Category: Best Dog Blogs

Should You Really Be Letting Your Dog Sleep In Bed With You?

Posted on by Orla O'Keefe

Should You Really Be Letting Your Dog Sleep In Bed With You?

Picture this: you’re all settled into bed and you hear the familiar pitter patter of paws in the hall. Then comes the jump up on the bed and soon enough your dog is snuggled right under the covers the with you. If this feels like a familiar scene, you aren’t alone. Countless dog owners let their furry friends sleep with them. But the question is, should you really be letting your dog sleep in bed with you?

We’ve got the answers.

Pros

Bonding

Over 71% of pet owners let their pets occasionally share their bed. And now researchers say that if you’re already in that percentile, there is no need to stop – especially if everyone sleeps soundly. There are numerous psychological benefits to the feelings of safety and warmth that a pup provides while in bed.

Happiness

Certain research has shown that both you and your pup might benefit from cuddling in bed together. Touching or petting benefits increases oxytocin levels in humans’ brains. Oxytocin, also known as the ‘cuddle chemical’, helps increase our feelings of safety and trust.

Pack-Mentality

If you have more than one pup, sharing the bed can be an awesome way to increase the pack-mentality of the group. Wild dogs sleep together in the wild as a pack and the same rings true for domestic pups.

Cons

Health Issues

If you suffer from any allergies or asthma, it’s probably not a good idea to let your dog sleep with you. Furthermore, some research says that dogs can bring potentially harmful bacteria and viruses to bed – including fleas and ticks.

Sleep Interruption

One of the biggest cons to having your pup sleep with you is that they can cause serious sleep disturbance – especially if you or your dog moves around a lot.

Dominance Problems

This can be a con if your dog already has an issue with the family hierarchy. Sharing a bed with a hierarchical-challenged dog may make matters worse. But if your dog doesn’t exhibit any these tendencies, you should be in the clear.

Love Killer

If you share your home (and bed) with another human, adding a pup in there can kill the romance. This may especially true for energetic puppies or bigger dogs that love to sleep right in the middle of you.

Trouble Boarding

An often glossed over con for co-sleeping with your dog is that it makes it hard to travel with or without them. If they aren’t comfortable in a crate, it may be more difficult to find a dog sitter willing to share their own bed. It may also be harder to find a hotel that either allows dogs or with a big enough bed.

The Verdict

The verdict here is that it is generally fine to share your bed with your pup – as long as you’re sleeping well. If you suffer from insomnia or generally have trouble sleeping, a dog in the bed is only going to make matters worse. And, if you have any allergies or asthma, consider nixing the bed-sharing.

But, there are numerous benefits to sleeping with your pup. You get increased levels of oxytocin and your dog gets a sense of love and security. Plus, it makes cuddling with your pup a whole lot easier.

8 Reasons Your Dog May Be Limping

Posted on by Orla O'Keefe

8 Reasons Your Dog May Be Limping

Dogs are resilient creatures – so when we see them limping in pain, we know something is wrong. While you may think a limp simply means a sprained muscle or broken bone, that’s not always the case. Here are 8 reasons your dog may be limping.

Broken Nail

If you’ve ever suffered from a broken nail, you know painful they are. Well, the same goes for dogs – especially since they have to walk on them! If the pain is severe, the dog will begin to limp. A broken nail can be caused by a tear or if it gets caught on something. Keeping your pups nails trimmed is a great way to avoid a broken one, especially since broken nails can become infected.

Torn Pad

A very common reason dogs limp is from torn pads. A torn pad can be caused by walking on rough terrain, walking too long on rough or hot surfaces – like dirt or sad – or making sharp turns. Active dogs tend to suffer from torn pads more often since they are on their paws more. If you notice a tear in your pups paw, consult your veterinarian.

Broken Bone

A broken bone is a serious cause of limping. Some broken bones are severe enough that they are obvious but others – like small fractures – may go unnoticed. A symptom of a fracture or broken bone is lameness and limping. If you suspect your dog may have a broken bone or a fracture, contact your veterinarian immediately. If caught early, they typically heal properly.

Panosteitis

A condition in some large breed dogs and puppies, Panosteitis (or Pano), occurs as these pups grow between the ages of 5 and 18 months. Although it’s cause is unknown, Pano is a type of bone inflammation that can last for several months – switching from one leg to the other. There is no treatment other than pain management. Common breeds that suffer from Pano are German Shepherds, Great Danes, Labrador Retrievers, and Golden Retrievers.

Elbow Dysplasia

Elbow dysplasia may cause limping in one or both of the front legs. Some dogs may go their entire lives without any symptoms of elbow dysplasia but others may show symptoms early on. It can only be diagnosed by a veterinarian using a radiograph and they will prescribe treatment based on the severity.

Hip Dysplasia

Dogs that suffer from hip dysplasia may go their entire life without any pain but some may start to show signs of limping at an early age. This disease can only be diagnosed by a veterinarian using a radiograph and they will offer treatment options depending on the severity.

Muscle Tear or Sprain

Another common cause of limping is a CCL tear. A CCL tear is a “tear in a cranial cruciate ligament that attaches the femur to the tibia.” A CCL tear is quite common and is typically found in overweight dogs that play and chase other dogs or toys. Canine athletes are also at risk. Similar to ACL tears in people, CCL tears are extremely serious and painful and require immediate veterinarian attention.

Bone Cancer

One of the more serious causes of limping is bone cancer, or osteosarcoma. These tumors can be extremely painful growths and may even be too small see without a radiograph. Veterinary care is extremely important as this type of cancer spreads quickly. A loss of the limb is a common result of bone cancer.

If you suspect your dog is suffering from any of these, contact your veterinarian immediately.

12 Tips to Get The Most Out Of Going To The Dog Park

Posted on by Orla O'Keefe

12 Tips to Get The Most Out Of Going To The Dog Park

One: Make Sure They’re Well Behaved On-Leash

Before you attempt to take your dog to the dog park and let them run off-leash, make sure they’re well behaved on-leash. 

Because there are a lot of new things to see and smell at the dog park, your pup might be tempted to behave erratically.

If your dog doesn’t behave on-leash, they’re not ready for the dog park. 

Two: Know Where They Are At All Times

Dog parks are big, open, and full of dogs. It’s ultra easy for your dog to wander away. They can go out of sight without you even noticing. 

Because of the general confusion at dog parks, it’s a must to keep track of your pup. 

Rover.com

Three: All Introductions Done On-Leash First

When dogs meet, they like to be on equal footing. When one dog is leashed and the other isn’t, it can make the leashed dog fearful or defensive. 

It will also let your dog know that you’re in control of the walk, their behavior, and their protection. 

Four: Practice Off-Leash At Home First

If you have a yard, or a small area at home where you feel safe, let your dog practice being off-leash there. 

If they have any doggie friends, bring them over to practice with your pup. This gives your dog the opportunity to be off-leash with other dogs around. 

Five: Try Off-Leashed In A Fenced Area

Go away from your yard to a place with a secure fence. Tennis courts and baseball fields are good for this. Let your dog off-leash to practice for the park. Look for triggers of bad behaviors and correct them in practice. This can help save your dog’s life. 

Rover.com

Six: Make Sure They’re Mind Their Manners First

If your dog is misbehaving in the practice areas, do not go to the dog park until you feel they are reasonably perfect. 

Seven: Pay Attention

Cesar Milan is fond of saying that most dog park problems come from owners “checking out” once their dogs start to play. They get lost in conversations, texting or emailing, or watching videos on their phone. Even well behaved dogs can get spooked and dart away. For your dog’s safety, pay attention at all times. 

Eight: Practice Commands

The more familiar and efficient your dog is following commands, the safer they’ll be at the park. 

Nine: Watch For Over-Possessiveness Or Guarding

Being around strange dogs can trigger your dog to resource guard. This leads to a lot of fear biting and fear-aggressive incidents. If you notice your dog becoming possessive of a toy, ball, or any other object, step in and correct them. 

Ten: Praise Good Behavior

Every minute at the dog park, and right after, is an opportunity to reenforce good behaviors. Make sure you correct the bad, but praise and reward the good as well. 

Eleven: Watch Water Intake

Dogs can easily slip into dehydration when at the dog park. There is a lot of excitement and activity. Make sure your dog is drinking water while you’re there, and that they take breaks as needed. 

Twelve: Exercise Away From The Park Too

Don’t rely on the dog park for your dog’s exercise. There is a lot of physical activity, but there’s also a lot of energy and excitement. Walking is still needed. Walking to the park, especially if the walk is 10-mins or more, is a great way to exercise and drain excess energy from your pup to prevent behavior problems while running around the dog park. 

Senior ‘Dog Prom’ Helps Older Adoptable Dogs Find Forever Homes

Posted on by Orla O'Keefe

Senior ‘Dog Prom’ Helps Older Adoptable Dogs Find Forever Homes

For senior shelter dogs, life is a little tougher. They often get overlooked for the younger, more vibrant dogs or the too-cute-for-words puppies. But there is something about an older dog that makes them a little extra special. And thanks to a group in Florida that threw them a ‘dog prom’, they got their time to shine.

The prom, hosted by The Dog House, brought 40 senior shelter dogs – ranging from 5 to 20 years old – together from 13 animal rescues in the Tampa Bay area. The pups dressed to the nines – wearing fancy outfits and flower crowns – all in hopes of getting adopted.

ROVER.COM

Many people think that senior dogs come with potential health issues and are hesitant to add them to the family.

In fact, according to a Petfinder.com survey, the typical shelter pet spends around 12 weeks on their website before finding a home. Senior dogs, though, spend nearly four times as long on the site.

While there is the possibility that senior dogs come with health issues, they also tend to have a solid training foundation, a milder temperament, and an easier transition into family life than an adolescent dog or puppy. Older dogs are also wonderful for families that live less active lifestyles.

So The Dog House wanted to do something about it. They wanted to show that senior dogs still have a lot of life left in them – and that they can still rock a prom dress.

“We wanted to have an event that not only included senior adoptable, but put the spotlight on the them,” Kelli Chickos said.

And the event proved to be a success – six dogs found their forever homes!

The Best Names For Your German Shepherd Dog

Posted on by Orla O'Keefe

The Best Names For Your German Shepherd Dog

DOGTIME.COM

In addition to their striking beauty, German Shepherds are extremely intelligent, spunky, loyal, and an overall joy to be around. If you recently added a German Shepherd to your family, be ready for a lifelong companion full and personality and zest. But now comes the hard part – what are you going to name them? If you’re completely stumped on what to name your German Shepherd – we’re here to help. Below are some of the best names for both female and male German Shepherds!

Female

Athena

Greek goddess of wisdom and warfare and the daughter of Zeus.

Asia

Of Greek origin meaning “sunrise.”

Belle

“Beautiful” in French.

Brownie

A popular dessert, also refers to the dark colors of a German Shepherd.

Cleopatra

Of Greek origin meaning “glory of the father” and was the name of the queen of Egypt.

Dixie

A southern name, Dixie is often used as a name for spunky dogs. Also a term for the whole American South.

Elle

Of French origin and means “she.”

Evita

Evita is of Hebrew origin and means “living one.”

Kasha

Typical spelling of the Polish name “Kasia” and means pure and beautiful.

Leena

Leena is of Muslim origin and means “tender.”

Maxie

Of English origin and means “the greatest.”

Millie

Millie is a Latin name and means free-born and noble.

Nikita

A Russian name, Nikita means “victory of the people” and “unconquerable.”

Olive

Perfect for laid-back German Shepherd, Olive is a Latin name that means “symbol of peace.”

Petra

Derived from the Greek work “petros” which means “stone, rock.”

Ruby

Typically refers to the gemstone, ruby comes from the Latin word “ruber” which means red. It’s the birthstone for the month of July.

Sadie

Sadie is a derivative of Sarah and means “princess.”

Sage

Of English origin, Sage means “wise one.”

Tasia

Tasia is a Greek name that means “resurrection.”

Venus

The Roman goddess of love.

VETSTREET.COM

Male

Axel

A Scandinavian name, Axel means “father of peace.”

Apollo

Apollo was the son of Zeus and the god of prophecy, beauty, and wisdom.

Bruno

A German name, Bruno comes from the word “brun” which means shield or armor.

Captain

Of English origin, captain means “he who is in charge.”

Duke

Duke is an English name and used as royalty title.

Dakota

Can refer to the indigenous Native American tribe and translates into “friend” or “friendly” – perfect for a laid-back, friendly German Shepherd.

Falcon

Of English origin, a falcon was regarded as a symbol of spend and courage during the Middle Ages.

Hudson

Thought to be related to the Old Saxon name “Hugh” that comes from the German word “hug”, which means “heart, mind, spirit.”

Jack

A common name during the Middle Ages, it became a slang word for “man.”

Kuma

Kuma is the Japanese word for “bear” – perfect for a big, fluffy German Shepherd.

Max

Short for both Maximilian, meaning “greatest” and Maxwell, meaning “great spring.”

Nova

Of Latin origin, the name Nova means “new, young.”

Napoleon

Of Italian origin, Napoleon often refers to the famous Napoleon Bonaparte.

Orion

Orion is a Greek name meaning “rising in the sky” or “dawning.” In mythology, Orion was a hunter and son Poseidon. Also refers to the constellation.

Radar

Perfect for a German Shepherd pup with big ears!

Rusty

Often used as a nickname for red-haired people or dogs.

Tarzan

A fictional character, the name Tarzan was made famous by the movie “The Legend of Tarzan.”

Thor

Of Old Norse origin meaning “thunder.” Also refers to the Norse god of strength, war, thunder, and storms as well as the son of Odin.

Viking

Viking is of Old Norse origin and means “raider.” Also refers to the pirates and traders who settled in parts of northwestern Europe during the 8th and 11th centuries.

Zorro

Zorro is Spanish for fox – perfect for a clever and sly German Shepherd.

Ultimately what you name your new pup is up to you. But if you’re scrambling for one and need some help – consider one of these unique names for new German Shepherd pup!

Science Tells Us What Dogs Actually Mean When They Look Guilty

Posted on by Orla O'Keefe

Science Tells Us What Dogs Actually Mean When They Look Guilty

You know the look – the one your dog gives when you raise your voice or scold them. The sad eyes, the low head, and a general sense of guilt about them while they are surrounded by a mound of trash or ripped couch cushions. But do they actually feel guilty? Science is here to explain.

While dogs don’t necessary feel guilt like humans do, when a dog is scolded or reprimanded, they do become submissive.

The act of cowering originated as a survival tactic from their wolf ancestors. Animal behaviorists refer to this as an “apology bow”.

According to molecular biologist Nathan H. Lents, young wolves use apology bows when they begin social integration. Since wolves and dogs play similarly, young ones use playtime to learn the pack’s rules.

BLOGS.SCIENTIFICAMERICAN.COM

When a frisky wolf bites too hard, they will be snubbed by the rest of the pack for their bad behavior. And in order to return back to the pack, the young wolf must use the “apology bow”.

The same is true for dogs.

Lents, who works at the City University of New York, said, “Dogs have inherited this behavior and they will use it after any kind of infraction that results in being punished. As social animals, they crave harmonious integration in the group and neglect or isolation is painful for them.”

The physical signs of a dog being reprimanded include lowering their head to avoid eye contact and putting their tail between their legs – and they will stop panting. These are similar to how a young, low-ranked wolf submits to a dominant one.

A 2009 study done on the “guilty dog look” found that dogs had the guilty look when their owners yelled at them – even if they didn’t do anything

PETHEALTHNETWORK.COM

And while it’s not necessarily an admission of guilt, their submissive behavior basically means they just want to be part of the pack again. Besides, who can resist those sad, guilty eyes?

Dog Who Lived In An Empty House Cannot Believe He Has New Family

Posted on by Orla O'Keefe

Dog Who Lived In An Empty House Cannot Believe He Has New Family

Imagine spending your days in an empty house. You stare out the window watching cars drive by. So many pass but none pull into the driveway. That was life for a German Shepherd mix named Ham. Ham’s owners left him at their second house because they claimed they had no time for him, he escaped from the yard, and shed too much.

When Lisa Heart, a volunteer for the Special Needs Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation Northeast, learned about Ham’s situation, she was heartbroken. She found out about the pup after she heard his owners asking around if anyone wanted a dog.

Heart knew she had to do something. She, along with a few other volunteers, took Ham on day trips to provide the lonesome dog with some company.

Ham would cry every time he had to go back to the empty house.

Heart worked tirelessly to find Ham a home. If she wasn’t able to find a home in time, he would have to make his way to a shelter – not the best place for a shy dog like Ham. Heart was unable to foster him as one her dogs was bitten by a German Shepherd and could not be around them.

Just when she was about to give up hope, a miracle happened.

Neil Abramson, an author and prominent activist and attorney for animal welfare, found Ham’s story on The Dodo and realized Ham was located only 20-minutes away in White Plains, New York. He knew he had to do something.

Abramson picked up the phone and called Heart.

Not long after, Heart picked up Ham from the empty house for the very last time.

Ham arrived at his new home – a sprawling nine acres outside Manhattan – and was greeted by fellow rescue dogs, a horse, chickens, rabbits, parrots, and cats. Then, he met his new owners, Abramson and his wife, Amy Rodriguez, a veterinarian.

The first night in his new home was confusing for Ham. While lying on the living room floor, Ham would lift his head and wake up every 30 minutes. He couldn’t believe where he was.

Eventually, Ham realized he was there to stay and surrendered to the love. He sighed, exhaled, and fell asleep – surrounded by his new family.

What You Should Do If Your Dog Eats Or Swallows A Chicken Bone

Posted on by Orla O'Keefe

What You Should Do If Your Dog Eats Or Swallows A Chicken Bone

If there is one thing we know about dogs, it’s that they will eat anything they can get their paws on. While most of the time it is harmless, there are those instances when they eat something they shouldn’t. And one of those instances is chicken bones. If your dog ate or swallowed a chicken bone, here’s what you should do.

One thing to note is that cooked bones are dangerous to dogs, not raw ones. In fact, raw bones – including chicken bones – are beneficial to dogs.

They provide calcium and phosphorus along with other nutrients and minerals. The bones also stimulate saliva enzyme production that keeps their gums and teeth clean as well as provide mental and physical stimulation. Just be sure to supervise your dog if they are gnawing on a raw bone.

Cooked chicken bones, though, should be avoided at all costs – unless they are specifically labeled ‘safe for dogs.’ Cooked bones are dry and brittle. If your dog is chewing on one it can easily crack and splinter, leading to cuts in the mouth or gums. It could even lead to choking, internal injuries, punctured organs, or even death.

In the event your dog does eat a cooked chicken bone here’s what you should do:

When they just got a hold of the bone:

If you caught your pup just as they got a hold of the bone, check to be sure it is not lodged in their throat. You’ll know it is stuck there if they begin to gag, wretch, vomit, drink excessive water, lick their lips, anxiously pace, or have difficulty sitting down.

If it is not yet lodged in their throat, remove the bone from their mouth as soon as possible.

When they swallowed the bone:

If you know your dog has already swallowed the bone, watch their symptoms. If they are not choking or in distress, they will most likely be okay. However, it’s important to monitor your dog over the next few days.

To help the bone pass through their stool without any trouble, try giving them something soft – like white bread – to act as a stomach cushion. This will help protect the delicate digestive lining from being scratched.

Since their internal organs are so delicate, it is important to watch your dog closely over the next 12 to 72 hours. If they are showing signs of bloody stool, constipation, a swollen stomach, vomiting, or anxious and nervous behavior, take them to the veterinarian immediately. Furthermore, if the bone hasn’t passed through their stool within 72 hours, have them examined by the vet.

Prevention is the best way to ensure your dog doesn’t get a hold of a cooked chicken bone. Make sure you have a dog-proof trash can and keep any table scraps out of their reach.

Looking To Challenge Your Dog’s Mind? Here Are 6 Tips.

Posted on by Orla O'Keefe

Looking To Challenge Your Dog’s Mind? Here Are 6 Tips.

Like humans, dogs get bored doing the same things day in and day out. Mentally challenging your pup can help them stay out of trouble and help keep their mind in tip-top shape. Mental exercise is just as important as physical exercise! Here are six tips to help challenge your dog’s mind.

Add some new toys to their collection

Would you like playing with the same toy every single day? No, right? Then don’t make your pup play with the same toy over and over again! Get your pup a new toy to play with when they appear to be bored with their old ones. You can take the old toys away for added stimulation.

Take your pup to meet some new humans or dogs

When your dog meets a new person or another dog, they are introduced to new sights. They are also introduced to new sounds and scents. Dog parks are a great place for pups to make new friends. Or, try taking your dog to a new walking trail or a new dog-friendly restaurant.

Get those errands out of the way with your dog by your side

Wouldn’t running errands with your dog make them so much easier? Introducing your dog to a new place will help keep their brain stimulated. Even if it’s just a short stop at a friend’s house, a trip to the post office, or even pit stop at a car wash – it will help your dog experience new things.

Teach them a new trick

When you’re teaching your dog something new, you’re giving them a mental challenge. There’s always a new trick to learn! If your dog already has the basics down, look for more challenging ones. Or, try getting into agility training, search and rescue, or therapy dog training.

Provide them with interactive toys or games

Believe it or not, there are dog board games and puzzles that can help keep your pup’s mind sharp. Play a game of Dog Dominos or Dog Memory. Toys like the Kong ball or other toys that allow you to hide treats in them will help keep your dog occupied and their mind’s challenged.

Give your pup a job

Dogs love to have a job to do. They were born to herd and hunt. Playing games like fetch or Frisbee will help keep them engaged. Sports like Fly ball or agility are also great for challenging your dog’s mind. Going for long hikes or swims are great mind-enhancers for them as well.

Next time you think your dog looks bored, try using some of these tips to break them out of their rut. After all, a tired, mentally-challenged dog is a happy, non-destructive dog!

“How Do Dogs Choose Their Favorite Person?”

Posted on by Orla O'Keefe

“How Do Dogs Choose Their Favorite Person?”

Have you ever watched in disbelief as your dog – the one you feed, walk, and give so much love to everyday– sprints to your sibling when they arrive at your house? You keep waiting for them to come to their senses and return to you but they act like you don’t even exist. Then you slowly start to realize you may not be your dog’s favorite person. But how do they even choose who that is? Can they change? We’ve got your answers.

Socialization

While every pup is different, there are certain generalizations that apply. Dogs typically bond the most with their primary caregivers during their socialization period – between birth and six months. During this age, puppies brains are amazingly receptive and those early social experiences shape them for the future. This is why it’s imperative puppies have positive interactions with different places, people, and things.

If you adopted your dog as an adult, don’t fret. While early socialization is important, continued socialization is equally important!

Attention and Affection

The majority of dogs bond with the person that gives them the most attention and affection. For example, if you live in a household of two or three other people, your dog may bond the most with the one who feeds them or takes them on walks.

Furthermore, physical affection is a huge factor when it comes to the bond between human and dog. If someone is abrasive or stand-offish, the pup will act the same towards them. The opposite is true in that the person who shows the dog lots of love and affection will get that in return.

The quality of attention and affection matter as well. For example, while you may be the primary attention-giver, if your sibling or friend allows the pup to jump up on them or lay on their lap while you don’t, they may choose them over you as their favorite.

Positive Association

Positive association is a huge factor in the bond between humans and dogs. Whoever provides the “good stuff” the dog will follow. For example, the person who plays the most with the pup, gives them their favorite treats, or feeds them the most will certainly be their favorite person.

On the other hand, dogs react poorly to those they have bad associations with. Therefore, positive associations lead to positive relationships. One way to establish this is by introducing your pup to a new person with treats. That way, they’ll associate new people with yummy treats!

Dog Breed and Human Personality

If you’ve ever seen a dog that looks and acts like their owner, you aren’t just seeing things. Dogs tend to choose their favorite person based on personality and energy levels. For example, if you are quiet and more reserved but your dog is lively and energetic, they may have a stronger bond with your outgoing and energetic sister.

Certain breeds tend to bond closely to a single person – meaning their favorite person will be their only favorite person. These include Cairn Terriers, Shiba Inus, Greyhounds, and Basenjis.

How to Be Your Pups Favorite

Feel like you aren’t your dog’s favorite person? Don’t worry! There are certain things you can do strengthen and improve your bond. The best way to is to spend at least 30 minutes of one-on-one time together every day.

And it’s not just about walks or hanging out on the couch together – it means doing things like playing fetch, tug, or hide and seek, having a training session, or even trying a new sport like agility or flyball.

As long as you take good care of your pup and provide them with positive experiences, your bond will be stronger than ever. And even if they act like they like your sibling over you, there is nothing like the bond between a pup and their owner.

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  • Orla O’Keefe

    Most of my day is spent playing with dogs. When they nap, I’m here working on my blog. You’re welcome to reach out and connect with me.

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