Your Pets Daily - Dog welfare

Pet expert urges owners to keep hot cross buns out of paws reach this Easter

Katie Court — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 12:00:00 +0000

Easter is a time full of celebrations for the whole family, and it's a great opportunity to spend some quality time with your pet, especially as this year Easter marks the change to British Summer Time, bringing an extra hour of light. As pet parents across the country will look to make the most of the welcomed sunshine, when going on daily walks and attending Easter celebrations like egg hunts there are additional hazards to be cautious of from toxic Easter treats and newly sprouting plants.

To ensure Easter is a happy and safe time for you and your pet, Bella & Duke's Canine Nutritional Advisor, Jude McCoy lists her top five tips for making Easter safer for your pet.

Easter eggs and chocolate treats - Easter eggs and other chocolate treats are a widely known to be a definite no for dogs. Chocolate contains a substance called theobromine which is toxic and really difficult for dogs to metabolise. The level of toxicity depends on the darkness and concentration of the cacao, so a quality 85% dark chocolate is going to be much more toxic than a small piece of milk chocolate, but giving any type of chocolate to dogs must be avoided. If you are planning an easter egg hunt at home, make sure to keep your pets out of the way and collect any stray easter eggs from the garden before letting them out again. You can still include your furry friends in all of the festivities, try making them their own hunt by using natural treats like scrumptious venison treats.

Hot cross buns – Another staple in Easter celebrations, hot cross buns contain dried fruit such as raisins and sultanas, both of which are toxic to both cats and dogs and can cause kidney damage. It's important you ensure these are kept out of reach from your pet as even small quantities can cause severe damage.

Spring bulbs and flowers - Easter is a beautiful time of year with spring flowers and bulbs in full bloom, but make sure you keep them well out of reach of your furry friend, particularly if they're prone to chewing plants or digging up the garden. Daffodils, tulips, hyacinths, and amaryllis are all common spring plants that are poisonous to dogs. They can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors, and other dangerous side effects. Dogs are natural explorers, it's on you as the owner to keep a keen eye on your pet and keep them away from any toxic plants. And despite being less likely to dig up plants, cats face issues with lilies due to the pollen in the stamens (the inner antenna part of the flower) cut these out to remove the risk of pollen being ingested which can cause irritation.

Easter decorations - When gifting or receiving easter baskets, it can be tempting to let pets play with plastic grass and straw and tissue, but they can be easily swallowed and often lead to digestive issues, resulting in vomiting, bloating and dehydration. Always keep decorations and gifts out of reach and give your furry friend a pet-friendly toy instead.

Spring cleaning - If you're using easter to tidy up the house with a bit of spring cleaning, it's important to remember that many cleaning products can be dangerous to pets. Common household cleaning items such as heavily scented disinfectants, bleach and ammonia-based cleaning products, which create harmful gases, are toxic and should be kept safely away from pets.

Jude McCoy, Canine Nutritional Advisor at Bella & Duke said "Easter is a great time to bring your furry friend into the family festivities and with the improved weather it's the ideal opportunity to explore new routes on your daily walks as plants begin to blossom. However, with this comes some added precautions, we know how toxic chocolate is to our canine companions but there are some extra hazards you should be aware of.

If you're baking hot cross buns, watch out for any stray sultanas or raisins that your pet might try to get their paws on. Plants, cleaning products and Easter decorations can also all be a hazard to your pet, especially if they're keen explorers. This doesn't mean that you have to avoid Easter all together, keeping a close eye on your pet will limit any hazards and unnecessary trips to the vet."

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Keeping dogs safe at Easter

Are hot cross buns dangerous for dogs?

Outbreak of Alabama Rot, a Flesh-Eating Disease in Dogs, Sweeps Across UK

Your Pets Daily Editor — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Alabama rot is a disease that can sadly be fatal to dogs. With a recent spike in UK cases, veterinarian Dr Corinne Wigfall at Petsure shares her expert tips on how to prevent the disease. Plus, how you can spot symptoms quickly if you think your dog might have picked it up.

Dr Corinne Wigfall says, "Alabama rot causes clots to form in small blood vessels. It starts as skin lesions and can tragically lead to kidney failure for some dogs.

"With cases of Alabama rot increasing in the UK, it's crucial to be aware of the tell-tale signs. The disease can affect any dog, regardless of age or breed."

Be mindful of where you walk your dog

There is currently no confirmed research as to how Alabama rot picked up. Some researchers suggest it may be caused by bacteria like E.coli. Others report a link between dogs getting the disease and having recently been out in muddy woodland areas.

Try to avoid walking your dog in wet, humid and muddy environments. If your dog has been rolling around in the woods, make sure you thoroughly clean and dry their coat. You can check recent reports and avoid the areas suffering the most from Alabama rot.

Check your dog daily

A lack of confirmed knowledge of the disease makes it tricky to give specific prevention advice. Sadly, there's no vaccination available for Alabama rot.

Make sure to check your pup daily for any lesions or bumps. Look for raised, circular sores and ulcers on the skin, as these are the main symptoms. Your dog's face, legs, and paws are the most commonly affected body parts, so give those a thorough check. They might have a dark centre and bruises, so watch out for these too.

Watch your dog's behaviour

The earlier you catch wind of symptoms, the better. Other signs to watch out for are lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, increased urination, and, rarely, bodily stiffness. Get your dog checked by your vet if they're acting differently or you spot something unusual.

Get treatment

If you think your dog might have Alabama rot, or you've noticed any of the above symptoms, take your pup to the vet straight away. If Alabama rot isn't treated as soon as possible, it could reach the kidneys within a few days of skin lesions appearing.

The vet will ask questions about the symptoms you've noticed, inspect the wounds, and take blood or urine samples. They may give your dog antibiotics to stop or treat an infection in the wounds. If the vet is concerned about possible kidney damage, intravenous fluids will be started straight away to help protect the kidneys. This means your pooch will need to stay at the veterinary clinic for treatment.

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Dog welfare

Three in 10 pet owners unknowingly feed their dogs toxic foods

Jessica Curtis — Sat, 17 Feb 2024 20:00:00 +0000

Nearly three in 10 (29%) pet owners admit to feeding their dogs something toxic, with apple seeds the most common food they didn't realise could cause harm, new research reveals.

The study was conducted by dog-friendly holiday lettings company Canine Cottages, who also polled pet owners across the nation to reveal which foods they did and didn't realise caused harm to their pets, as well as how many have accidentally fed their furry friends something harmful.

Working with a vet, Canine Cottages has also created an interactive tool, highlighting how toxic foods can affect their pets from their inside, and advice on what to do to treat them upon consumption.

According to the research, of the most common toxic foods, the top 10 that British pet owners didn't know can be toxic to their dogs are:

Apple seeds (76%)
Artificial sweetener (75%)
Caffeine (70%)
Onions/chives (70%)
Coffee (69%)
Garlic (65%)
Grapes/raisins (63%)
Mouldy food (62%)
Alcohol (55%)
Chocolate (38%)

A further 2% of dog owners didn't think that any of these foods were toxic to their pets!

Shockingly, nearly three in 10 (29%) of pet owners admit to feeding their dog one of these foods without knowing that they could cause harm. According to the study, nearly eight in 10 (76%) pet owners were unaware that apple seeds could cause harm to their pets, and are assumingly unaware that they contain cyanide, a chemical that can cause hypoxia – a lack of oxygen delivery to the body.

Experts weigh in on how these foods cause harm and what course of action to take:

Three quarters (75%) of Brits didn't realise artificial sweeteners could cause harm, but as Dr Charley Webb, Vet and Nutritionist at VetChef.com explains, these "cause our pets' glucose to drop dangerously low within hours. Pets that ingest even small amounts of xylitol can have dangerous hypo-glycaemia and may be unconscious within one hour. This is especially dangerous and I avoid keeping any product containing xylitol in the house at all."

And although chocolate was the most 'well-known' of these toxic foods, 38% still didn't know that this could be harmful to their pets. As Dr Webb continues: "dark chocolate contains the chemical theobromine. In the short term (within a few hours) it can cause signs like slight twitching, high heart rate and hyperactivity. If untreated, pets can develop heart arrhythmias, kidney failure and seizures."

So, if your dog does accidentally eat something they shouldn't, what's the best course of action? With 47% admitting they wouldn't know what would happen to their dog if they ate something toxic, Dr Charley Webb, Vet and Nutritionist at VetChef.com offers her advice if you ever find yourself in the situation:

"If you think your pet has eaten something that might be dangerous to them, stay calm and try not to panic. The best course of action is always to call the vet for advice right away, even if it's the middle of the night or a weekend. Most pets recover fully if treated rapidly so it's important to tell your vet as soon as you know that it has happened, as this can prevent them from causing serious harm and in some cases could save their lives."

Commenting on the research, Shannon Keary, Digital PR Manager at Canine Cottages, says: "We may all know certain foods that we should avoid feeding our furry friends, but it is surprising to see how many pet owners don't know that certain foods cold cause harm to their pets, for example chocolate or alcohol.

"Although in most cases a trip to the vets will be able to treat your pet in this instance, as pet owners it's important to understand what these foods can do to our beloved pets, hence why we have created this interactive tool, highlighting the harm they can cause. We hope this piece will help educate pet owners to understand the impact these foods can cause, especially as we approach the festive period and may be tempted to treat our pets to human food!"

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Best dog food for digestive problems

Pet expert warns Brits against THESE common diet foods that are deadly for dogs - including grapes and nuts

Your Pets Daily Editor — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 16:00:00 +0000

A pet expert has revealed which diet-friendly food items prove deadly to dogs, as many pet owners have resolved to eat healthier in the new year - and may not know how their new diet will affect their furry friend.

Pet business insurance specialists Protectivity warn that many foods recommended as healthy alternatives to fatty snacks may prove deadly for dogs, including grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, onions, garlic, xylitol (found in chewing gum), and dairy products.

The experts said: "This time of year can be full of hazards for pets as owners juggle festive leftovers and changes to their diet - especially if they resolved to eat healthier in the new year. The best way to prevent accidents is by educating yourself on which items are toxic, keeping them out of the way."

According to the experts, risky ingredients that may be prominent in a New Year's diet include:

Grapes and raisins - Grapes and raisins are naturally a low-calorie, nutrient-dense, fat-free snack for those aiming to eat healthier, but few people know they are toxic to dogs. Grapes and raisins can cause canine kidney failure, even in small amounts.

Macadamia nuts - These can be eaten raw and roasted, proving a popular pre-gym snack for diet-conscious Brits looking for a quick and easy energy boost. However, they can cause weakness, vomiting and hypothermia in dogs.

Onions and garlic - Onions and garlic are staples for adding flavour to healthy dishes but are toxic for dogs in all forms (whether powdered, raw, dehydrated, or cooked). They can destroy a dog's red blood cells and lead to anaemia.

Xylitol (chewing gum) - People trying to eat healthier are often encouraged to consume gum to curb cravings, but when consumed by dogs, it can cause a rapid insulin increase that, in turn, can lead to hypoglycaemia.

Dairy products - Incorporating healthy dairy into your diet, including yoghurt, low-fat cheese, and milk, is a great source of protein and calcium. However, many dogs are lactose intolerant and will experience digestive problems if they consume dairy.

As well as identifying the common diet foods to look out for, the experts also reveal which festive leftovers prove dangerous for dogs - including turkey, which can cause pancreatitis due to being difficult for dogs to digest, and Christmas pudding that contains raisins.

Commenting on the dangers, a Protectivity spokesperson says: "As well as keeping problem foods out of reach, it's also key to set boundaries with your dog so that your pet knows what's expected of them. These boundaries aren't limited to dog owners but anyone who works around them, such as dog groomers or dog walkers.

"It can be tempting to indulge our four-legged friends when there's so much excess food left over from the festive period, but these actions can have dangerous consequences. And while you may be aiming to improve your eating habits this year. It's important to remember that food that is healthy for you isn't always good for them."

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Dog welfare

A warning for pet owners this Pancake Day

Tom Stone — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Imagine eating 11 pancakes in one sitting – well that's exactly what your precious pooch* is doing every time you give them just one cube of cheese according to PDSA.

It comes as a warning to pet owners this Pancake Day as part of the leading vet charity's 'Big Weigh In' campaign which aims to tackle obesity in pets.

"We all love a treat and I'm certainly looking forward to my pancake this Pancake Day," says PDSA Vet Nurse Nina Downing. "But while it's tempting to share titbits with our four-legged friends, especially when they give us those pleading eyes, it's important to understand that what we see as a small treat could actually be a huge amount of calories for our pets.

"For example, 30% of dog owners regularly give their dogs cheese*, but just one cube of cheese is the equivalent of 11 pancakes to a small dog, six to a medium dog, and 3.5 to a large-sized dog. So what originally may have seemed a harmless little treat, actually equates to more than 110 extra calories, which is over 30% of a small dog's daily calorific requirement."

The veterinary charity is working with Royal Canin to tackle the pet obesity crisis in the UK. Throughout February and March, pet owners can book in for free weight checks at participating vet practices across the country.

There are more than 500 practices signed up. Pet owners can find their local participating vet practice and book their free appointment here: pdsa.org.uk/WeighUp

"Overweight pets are more likely to suffer from health problems such as diabetes and urinary tract disease," adds Nina. "Carrying excess fat can also worsen other health problems - such as arthritis and breathing difficulties - as well as increase anaesthetic and surgical risks, all of which could negatively affect your pet's quality of life.

"That's why we're urging all pet owners to get involved in the PDSA Big Weigh In this year and let us help you to help your pet.

"If your pets have had a treat-filled festive season, it's important to recognise if they have gained some extra weight and to help them get back to better health.

"It can feel like a big challenge to get a pet to lose weight, but trust us, it's worth it and isn't that difficult (I promise!). Once your pet has reached their ideal size and shape, they will be healthier, happier and more active. They will also have the best chance of living a long, energetic and comfortable life."

How to tell if your dog needs to lose weight

Looking at your dog's shape is the best way to tell if they're putting on weight. Dogs come in all different builds and sizes but a healthy shape is the same for every dog:

Look at your dog from the side and from above. They should have a neat, tucked in waist.
Feel under your dog's tummy. It should go in, not bulge out.
Feel along your dog's back and sides. You should be able to easily feel their ribs, spine and hips but they shouldn't poke out.
Feel the base of your dog's tail. You shouldn't be able to feel a build-up of fat where their tail meets their body.

Different ways to exercise your dog

Varying your dog's exercise routine is an excellent way to keep their mind and body healthy. If you're looking for inspiration, why not try some of the following:

Walking should be part of every dog's daily routine to keep them physically and mentally healthy. Most dogs need at least 1-2 walks per day (unless otherwise specified by your vet).
Swimming is a great option if your dog likes the water, and as an added benefit, it's very easy on their joints. Whether it's in a pool, the sea, a river, or a lake, make sure you follow water safety advice to keep your pooch safe.
Running is a great way to stay healthy with your four-legged friend – just make sure that their breed suits an athletic workout and if it does, that you introduce them to it slowly. To begin with, try short bursts of gentle jogging throughout your normal walk, then gradually build up to longer stretches.
Play should be part of every dog's daily routine. While it doesn't replace a good walk, playing a game is a simple but effective way to keep your dog happy and active. The type of games your dog enjoys will depend on their breed and personality – they might want to chase and retrieve a toy, play tug of war, hide and seek, or sniff out their favourite toy in a scent game.
Agility is a fun way to exercise your dog, especially if they have an active mind and love a challenge. It involves training your dog to complete an obstacle course containing hurdles, tunnels and even seesaws.
Flyball involves your dog running through an obstacle course and releasing a ball, which they then need to catch – it's a great sport for dogs with lots of energy and/or an active brain. Flyball isn't a good sport for very heavy dogs, or dogs with joint problems, so it's important to speak to your vet before starting your dog at a class.
Training: Training should be a part of every dog's daily routine. It helps keep your dog's mind active, reinforces commands, prevents boredom, and is a great way to bond.

*According to the 2022 PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report, the UK's largest annual nationally representative assessment of pet wellbeing.

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Dog Owners Warned About Storing Dog Food Incorrectly - Leading To Vomiting and Seizures! Expert Comments

Katie Court — Sun, 04 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000

Making a mistake when storing your dog's food can lead to your dog becoming unwell, and a trip to the vet. Improper storage of dog food can lead to mould, bacteria and mites infiltrating your pets food, which can lead to vomiting and illness in dogs.

Dog experts at Kennel Store have warned of the dangers of incorrectly storing dog food, and how to properly store it, and highlighted the symptoms of mould poisoning in dogs.

“Similar to storing our food, dog food can also spoil, therefore needs to be stored properly.

Here’s what you need to know about dog food storage

Buy a bag that can be used with 30 days to prevent rancid fats and free radicals
Store dry food in an airtight container. Use up all of the food before refilling it as the fat and crumbs can build up, causing the food to go bad
Wash the container between bags to prevent cross contamination, and mould growth

How to safely store dog food

Make sure the bag is firmly sealed

If the bag can't be sealed, move the dog food to an airtight container. Make sure the lid fits tightly on the container to keep out air, moisture, and pests.

Keep in a cool, dry place

Heat and humidity can cause food's nutritious value to decline, and also encourage the growth of bacteria and mould. Select a dry, cool place to store such as a cupboard, out of direct sunlight.

Steer clear of direct sunlight

This can cause the fats in dog food to go rancid and lose the nutritional value. Use plaster containers made from food-grade plastic, or keep the food in a shaded place for storage.

Follow the principle of "first in, first out"

Put the newest bags of food at the back and move the older ones to the front. By doing this, you can guarantee that the oldest food is consumed first, preserving freshness.

Look out for signs of spoilt food

Regularly check the dog food for indications of mould, discolouration, strange smells, or potential insect infestations. You should throw away the food immediately if you do see any of these symptoms.

Signs of mould ingestion in dogs

Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Disorientation
Restlessness
Tremors
Jaundiced appearance (icterus)
Seizures
High fever (hyperthermia)
Abdominal pain

If you are concerned your dog has eaten food that has become mouldy, it’s important they see a vet quickly for the appropriate care and to prevent illness from worsening.”

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Best dog food for digestive problems

Expert shares top tips to keep your pets happy when you're away from home

Tom Stone — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Dogs are incredibly social animals, and with more and more of us are returning to the office and busy social calendars, this means our furry friends are more likely to be left at home. Leaving your pet alone for too long can be a distressing experience, especially if they are used to regular company.

Bella & Duke's Natural Canine Behaviourist, Caroline Spencer Dip.AdvCanBhv, shares her recommendations for monitoring and keeping your pet occupied whilst home alone.

1. Make snacks fun and time consuming

Our pets can quickly get bored when left alone and without us there to shower them with affection, it's important to ensure they have things to do and play with whilst we are gone to keep them engaged and excited. Leaving a chew or a puzzle treat can help alleviate boredom and keep your furry friend satisfied. Bella & Duke's Yak Milk dog chews are the perfect long-lasting natural treat to keep your dog calm and content for long periods of time. The chews keep your dog entertained for hours and are proven to help relieve separation anxiety. Alternatively, try using puzzles or other interactive toys that hide your pup's favourite treats and keep them busy and entertained!

2. Create a safe cosy space

It's important that your dog has a safe space it can retreat to when alone in the house. A blanket or piece of clothing with your scent can often help anxious dogs feel more comfortable.

3. Use a monitor

For owners who are worried about leaving their furry friends home alone, there are a variety of pet camera options for monitoring your dog while you're away. Pet cameras let you keep tabs on your dog 24/7, from wherever you are. Being able to check in on them in this way can help to alleviate anxiety for pet parents.

4. Keep the house dog-friendly

It's important to remember that when left alone, When left alone for prolonged periods, some dogs may become disruptive as a way to express their frustration. This can appear in many ways such as urination, barking, chewing furniture or trying to escape. Safety is the most important measure when leaving your dog home alone so make sure your pup can't reach cords, harmful chemicals or anything else that could pose a danger.

Depending on your dog, crate training may be a good idea to ensure your dog is calm and comfortable whilst you're away. It's always important to remember that crate training isn't a one size fits all solution, and this may not be the best option for you and your dog.

5. Leave the radio on

Just like us humans, music can be a great stimulate for dogs. Studies have shown that leaving music playing for your dog can introduce variety into their day and combats boredom. It's best to play music with a low dynamic range that mimics their own heartbeat and avoids startling them. Whilst we're sure each pup has its own music taste; studies have shown that reggae and soft rock showed the highest positive changes in behaviour. Bella & Duke has put together its own Spotify playlist with the best music to ensure your pet is calm and relaxed.

Caroline Spencer, Natural Canine Behaviourist at Bella & Duke, added: "Dog parent guilt is a real thing and no matter how much time or affection we give them, we always find it hard to leave them behind. Implementing small steps into your everyday life is a great way of preventing separation anxiety and making it a time that your dog can actually enjoy. Remember every dog is different so take lots of time to go at a speed that works for them and creates longer, lasting results."

It's important to remember that dogs should not be left alone for long periods of time. Dogs older than 6 months should be left alone for no longer than 4 hours at a time. If this is difficult, the absolute maximum time for them to be alone is 8 hours, but this is only recommended if your dog has a way to get outside for a bathroom break. This time frame might change depending on your dog's age, breed, and personality."

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Sad doggie? Your pet could have the January blues

Katie Court — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000

Dog lovers have been warned to ensure the current cold temperatures and lack of daylight hours aren't giving their cherished pets the January blues.

Just like us humans, dogs can struggle with their mental health at this time of year with thousands falling victim to something similar to Seasonally Affected Disorder (SAD), according to pet health experts from VitaPaws. The experts claim that a lack of exercise and disruption in routine at this time of the year can leave dogs feeling anxious and depressed.

Now they are urging all dog owners to make sure their pets get extra care across winter to ensure their mental as well as physical needs are being met. They say that many owners find themselves taking their dogs out for less walks during January and February as they are deterred by the dark mornings and evenings as well as the freezing cold temperatures.

Those who do persist with their walking routines may opt for paved streets rather than letting their dogs off the walk in muddy fields or parks. Dogs love routine so if they are used to running free in the park during the summer, spring and autumn, they may feel depressed to be limited to street walks in winter.

Canine welfare expert Samantha Greener at VitaPaws, said owners should be especially mindful of their dog's mood during winter.

She said: "January and February can be challenging for all of us and dogs are no different. It's vital that owners are watchful for the tell-tale signs of doggie depression during winter. If a dog goes off its food, if it's sleeping more than usual or seems withdrawn, restless and uninterested in games or exercise then you could have a seriously depressed dog on your hands.

"Sadly many owners aren't fully aware of the amount of exercise their dog requires to be healthy as it can vary massively depending on the breed. Naturally many owners will find themselves exercising their pets much less during the winter than at other times of the year. But for an animal who has established an exercise routine, finding that time reduced can lead to anxiety and low mood."

She said anyone who suspects their dog could be depressed should review their exercise regime and consider returning to the same pattern they practised at warmer times of the year. They can also consider reviewing their dog's diet and consider a supplement to ensure they are getting all the nutrients they require.

But she added that they should seek a vet's opinion if their dog's low mood persists to ensure it's not related to an underlying health concern. She said: "Most dogs will perk up with a bit more exercise and the opportunity to spend some quality time with their owners but if your dog's mood doesn't lift you should definitely seek a professional opinion."

For more information about canine health and nutrition please visit: https://www.simplysupplements.co.uk/vitapaws

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42% of dogs are overweight - here’s how to get your pet back into shape

Your Pets Daily Editor — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 16:00:00 +0000

A new study carried out by tails.com has revealed the scale of the overweight epidemic in dogs in the UK, with 42% of the dogs joining their service being overweight or obese.

Worryingly, the research has shown that obese dogs have shortened life spans by up to a year. That's why the team of specialists at tails.com have shared their top tips to getting your dog back into shape.

We can all be guilty of a little overindulging now and then, whether it's an extra biscuit or an extra helping of dessert. But when those over indulgences lead to quite a bit of weight gain, we can put ourselves at risk of damaging our health. Just as it is for humans, obesity in dogs is also a health risk. If you think your dog needs a little help to get back into shape, here's what you need to do:

Get everybody on board

First of all, everyone in your house needs to be on board. It's no good if only one of you is taking the diet seriously, whilst others continue to feed treats! Try creating a feeding chart so that when your dog has been fed their meals and daily treat, everyone in the house knows too.

Swap out treats for attention

A good rule of thumb to remember is: treats shouldn't make up more than 10% of a dog's daily calorie intake. The occasional treat can be good for your dog when combined with training or if given for a nutritional benefit. When treats become too much of a regular occurrence, they can contribute to weight gain and for many dogs, it's actually the attention that they appreciate more than the treat itself. So when they turn those puppy dog eyes on you, swap the usual treat for an affectionate scratch, cuddle or play time session.

Increase exercise

Every healthy dog should be able to manage at least 20 minutes of walking, twice a day. Getting out and about for walks doesn't just provide your dog with the physical exercise they need, it also provides mental stimulation. If you're looking to get your dog into shape, begin by gradually increasing the length of their usual walk by an extra 5-10 minutes each week. If your dog is already fairly active, try changing their usual exercise routine and adding other exercises like swimming. Swimming is a great way for a dog to exercise without putting any excess stress or strain on their joints, but not all dogs are built for it. Read our tips for taking your dog swimming.

Change or review your dogs diet

For some dogs, it's simply the lack of exercise that contributes to their weight gain. For others, however, they may require a change in diet. This could mean looking at a low fat, high fibre diet to help your dog stay fuller for longer with fewer calories or simply tweaking the amounts or type of treats they usually get each day. If you're prone to overfeeding, you may need to reassess your dog's portion sizes.

If you feed human foods to your pet occasionally, you should consider cutting this out too as this has a big impact on a dog's' weight – more so than you might expect!

What if they are still hungry?

If your dog is used to eating bigger portions, it's likely that extra bit of food will be missed when it's reduced. The body soon adapts, however, and as we mentioned earlier, it's the attention that comes with the feeding that can be more satisfying for your dog than the food itself.

What are the risks of your dog being overweight?

Obesity in dogs can lead to a number of further problems, including:

Arthritis
Diabetes
Heart problems
High blood pressure
Respiratory issues
Increased risk of developing certain tumours
Higher risk should your dog need anaesthetic during surgery
Lower quality of life
Shorter life expectancy

Feeding the right amount of high-quality food to keep your dog at the correct weight can expand their lifespan by up to two years. A healthy dog is a happy dog, and life will be far more enjoyable for the both of you if you're both in shape.

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How To Know If Your Dog Needs To Wear A Jacket

Katie Court — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000

Our canine companions still like to spend time outside during the colder months, but should they be wearing protective clothing such as coats and jumpers? In most cases, the answer is no. Most dogs have enough fur to keep them warm outside when the temperature drops.

When deciding on whether or not to put protective clothing on your pup, you should consider the following; your dog's size, breed and outside temperature.

Dogs get cold just like people do. But some dogs, like Labradors, Huskies and German Shepherds have thick coats that do a great job of protecting them against colder weather. However smaller and short hair breeds, like Greyhounds, Whippets and Chihuahuas find it harder to retain body heat and would benefit from extra protection when in colder climates.

The temperature outside and the duration your dog spends outdoors should also be considered when deciding whether or not your pooch needs a jacket or jumper. In temperatures below minus, or if there's lots of snow, dogs will benefit from an extra layer of warmth if they're not used to the cold weather.

If your dog will be outdoors for 10 minutes or less, then they will not need a jacket unless it's extremely cold and they are displaying signs of discomfort.

Another factor that will begin to affect all dogs' ability to stay warm after time is old age. Older dogs will naturally struggle to regulate their body temperature, so protecting them with an extra layer of insulation, such as a quilted jacket or a sweater can help to encourage warm blood flow around their body.

Cold weather is a nightmare for dogs who suffer from stiff joints, as the low temperatures can cause muscles to tighten up, increasing pressure and pain in inflamed joints. This can cause your dog to experience pain while moving and they may even want to stop walking altogether.

If your dog is ever feeling under the weather, three of the things that will help them get back to full health are fresh air, exercise and being kept warm. Therefore, it is a good idea to pop a protective layer on your poorly pooch and take them out for a stroll to help them get back to full health.

It's important to monitor your dog's body language to determine if they need a coat. Some dogs will lift their paws when they get cold, refuse to walk or shiver. Once wrapped up, other dogs may feel a bit hot and bothered and no longer require a jacket.

Category

Dogs

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Dog jackets

Dog coats

Dog welfare