While all dogs should have a basic soundness, their construction varies depending on breed and purpose. Understanding a dog's conformation requires looking at the canine from all angles. Even though there is nothing you can do to change your current dog's genetics, you can prevent injury and work on strengthening weak areas. Let's be honest: […]

Ever heard the saying, "Let sleeping dogs lie"? Well, it's true — even middle-aged dogs can snooze half the day. But what about senior dogs? Is there such a thing as sleeping too much? Most geriatric dogs require 12 to 15 hours of sleep a day. However, if you notice changes in their slumbering habits, […]

If your pooch is looking a bit more pudgy than usual, it's actually quite common. The battle of the bulge isn't just something people face — so do pets. In fact, according to a 2018 survey conducted by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, 55.8 percent of dogs in the United States are overweight or obese. And […]

Looking for the best pet massage tools? It's no secret that pets, like many humans, love a massage. And as with people, the feel-good benefits of a massage can have a meaningful impact on overall mental and physical health. It's true, a massage can help your dog by reducing stress, anxiety, and aches and pains, […]

When breeding dogs, there are factors in both the bitch and the dog that can affect fertility and conception. In the June issue, we discussed the factors that can cause decreased fertility and pregnancy concerns in the bitch. In this article, we will focus on infertility in the dog and what can be done to help minimize these […]

Plump puppies may be cute, but when it comes to canine health, lean is better. Still, as is true with humans, too many dogs are overweight, according to the Association For Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP). In its eighth annual survey of the girth of American pets, released in March 2015, the organization found that 53 […]

Many dogs dislike being pat on the head, and there's reason behind it. Direct eye contact and looming over a dogs is considered a threat to them.

An important aspect of being a responsible dog owner is being sure your dog is in shape. No matter how cute an overweight dog is, they could still be at risk for health problems. Certain breeds will be affected more than others by even the slightest weight gain, so it’s important to maintain your dog’s […]

Swimming is often recommended as a low-impact exercise for older individuals who are looking to stay active. But is it also therapeutic for senior dogs?

Back pain is a common condition in the canine world. From traumatic spinal injuries to intervertebral disk disease, back pain can affect all sorts of breeds, although some may be more at risk than others. As owners, we want to know what we can do to help our dogs cope, whether the pain is temporary or chronic. Weight […]

Does your dog drive you crazy with problem behavior? Perhaps they're jumping on your guests or begging at the table — issues you can tackle with a skilled trainer. But maybe things are more serious, and you’re not sure where to turn. It might be time to hire a behavior consultant or animal behaviorist. These professionals work with clients […]

Typically, the breed we choose to raise and show over many years and generations is the one to which we are committed for life. Yet sometimes, there are reasons - physical or emotional - that we are drawn to another breed. As exhibitors, we probably all have dozens of breeds that we admire at shows […]

Has your senior dog developed health problems that make a trip outside to the toilet area challenging? Perhaps stairs are too difficult for his arthritic joints or he can no longer hold it through the night. There are many health conditions that can interfere with your older dog's bathroom routine, and in some cases, indoor […]

After owning dogs his entire life, retired Marine Cpl. Justin Crabbe feels that having a dog is second nature to him. However, when he enrolled in the United States Marine Corps in 2008, it’s unlikely he realized the crucial role a dog would come to play in his life seven years later. Crabbe is now […]

What you may consider simply an indulgent spa service can actually benefit your pet’s mental and physical health. Massage may reduce stress and anxiety, increase circulation, decrease pain, and strengthen the bond between you and your dog. Also, it can help to identify new growths at an early stage. The best part? You don’t even […]

UC-II® – a breakthrough way of supporting joint health by targeting the immune system. What Is Osteoarthritis? Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease, is a painful, progressive condition that gradually breaks down the cartilage surrounding your dog’s joints. There are several causes of osteoarthritis. Some dogs have congenital abnormalities, such as hip dysplasia, that predispose them […]

Acupuncture is one of the most common natural therapies used by holistic veterinarians. The practice involves stimulating the nervous system by penetrating “acupuncture points” with needles, injectable liquids (such as vitamins or homeopathics), or electrical stimulation. Acupuncture is most effective for dogs suffering: Musculoskeletal problems such as hip dysplasia, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, and […]

As our dogs age, their bodies and needs start to change. Consider these tips to help make your senior dog more comfortable well into their golden years.

The American Kennel Club (AKC®), the world’s largest purebred dog registry and leading advocate for dogs, is proud to announce the recipients of the second set of 2018 AKC Paw of CourageSM awards to show appreciation for the working canines that put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe. This […]

[accordion] [accordion_panel title="K9 Max - San Diego Police Department, CA"] K9 Max, five-year-old Belgian Malinois, served with the San Diego Police Department for two years at the time of his injury. In June of 2017, police officers responded to a radio call of a man acting bizarrely. Upon arrival, the suspect threatened the officers with a […]