Dogs Eating Poop (Coprophagia) - Why Do They Do It?

Dogs Eating Poop (Coprophagia) - Why Do They Do It?

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Poop eating in dogs is definitely a behavior problem. According to experts there are a few reasons for poop eating in dogs.

It occurs mostly in puppies. It might be a behavioral problem or even an underlying medical problem. If this occurs excessively, the responsible thing to do would be to take your dog to your vet to have him checked out.

Although this is a possibility, it is mostly a behavioral problem. So when all medical problems are eliminated, it is time to look at the other reason why this happens. It is important for your dog to have his vaccinations regularly. Diseases can also be spread through poop eating.

Why does your dog eat poop?

Hiding evidence.

Your dog might know that this is unacceptable bad behaviour. So he might eat it after having to go in the house for fear of the consequences. Your puppy might even be confused about it. If he was punished for doing it inside, he might think he was punished for doing it. So he might eat it even if he does it outside, because he thinks he should not do it at all.

Likes the taste.

Your puppy might simply just love the taste of the poop.

Dog might be bored.

Your dog might be bored and have nothing to do. Get your dog a few toys or even a friend. Dogs learn to socialize while interacting with other dogs. He needs to come into contact with others like him. If you grew up among dogs and never came into contact with humans like you, you might think you are a dog, right? And you might not know how to interact with others like you.

Copying other dogs

If you have more than one dog, there is a possibility that one of your dogs might copy another. Especially the younger ones.

Hungry Dog.

This can occur in dogs that get fed once a day. They get hungry and the poop is the closest thing to supper.

Overfed Dog.

An overfed dog can digest his food too quickly resulting in the poop still smelling like his supper. And if it smells like supper, then it must be supper, right? Well for a dog it might be.

Protecting against predators.

This is protective behaviour. When a bitch eats her puppies poop, one dog eats another (sick) dogs poop in an attempt to protect him against predators. After all, dogs are wild animals... and they have protective instincts.

Dog Cleaning House

Your dog will eat his poop if things get too much. If you take too long to clean his house out, he might just take the initiative to spring clean his house. There are quite a few theories on how to stop your dog from eating poop. However I have found a few that is quite useful. Clean up as soon as possible. Your dog will not eat poop right after he had a meal.

If possible try to clean as soon as possible. Try feeding him twice a day to avoid him getting too hungry. If he is not hungry, there is a good chance that he will not eat his poop. Mix pineapple or garlic into his food. Apparently it tastes awful in the poop, but I will not be able to verify it as I have not tried it before. Try to keep your dog stimulated. If he does not get bored too often, he might not see an opportunity to eat his poop. Happy Puppy Training...

Dog Health and Your Responsibilities

Dog Health and Your Responsibilities

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There are many advantages to owning a dog. It gives you loyalty and love. Yet so many people neglect its health as a way to return that love and affection.

Preventative dog health care goes a long way to ensuring that your friend stays healthy for years to come. If you decide to get one, then do him a favor and become educated on how to protect his health.

Dog health begins the very minute you take ownership of your canine companion. Before you even think about beginning puppy training you must make sure that you know what type of medication it takes to ensure its health.

Shots such as Distemper, Rabies, and Parvo are absolutely essential to a long and healthy life for your pet. There are other medications such as heart worm medicine and flea medicines that are important as well.

If you are unsure as to what is involved in dog health, check out dog forums for answers on some common questions. The best advice before buying or getting a pet is to do a thorough research to determine if having one is right for you.

There are some questions to ask yourself before you commit to owning a dog or any animal. The first is how much time do you have to devote to the pet? Do you have enough space to accommodate one? Is its health absolutely important to you? Do you have the money to devote to puppy training and to making sure that he or she receives regular veterinarian visits to ensure its proper health?

A dog is a big responsibility. If you are unsure of any of the above questions then now is the time to carefully ponder whether or not you are ready for a pet. Dogs cost money and this responsibility lies with the pet owner.

The puppy or dog is dependent on you for everything they need. This includes their emotional well-being as well. Humans and dogs are alike in that they need love and support. You, as the owner, must be that network of love and support for them.

Dog health is important to having a fully functioning family. Dog's can bring many things to their owner. They bring love and unfailing loyalty. They deserve to have that returned to them by an owner that truly wants what is best for them.

Before you go collect your new pet, take the time to become educated. You should talk to other pet owners and then make that life altering decision.

Caring for Your Dog and It's Health with Massage

Caring for Your Dog and It's Health with Massage

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Canine massage? Really. It can benefit a dog in many ways just as it has been proven for helping humans. Massage once was reserved for extra pampered poochies, but now is catching on due to it's benefits. The benefits it can give "Fido" include, extending flexibility, increasing circulation of blood, relaxation of muscles and can even assist in injury recovery.

Looking for more natural ways to care for oneself has now entered the area of caring for one's animals naturally. This has been most recognized in relation to recovery from an illness or an injury. Scientific research has shown that pain relief is provided through a release of endorphins activated through massage. Canine massage has also shown to enhance blood circulation throughout a dog's body. This increase in blood flow works to promote healing, aid the immune system and even slow the aging process. Of course massage for your dog is in addition to the care your veterinarian already provides your dog. It is simply a way to add to the care given to your loyal canine companion.

Older dogs seem to benefit from massage to an even greater degree. Massage to a senior dog will ease sore and stiff muscles through relaxation, energizes and improves flexibility in joints and muscles. It has been proven that sickly newborn babies have prospered with massages and apparently this applies to puppies too. Also, puppies will get familiar with human touch sooner allowing for possible later benefits as it grows such as veterinarian visits and periods of grooming.

While the average dog loves attention with some petting, massage is another level through technique. Start on the forehead, there are two small indentations, one between the eyes and the other between the ears. Gently massage these areas with your ring finger to stimulate the sinus area and make breathing more efficient. Next there is an area of cartilage at the bottom of each ear. Making gentle circular motions on this area will activate the digestive tract and assist in gas. Another area to massage is the very tip of the ear, gently rub the tips between thumb and forefinger to release endorphins, natural occurring pain killers in the body. If trauma has occurred or is occurring this is a great tool to use. When your dog is laying on its side, move the shoulder in a circular motion. Increases deep breathing and opening the chest cavity larger as well as provides stimulation to the cardio-vascular area. This makes the dog relax, provides stress relief and provides increased blood circulation.

Humans enjoy massage, so why wouldn't your dog? Your dog gives you a form of relaxation, why not give back a little to your dog? Care for your dog by giving love, attention and health benefits all found through massaging your doggie friend. Everyone benefits from massage, let "Fido" in on the benefits too. Older dogs gain flexibility and pain relief, puppies gain health and human familiarity. All dogs benefit from relaxation, release of endorphins, better blood circulation and healing qualities. Really, canine massage can provide caring for your dog's health.

Everything You Need To Know About Dog Allergies

Everything You Need To Know About Dog Allergies

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Dogs have always been considered a human's best friend ever since they were domesticated several years ago. They are intelligent and if well-trained, dogs can do almost anything. Over the years, reports of dogs saving people, especially children, have been all over the news. For their good nature therefore, dogs should be well-bred. However, one grave challenge that dog owners face is dog allergies.

Dogs are not like human beings who can easily identify what they are allergic to and find the necessary medication for the allergy. For dogs, it is up to the owner to figure out what the dog is allergic to and the symptoms for its allergy. There are four common dog allergies. These are categorized as food, flea, contact and atopic allergies.

For each, a dog will exhibit certain symptoms which a good owner can understand and interpret easily. Dog allergy symptoms include itching, raw paws, sneezing and diarrhea.

Itching is the most profound symptom of dog allergies. The most common areas you will find your dog itching are the abdomen, the paws, face, ears, hindquarters, groin and back. Almost each part that the dog tries to scratch or lick always points to a distinct allergy. If the itching does not stop, the pet could have sores on its body which will eventually be filled with pus and that could be fatal.

Flea allergy usually results in the dog licking or trying to scratch the hindquarters and the back. These allergic reactions are usually triggered by the flea's saliva. Contact allergy on the other hand will be exhibited by the dog excessively itching in areas with less hair cover like the armpits and the abdomen. Atopic allergy, also known as inhalant-related allergy, will also result in the pet trying to scratch its face, feet and even chest.

Raw paws also symbolize that the pet is allergic to something. Usually, when the dog scratches and bites its feet a lot, the paws turns reddish brown. Sometimes the paws could even be bloody.
Of all the symptoms, sneezing is the clearest symptom of atopic allergy. However, on rare cases, this could mean that your dog is suffering from contact allergy. When the dog sneezes, there is usually a clear discharge from the eyes or the nose.

Diarrhea is often a symptom for many dog diseases. However, it also shows that your dog is suffering from food allergies. If you suspect the dog is suffering from this allergy, you should the change its diet and check whether it will improve. Feeding your dog food rich in minerals, vitamins and fatty acids will definitely help in fighting this allergy.

To prevent contact and flea allergies you should wash your dog occasionally with cool water and shampoo with Aloe Vera and eucalyptus to relieve the itching. Grooming and brushing your dog regularly, changing its toys and the sleeping area will also be effective in fighting the flea allergy. If the symptoms persist, you should contact a veterinarian because it could be more than just dog allergy.

Understanding Canine Chronic Bladder Infections

Understanding Canine Chronic Bladder Infections

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So your dog is peeing anywhere and everywhere-even on your furniture! This could be a case of a serious problem. When canine chronic bladder infections take hold of your pets, they have trouble holding their urine.

Such conditions can be rather tricky to treat and modern veterinary care can be sometimes frustrating with required treatments taking anywhere from weeks to months.

Before you take action, be sure you know exactly what problem your dog is having. Your dog's behavior could simply be a case of submissive urination because he is highly excited and needs some focused training. On the other hand, chronic bladder infection in canines requires a specific course of treatment.

In any event, you want to be sure and get a reliable diagnosis. A trip to the vet is a good idea if you are the least bid worried about your dog's health, you should discuss conventional and other approaches including dietary change and natural approaches.

Sometimes canine chronic bladder infections are not causing the problems at all. If your dog's condition is a behavioral issue, there are some things you can do to handle your pet's disruptive behavior. Many dogs do not have the proper boundaries or leadership. Watch any episode of the "Dog Whisperer" and you will learn that a "pack leader" needs to be established. And, yes, that pack leader would be you, the dog's owner.

Unfortunately, we love our dogs so much that we tend to let them run the show. One look at their cute eyes and cuddly fur and we fall to pieces. But if you really love your dog, establishing some routines will help both of you coexist happily.

When an untrained dog acts submissive to a person or another dog, he usually urinates inappropriately. Normally, submissive urination occurs more frequently in puppies. You see this behavior all the time: your dog playfully rolls on its back, legs happily kicking, and then he suddenly urinates.

With proper daily walking and using tips for calming your dog, this kind of uncontrollable urination can be lessened. But that's not all you can do to help your dog. Chronic bladder infection in canines can be battled with a homeopathic approach.

A good natural treatment can reinforce the healthy bladder and kidney functions in dogs. This way, you can prevent or, if need be, treat canine chronic bladder infections. Even if your dog has had a healthy life, age can cause such urinary incontinence. A soothing, gently herbal tonic can be just the thing your loyal pet needs.

Today, progressive animal doctors are prescribing such herbal treatments as those made with Cantharis. This herbal treatment helps dogs keep a healthy flow of urine as well as soothes the bladder area.

There's no doubt about it, chronic bladder infection in canines is not pretty. It can be heartbreaking to see your pet go through such a struggle. A dog could even be suffering from bladder stones or a partially blocked urethra. Such conditions are very serious and should not be taken lightly.

Keep your dog healthy so you can enjoy your time with them playing and enjoying life rather than making constant trips to the vet.

Prepare a Personal First Aid Kit for Pets

Prepare a Personal First Aid Kit for Pets

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If you are like most pet owners, your pets are valued members of your family. It is a documented fact that many have risked life and limb to save their precious pets during a disaster. Statistically, however, it is more often small cuts and scrapes that occur that require immediate attention, rather than major disasters such as an earthquake or flood. For this reason, every pet owner should have easy access to a first aid kit specifically created for pets.

What would you need immediately if your puppy fell of the bed and started whimpering? You'd need a first aid kit for pets. Supposing your cat had an altercation with the neighbor's dog and the vet was twenty minutes away? You'd need a first aid kit for pets.

A well-stocked first aid kit for pets is not a substitute for veterinary care, but it could save your pet's life, or at least make him more comfortable, until you can get your pet to a veterinarian. The likelihood that your animals will survive an emergency depends largely on emergency planning done today. Therefore, a first aid kit for pets is a necessity.

What should a first aid kit for pets include? To some degree, that will depend upon the type of pet. However, the basics include the following:
2 - Paw Tip Bandage (Knuckle)
2 - Fingertip Bandage
1 - Tape Roll
1 - Trauma Pad (5 x9)
4 -Gauze Pad 4" x 4"
4 -Gauze Pad 2" x2"
1 -Gauze Roll 2"
2 -Examination Gloves
1 -Instant Cold Pack
1 - Tweezer
2- Antibiotic Ointment
10- Alcohol Pads
10 - Antiseptic Towelettes
1 - Bag
1 - Pet First Aid Guide
4 - Leg Splints/Tongue Depressors
10 - Cotton Tip Applicators
1 -Elastic Bandages 2" ("Ace" Type)
2 - Splinter Removers (Lancets)
3 -Sting Relief Pads

Assemble an emergency supply pack which includes the first aid kit for pets, pet food, water, medications, medical records, leashes, a well-fitting muzzle, ID tags and other appropriate supplies. Put this kit in a central location in your home. Remember to take this pack with you when going on an outing, or else prepare a second pack for the car.

The AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) offers information regarding managing urgent care situations such as car accidents, wounds, electrical shock, and eye, foot and ear injuries. Their website ishttp://www.avma.org/first aid. Additionally, the Red Cross offers a Pet First Aid booklet with suggestions on creating a first aid kit for pets.

What should you do to ensure your pet's survival and to avoid those feelings of panic when an accident or illness occurs? Plan, purchase, prepare and practice. Obtain a first aid kit for pets, and then review the materials it contains. It isn't sufficient to simply have the supplies; you must know how they are used. Learn the necessary skills so your actions become instinctive…even when you are under stress

Planning ahead is the key to keeping your pets safe when disaster strikes.