Eliminate Canine Arthritis with Natural Alternatives

Holistic treatments that really work

Alternative pet medicine has gone mainstream. Explore some of the most common natural remedies for treating all stages of canine arthritis.

As dogs age, they're susceptible to some debilitating ailments, the most common of which are arthritis and joint degeneration. For those who are hesitant to treat their pets with conventional medicines that may carry harmful side effects, there is a variety of holistic alternatives that can be used alone or in conjunction with traditional treatments.

Natural supplements are a great starting point for the holistic treatment of canine arthritis. Below are some of the most common types:

Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate with MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) are renowned for lubricating and protecting stiff joints. Their anti-inflammatory properties can also help to reduce swelling. In addition to animal applications, glucosamine is also used by humans to reduce joint pain.
Omega 3 fatty acids, derived from flaxseed or fish oil, also help to reduce joint swelling and promote lubrication. As an added bonus, Omega 3 oils can result in a glossier, healthier-looking coat and can help overweight dogs shed excess pounds, which in turn relieves pressure on aching joints.
Enzymes and antioxidants also help reduce joint swelling, in addition to boosting your pet's immune system and improving circulation.
When administering supplements to your dog that are intended for humans, use this vet-recommended calculation: divide your dog's weight by 125, and then multiply that number by the recommended (human) dosage to determine what quantity your dog should receive.

In addition to supplements, there are a variety of other natural treatments and techniques that can help alleviate your dog's arthritis pain:

Canine acupuncture can be highly effective in reducing discomfort from hip dysplasia, joint stiffness, and damaged tendons. It can also help to improve circulation, promote the flow of oxygen, and release "feel-good" endorphins. Acupuncture is a cumulative treatment that works gradually over multiple sessions, so don't expect instant results after just one session.
Basic physical therapies, such as stretching, walks, and massage, can ease aching joints and promote lubrication. Hydrotherapy, which is physical therapy that takes place in water, can serve as an effective, low-impact remedy for canine arthritis.
Minor diet modifications can go a long way toward minimizing the impacts of canine arthritis. Certain substances found in regular dog food, such as wheat, corn, and soy, have been linked to increased swelling, pain, and weight gain. Choose an organic food that is free of these fillers.
When administered consistently, natural supplements and therapies can help to slow the progression of degenerative arthritis and improve the dog's quality of life. Be sure to check with a licensed veterinarian before treating your pet.

Be sure to visit our trusted friends Drs. Foster & Smith and Only Natural Pet to buy products mentioned here.

Effective Physical Aids for Arthritic Dogs

The signs of canine arthritis are relatively easy to spot-difficulty rising from a seated or lying position, a noticeable limp or change in gait, slowness or reluctance to engage in physical activities, and difficulty squatting, jumping, or climbing. The real difficulty begins after the diagnosis, when the pet owner is tasked with doing whatever they can to improve their dog's quality of life and preserve his dignity.

One of the most effective ways you can reduce the impact of arthritis on your dog's life is to invest in one or more physical aids to help preserve his mobility. You'll find a wide array of these aids on the market, designed to benefit dogs with all different types and stages of canine arthritis. Below, we've compiled a list of some of the most common solutions:

Orthopedic dog beds: Your ailing pooch will rest easier on an insulated, supportive surface. Orthopedic dog beds are designed with special therapeutic, egg-carton-shaped foam that reduces joint strain and evenly supports the animal's pressure points. You'll find a wide variety of styles, sizes, and price points.
Raised dog feeders: Stooping down to reach a food or water bowl can be difficult for a dog suffering from arthritis. Elevated bowl holders make it easier for your pet to get the nutrition and hydration they need. Place several around the house to prevent your dog from having to travel too far to eat or drink.
Pet lifts: If your dog is too heavy to carry, a pet lift can facilitate transport. Ideal for conveying your dog into cars or up steps, they're durable, easy to use, and cause no discomfort to the animal.
Pet ramps: For arthritic dogs, jumping up onto a bed, into a car, or in and out of a swimming pool can be incredibly painful. Durable pet ramps and pet steps open up a whole new world of possibility for your ailing pet. A wide variety of pet ramps are available-be sure to choose one that's designed to accommodate your dog's weight and size.
Dog Harnesses: Many dogs suffering from canine arthritis find traditional collars extremely uncomfortable. Ergonomic dog harnesses provide a more comfortable alternative, making it easier for your ailing pet to enjoy the walks and fresh air he needs.
Dog Sweaters: They're not just fashionable-they're functional, too! Anyone who's suffered from arthritis knows the cold weather can exacerbate joint pain. Keep your dog warm on chilly days by bundling him in a specially designed sweater or jacket.
Life Preservers: Dogs love to swim, but when they're saddled with joint pain, staying afloat can be a challenge. Invest in a canine life preserver that will allow your pooch to enjoy the water without requiring painful movements.
Non-slip Rugs & Treads: Arthritic dogs often have trouble staying steady on their feet when traversing slippery surfaces, such as waxed hardwood or tile. Make it easier for them to get around the house by strategically placing rugs on non-carpeted floors.
These easy, economical physical aids can help your arthritic dog lead a more fulfilling, happy life by increasing his mobility and reducing his pain.

Be sure to visit our trusted friends Drs. Foster & Smith and Only Natural Pet to buy products mentioned here.

Foods To Avoid

Everyone knows there are some foods that a dog should never eat. You don’t give a dog chocolate and you never let them dig in your trash. But, there are actually quite a few foods that can cause severe reactions, illness and even death if your dog eats them.

Some of those foods will be unsavoury to a dog – a natural protection against poisonous foods. However, some dogs either don’t have this instinct or don’t care, and in the case of some foods (like chocolate), they’ll try all the harder to get them.

The No Eat List

So, with all those processed foods and table scraps floating around your home, here is a list of foods you should never let your dog eat, no matter what:

Onions and Garlic – Releases sulfoxides and disulfides that can cause anemia as well as blood damage. Cats are even more at risk of this, but the risk is strong in both.

Baby Food – Can contain both garlic and onion powder, causing the same results.

Bones – Bones of any kind can chip or be swallowed, leading to obstructions, lacerations and intestinal blockage.

Cat Food – This is richer and fattier than most dog foods and has too much protein for a healthy dog to digest.

Chocolate and Caffeine – Caffeine, Theobromine, and Theophylline are all toxic to dogs, and can cause heart or nervous failure in large amounts.

Citrus Oil Extracts – Induces vomiting

Fat Trimmings – Causes pancreatitis

Grapes or Raisins – A toxin that has not yet be fully identified that can cause kidney damage has been associated with grapes and raisins.


Liver – Too much liver causes Vitamin A toxicity, weakening bones and muscles.

Hops – Causes increased heart rate, panting, fever, and seizures. Can even cause death.

Vitamin Supplements with Iron – Iron poisoning can damage organs throughout the body.

Macademia Nuts – Affects the digestive system, the muscles, and the nervous system.

Molds – Causes diarrhea and vomiting and can cause organ damage.

Mushrooms – Some mushrooms are toxic, causing system failure, shock, and death in severe cases.

Raw Eggs – The Avidin Enzyme in raw eggs can reduce Biotin absorption and lead to hair and skin problems. There is also the risk of Salmonella.Potato, Rhubarb and Tomato Leaves – There are oxalates in these plants that cause numerous digestive problems and can result in urinary problems.

Peaches and Plums – They can choke on the pits.

Persimmons – Seeds cause intestinal blockage and enteritis.

Raw Fish – Results in Thiamine deficiency. This will cause a loss of appetite and seizures and can even lead to death if it is fed to them regularly.

Salt – Causes dehydration and electrolyte imbalances which can impair the nervous system.

Yeast – Causes swelling and pain in the stomach, with the potential for rupture.

Xylitol – Causes liver failure

Alcohol – Even small amounts can cause organ damage and lead to possible coma or death.

The list above is only a list of those foods that have been found to cause direct, immediate damage to a dog’s organs. There is also a very real risk if you feed your dog excessive amounts of table scraps or if you over feed them in general.

As a dog owner, it is your responsibility to make sure your dog is well fed, but only with foods they need. Remember, they are happy to have whatever you feed them. Rich, potentially damaging fatty foods from your table can be just as bad in the long run as any of the above foods.

Professional Dog Grooming Tips

Keep your dog looking his best with our effective grooming strategies

No dog is too old or too young to begin a regular grooming regimen. Make your companion shine with these insider pet care tips.

Next to providing food, water, and shelter, keeping your dog well-groomed is one of the most important things you can do to ensure his health and happiness. We consulted with some of the industry's top dog grooming experts to get their insider tips for easy, effective canine care:

Be sure to brush your pet's coat each and every day. Not only will this keep his fur looking neat, it will also help to remove soil, prevent matting and tangling, and distribute beneficial natural oils throughout the animal's coat. No dog is too young to benefit from proper grooming, so begin the regular brushing process as early as possible. Conversely, an older dog can always be introduced to the pleasures of coat brushing, although he may need some time to get used to the sensation if he has never been groomed before. Set a regular time and process for brushing sessions so your dog will grow accustomed to the routine.
Nail trimming is another essential grooming activity. As a general rule, your dog's nails should be clipped at least once a month. Your local pet store will have several varieties on hand for different breed sizes. When cutting your dog's nails for the first time, proceed slowly and offer treats and praise at regular intervals throughout the process. Avoid clipping nails too short, which can cause undue pain. In addition to the regular nails, you may also need to trim your dog's "dewclaw." If he has a dewclaw (not all breeds do), it can be found above the paw on the inside of each front leg.
To prevent potentially harmful ear infections, it's important to keep your dog's ears clean. At least twice a month, look inside your dog's ears to ensure that the interior skin is pale pink in color. If you see any red, black, or brown skin, or if you detect an unpleasant odor, your dog may have an ear infection and should see a veterinarian right away. If everything looks good, you can proceed with cleaning the opening with a moist cotton ball. Avoid going too far into the ear canal. For dogs with mites, an over-the-counter ear mite medication can be applied.
Regular teeth cleanings should be performed at least twice a week to prevent the risk of cavities and canine gingivitis. Use toothpaste that's specially formulated for dogs and a soft-bristled toothbrush. If your dog has problems with plaque build-up or chronic bad breath, he may need to receive professional, vet-administered cleanings or tooth scalings periodically.

Puppy Housetraining Tips

Achieve best results with our results-oriented techniques

Teach your new pet the house rules with our tips for housetraining methods, feeding schedules, and motivators

When you bring a new puppy into the home, one of the first things you'll need to do is start the housetraining process. It's critical that you begin training early to prevent bad habits from forming. The first decision you'll need to make is which type of training method to use.

Paper Training
For small, indoor puppies, paper training is a popular solution. With this method, you'll place layers of newspaper in a corner (with cardboard or another protective material beneath). Encourage the puppy to eliminate on the paper, and then remove the soiled layer after each use.

Crate Training
Crate training is another popular method for housetraining. Purchase a crate that's just big enough for him to stand and turn around, and put a comfortable bed inside. Place your pup inside the crate and watch him closely-when he begins to pace in circles and sniff the corners of the crate, that's a cue that he needs to head outside.

Always take your pet outside after every meal, and before you return him to his crate. Over time, he'll come to associate elimination as a post-meal and pre-sleep behavior. Like humans, pups thrive on routine. Gradually, as your pet gains more bladder control, you can begin to extend the length of time he's confined to his crate.

Patience is key - never try to rush your pup into going to the bathroom. Don't engage in any play or other activities during these sessions-the goal is for him to associate these outings with relieving himself. Housetraining doesn't happen overnight; you shouldn't expect your puppy to achieve full housebroken status until he's approximately six months old.

Outdoor Training
If you live in a mild climate and there are no potential hazards to your dog, you might consider keeping him in a small, contained area out of doors. If using this method, you'll need to provide a sheltered area and plenty of food and water. The pup should be free to relieve himself on grass, dirt, gravel, or concrete. Don't line the shelter with carpet, wood, tile, or any other indoor flooring materials, or this will lead him to believe it's okay to eliminate on these materials inside your home.

No matter what housetraining method you choose, keep the following in mind:

Refrain from scolding your pup for mistakes
Always praise your pet each time he relieves himself in the designated area
Stick to a regular feeding and watering schedule and always follow up a meal with a bathroom trip
Never allow your puppy to relieve himself outside of his designated toilet spot
Don't allow your pup to roam the house freely without constant supervision

How to Choose the Right Organic Dog Food

Become an educated natural dog food consumer

Help your pet reap the benefits of natural dog food by knowing what to look for when evaluating different organic options.

These days, it seems every type of food has an organic alternative - and not just for human consumption. For green-minded pet owners, organic dog food has become a preferred choice. Organic dog food will cost a little more than traditional commercial varieties, but the investment in your pet's health, longevity, and quality of life is well worth the end result. Veterinarians and dog experts have touted its many benefits that help ensure the health and well-being of man's best friend:

Decreased allergies and skin irritation
Heightened energy levels
Stabilized body weight and reduced obesity levels
Improved digestive health
Stronger immunity to illness
Increased life expectancy
With the wide array of choices on the pet food market, how can you determine which is right for you? Below, we've compiled some tips for choosing the right type of organic sustenance for your dog:

Be aware of your dog's preferences and choose a food that suits them. If you know that he dislikes vegetables, for example, try a meat-based organic food.
Keep your pet's individual nutritional requirements and any pre-existing health conditions in mind when choosing a food.
Learn how to read and understand dog food labels. Beware of varieties that list such filler ingredients as wheat, cornmeal, and potentially toxic by-products. Organic dog food should contain no artificial preservatives or synthetic ingredients.
Include plenty of protein. Dogs need high levels of daily protein to ensure good health and optimum energy levels. Choose organic meats, fish, chicken, lamb, and poultry that list a meat meal as the primary ingredient (i.e. "chicken meal"). Steer clear of any meat that contains harmful by-products.
When choosing organic dog food, check for the presence of beneficial fats, such as chicken fat, sunflower oil, flax oil, and canola oil. Any food that lists Omega three and Omega six fats is most likely of a high quality. Steer clear of dog foods whose labels list vague fats, such as poultry fat, vegetable oil, and animal fat.
Ground veggies and grains will provide more health benefits to your dog than whole versions. Avoid dog foods that contain excess grains, wheat, or other fillers.
As always, be sure to consult with your veterinarian before switching your dog to a new diet. They'll be able to help you plan a nutritionally sound menu that will also delight your dog's taste buds.

Be sure to visit our trusted friends Drs. Foster & Smith and Only Natural Pet to buy products mentioned here.

8 Smart Tips for Selecting Dog Feeders and Waterers

Create a hygienic, ergonomic feeding environment for your dog

Not all dog food and water bowls are created equal. Explore the benefits of choosing the right ones, and then review our smart shopping tips before you buy.

A well-designed feeder and waterer are essential tools for any dog owner. Before you plop down that old plastic Tupperware bowl for your pet's next meal, you might want to consider upgrading to an improved feeding container. Veterinarians and dog experts have touted the benefits of giving your animal's meal presentation some extra attention:

Investing in a high-quality food and water bowl helps to promote better hygiene and cleanliness in your dog's feeding area. An easy-to-clean surface helps to prevent the build-up of germs and bacteria.
By using an elevated feeder and waterer, you'll eliminate the need for your dog to stoop down to eat and drink, helping to prevent back and neck pain. This is especially important for dogs suffering from canine arthritis or other mobility-impacting maladies. Raised food and water bowls encourage injured or immobile dogs to eat and drink more than they normally would, helping to promote proper nutrition levels.
Elevated feeders also help to promote healthier digestion, as it's much easier for a dog to swallow without taking in excess air. When the food and water bowl are placed on the floor, it's more likely that the dog will gulp during mealtime, which can lead to bloating and other gastric problems.
Messes are reduced with elevated feeders and waterers, since dogs don't have to lift their heads for proper swallowing.
When hunting around for the perfect dog feeder and waterer, keep the following shopping tips in mind:

If your schedule requires you to be away from the house for long periods of time, you might consider opting for an electronic dog feeder. These will automatically fill your dog's food bowl at pre-set intervals. Food is kept in an attached storage container to ensure freshness.
Be sure to choose a bowl that's big enough to accommodate at least one full meal's worth of food. The water should always be larger than the food bowl, as dogs need a large amount to ensure proper hydration. The size of your feeder and waterer should be relative to the size of your dog. For floppy-eared dogs, opt for a bowl with an inner rim to keep his ears from dangling in the food or water.
If you keep your dog's food and water bowls outdoors or in the garage and you live in a cold climate, you might want to consider using heated feeders. These will keep the food at a more palatable temperature and will prevent the water from freezing.
The best material for dog feeders and waterers is stainless steel. Not only is steel handsome and durable, it's also extremely easy to sanitize, preventing the build-up of germs and bacteria.
If you have a problem with frequent tip-overs, choose a weighted bowl with a non-skid rubber base.
To help ensure that food and water don't get mixed together, opt for two separate bowls rather than a one-piece partitioned bowl.
If you have more than one dog, purchase a separate set of bowls for each animal. Pets that share bowls are more liable to compete for more food or water, making it difficult to determine how much sustenance each is actually receiving.
To make sure your dog will always have a food and water bowl at their disposal, invest in two sets so you'll have a back-up when it's time to wash.

Treating Canine Arthritis with Joint Supplements

As dogs age, they become more susceptible to debilitating ailments, the most common of which is canine arthritis. With the same symptoms as the human equivalent, this joint disease is characterized by a loss of cartilage that causes pain, stiffness, and immobility in the knees, hips, elbows, and other joints. Impacting larger dogs more prevalently, canine arthritis can manifest itself in several different levels, from mild to severe.

Symptoms of Canine Arthritis
To facilitate treatment and pain relief, it's important to monitor your dog and catch the signs of canine arthritis as quickly as possible. Below are some of the indications that your pet may be suffering from this progressively debilitating condition:

Your dog may show a declining interest in walks and other physical activities.
You may notice that your dog becomes fatigued more quickly than usual.
Your dog may appear unwilling to climb stairs or jump up on elevated surfaces.
In the morning, you may notice your dog struggling to get up, and that his movements are stiffer than normal.
During walks, your dog may exhibit a noticeable limp.
It may seem to take your dog a long time to prepare to lie down.
Popular Joint Supplements
Depending on the progression of your dog's condition, you may consider treating his canine arthritis with a joint supplement. These medications work by lubricating the joints to reduce stiffness and pain. Before choosing the supplement that's right for you, take a few minutes to browse our list of some of the most effective and commonly used products:

Cosequin DSicon: Manufactured by Nutramax, this joint pain treatment is made from all-natural materials to improve your dog's quality of life. Recommended by leading veterinarians worldwide, Cosequin is renowned for the purity of its ingredients and its fast-acting pain relief.
ReMATRIX Soft Chews: This effective solution works by providing your dog with the necessary nutrients to build and strengthen cartilage, resulting in more fluid, less painful joints. An ideal choice for dogs diagnosed with severe canine arthritis, its active ingredients include Glucosamine, MSM, Creatine, Chondroitin Sulfate, Vitamins, Antioxidants, Hyaluronic Acid (HA), Collagen, and Flaxseed Oil.
Joint MAX: An innovative treatment for canine arthritis, this relatively new medication is formulated with Glucosamine, Chondroitin, Vitamin C, zinc, and N-acetyl-cysteine for joint health. Available in a chewable, good-tasting tablet, Joint MAX is highly palatable to most dogs. This over-the-counter medication is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Cosequin Multi Once-A-Day Supplement for Dogs: This widely used daily supplement is rich in the vitamins and minerals needed to reduce joint pain in arthritic dogs. It also promotes an overall enhanced sense of well-being in your pet.
ProMotion: A good-tasting nutritional antioxidant, ProMotion works to lubricate your dog's aching joints and to reduce stiffness. With glucosamine as its active ingredient, the tablets are tasty and easy to ingest.
Nupro: This all-natural solution works to alleviate arthritic pain by promoting the health and flexibility of joint tissue. Rich in essential vitamins and minerals, the dietary supplement can be added to your dog's food and water for easy ingestion. Active ingredients include flaxseed, calcium citrate, bee pollen, Norwegian kelp, yeast culture, and garlic concentrate.
Original Glyco-Flex: This effective joint treatment is made from glucosamine, extract of perna mussel, and Dimethylglycine (DMG), which promotes healthy circulation and oxygen flow. Dogs find the tablets' smoky flavor appealing.
Duralactin: This anti-inflammatory pet medication and nutritional aid is formulated primarily from MicroLactin, a special milk protein that reduces joint swelling without causing intestinal irritation. The all-natural treatment includes only all-natural, food-grade substances.

Dog Food Allergies

It is estimated that 10% of all allergies in dogs are food related, coming in third behind flea bite allergies and inhalant allergies. And of all the scratching and itching in dogs, food allergies are estimated to cause 20% of the issues out there.

But, how do you know if your dog has a food allergy or what to do about it? It’s not like they can tell you, “hey, this dog food is making me itch.” It quickly becomes your job to pay close attention to their behaviors and make any necessary adjustments.

Identifying Dog Food Allergies

Unfortunately we don’t know much about how the antibodies are developed, what happens in a dog’s digestive tract, or how it develops as they age. We do know, however, what we need to do to fix the problem and help our dogs feel better.

For the most part, dog food allergies can occur at any point in a dog’s life, after 5 months and as late as 12 years of age, and there is no link between any particular breed, sex, or medical history. Generally, however, dogs with food allergies may also have other forms of allergies.

Also, remember that there is a difference between food allergies and intolerances. If a dog is intolerant of a food, it will often cause diarrhea and vomiting, while allergies result in itching and red skin. Both can be treated similarly, though intolerances can be more dangerous.

Common Foods

A dog can become allergic to any number of foods, but the most common foods are going to be meats like beef, chicken, fish, and lamb, and other foods that tend to appear in their food like dairy products, chicken eggs, wheat, corn, and soy.

Generally speaking, dogs will not be allergic to foods they don’t normally come into contact with. Exposure amounts and the proteins that they eat are generally related, similar to how human beings tend to develop allergies to foods they eat as a young child.

Symptoms of Allergies

IMG_0694The standard symptoms of food allergies in dogs start with itchy skin around the face, feet, legs, ears, and the anus. They may also suffer from severe recurring ear infections, loss of hair, hot spots, and infections that recur after antibiotics are completed.

The problem with diagnosing a food allergy is that the symptoms are very similar to a dog having a standard allergic reaction to fleas or inhalants, such as pollen. Yeast infections in the ears is a common sign of food allergies, however, along with severe skin problems and year round symptoms.

Handling a Food Allergy

To deal with a food allergy, you’ll need to use a food trial test. This is a long, careful process that starts with removing all outside sources of food from your dog’s diet. Remove all treats, rawhides, medications with flavours, toothpastes, and other foods from their diet.

Then, put them on a strong protein heavy diet that will be prescribed by your vet. You’ll leave them on this diet for 12 weeks and then reintroduce their normal diet to them. If that food then causes recurrence of the symptoms, you can start determining which foods in their diet are causing it.

Because a dog cannot simply say “I don’t feel well”, this method is vital. Blood testing is also available, but will only pick out certain recognized antibodies and is not as accurate as trial testing.

If you’re concerned about your dog’s health, make sure to see your vet right away to discuss the potential of food allergies.

5 Common Dog Allergies

Learn to spot and diagnose symptoms of your dog's allergic reactions

Like humans, dogs can suffer from irritating and potentially dangerous allergies. Learn about the most common allergy types to help ensure your pet's health and safety.

Humans aren't the only ones who suffer from bothersome or health-impacting allergies. Man's best friend is also susceptible to an array of allergic reactions. There are five common sources of allergies that most predominantly impact dogs:

Contact Allergies: If your dog has ever developed an itchy rash or redness in a localized area, he most likely was experiencing a contact allergy. These can be caused by a variety of triggers, including reactions to flea collars or bedding materials. Although it can be a challenge to determine the source of a contact allergy, treatment is usually as simple as removing the allergen from the dog's environment.
Flea Allergy: If a dog is allergic to fleas, the pest's bite can cause severe itching and irritation. Symptoms include vigorous scratching that may lead to bleeding or loss of hair. The biggest danger is the potential for infection at the site of the scratches. This reaction is most commonly seen in the dog's hindquarters, in front of the tail. The most effective methods of treating flea allergies are preventing contact with fleas, administering vet-prescribed medication to provide relief from the allergic reaction, and monitoring any open sores for infection.
Bacterial Allergy: The presence of some types of Staphylococcus (Staph) bacteria on a dog's skin is normal and usually harmless, unless the dog develops an allergy to the bacteria. In this case, the reaction usually manifests itself with patchy areas of hair loss in small, round areas. See your veterinarian to obtain an antibiotic to treat the lesions. Long-term treatment may involve the administration of a Staph antigen.
Inhalant Allergy: The most widespread dog allergy is of the inhalant variety. There are a variety of airborne substances, such as grass pollen, tree pollen, ragweed, mold, mildew, and dust mites, which can trigger allergic reactions in dogs. Instead of exhibiting the respiratory symptoms that humans experience, a dog's primary symptom is severe itching. Because of the large number of potential irritants, many of which are seasonal, it can be difficult to isolate the cause. Depending on the diagnosis, your veterinarian may recommend anti-inflammatory therapy, shampoo therapy, or hyposensitization.
Food Allergy: Like humans, dogs can develop allergies to different types of foods at any point throughout their lives. A protein allergy is the most common type, manifesting itself as a reaction to beef, chicken, turkey, or pork. Common symptoms include itching, wheezing, and digestive problems. Your vet can help you test your dog for a certain type of food allergy by prescribing a special hypoallergenic diet.

Tips for a Safe Raw Food Diet

Feed your dog the way nature intended

Before starting your dog on a raw-food diet, explore our tips for planning a safe, well-rounded menu of protein-rich meats, vegetables, and dairy products.

Once dismissed by many as a transitory fad, the practice of feeding dogs a raw-food diet is now embraced by millions of pet owners across the world. Widely known as "BARF" (an acronym for "Bones and Raw Food"), the diet caters to canines' carnivorous side with a nutritional regime of raw, protein-rich foods, including chicken, beef, fish, and lamb, among others. Raw bones, eggs, and dairy products are also components of the diet.

Advocates of BARF herald the many benefits enjoyed by dogs who partake of the raw-food diet, including:

A reduction in food-related allergic reactions
A decrease in flatulence and an overall healthier digestive system
A glossier, more lustrous coat
Cleaner teeth and more pleasant breath
Fewer carbohydrates, which can help to reduce weight gain, diabetes, and other problems
A preservation of beneficial nutrients that are often removed during the cooking process
Before implementing a raw-food diet for your dog, observe the following tips to ensure your pet's safety and well-being:

Start out slow. Introduce small amounts of raw food in combination with cooked meat at first, and then gradually increase the ratio of raw to cooked. This gradual introduction will help eliminate potential digestive problems.
For best results, opt for organic meat and vegetables. Remember that pork should never be served raw.
Serve raw meat in small, easily digestible pieces.
To ensure that you're always serving your pet the freshest possible meat, freeze it in small pieces and defrost only as much as you'll need for each meal.
If raw meat is discolored or has a questionable odor, never feed it to your dog.
Eating sessions should be kept to a maximum of 15-20 minutes. Any unconsumed portion of the meal should be disposed of immediately.
To prevent allergies and keep your dog's diet interesting, try feeding him different raw foods each day. Provide samples of various meats and vegetables for a healthy, well-rounded menu.
Supplement your dog's raw-food diet with a daily multi-vitamin that provides the recommended amounts of minerals. Be sure to choose a vitamin tailored to your dog's age, size, and activity level.
With a little foresight and planning, you can dramatically increase your dog's appearance, energy levels, and overall health by sticking to a raw-food diet. It may take a few extra minutes each day, but your pet's well-being is well worth it.

The Basics of Electronic Fencing

Protect your dog with the an outdoor containment system

Keep your dog within his boundaries by installing an electronic fence-but be sure to educate yourself on the basics of this innovative technology

We've all seen the signs posted in neighbors' yards marking the presence of an "invisible fence" to contain the resident dog. But how exactly do these fences work? And what should a pet owner know about them before making the decision to install one?

Electronic fences have been on the market for more than three decades, although they've seen several changes in design and technology since then. An underground wiring system is installed around the perimeter of the lawn, and your pet is outfitted with a transmitter that attaches to his collar. When the unit is activated, the dog will receive a mild electronic shock if he crosses the pre-set boundaries. Most models also include an audible signal that serves as a warning before the shock is administered.

For many pet owners, electronic fences provide a quick, cost-effective solution for pet containment. Building a physical fence can be a time-consuming and expensive endeavor, and some communities require permits and paperwork before construction can begin. An electronic fence can usually be purchased and installed for less than $500. There's a benefit for the dog, too: they enjoy the freedom to roam within their own property without being tethered by a leash.

Below are some things to consider before and during the installation of an electronic fence:

If the pet's collar is removed, or if the transmitter is detached from the collar, the electronic fence won't work.
Keep in mind that passersby won't initially know about the existence of the invisible fence, and may become startled by your free-roaming dog. Do your best to post a sign in a prominent place.
Be sure to engage in the recommended training methods before trusting your dog to remain within the boundary. Different dogs exhibit different reactions and sensitivities to the signal and shock. Carefully read the installation and training instructions that come with your system. Some dealers offer free training with your purchase. It's recommended to keep the initial sessions brief-a few minutes a day for 7-10 days. Small flags are used to mark the boundaries around the yard so the dog knows where he needs to stop.
Keep in mind that although your dog can't cross the boundaries, other animals can enter and leave your yard as they please, so you should take measures to prevent fighting and confrontation.
Electronic fences are generally most suitable for larger breeds of dogs, as the mild shock is less likely to cause injury.