPS tracking together with activity, sleep, and behavior monitoring.”

Strava added, “It lets you keep tabs on where your dog is at all times, provides notes on their sleeping patterns, and even gives dogs some friendly competition with their own leaderboards.”

To celebrate the partnership, both companies featured their employees’ dogs in a community post, highlighting what they love about their dogs and what their pooches love about Strava and/or Fi.

In addition to this, Strava and Fi are also giving out 100 FREE limited edition Fi x Strava collars. You can join in the giveaway here.

“Now the two best platforms for movement are seamlessly integrated, and even more importantly: Your dog can get all the kudos they deserve.”

The study, published on Saturday, August 26, conducted a survey on 2,200 people regarding their opinion on routine canine vaccines, specifically rabies vaccines.

Surprisingly, 53% of the participants experience something that the researchers called Canine Vaccine Hesitancy (CVH), which they described as “dog owners’ skepticism about the safety and efficacy of administering routine vaccinations to their dogs.”

These participants believe that canine vaccines are either unsafe, ineffective, and/or unnecessary.

Additionally, 37% were concerned that canine vaccines could cause autism in their dogs, a theory that isn’t backed up by any scientific evidence.

Talking to the USA Today, the researchers, brother-sister duo Matt and Gabrielle Motta and Dominik Stecula said they were pretty surprised themselves.

Matt Motta, a political scientist and researcher at Boston University’s School of Public Health, told USA Today, “The sheer volume of people who hold these opinions was quite striking…that, to me, is pretty alarming.”

Motta also said, “I believe the COVID-19 vaccine has fundamentally changed the way that Americans view vaccination in general.”

“I think alarmingly that could be spilling over to shape how people feel about attitude toward vaccinating their pets and frankly, who knows what else? You know, it could go even further.”

Meanwhile, Gabriella Motta, a board-certified veterinarian, believes that the hesitancy to vaccinate comes from pet owners’ love for their dogs and the lack of experience with the illnesses these vaccines protect against.

Talking to USA Today, Motta said, “I think when owners are questioning the vaccine, they’re coming from a place where they truly care about their dogs and they don’t want their dogs to be a guinea pig or, you know, get something that they don’t need, that could potentially cause a side effect.”

However, she pointed out the importance of keeping the majority of a population vaccinated, “We don’t experience what other countries do where rabies is a legitimate fear that people have,” she continued.

The researchers of the study called CVH ‘problematic’ and explained, “CVH is problematic not only because it may inspire vaccine refusal – which may in turn facilitate infectious disease spread in both canine and human populations – but because it may contribute to veterinary care provider mental/physical health risks.”

The study showed that a sustained vaccination of at least 70% of dogs can nearly eliminate human rabies cases, especially in high-risk regions.

However, the researchers warned that with the prevalence of CVH, the vaccination rates could eventually drop below 70%.

“Troublingly, we find that CVH is associated with rabies non-vaccination, as well as opposition to evidence-based vaccine policies,” they continued.

According to the World Health Organization, dogs are responsible for 99% of human rabies deaths globally, making them the main carriers and transmitters of this viral disease.

Every dog has unique nutritional needs in order to grow up and live healthily. That is why for large breed dogs, choosing food that is specifically formulated for them can make all the difference in their health.

Large dog breeds need to eat a lot to feel full but have a slower metabolism than small dog breeds. So, incorporating wet dog food into a large dog’s diet is a good idea.

While both dry and wet dog food can provide nutritionally balanced diets, wet food provides better palatability and satiety for less calories.

If you’re looking for the best wet food for your large furry friend, then you’ve come to the right place! Continue reading to find six of the best wet dog food for large breeds!

The Benefits Of Wet Dog Food For Large Breeds

Wet dog food specifically formulated for large breeds can have several health benefits. And some of them are:

1. Higher moisture content: Wet food has about 78% moisture, as compared to dry food that only has about 10% moisture. A higher moisture content mean it has more water, which has less calories and is actually better for hydration.
2. Weight management: Thanks to the moisture content, wet food can also help your dog feel a lot fuller. This is especially helpful in managing your dog’s weight and avoiding obesity.
3. Supports proper joint, muscle and bone health: Large breeds are more prone to orthopedic problems brought about by their size. And wet food has higher meat protein content and other nutrients that help support strong bones and joints and help maintain muscles.
4. Improved palatability and appetite: Since wet dog food has more meat choices and is more flavorful and aromatic, it can be highly appealing to dogs.

Of course, if you ever switch to wet dog food, make sure to consult with your dog’s veterinarian first. They can provide recommendations that are specifically based on your dog’s current health and specific needs.

3 Of The Best Wet Dog Food For Large Breed Puppies

Large breed puppies grow a lot! And compared to adult dogs, they require a lot of calories to support such the massive growth they undergo. So, a balanced diet that can support and promote proper growth is a must.

A high-protein and low-fat diet is generally recommended for large breed puppies. They should consume at least 22% high-quality protein and 8% fat in order to grow healthily. Too much or too little calories and protein can lead to problems like obesity or skeletal abnormalities.

At 8 weeks old, you can start incorporating wet dog food into your puppy’s diet. So, if you’re looking for wet food for your large puppy, then these options might be for you:

1. Wellness Complete Health Just for Puppy Canned Dog Food

Preview	Product	Price
	Wellness Complete Health Natural Wet Canned Puppy Food, Puppy Chicken & Salmon 12.5-Ounce Can (Pack...		Buy on Amazon

Wellness’ Complete Health Just For Puppy Canned Dog Food is a wet food option we highly recommend. This is an excellent wet puppy food made from organic ingredients, such as apples, flaxseed, salmon, chicken, and chicken liver.

It is packed with nutrition and proteins needed to support a large puppy’s healthy growth. Furthermore, it also supports brain development and helps build a healthy immune system and maintain a shiny coat.

In addition to all of these, the consistency of the food is paste-like and completely smooth. So, puppies will have no problem enjoying this wholesome, healthy, and appetizing wet food.

2. Royal Canin Puppy Canned Dog Food

Preview	Product	Price
	Royal Canin Canine Health Nutrition Puppy Canned Dog Food, 13.5 oz can	$47.88	Buy on Amazon

Roya Canin’s Puppy Canned Dog Food is another one of our wet food recommendations. This wet dog food option for puppies is suitable for all breeds, including large dog breeds.

It is formulated to help puppies grow and develop healthily. And it provides a well-balanced diet that supports healthy bone growth.

In addition to these, it is made with ingredients that are rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is made of chicken, pork, chicken liver, salmon, beet pulp, and fish oil among other things.

Furthermore, this wet dog food meets The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards.

3. Purina Pro Plan Development Puppy Wet Dog Food

Preview	Product	Price
	Purina Pro Plan Wet Puppy Food Classic Chicken Entree - (Pack of 12) 13 oz. Cans	$32.40	Buy on Amazon

If you’re looking for a grain-free wet food option for your large puppy, then the Purina Pro Plan Development Puppy Wet Dog Food is for you.

Aside from being grain-free, it also doesn’t contain any preservatives, corn, wheat or soy. So, if your pooch has a sensitive stomach, then this option might be for you.

It is specially formulated for puppies up to one year old and is made with ingredients like chicken, liver, and salmon. Furthermore, it provides all the proteins and nutrients your large puppy needs in order to grow healthily and build lean muscles.

3 Of The Best Wet Dog Food For Large Breed Adults

Large breed adult dogs have different nutritional requirements than puppies. Compared to puppies, they only need about 18% of high-quality protein, and they need less fat in their food to maintain a healthy weight and keep their joints healthy.

Here are a few wet dog food for large breed adult recommendations you can check out:

1. Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Large Breed

Preview	Product	Price
	Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Puppy Wet Dog Food, Made with Natural Ingredients, Chicken Dinner with...	$35.76	Buy on Amazon
	Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Adult Wet Dog Food, Made with Natural Ingredients, Chicken Dinner With...	$33.99	Buy on Amazon

This wet dog food is specifically formulated for large breeds. It is made from appetizing, high-quality chicken, whole grains, garden fruits and vegetables like carrots, blueberries and sweet potatoes. And it also doesn’t contain any preservatives.

This Blue Buffalo wet food goes well when mixed with dry dog food. And a lot of fur parents said that their picky dogs loved this appetizing choice.

Furthermore, Blue Buffalo also has a wet dog food option for puppies!

2. Canidae All Life Stages Canned Dog Food

Preview	Product	Price
	Canidae All Life Stages Premium Wet Dog Food for All Breeds, All Ages, Chicken & Rice Recipe, 13 oz....	$47.88	Buy on Amazon

Canidae’s All Life Stages Canned Dog Food is another good option for large breeds. It provides a complete and balanced diet for dogs of all ages, sizes and breeds, including large dogs.

It is made with natural ingredients that help support a healthy digestive and immune system and is also great for your pooch’s joints, skin and coat.

Furthermore, the product’s consistency is smooth, so a lot of fur parents say that their senior dogs enjoy it with no problem.

3. Wellness Complete Health Natural Wet Canned Dog Food

Preview	Product	Price
	Wellness Complete Health Natural Wet Canned Dog Food, Chicken & Sweet Potato, 12.5-Ounce Can (Pack...	$48.96	Buy on Amazon

Wellness is known for its high-quality dog food, so it’s no surprise that both of their puppy and adult wet food formulas have made it on to our list.

This specially formulated wet food for adults is made of wholesome and natural ingredients that are vital in maintaining a large dog breed’s overall health.

Furthermore, this wet dog food comes in different flavors like chicken, lamb, duck, and turkey. You can also choose between a pate or stew formula.

However, if you are unsure, you can consult with your dog’s veterinarian. Or you can follow this general daily feeding guide from PetKeen and adjust it accordingly.

Conclusion

Choosing the right wet dog food can make all the difference in your dog’s overall health. And while dry dog food is a great option, incorporating wet food into a large breed dog’s diet will give them the nutrition and flavors they deserve in order to grow up healthily.

Dog skin conditions are very common. As a matter of fact, they are among the American Veterinary Medical Association‘s (AVMA) top health concerns in canines back in 2020. And therefore, are one of the most common reasons why dogs end up at their veterinarian’s office.

In this article, we’ll list down and discuss six of the most common dog skin conditions, including their symptoms and treatment types.

Signs And Symptoms Of Skin Problems In Dogs

Constant itching and licking are among the most obvious symptoms of dog skin conditions. But there are also some common telltale signs of a skin problem in dogs. And usually, these symptoms and their severity can vary depending on the specific condition.

Here are some of them:

• Inflammation
• Skin redness or discoloration
• Hair loss or bald patches
• Rashes or bumps
• Scabs
• Dry, flaky skin
• Scaly patches on skin
• Hot spots

6 Of The Most Common Dog Skin Conditions

Without further ado, here are six of the most common skin conditions that our furry friends can suffer from:

1. Skin Allergies

Dog skin allergies, or canine atopic dermatitis, are among the most common dog skin conditions. And they generally appear on the dog’s feet, armpits, chest, ears, and stomach.

Dogs with skin allergies generally suffer from red, itchy and irritated skin, which can be triggered by many, different factors. Our furry friends can be allergic to certain environmental factors like pollen or mildew, which are more prominent during the spring or summer season.

Dogs can also be allergic to certain ingredients of their food, such as beef, eggs, dairy, or wheat and suffer from food allergy.

Breeds Most Prone To Skin Allergies:

While any dog breed can suffer from skin allergies, according to the MSD Veterinary Manual, the following breeds are most susceptible to this health problem:

• Shih Tzu
• Golden Retriever
• Scottish Terrier
• Labrador Retriever
• Boxer
• Boston Terrier
• Dalmatian

Skin Allergy Treatment

There is no actual and permanent cure for skin allergies. However, there are various ways to reduce or eliminate the symptoms. Here are a few of them:

1. Identify the allergens. You can do this yourself using the process of elimination or you can go to your dog’s vet and ask for an allergy test.
2. Reduce the exposure to allergens. Once you have identified your dog’s allergens, it’s best to reduce their exposure to it. For example, if your dog has spring allergies, do not go on a walk in the morning when the pollen count is high.
3. Medication. When the symptoms persist, it’s best to consult with the vet what kind of medication your dog should take.
4. Use mild and hypoallergenic shampoo. Using mild and hypoallergenic shampoo will help get rid of allergens in your dog’s coat. Furthermore, these shampoos can help keep your dog’s skin and coat shiny and healthy. Here are a few options you can find on Amazon:

Preview	Product	Price
	Natural Dog Company Oatmeal Shampoo for Dogs with Sensitive Skin, Ideal Anti Itch Dog Shampoo and...	$12.94	Buy on Amazon
	Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Hypoallergenic Shampoo for Dogs and Cats, 16 oz – No Harsh...	$14.87	Buy on Amazon
	Vet's Best Hypo-Allergenic Shampoo for Dogs | Dog Shampoo for Sensitive Skin | Relieves Discomfort...	$16.99	Buy on Amazon

2. Fleas And Ticks

These external parasites can cause excessive licking and scratching in your dog. But aside from dog skin conditions, they can also cause other serious, and potentially, fatal diseases.

Fleas are tiny insects that can be hard to see in your dog’s coat. But when your dog is infested with these, they can develop scabs and hot spots due to the excessive itchiness. And when not treated correctly, severe flea infestations can cause serious problems like blood loss and anemia.

On the other hand, ticks are more visible to the naked eye. And they feed on your dog’s blood. Ticks may look harmless, but they can carry the bacteria that can cause Lyme disease in dogs.

Breeds Most Prone To Fleas and Ticks

No breed is safe from fleas and ticks. And all dogs can contract them. However, dogs with longer coats provide the perfect home for fleas and ticks.

Furthermore, a 2021 research shows that tick infestation is more common among gundog, terrier and pastoral breeds.

Fleas and Ticks Treatment

There are a plethora of ways to get rid of fleas and ticks. And some of the most common options include:

1. Clean your home thoroughly. While not a treatment option in the literal sense, maintaining the cleanliness of your home will help get rid of fleas and their eggs inside your house. One effective way to do this is using baking soda to soak and clean carpets. You can also soak you and your pet’s bedding with hot, soapy water.
2. Keep your dog indoors during flea season. Fleas are more prevalent during spring and summer. So, be more careful during these seasons and keep your dog indoors as much as you can.
3. Medication. Medication such as Bravecto, NexGard and Credelio are safe and effective in getting rid of adult fleas and ticks, as long as they are attached to your dog’s skin and coat. However, it’s best to consult with your dog’s veterinarian first before letting your dog take any of these.
4. Use a flea comb and tweezers. When finding and getting rid of these external parasites from your dog’s coat, a flea comb and a pair of tweezers can effectively do the job. Here are a few flea comb recommendations:

Preview	Product	Price
	6 Pieces Pet Lice Combs Dog Grooming Flea Comb Cat Tear Stain Comb for Removal Dandruff, Hair Stain,...	$6.49	Buy on Amazon
	GNAWRISHING Flea Comb 4Pcs with High Strength Teeth Pet Tear Stain Remover Combs, Pet Dog Cat...	$5.98	Buy on Amazon

While others would recommend products such as flea collars and shampoos to treat dog skin conditions brought about by fleas and ticks, the effect of these products are not long-lasting and are often, ineffective.

3. Folliculitis

Folliculitis is one of the most common canine skin infection. It is a skin condition where the hair follicles become inflamed due to bacteria that resides on the surface of your dog’s skin.

It causes sores, lumps, and scabs on the skin. And this problem often occurs with other dog skin conditions such as mange or skin allergies.

Breeds Most Prone To Folliculitis

No breed is predisposed to Folliculitis. However, since this infection often occurs with other dog skin conditions, dog breeds that are more susceptible to other problems like skin allergies may also easily develop Folliculitis.

Furthermore, it is easier to detect Folliculitis in short-haired dog breeds because the inflammation of the hair follicles can be more obvious. However, in long-haired breeds, you may notice this problem when the coat starts looking a little dull and when it sheds more than usual.

Folliculitis Treatment

Since Folliculitis is common, effective treatment can be easily accessible. Here are treatment options for this skin condition:

1. Topical therapy. This often involves the use of antibacterial shampoos to use for bathing, and topical creams to reduce the inflammation.
2. Oral medication. If the problem is caused by bacterial infection, then your dog’s vet will most likely prescribe oral antibiotics. And depending on the severity of the problem, the vet may also prescribe oral pain killers to ease your pooch’s discomfort.
3. Treatment of underlying disease. If Folliculitis happens in conjunction with another problem, then treatment will depend on the individual disease.

4. Ringworm

Ringworm, despite the name, is not caused by worms. As a matter of fact, it is caused by fungi. It is a common fungal infection and while not fatal, can be highly contagious to dogs, cats, and hoomans.

Unlike other dog skin conditions, ringworm usually starts in one area of the body, instead of appearing in several areas.

Furthermore, it appears as red, inflamed, circular patches and can appear anywhere. But it is most frequently found on a dog’s head, paws, ears, and front legs.

Breeds Most Prone To Ringworm

Like many dog skin conditions, any dog can have ringworm. However, there are three breeds that are more susceptible to ringworm than other canines, and they are:

• Boston Terrier
• Yorkshire Terrier
• Russell Terrier

Ringworm Treatment

While highly contagious, the good new is that, ringworm is curable. Here are treatment options for this skin condition:

1. Quarantine. Since this dog skin condition is highly contagious to other pets and to people, the first thing to do is isolate your dog and limit their contact with any hoomans or pets. However, do not quarantine your pooch in a room with rugs or wood floors, because these are very difficult to clean and can easily be contaminated.
2. Oral medication. For this treatment, you have to consult the best options with your dog’s vet. This is because there are different oral medications for ringworm that have their own side effects.
3. Topical therapy. Like other dog skin conditions, ringworm can be treated with topical creams, ointment and shampoo. Furthermore, oral medication and topical therapy are often recommended to be used together because they are more effective that way.
   If you’re looking for anti-fungal products, we recommend the following:

Preview	Product	Price
	Sulfodene Dog Wound Care Ointment, Relieves Pain & Prevents Infection For Dog Cuts, Scrapes, Bites...	$9.26	Buy on Amazon
	Forticept Blue Butter – Hot Spot Treatment for Dogs & Cats | Dog Wound Care | Skin Yeast...	$19.95	Buy on Amazon

5. Mange

Mange is a skin problem caused by mites that live on a dog’s hair and skin. While it is often associated with neglected, and often, stray dogs, it is among the most common dog skin problems.

Like ringworm, mange is highly contagious and can easily spread from one dog to another. But unlike ringworm, the mites that cause mange cannot survive on us, hoomans.

Furthermore, there are two types of mange: demodectic mange and sarcoptic mange. Demodectic mange usually affects puppies (dogs below one year old) and is not usually contagious. Meanwhile, sarcoptic mange can affect any dog and is contagious.

When a dog has mange, you’ll notice intense itching, inflammation and hair loss. And if not treated immediately, can cause bald spots, scabbing, and sores all over your pooch’s body.

Breeds Most Prone To Mange

There are certain breeds that are more prone to both types of mange. For demodectic mange, the following breeds are more susceptible to it:

• Dalmatian
• American Bulldog
• American Pit Bull Terrier
• Old English Sheepdog
• Shar Pei

Meanwhile, according to a study, the following canine breeds are more prone to sarcoptic mange:

• British Bulldog
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• Shar-Pei
• Bordeaux Mastiff
• Pug
• French Bulldog
• Boxer
• Shih Tzu
• Border Terrier

Mange Treatment

There are various treatment types for this dog skin condition. And the treatment will depend on the severity and type of mange. But most of the time, a combination of the treatments mentioned below is used to resolve the infection.

1. Topical medication. There are many topical medications used to treat mange. Some of these include selamectin (Revolution®), moxidectin + imidacloprid (Advantage Multi®, Advocate®) and topical fluralaner (Bravecto®).
2. Oral medication. There are also oral medications to help treat mange. And depending on how severe the mange is, the vet may prescribe liquid, pill or flavored chewable medicine.
3. Dips. Since mange can be uncomfortable due to intense itchiness, a lime-sulfur or amitraz dip is recommended. However, since there are newer and safer treatment options for mange, dipping is no longer commonly used.

If you suspect that your dog has mange, it’s always best to immediately bring your dog to a veterinarian. This way, your dog can be properly examined and appropriate treatment can be recommended.

6. Pyoderma

Pyoderma, also called Impetigo, is mostly caused by bacterial infections. However, it can also be caused by other underlying dog skin conditions such as inflammation or other serious diseases like Cushing’s disease or cancer.

It often appears as small, raised, red, and pus-filled blisters on a dog’s tummy. Furthermore, among all the dog skin conditions mentioned so far, this one is a lot more prevalent in puppies.

This dog skin condition is not fatal. However, if not dealt with correctly, can cause the infection to spread.

Breeds Most Prone To Pyoderma

Aside from puppies, there are also dog breeds that are more prone to this skin condition than others. And these are:

• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• Bulldog
• Boxer
• Shar-Pei

Pyoderma Treatment

Generally, mild Pyoderma can be treated with topical medications. However, a number of treatment options are also available. See below to find out:

1. Topical therapy. Usually, for mild cases of Pyoderma, topical solutions like creams or sprays can treat the problem.
2. Antibiotic therapy. Antibiotic treatment is most commonly used to treat pyoderma. Usually, the vet will prescribe oral antibiotics that your dog will need to take for about three to four weeks to ensure effective treatment.
3. Treatment of underlying disease. As mentioned above, Pyoderma can be caused by other dog skin conditions. In this case, the treatment options will depend on the specific underlying problem your dog has.

Conclusion

Keeping your dog’s skin and coat healthy is a must. If your pooch is showing any symptoms of the dog skin conditions mentioned above, then the best course of action is to visit the veterinarian clinic.

Whether it’s mild or severe, these dog skin conditions can be uncomfortable and cause damages to your furry friend’s overall health. So, it’s always best to deal with them promptly and correctly.

Seasonal allergies in dogs can get under our furry friends’ skin, literally and figuratively, like they do with us hoomans.

Dogs can be allergic to many things they encounter in the environment, but pollen is usually one of their top enemies – not only during spring time, but also during the summer season.

While many people associate allergies to spring season, summer can also bring about high pollen counts. And that usually means red, irritated, and itchy skin for our furry friends.

Learn how to ditch the itch for your dog this summer and learn everything you need to know about summer seasonal allergies here.

Seasonal allergies in dogs are also called atopic dermatitis or canine hay fever. They are referred to as such, because unlike a hooman with seasonal allergies who usually have runny eyes and nose, a scratchy throat, a dog usually have red, itchy and irritated skin.

And seasonal allergies are different from year-round allergies in the sense that dogs do not have allergic reactions all year long, only specific times of the year.

Furthermore, these summer seasonal allergies in dogs are also more common during late summer. And they can vary from mild to severe, and should be managed and treated accordingly.

Common Summer Allergens For Dogs

As mentioned above, there are specific environmental allergens in the summer that trigger and cause a dog’s allergies, and they are the following:

1. Tree, Weed And Grass Pollen

While many trees have already released their pollen in the spring, there are still trees that release pollen in the summer time. Furthermore, a lot of weed and grass also release this substance in the summer. And they largely contribute to a dog’s summer allergies because they are low on the ground and are closer to where our pooches walk, lay and play.

The following tree, weed and grass types may affect your dog that is allergic to pollen:

• Cedar
• Ash
• Oak
• Cockleweed
• Pigweed
• Sagebrush
• Ragweed
• Timothy
• Bermuda
• Blue grasses
• Orchard
• Red Top
• Sweet vernal

2. Mold Spores And Mildew

The warm and humid conditions that the summer season bring about promote the growth of mold and mildew inside the house. And the spores released when these fungi grow trigger allergies in dogs, especially if your pooch has sensitive skin.

3. Dust Mites

Dust mites are microscopic insects that are commonly found in beds (including your dog’s bed), carpets and other upholstery. While they are present all year long, their presence is more prominent in the summer season because they love the humidity.

And so, these dust mites and the waste they produce causes itchy, red and irritated skin in dogs.

4. Insect Bites

Summer seasonal allergies in dogs can also be triggered by insect bites. Stinging insects in the summer such as bees, wasps, yellow jackets, and hornets have the most aggressive activity from August to October.

And dogs, like hoomans, can have a severe allergic reaction to a sting. So, it’s always best to monitor your dog’s outdoor activity in the summer, especially when these insects are more prevalent.

5. Smog

Another culprit that triggers summer seasonal allergies in dogs is smog, especially if you live with your dog in the city.

The combination of the summer breeze, pollution from car exhaust, and other chemicals can trigger a dog’s allergies.

Symptoms Of Summer Seasonal Allergies in Dogs

Symptoms of summer seasonal allergies in dogs vary, depending on what they are allergic to. But the most common symptoms include:

• Red, itchy and irritated skin
• Dry or scaly skin
• Watery and itchy eyes
• Excessive licking of their paws
• Biting their skin or coat
• Red, waxy, smelly and/or inflamed ears
• Hair loss or excessive shedding
• Nasal discharge
• Sneezing

Oftentimes, when dog owners are unaware of their dog’s allergies, they do no recognize these symptoms as actual allergic reactions and mistake them for other health issues.

If you suspect your dog to have seasonal allergies, it’s essential that you bring them to the veterinarian as soon as possible. The vet will ask you various questions and thoroughly check your dog’s condition to properly address the problem.

Managing And Treating Summer Seasonal Allergies in Dogs

In general, since seasonal allergies are caused by environmental factors, there is no permanent cure to them. But you can help your dog alleviate the symptoms in various ways.

Furthermore, managing and treating summer seasonal allergies in dogs depend on the symptoms and how severe it is.

Below, we have listed down a few helpful ways to manage and treat summer seasonal allergies in dogs. You can try one or try a combination – whatever works best for your furry friend!

1. Consult A Veterinarian And Identify the Allergen

If you suspect that your dog is showing symptoms of summer seasonal allergies, it’s always best to bring them to their vet immediately. This way, the vet can accurately diagnose your dog’s allergies. And from there, you can devise the most effective treatment plan for your pooch.

Furthermore, they can suggest and conduct allergy testing to help you identify what specific allergens trigger your dog’s allergies.

2. Reduce Allergen Exposure

Avoiding allergens altogether may be impossible to do, since allergens can be airborne. However, you can still reduce your dog’s exposure to allergens through various ways, like:

• Keep your dogs indoors when pollen count is high, which is typically in the early morning or late evening.
• Supervise your dog’s outdoor activities. This is to make sure they do not encounter any stinging insects.
• Use air purifiers, filters or dehumidifiers at home to reduce the humidity in the air, and therefore, airborne allergens.
• Clean and vacuum your house regularly, especially carpets and upholstery, to reduce dust mites.
• Wash your dog’s bed frequently. Again, this is to help remove dust mites or other possible allergens.
• Avoid areas with high levels of pollen, such as parks with a lot of trees and plants.

3. Regular Bathing

While bathing a dog should be ideally done once or twice a month, this will not work if your pooch suffers from seasonal allergies.

Regular bathing and grooming is a must for dogs with allergies because it can help remove allergens from their skin and coat. And usually this is most effective when you use hypoallergenic shampoo.

Here are our top hypoallergenic shampoo picks:

Preview	Product	Price
	Natural Dog Company Oatmeal Shampoo for Dogs with Sensitive Skin, Ideal Anti Itch Dog Shampoo and...	$12.94	Buy on Amazon
	Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Hypoallergenic Shampoo for Dogs and Cats, 16 oz – No Harsh...	$14.87	Buy on Amazon
	Vet's Best Hypo-Allergenic Shampoo for Dogs | Dog Shampoo for Sensitive Skin | Relieves Discomfort...	$16.99	Buy on Amazon

4. Topical Therapy

Topical skin therapy is helpful in instantly relieving your pooch from itch, can reduce inflammation, and soothe your dog’s skin. And it comes in a variety of options – balms, shampoos, conditioners, wipes, ointment, wipes and sprays.

Furthermore, you may want to try using one of the most popular all-natural treatment for seasonal allergies in dogs which is Cannabidiol, or more commonly known as CBD.

Here are a few topical therapy options you can try from Amazon:

Preview	Product	Price
	Earth Rated Dog Wipes, Thick Plant Based Grooming Wipes for Easy Use on Paws, Body and Bum,...	$9.98	Buy on Amazon
	Charlie & Buddy Hemp Оil for Dogs Cats - Helps Pets with Аnxiеty, Pаin, Strеss, Slееp,...	$19.99	Buy on Amazon
	Natural Dog Company Skin Soother, 2 oz. Stick, Allergy and Itch Relief for Dogs, Supports Hot Spot...	$14.95	Buy on Amazon

5. Supplements

Supplements that help with seasonal allergies in dogs are omega-3 fatty acid supplements. Omega-3 fatty acids help alleviate allergy symptoms and also protect your pooch’s skin barrier.

However, it takes about four to six weeks for these supplements to take effect, so it’s best for dogs with seasonal allergies to be on these supplements all year long.

And aside from alleviating allergy symptoms, omega-3 fatty acids are good for the dog’s immune system, heart and kidney. It can even help reduce anxiety in dogs!

Here are a few options you might want to try:

Preview	Product	Price
	BARK&SPARK Omega 3 for Dogs - 180 Fish Oil Treats for Dog Shedding, Skin Allergy, Itch Relief, Hot...	$24.95	Buy on Amazon
	Zesty Paws Dog Allergy Relief - Anti Itch Supplement - Omega 3 Probiotics for Dogs - Digestive...	$32.97	Buy on Amazon
	Finn Allergy & Itch for Dogs | Allergy, Itchy Skin & Immune Support w/Bee Propolis + Probiotics | 90...	$31.79	Buy on Amazon

6. Medication

If other treatment options are not working, then your dog’s veterinarian may suggest medications like anti-histamine, corticosteroids or other allergy medications. The type of medication will depend on the severity of your dog’s seasonal allergies.

However, please be reminded that these medication should ONLY be prescribed and possibly administered by the vet. This is to make sure that your dog will get the right dosage and minimize and adverse side effects.

7. Immunotherapy

If your dog’s allergies have become severe, allergy shots or immunotheraphy might be your best option. As a matter of fact, this is one of the best long-term management for seasonal allergies in dogs. What it does is it gradually desensitizes your dog’s immune system to its allergens.

With immunotheraphy, they first conduct an allergy test on your dog to determine what allergens trigger their symptoms. And then the vet will create a custom allergy shot based on your dog’s allergens.

Furthermore, allergy shots are not a one-time thing. Your dog’s vet will determine how long the immunotherapy will last and dogs won’t see the improvement for at least six months to one year. So, it requires commitment and a lot of patience, too.

Conclusion

No dog parent likes seeing their pooch suffer in any way, shape or form, especially this summer season, when it’s already hot and they are prone to other problems like heat stroke.

While there is no permanent cure to summer seasonal allergies in dogs, or for any seasonal allergies for that matter, you can still help your dog alleviate its allergies through various methods.

The sooner you address the problem, the better chances of controlling the symptoms and relieving your dog from the discomfort and pain the allergies bring about.

Dogs don’t only come in all shapes and sizes, but also coat types. And their coat is one of their most defining feature that easily sets them apart from each other.

There are different dog coat types – and each one of them require different grooming methods and products.

And knowing how to properly groom your dog depending on their coat is important. It helps keep their overall health and well-being in tip-top condition.

So, continue reading for your guide to dog coat types and how to properly take care of each of them.

The Importance Of A Dog’s Coat

The condition and appearance of a dog’s coat can indicate your furry friend’s health status. Besides making dogs look majestic, their coat plays important roles that keep them healthy in many ways.

The following are some of the basic yet most important roles that a dog’s coat perform:

• Protection. A dog’s coat acts as a physical barrier from many external elements. It helps prevent direct skin contact from potential irritants and allergens such as UV rays, dirt, debris, hot surfaces and even chemical damage.
• Insulation. A healthy coat helps a dog regulate their body temperature, especially in extreme weather conditions. It provides warmth during winter and offers protection against the heat during summer.
• Immunity. While a dog’s coat doesn’t directly impact a dog’s immune system, it provides a protective barrier for the skin, which is a vital part of their immune system, against infections, health issues, and harmful bacteria.
• Health Indicator. A dog’s coat is a good indicator of its health status. Most of the time, veterinarians assess a dog’s health by looking at the coat’s condition. A shiny and clean coat usually means a healthy canine. And a dry, flaky, or dirty coat usually indicates a health issue.

10 Dog Coat Types

Different dog coat types require different grooming requirements. Below, we have listed down all the dog coat types you need to know about and tips on how to properly take care of them.

1. Smooth Coat

This coat type is also referred to as a short coat. And that’s because this kind of coat is best described as both smooth AND short.

Dogs with this coat have short hair that lies close and flat to their body. The coat is also shiny and smooth with no texture. While the hair is short, it provides enough protection that help keep dogs warm due to the heavy layer of hairs growing closely together.

And if you think that dogs with smooth coat do not shed as much, then you’re in for a ride! As a result of the heavy layer of hair in the coat, breeds with this coat type can actually shed heavily.

Breeds With A Smooth Coat

Here are some dog breeds that have a smooth and short coat:

• Beagle
• Doberman Pinscher
• Greyhound
• Labrador Retriever
• Great Dane
• German Shorthaired Pointer
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Dalmatian
• Pug
• Bulldog
• Pointer
• Italian Greyhound

How To Take Care Of A Smooth Coat

Among all dog coat types, taking care and grooming a smooth coat is by far, the easiest. So if you’re someone who doesn’t have a lot of time to groom your dog, then dogs with this kind of coat are ideal for you!

Here are a few tips in order to take care of a smooth coated dog:

• Brush them at least once a week. Brushing smooth coated breeds is easy because their hair is short and they do not mat. You can brush them at least once a week with a bristle brush. And to remove dander from the skin and keep the coat shiny, you can use a fine tooth comb. Here are a few options for you:

Preview	Product	Price
	Hertzko Bristle Brush For Dogs and Cats with Long or Short Hair - Dense Bristles Remove Loose Hair...	$9.99	Buy on Amazon
	Dog Comb for Removes Tangles and Knots - Cat Comb for Removing Matted Fur - Grooming Tool with...	$9.95	Buy on Amazon

• Bathe them once a month. Usually, smooth coated dogs do not need to be bathed as often as other dog coat types. Bathing them at least once a month will be enough. However, if you have an active dog that likes to get dirty during play time or walks, then you can bathe them as often as needed.
• Use shampoo and conditioner. Since smooth coated dogs usually shed a lot, using a de-shedding shampoo is ideal. Furthermore, the skin of these dogs can be somewhat sensitive, so we recommend using these gentle shampoo and conditioner.

Preview	Product	Price
	Oatmeal Dog Shampoo & Conditioner 17oz [USA] 5 in 1 Plant-Based Organic Sulfate-Free...	$17.29	Buy on Amazon
	Honest Paws Dog Shampoo and Conditioner - Premium Dog Wash for Allergies and Dry, Itchy,...	$17.47	Buy on Amazon
	FURminator Ultra Premium deShedding Shampoo for Dogs Helps Reduce Excess Shedding, 16 oz	$12.75	Buy on Amazon

2. Medium Coat

This is described as a coat that grows to a mid-length. And it’s somewhere in between the short and long dog coat types.

With a medium coat, the hair that grows is longer than an inch, but shorter than two inches. That means dogs with a medium coat have hair that don’t lie flat on their body and they have a bit of a wavy, fluffy hair.

Breeds With A Medium Coat

Here are some dog breeds that have medium coats:

• Golden Retriever
• Border Collie
• German Shepherd
• Shiba Inu
• Australian Shepherd Dog
• Belgian Tervurens

How To Take Care Of A Medium Coat

Taking care of a medium coat can also be fairly easy. But unlike smooth and short dog coat types, the medium coat can be prone to matting.

Here are a few tips to take care of a medium coated dog:

• Brush them daily. To avoid matting and remove built-up dirt in the coat, it’s best to brush these dogs regularly. Using a slicker brush will help get rid of tangles and distribute natural oils throughout the coat.
  
  Here are a few slicker brush recommendations:

Preview	Product	Price
	Ruff 'N Ruffus Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush With NO- PAIN Bristles | Gently Removes Loose Undercoat,...		Buy on Amazon
	Hartz Groomer's Best Deshedding Slicker Dog Brush, Black/Violet, Dogs	$5.77	Buy on Amazon
	Hertzko Self-Cleaning Dog & Cat Slicker Brush for Pets with Long Or Short Hair, Dog Brush for...	$12.04	Buy on Amazon

• Bathe them once a month. Like smooth coated dogs, bathing a medium coated dog once a month is enough. But of course, if you have an active dog, bathing them more regularly is ideal.
• Use shampoo and conditioner. Using a gentle shampoo and conditioner is ideal for medium coated dogs when bathing. Furthermore, natural and gentle options are soothing, hydrating, and help keep the coat shiny and the skin healthy.
  
  Here are a few recommendations from us:

Preview	Product	Price
	Bodhi Dog Organic Lavender Oatmeal Dog Shampoo and Conditioner | Hypoallergenic Conditioning...	$13.99	Buy on Amazon
	Dog Shampoo with Oatmeal and Aloe. Shea Butter for Smelly Dogs, Puppy Shampoo by Oliver's Choice 14...	$13.95	Buy on Amazon
	Burt's Bees for Pets Oatmeal Dog Shampoo - Soothing Shampoo for Dogs - Gentle Dog Shampoo for...		Buy on Amazon

3. Long Coat

As the name suggests, this kind of coat is long and when it grows, it can actually reach the floor! With that said, you have to know that this can be one of the most demanding dog coat types as it requires a lot of grooming.

Long coated dogs can either have silky hair or coarse hair. A long and silky coat doesn’t have an undercoat. While a long and coarse coat has a soft undercoat.

But regardless of the type of long coat they have, dogs with this coat need regular attention since their hair can be very prone to matting and tangles.

Breeds With A Long Coat

Here are some dog breeds that have long coats:

• Bernese Mountain Dog
• Afghan Hound
• Bearded Collie
• Yorkshire Terrier
• Maltese
• Havanese
• Shih Tzu
• Shetland Sheepdog

How To Take Care Of A Long Coat

Maintaining and taking care of a long coated dog is not a walk in the park. These dogs require meticulous and daily grooming, as they can easily develop matting and tangles.

And because maintaining such long coat takes a lot of effort, dog parents sometimes opt to cut the fur short into a puppy cut to make grooming a bit easier.

Regardless, here’s how you can take care of a long coated dog:

• Pick and use the right brush. Daily brushing is a must for these dogs. But you have to choose the right brush to do the job. If you have a dog that has a long and silky coat, then a pin brush and a slicker brush would be your best tools. However, if you have a dog that has a long and coarse coat, a pin brush along with a smooth bristle brush and de-shedding tool will do the job.
  
  If you’re looking for de-shedding tool recommendations, then look no further!

Preview	Product	Price
	EasyGroomer Deshedding Brush for Dogs Cats | Purple | Undercoat Tool for Large and Small Pets | Comb...	$19.95	Buy on Amazon
	SleekEZ Dog Brush for Shedding & Grooming - Pet Hair Removal Tool, Deshedding Brush for Short Haired...	$19.95	Buy on Amazon

• Use a de-tangling shampoo. To make bath time more comfortable, use a de-tangling shampoo to soften and loosen the hair. The product makes it easier to brush through tangles and mats.
• Use a conditioner. To make the coat softer and easier to manage during bath time, using a conditioner will also help de-tangle mats.
• Dry the coat with a hair dryer. For smooth, short and medium dog coat types, air drying is possible. But the same cannot be applied to a long coat. In order to fully dry a long coated dog’s hair, you have to use a hair dryer after bathing them.

4. Single Coat

A single coat is described as a type of coat that lacks an undercoat. The hair grows without a dense, and usually, soft undercoat beneath it.

As the name suggests, this coat only has one layer of fur, which is, most of the time, short and close to the body. However, there are also instances where the fur is long and silky.

Due to the lack of a dense undercoat, single coated dogs are better adapted to warmer climates. And they need to wear dog jackets during the colder season because they do not have the added insulation that only an undercoat can offer.

Furthermore, among the dog coat types, single coated breeds usually shed less, thanks to the lack of an undercoat, and are usually hypoallergenic.

Breeds With A Single Coat

Here are some dog breeds that have single coats:

• Greyhound
• Chihuahua
• Afghan Hound
• Doberman Pinscher
• Great Dane
• Italian Greyhound
• Poodle
• Maltese

How To Take Care Of A Single Coat

Maintaining a single coat is similar to the upkeep of smooth, short and medium dog coat types. Here are a few tips on how to take care of a single coat:

• Brush the coat. Although single coated dogs shed less and usually have shorter hair, brushing is still a must. And how often you brush them will depend on the length of your dog’s hair and its needs.
• Bathe them once a month. Of course, bathing is important. But since single coats require less grooming effort, bathing them at least once a month is enough, unless they like to get dirty, especially when they go and play outside.
• Provide additional insulation. As mentioned above, single coated dogs do not have an undercoat to provide them added insulation during winter. So during the colder months, use doggy sweaters and jackets to keep your pooch warm.

5. Double Coat

This dog coat type consists of two layers of hair – the outer coat, which is usually long, and the undercoat, which is closer to the skin, and is usually short, dense, and has a soft, woolly texture.

Unlike single coated dogs, double coated dogs do well in the cold thanks to the added insulation of their undercoat.

And among all dog coat types, the double coat is known to shed a LOT. During shedding seasons, which usually happens twice a year, a dog with a double coat will shed their undercoat. This process is also referred to as a “coat blow”.

Breeds With A Double Coat

• Akita
• Siberian Husky
• Alaskan Malamute
• Airedale Terrier
• Chow Chow
• German Shepherd
• Shetland Sheepdog
• Shiba Inu
• Pomeranian

How To Take Care Of A Double Coat

The upkeep of a double coat takes a lot of effort, especially when they blow their coat. And they need a bit more grooming effort than other dog coat types.

Here’s a few tips on how you can take care of and groom a double coat:

• Pick and use the right brush. Since double coated dogs have two layers of fur, it’s important to use the right tools when brushing them. Use a slicker brush for the undercoat and a metal comb for the top coat.
• Use undercoat tools. For double coated dogs, having a brush and a comb isn’t enough, especially for dogs that have longer undercoats. An undercoat rake and de-shedding tool will do a great job at helping you control your dog’s shedding.
  
  Here are our undercoat rake recommendations:

Preview	Product	Price
	FURminator Medium Dog Undercoat deShedding Tool, Long Hair, Reduces Loose Hair from Shedding	$21.95	Buy on Amazon
	MalsiPree Dog Grooming Brush for Shedding - 2 in 1 Deshedding Tool and Undercoat Rake for Long and...	$15.99	Buy on Amazon
	Maxpower Planet Pet Grooming Rake - Double-Sided Dematting Undercoat Brush for Dogs and Cats, Extra...	$9.99	Buy on Amazon

6. Wire Coat

The wire coat, as the name suggests, is described as dense, rough, and has a wiry texture. A dog with a wire coat feels the exact opposite than when you touch or pet a smooth coated dog.

And even with proper grooming and brushing, a dog with a wire coat will still have rough and bristly hair. This type of coat requires regular hand-stripping or trimming to maintain its appearance.

Wire coated dogs can easily be distinguished from other dog coat types because they look very dapper with their mustaches, beards and eyebrows.

Breeds With A Wire Coat

• Jack Russell Terrier
• Kerry Blue Terrier
• German Wirehaired Pointer
• West Highland White Terrier
• Wire Fox Terrier
• Scottish Terrier
• Schnauzer

How To Take Care Of A Wire Coat

Taking care of a wire coated dog can be time-consuming due to the distinct texture of the hair. So, here are a few tips to take care of a wire coated dog:

• Hand strip the coat. Handstripping is a process where you pull dead and loose hair directly out of the dog’s coat. And by doing this, you allow new hair to grow and prevent the formation of tangles and mats. Among all the dog coat types, a wire coat is the only one that requires this grooming method.
• Use a brush and a comb. Brush the wire coat at least once a week with a pin brush to remove excess dead hear and a metal comb to pull out tangles.
• Do NOT use a conditioner. When bathing a wire coated dog, do not use a conditioner, unless you want to soften their coarse hair.

7. Curly Coat

A curly coat is easy to spot on a dog. The coat is curled, but the tightness and size of the curls depend on every dog.

Curly coated dogs look regal and do not shed much. But do not be fooled! These dogs can be high-maintenance. Due to the dog’s curls, dirt and debris can easily get caught in the hair and will remain in the coat unless you brush or wash them.

Breeds With A Curly Coat

• Poodle
• Portuguese Water Dog
• Bichon Frise
• Airedale Terrier
• Irish Water Spaniel

How To Take Care Of A Curly Coat

As mentioned above, curly coated dogs can be high-maintenance since they require regular grooming and maintenance. So, here are a few tips on how to take care of a wire coated dog:

• Use a detangling spray. You can use this before you brush a curly coated dog. This will make brushing through the curls easier.
• Brush using a slicker brush. A slicker brush will help detangle any mats and will keep your furry friend’s curls in tip-top shape!
• Always use conditioner. When bathing a curly coat dog, it’s always best to use a conditioner to deal with any stubborn mats and tangles easier.
  
  Here are a few conditioner recommendations for curly coated dogs:

Preview	Product	Price
	TropiClean Perfect Fur Detangling Dog Shampoo for Breeds with Curly & Wavy Fur | 16 oz	$15.99	Buy on Amazon
	The Stuff Leave-in Dog Conditioner and Detangler Spray | 16oz Ready to Use | Perfect Solution for...	$17.44	Buy on Amazon

• Towel-dry and then blow-dry. After a bath, it’s best to towel dry the coat first and then blow-dry it after.

8. Corded Coat

A corded coat is described as hair that forms cords. For us hoomans, we call them dreadlocks, but in the dog world, they’re called cords.

Unlike other dog coat types, corded coated dogs are not born with their cords. Instead, they are born with a curly and coarse coat that naturally, or with the help of hoomans, form mats that eventually grow as cords the older they get.

And did you know that some curly coated dogs can have their coat corded? For example, a Standard Poodle’s thick and curly hair can be corded with a hooman‘s help.

Breeds With A Corded Coat

• Komondor
• Havanese
• Poodle
• Hungarian Puli
• Bergamasco Sheepdog
• Spanish Water Dog

How To Take Care Of A Corded Coat

Among all the dog coat types mentioned so far, a corded coat might be the most difficult to groom and maintain. It requires a lot of effort, time and patience.

Here are a few tips to help you manage the uniquely beautiful corded coat:

• Help form the cords. While some breeds naturally form these cords, it is still vital that you know how to help them so that the coat doesn’t form into one huge mat.
• Do NOT brush or comb the mats. Instead, split the hair into sections so it’s easier for the hair to twist into cords.
• Trim the hair once every year. This is so that the dog can maintain the cords but avoid stubborn mats.
• Ensure that they are completely dry after a bath. Bathing is a given for these dogs, but so is making sure they are completely dry, from the inside out. Cords can easily trap dirt and encourage the growth of bacteria and mold when not completely dried. Using a blow dry on these dogs is also a MUST as air-drying them can take up to 48 hours.

9. Hairless Coat

This guide on dog coat types will not be complete without mentioning the hairless coat. Dogs with this kind of coat are naturally hairless or have minimal hair. And despite being hairless and lacking a shiny or furry coat, these dogs still require proper care.

Hairless coated dogs are popular among allergy sufferers because they lack fur and dander. But because of the same reasons, these dogs are not safe from extreme weather conditions.

Breeds With A Hairless Coat

• Chinese Crested Dog
• Xoloitzcuintli
• Peruvian Hairless Dog
• American Hairless Terrier

How To Take Care Of A Hairless Coat

Hairless coated dogs require special skin care. Here are a few helpful tips to ensure your hairless dog’s skin stays healthy:

• Frequent bathing. Since these dogs do not have a layer of fur that can protect them from dirt and other elements, you have to bathe them more regularly than other dog coat types.
• Only use shampoo that is gentle on the skin. When bathing, you have to make sure that the shampoo you use on them has a gentle formula to avoid skin irritation.
• Use dog-safe lotion and sunscreen. Since there is no coat to brush, you have to moisturize their skin to prevent dryness and flaking. And since they are prone to sun burns, you have to use sunscreen to protect them from the harsh rays of the sun.
  
  Here are a few recommendations from us:

Preview	Product	Price
	Natural Dog Company Skin Soother, 2 oz. Stick, Allergy and Itch Relief for Dogs, Supports Hot Spot...	$14.95	Buy on Amazon
	Warren London Dog Sunscreen Spray Protection with Aloe Vera I Dog Skin Soother I Puppy Sunblock I...	$13.99	Buy on Amazon
	Epi-Pet K-9 Care Sunscreen, Paws to Tail Protection, Prevents Sunburns on Dogs and Horses, Sun...	$15.30	Buy on Amazon

• Provide additional insulation. Since they have no fur to provide them additional warmth during the colder months, hairless dog breeds must always wear a jacket outside even if it’s for a short walk.

10. Combination Coat

There are many breeds that have a combination of different dog coat types. The combination coat is described as a dog having longer hair in some parts of the body and shorter and softer fur in some areas.

Usually, dogs with a combination coat have longer hair on their tail, ears, legs and belly. The distribution of the short and long hair all over the body varies for each dog. Sometimes, you see the distinction between the type of coat, but sometimes it is more blended.

Breeds With A Combination Coat

• Cocker Spaniel
• Golden Retriever
• Border Collie
• American Water Spaniel
• Brittany Dog
• Tibetan Spaniel
• Australian Shepherd

How To Take Care Of A Combination Coat

Proper grooming and regular maintenance is a must for a combination coat. You have to take an approach that is appropriate for the texture and length of the coat. So, here are a few tips to help you take care of it:

• Brush weekly or daily. Depending on your dog’s activity level, brushing a combination coated dog should be done daily or weekly to prevent mats and tangles. And don’t forget to use a combination of tools to deal with both the longer and shorter hair.
• Trim when necessary. Since combination coated dogs have long hair in some parts of their body, it’s important to trim these areas occasionally.
• Don’t forget the ears! Since it’s more common for combination coated dogs to have longer hair around their ears, you have to make sure their ears are always clean and dirt-free. Don’t forget to monitor them too and look for any signs of infection or problems.

Conclusion

Understanding different dog coat types and knowing how to properly take care of them is an essential part of being a dog parent.

Taking care of your dog and its coat requires a lot of time, attention, and patience. But with the right attitude, tools, and products, not only will you be able to maintain your dog’s coat shiny and clean, but you’ll also keep them happy and healthy.

The research shows that the effect of having another pet friend in the household was five times stronger than other factors, such as financial and household stability, on a dog’s health.

The study, conducted by the Dog Aging Project (DAP), also mentioned that having other pets (non-canines) has positive contributions on a dog’s health.

Brianah McCoy, lead researcher of the study, told FOX, “We were really encouraged by the findings because it means there are things we can do to help improve the health of our animal companions, as well as us, without resorting to medical interventions. So having a friend around really matters – which I am sure we can all relate to.“

The findings of the research show other social environment components that affected and are associated with a dog’s health and lifespan.

A dog owners’ income is one of these components. The study suggests that an owner with a higher income was associated with better health.

Another one was an owner’s age. Older owners reported that their dogs were a lot healthier compared to younger owners.

Furthermore, dogs who lived in households that are more stable and with less children are reportedly healthier than those canines who lived with less stability and more children.

The researchers used survey and health data from 21,410 purebred and mixed-breed dogs between the ages of 2 and 25.5 years old.

McCoy said the goal of the study is to use this newfound knowledge so we can advocate for better health care and support for dogs, regardless of their age and background.

McCoy revealed, “We turned to dogs for this question because they share so much of our environment and lived experiences, but because of their shorter lives, we can study the environmental effects across the lifespan.”

The Dog Aging Project is a community science project that brings together a large community with the goal of carrying out researches to understand how genes, lifestyle and the environment influence canine aging and diseases outcomes.

When you bring your dog out for a walk, their paws touch all sorts of surfaces – from muddy puddles, snowy paths to concrete floors and hard rocks. Your dog’s paws go through so much every day!

And to help keep your furry friend’s paws in good shape and protected from a variety of surfaces and textures, dog paw balms are you and your dog’s paws best friend.

In this article, we’ll list down some of the best dog paw balms so you can make sure your pup’s paws are in tip top condition!

Other than these two, dog paw balms have many other benefits, including:

• Help alleviate or treat minor dog paw hyperkeratosis
• Provide a protective layer on the paw pads
• Moisturize paw pads
• Soothe irritated skin
• Treat different blisters, cuts, and burns not only on paws, but also on other areas like the nose

What To Look For In a Dog Paw Balm

There are a lot of dog paw balms available on the market right now. But of course, we’d want the best for our furry friends! So, here are a few things to look for and consider when choosing the most ideal paw balm:

Safe, Dog-Friendly Ingredients

Dog paw balms are made from different blends of ingredients. However, the most ideal paw balm for your pup should be made from dog-friendly and all-natural ingredients only.

Synthetic ingredients can cause further irritation to your dog’s paws and skin. So, make sure to look for paw balms that have ingredients like beeswax or botanical wax; olive, coconut, or avocado oil; shea or cocoa butter; and sometimes, even CBD oil.

Furthermore, make sure you are not buying paw balms with anything that your dog is allergic to. For example, if your dog has a soy allergy, look for balms that are soy-free.

It is multi-purpose

Just cause it’s called a “paw balm” doesn’t mean it can’t be used on your dog’s other body parts like their nose or elbows.

Dog paw balms that use all-natural ingredients are multi-purpose. Since they’re safe to use on your dog’s paws mean they can also be used on other body parts.

However, when you want to also use the paw balm on your dog’s nose, make sure it’s a fragrance-free balm, since a dog’s sense of smell is powerful.

Size and consistency of the product

Dog paw balms come in different sizes. So, when looking for one, always consider the size of your dog and how often you’ll apply the product. Of course, bigger dogs require more balms due to their large paws.

Furthermore, paw balms come in different consistency and formulas, too. Some come in squeeze bottles, tin containers, and some come in stick forms, like a deodorant or sunscreen stick.

It’s within your budget

And finally, when looking for a dog paw balm, you don’t only consider its ingredients, size and how well it works, but also the price. It must be within your budget! Paw balms prices can be around $10 to $25, depending on the size of the product.

5 Best Paw Balms For Your Dog

Here are our top five choices of dog paw balms. Browse the list below and find the most ideal choice for your budget and, of course, your dog’s paws!

1. Best Overall: Musher’s Secret Dog Paw Wax

It’s no secret that Musher’s Secret Dog Paw Wax works wonders for dog paws. Among all the dog paw balms in the market, this paw balm is simply our (and a lot of dog owners’) best overall choice. And it’s easy to see why!

Musher’s Secret Dog Paw Wax ticks all our boxes. It’s easy to apply, it doesn’t leave stains, it creates an invisible protection for dog paws, helps soothe and heal dry and cracked skin, and is made for any kind of weather, especially winter.

Furthermore, it is made from natural plant ingredients. It doesn’t contain any nut, soy and gluten, making it the perfect choice for pups that are allergic to such ingredients.

Preview	Product	Price
	Musher's Secret Dog Paw Wax 200 g (7oz) - Moisturizing Dog Paw Balm that Creates an Invisible...	$25.99	Buy on Amazon

2. Best Quality: Bodhi Dog Organic Paw Balm

This organic dog paw balm from Bodhi Dog is made from 100% USDA-certified organic shea butter, jojoba oil, beeswax, hemp seed oil and candela extract. And because of its high-quality ingredient, the product actually won the 2020 and 2021 Family Choice Awards for Pets.

It provides impressive protection against dryness and cracking. Additionally, it helps soothe irritated paws and also builds a protective layer on your pet’s paws with regular use.

Furthermore, a lot of dog parents say you don’t have to use it long enough to see visible results! Some reviews even called the product a “miracle”.

Preview	Product	Price
	Bodhi Dog Paw Balm | USDA Certified Organic | Natural Soothing & Healing for Dry Cracking Rough Pet...		Buy on Amazon

3. Best Organic: Paw Nectar Organic Dog Paw Balm

For organic and eco-conscious dog parents, the Paw Nectar Organic Dog Paw Balm is for you. This dog paw balm is made from 100% organic ingredients such as coconut oil, avocado oil, shea butter and botanical wax among other things.

Since it’s made from organic ingredients, it’s multi-functional and can be used on your furry friend’s skin, too. And because of the same reason, you don’t have to worry about your dog licking it off its paws.

Paw Nectar also claims that the product gives you immediate results, which is backed up with a lot of reviews from satisfied dog parents!

Preview	Product	Price
	Paw Nectar Dog Paw Balm - Heals, Repairs & Restores Dry, Cracked & Damaged Paws - 100% Organic &...	$14.99	Buy on Amazon

4. Best Value For Money: Pet Head Oatmeal Paw Butter

Pet Head Oatmeal Paw Butter will give you a lot of bang for your buck. Not only can it be used on your dog’s paws, but it can also be applied on your dog’s nose.

This affordable dog paw balm from Pet Head has a creamy and oatmeal scent. It is also made from high-quality ingredients such as shea butter and coconut oil to moisturize your dog’s paws, and vitamins E and aloe vera to treat dry and cracked skin.

Preview	Product	Price
	PET HEAD Oatmeal Paw Butter 2 fl. oz. Moisturizing Paw Balm, Soothes and Relieves Dry Cracked Paws...	$7.27	Buy on Amazon

5. Best Stick: Natural Dog Company Paw Soother Balm

Our best dog paw balm stick choice goes to Natural Dog Company Paw Soother Balm. This stick is a bit pricey but the quality of the product definitely justifies the price tag.

It is made in the U.S. and its vegan, dog-friendly ingredients are what helps moisturize and heal cracked paws. It also helps alleviate dog paw hyperkeratosis and offers instant relief if your furry friend has red and inflamed paws.

Furthermore, it is easy to apply since it comes in a handy stick package. And it is available in different sizes so you can conveniently bring it while traveling with your dog.

Preview	Product	Price
	Natural Dog Company Paw Soother Balm, 2 oz. Stick, Dog Paw Cream and Lotion, Moisturizes & Soothes...	$15.99	Buy on Amazon

How To Properly Use A Paw Balm

Using a paw balm is very easy and something every dog owner can do on their own. But knowing how to properly apply it will help in the effectiveness of the product.

See below on how to properly use a paw balm on your dog:

• Clean your hands first to avoid further infection
• If you must, clean your dog’s paw with a gentle cloth
• Rub or apply the balm onto the surface of the paw pads
• After applying the balm, give your dog a treat so they can associate the experience with something positive.
• Wait a few minutes for the balm to work its magic before letting your dog walk, play or run.
• Use the balm as often as directed on the packaging.
• Timing is important! Apply the balm when they’re sleeping/napping. This is when they’re most calm and they surely won’t lick the product off of their paws.

Conclusion

Dog paw balms are a great product to moisturize your dog’s paws and prevent dry and cracked skin. Additionally, with regular use, these topical products can help build a protective layer on a dog’s paw, making any outdoor adventure more fun and safe for your furry friend!

These days, a re-emerging trend among dog parents and dog lovers alike is dog yoga, also known as Doga. It is a way for health-conscious hoomans to combine exercise with pet bonding.

Whether you want to start doing yoga with your dog or is just curious about the ways of dog yoga, then you’ve come to the right place.

Continue reading to get to know more about this two-in-one activity here!

During the activity, your dog either gets to stretch or socialize with other furry friends and soak up the calming atmosphere of a yoga class.

Dog yoga or doga is a trend created by Jacksonville yoga teacher Suzi Teitelman in 2001. These days, the activity is becoming increasingly popular again among dog owners.

Benefits Of Dog Yoga

You may already be familiar with the many benefits of yoga for people. But did you know Doga also offers a lot of benefits, both for you and your furry friend?

Here are some benefits that might just convince you to try dog yoga:

It Improves Physical Health

For us hoomans, yoga is known to improve one’s physical health. Among other things, it increases our flexibility and muscle strength that helps protect us from injury.

Doga provides the same benefit for dogs. It’s an exercise that improves muscle mass and joints and helps increase heart rate and circulation.

Obese dogs and dogs that suffered from orthopedic injuries can hugely benefit from doing Doga.

It Strengthens Your Bond With Your Dog

Doga is proof that your dog is the perfect partner to help you stick to your exercise goals. Furthermore, it’s a relaxing way to spend time together and forges a stronger bond between you and your pup.

It Relaxes And Reduces Stress

Since yoga is all about focus and relaxation, the peaceful nature of the activity can also help calm down your dog.

Furthermore, if you are stressed, your dog can feel this too. So, if you and your dog do yoga, you can relieve the stress, anxiety and worry that the both of you are feeling.

It’s A Great Way To Socialize

Group Doga is a great way to interact with fellow fur parents and their furry friends! You get to do yoga with like-minded people and you get to socialize your dog.

Remember, socialization is important for dogs. It helps them become more confident and teaches them how to react to the world around them without unnecessarily becoming anxious or aggressive.

How To Safely Do Yoga With Your Dog

It’s never too late to start doing Doga. And if you’ve decided to have a go at it, then these safety tips will help you start your journey:

• ALWAYS consult a vet. This is very important. Dog yoga involves many different poses and stretches for your dog. So to ensure that they are healthy enough for yoga, check with your dog’s veterinarian first. We want our dogs to enjoy the activity with us and avoid any injury.
• Once your dog is checked by the vet, determine if you want to do Group Doga or if you want to do it at home.
• If you prefer to be in a class, check local yoga studios that offer Doga classes. And if they do, make sure to find out their limitations and/or rules regarding dogs.
• Before and during doing Doga, make sure your dog looks and feels comfortable. If you’re in a class, let your furry friend sniff and roam the room and get acquainted with other people and dogs.
• Always be gentle and careful when moving your dog into yoga poses. Be sure to only attempt easy and beginner-friendly poses to avoid injury.
• Always have treats with you. Whether you’re doing a Doga class with other fur parents or doing it at home, it’s best to reward your pup while learning yoga poses.
• Be patient and let your dog take the lead. Yoga sessions with your dog may not always go as planned, especially as beginners. So it’s best to take your time, be patient and go at your furry friend’s pace.

5 Doga Poses For Beginners

If you’re familiar with yoga poses, you’ll notice that there are poses that look similar with the way dogs stretch. So, to get started with Doga, here are five beginner poses you can try with your pup:

1. Downward Dog

This is one of yoga’s most well-known poses. It is where you stretch your whole body on all fours, similar to the way a dog stretches, hence the name.

To do this with your dog, let them lay down or stand up on a yoga mat and do the downward dog pose over them.

2. Chaturanga

Chaturanga, also known as Low Plank, is a transition pose between a plank and upward facing dog. To modify this pose for dog yoga, just lay your dog on their tummy and pet their back in long, slow strokes.

3. Heart-to-hound Mudra

The heart-to-hound Mudra is a great Doga pose to strengthen your bond with your dog. All you need to do is start seated with your dog (also seated) in front of you.

Place your left hand on your heart and the other on your dog’s heart. Focus on breathing and enjoy the serenity and growing connection between you and your pup.

Stylish Paws has an excellent example of this dog yoga pose on her blog that you can check out here!

4. Chair Pose

For this dog yoga pose, all you have to do is let your dog sit on their hind legs. Support their torso, if you must, and then let them breathe deeply.

5. Savasana

Savasana is often done for relaxation at the end of a yoga session. To do this with your furry friend, ask them to lay on their back and then stroke their exposes belly with long, slow strokes.

You can also lie beside your dog and close your eyes and relax.

Conclusion

As beginner yogis, you and your dog might not get Doga right the first time, which is completely normal! After all, dog yoga isn’t just to improve one’s health, but also to develop a greater bond between you and your dog.

Furthermore, always remember to go at your dog’s pace and make sure they are comfortable. Let them lead and don’t force them to do anything they don’t want to do.

With dog yoga, time spent with your furry friend is always time well spent. You’ll never know, with enough practice, Doga might just become you and your dog’s favorite bonding time AND exercise.

Does your dog have hairy paw pads? If yes, then it might be suffering from dog paw hyperkeratosis. If you look closely, you’ll see that the “hair” on your furry friend’s paw pads is not actually hair, but dry skin.

Dog paw hyperkeratosis, also known as hairy dog feet, is a skin condition that generally affects the paw pads and can cause discomfort and pain for our furry friends.

Continue reading below for a deep dive on dog paw hyperkeratosis, what causes it, what its symptoms are, how to treat it and how to prevent it altogether.

If you’re unfamiliar with keratin, it’s a protein that makes up hair, nails, horns, hooves and claws. So, when your dog’s body produces too much keratin, it can lead to hard, dry and crusty material growing on certain body parts.

While it can grow on dogs’ nose and (sometimes) ears, it can be most commonly found in dogs’ paw pads. And when it develops, it looks like hair that is growing out of your dog’s paws, hence the name hairy dog feet.

Furthermore, as it progresses, it can bring discomfort to your dog. So it’s best to always check your dog’s paw for extra hardened and dry skin, especially if it’s a senior dog.

Dog Paw Hyperkeratosis Causes

Dog paw hyperkeratosis is not contagious, but there are a variety of factors that can cause it. And they’re the following:

1. Genetics

Dog paw hyperkeratosis is a hereditary condition. Meaning, many dogs are genetically more prone to it than others. For example, Labradors can suffer from it because of a genetic defect called nasal parakeratosis.

2. Age

Contrary to what happen to us human beings, a dog’s skin thickens as they age, especially at the pressure points like paws. And this causes the formation of calluses that leads to dog paw hyperkeratosis.

3. Canine Distemper

One of Canine Distemper’s symptoms is dog paw hyperkeratosis. This life-threatening disease causes the thickening of the skin on the dog’s foot pads and sometimes even on the nose. That’s why canine distemper is sometimes referred to as hard pad disease.

It’s important to note that dogs that have been properly vaccinated against Canine Distemper as puppies are less prone to the skin condition.

4. Pemphigus foliaceus

This is a very common autoimmune disease found in middle-aged to older dogs. And it can make way for the development of dog paw hyperkeratosis.

5. Zinc deficiency

Some dog breeds are prone to zinc deficiency because they cannot naturally absorb this mineral through their food and other means. In turn, this can lead to zinc responsive dermatosis, which then turns to dog paw hyperkeratosis.

6. Leishmaniasi

This is a parasitic diseases caused by sandfly bites. And one of this disease’s signs is dog paw hyperkeratosis along with muscle pain, joint inflammation and swelling of the testicles.

Dog Paw Hyperkeratosis Symptoms

Hyperkeratosis in dogs, as mentioned above, affects the paws or nose. In rare cases, it can grow in other body parts like the elbows or ears. However, it is more commonly found in a dog’s paw pads.

When it first develops, dog paw hyperkeratosis looks like hair that is growing out of a dog’s paw pads. And as it progresses, the skin gets thicker, harder and crustier.

Aside from the dry, crusty and thick layer of skin, other symptoms of dog paw hyperkeratosis include:

• Cracks, fissures and bleeding
• Loss of skin color in the affected area
• Frequent licking of paws
• Limping
• Reduced physical activity
• Secondary infections

Like any other health problem, it’s important to detect dog paw hyperkeratosis as early as possible. This will help you immediately give your dog the proper attention and care it needs.

So, if you notice any signs of these symptoms in your dog, visit the vet immediately.

Dog Paw Hyperkeratosis Treatment

Unfortunately, once your dog gets hyperkeratosis, it’s unlikely to go away. And at the moment, there is no known cure for the condition, only ways to manage it.

Here are a few options you can opt for to help manage dog paw hyperkeratosis:

1. Treat The Underlying Disease

As mentioned earlier, dog paw hyperkeratosis is caused by a number of other health issues. If your dog has an underlying issue that’s causing the skin condition, the treatment should focus on curing that issue.

So for example, if your dog has pemphigus foliaceus, your vet will treat it with immunosuppressive medications.

2. Trim The Excess Skin

To ensure that hyperkeratosis doesn’t make your dog uncomfortable, it’s best to go to your vet to have the excess skin trimmed. And if you’re confident you can do it on your own at home, you can ask for the vet to show you how to do it properly and safely.

However, do NOT attempt to do this without a vet’s approval and guidance. Because if you do, it can do more harm than good.

3. Soak Your Dog’s Feet In Epsom Salt

A home remedy that you can easily do to help manage mild dog paw hyperkeratosis at home is through feet soaking.

Soaking your dog’s feet in warm water with Epsom salt for 15 minutes will help soften the excess keratin. Furthermore, the moisture from the soak won’t only soften the cracked skin but also relieve the pain caused by the skin condition.

After the feet soak, make sure to dry your dog’s paw thoroughly to prevent secondary infections.

4. Apply Ointment To Paws

A balm, ointment or butter designed for dog paws is an affordable yet effective way to manage mild dog paw hyperkeratosis.

Dog paw balms help moisturize the excess dry skin and alleviate your dog’s discomfort while walking or doing any physical activity. Furthermore, applying this two to three times a day can help improve your dog’s paws condition faster.

5. Consult Your Veterinarian

In severe cases, it would be best to ask your vet for the best course of action. Depending on the severity of the condition, they may prescribe topical or oral medications, moisturizers and exfoliant for secondary infections.

Dog Paw Hyperkeratosis Prevention

As it stands, there is no way to prevent hereditary hyperkeratosis. However, there are a few ways to stop the non-genetic type.

Here are a few tips to lessen the chances of the skin condition ever developing on your dog’s paw pads:

1. Regularly check your dog’s paws. It’s much easier to heal and manage hyperkeratosis if you can detect it during its early development.
2. Use a moisturizing balm. Even though your dog’s paw pads aren’t dry and crusty, it’s always best to keep them moisturized all the time. This way, they become less prone to hyperkeratosis.
3. Clip your dog’s nails. Doing this helps keep your dog’s paw clean and healthy. Furthermore, clipping your dog’s nails ensures that your dog’s nails won’t scrape the ground and cause accidents.
4. Use dog socks or boots. When going on a walk, it’s best to keep your dog’s paws clean and away from rough surfaces. The less irritated your dog’s paw pads are, the better.
5. Vaccinate your dog against Canine Distemper. As mentioned above, dog paw hyperkeratosis is one of the symptoms of this life-threatening disease. So, make sure to vaccinate your dog against it.

Conclusion

Dog paw hyperkeratosis might not be life-threatening or dangerous, but it’s still a health condition that should be taken seriously.

If not managed immediately and properly, it can cause major discomfort and pain for dogs, especially to the older dogs, and can hinder their daily activities. And we hope that this beginner’s guide can help you manage this skin condition so your dog can continue living a great and healthy life!

Oftentimes, dog walking is what they need for an effective exercise. It doesn’t only provide mental simulation and physical exercise, but also a chance for you to train and socialize your pooch.

But what do you do when it starts raining? No need to worry! Your dog can still go on his or her walk in the rain safely with a few essentials.

With the upcoming rainy season, it’s best to prepare your pooch for their walks, because they’re about to get wet!

Whether your furry friend loves or hates the rain, the five dog walking essentials we listed below will definitely get you through a rainy day walk!

Veterinarians and pet experts alike say that dog walking during rainy days is safe. The Head of Pets at Pets at Home and Veterinarian Dr. Karlien Heyrman explained to The Scotsman the safety of dog walking in the rain for all breeds and sizes. She said, “It’s actually important we make sure our pets are still getting their daily exercise, even in wet weather.”

However, pet parents should be mindful of how hard the rainfall can be and be well-informed about the precautions they should take in this situation.

5 Dog Walking Essentials On A Rainy Day

Walking your dog has a lot of benefits. But doing this on a rainy day can be a bit different, and at times, difficult.

With the five rainy day essentials listed below, dog walking for your little pooch will be as enjoyable, comfortable and safe on a rainy day as it is on a sunny day.

1. Dog Raincoat

A dog raincoat doesn’t only make your pooch extremely cute, but also keeps them dry and safe on a rainy day walk.

Especially for long-haired dogs, such as Samoyeds or Pomeranians, raincoats can keep their hair dry, and therefore prevent fur matting and knotting. And for short-haired dogs, such as Pugs and Dalmatians, raincoats can keep them warm on chilly and rainy days.

Furthermore, young and older dogs can also benefit from raincoats. This is because they can have a weak immune system and can easily catch a cold if they get wet from the rain.

Here are a few raincoat recommendations from Amazon that you’ll love!

#	Preview	Product	Price
1		HDE Dog Raincoat Hooded Slicker Poncho for Small to X-Large Dogs and Puppies Yellow - L	$24.99	Buy on Amazon
2		Lukovee Dog Raincoat, Adjustable Dog Rain Jacket with Clear Hooded Double Layer for Large Medium...	$20.99	Buy on Amazon
3		Reebok Dog Raincoat - Dog Coat with Hoodie, Waterproof Dog Rain Jacket for X-Small to Large Dogs,...	$17.99	Buy on Amazon

2. Dog Boots

Dog boots are a rainy day essential for dog walking you can’t miss, especially if you have an active furry friend. Not only will they keep your dog’s paw clean and out of harm’s way, but they’ll also keep your dog safe from puddles that may be contaminated with toxins or bacteria.

Dog boots are also a great idea for when you go hiking with your dogs. They can help your pooch get through rocks safely.

Furthermore, older dogs can also benefit from dog boots since they tend to drag their feet more than younger dogs, which in turn makes their paw pads more prone to scratches.

If you’re looking for the best dog boots, then check these out:

#	Preview	Product	Price
1		Dexas MudBuster Portable Dog Paw Cleaner - Premium Quality, Blue, Small Size for Pet Supplies and...	$14.95	Buy on Amazon
2		TEOZZO Dog Shoes for Hot Pavement, Anti-Slip Sole Dog Boots & Paw Protector Dog Booties with...	$9.99	Buy on Amazon
3		CovertSafe& Dog Boots for Dogs Non-Slip, Waterproof Dog Booties for Outdoor, Dog Shoes for Medium to...	$21.99	Buy on Amazon

3. Waterproof Leash

Waterproof leashes are your best friend on a rainy day. You can still maintain the grip on this type of leash even when it’s wet from the rain.

These waterproof leashes also do not get that musty odor you get from traditional leashes when they get wet. Furthermore, they are resistant to mold, which also grows more easily on a traditional, wet leash.

Furthermore, waterproof leashes can also be useful if your pooch loves splashing in the ocean, lake or pool! You don’t have to worry about the drying the leash before you can use it again.

Here are our waterproof leash recommendations on Amazon:

#	Preview	Product	Price
1		Kidding Pets Waterproof Dog Leash, 5/6 FT Durable Odor-Proof Dog Leashes with Strong Metal Hooks...	$9.99	Buy on Amazon
2		Long Leash Waterproof Training Longline Outdoor Dog Leash Great for Training, Beach, Yard, Play,...	$22.98	Buy on Amazon
3		Waterproof Dog Leash: Standard Dog Leashes with 2 Hooks for Walking, Adjustable Lengths for Traffic...	$14.89	Buy on Amazon

4. Reflective Harness

Dog walking on a rainy day can be uncomfortable for some dogs. And not to mention, the low visibility during the wet weather, which can be dangerous for our furry friends.

So it’s best to make your pooch as comfortable and seen as possible. And instead of the traditional collar, a reflective harness is a much better option for dog walking on a rainy day.

This will help your pooch stand out and be extremely visible, no matter the light conditions. Not to mention, they are more comfortable than collars.

Check out these great reflective harness options on Amazon:

#	Preview	Product	Price
1		PHOEPET No Pull Dog Harness Medium Reflective Front Clip Vest with Handle,Adjustable 2 Metal Rings 3...	$15.83	Buy on Amazon
2		rabbitgoo Dog Harness, No-Pull Pet Harness with 2 Leash Clips, Adjustable Soft Padded Dog Vest,...	$14.98	Buy on Amazon
3		ThinkPet No Pull Harness Breathable Sport Harness with Handle-Dog Harnesses Reflective Adjustable...	$22.99	Buy on Amazon

5. Absorbent Towel

On a rainy day, you can never be too sure that your pooch will stay dry. So, on the off chance that your dog will get wet, an absorbent towel becomes handy.

An absorbent towel helps absorb as much moisture as possible on a dog’s coat. And it can soak up about two to four times as much water than a regular towel.

So, after dog walking, it’s best to give your dog’s body a nice little rub using this towel as soon as possible. This will help dry your pooch sooner. And you don’t have to deal with a dog that shakes off all the dirty and muddy water from their fur at home.

If you’re looking to buy an absorbent towel for your furry friend, you can check these out!

#	Preview	Product	Price
1		Dogvingpk Dog Towels for Drying Dogs - Pack of 2 - Super Absorbent Soft Microfiber Pet Bath Grooming...	$18.99	Buy on Amazon
2		Bone Dry Pet Grooming Towel Collection Absorbent Microfiber X-Large, 41x23.5", Embroidered Gray	$11.50	Buy on Amazon
3		Shammy Dog Towels for Drying Dogs Large - 34" x 26" - Quick-Dry Technology Dries Dogs 2X Faster -...	$16.95	Buy on Amazon

Tips For Safe Dog Walking On A Rainy Day

Even if it’s a light drizzle, it’s always better to take all extra precautions you can while dog walking on a rainy day.

So, in addition to the essentials mentioned above, here are tips for a rainy day walk that’ll keep your dog safe and comfortable.

1. Keep the dog walk short. Keeping the duration of your walk shorter than normal is perfectly understandable, given the weather conditions. Shortening the time of your pooch’s walk during a rainy day will actually help limit the amount of problems they are exposed to.
2. When necessary, take an alternate route. In addition to the above mentioned tip, it’s best to look for another route that is less wet and will make the walk as short as possible.
3. Watch out for puddles. On a rainy day of dog walking, puddles are inevitable. And they may be fun to splash in, both for hoomans and doggos. But unfortunately, they’re not safe for our furry friends, especially large puddles. You’re not sure what kind of sharp, dangerous things are below the surface.
4. Do NOT let your dog drink rainwater. Rainwater is full of dirt and bacteria and is not safe for drinking. So, be more alert and don’t let your dog drink it.
5. Dry your dog thoroughly. While your dog may shake the water off of its fur, it’s always best to dry them thoroughly when they get home after walking. Aside from the absorbent towel we mentioned above, you can also use a hairdryer to ensure your dog’s whole body is dry.

Conclusion

Your dog’s safety on a walk should be one of your top priority, especially during the rainy season. And we hope that the essential items and tips we offered above will help make dog walking on a rainy day a little bit easier for you and your pooch.

However, if you see that your dog is visibly afraid or stressed to even set foot outside while it’s raining, then it’s best to wait it out. If they’re too anxious to walk in the rain, this can compromise their safety.

Furthermore, if it’s raining too hard, you can always cancel the walk and engage your dog in other fun indoor activities for the day so they still get their regular exercise.