Quinoa Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipes

by Amy Tokic

Published: June 27th, 2014

I love quinoa – I eat this super seed at least once a week because it’s grain and gluten free and it’s high in protein. And this is a people food that’s equally super for dogs. Quinoa has been linked to everything from preventing heart disease and cancer, as well as an antioxidant and can reduce the risk of diabetes. It really was a no-brainer to use it in my Quinoa Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipe (well that, and it does have quinoa as the title as the recipe!).

Quinoa Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipes

Makes 20 cookies

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cup quinoa flour

3/4 cup buckwheat flour

1/3 cup molasses

1/2 cup water

1/3 cup olive oil

1 tablespoon honey

2 eggs

Directions:

Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
Using a food processor, add quinoa and buckwheat and mix well. Add in molasses and honey. In a separate bowl, lightly beat egg and add the oil and water. Add this mixture slowly to the food processor until a dough ball forms. If the flour mixture sticks to the bowl, turn off the processor and use a spatula to get it off the sides.
The dough should be soft, but not wet, making it easy to work with. Using a tablespoon, scoop mixture and roll dough into balls in your hands. Softly flatten with the balls of your hands and place on the cookie sheets.
Bake for 30 minutes.
Store treats in an airtight container in the fridge or the freezer.

The dough wasn’t stiff enough to use cookie cutters, but I still had fun with the design. I just used a teaspoon for the dog pad and a dropper for the dog toes.

Amy Tokic

Amy Tokic, Editor of PetGuide.com, is a passionate animal lover and proud pet parent of Oscar, a Shih Tzu/Chihuahua cross, and Zed, a Japanese Chin. Her love of animals began in kindergarten, when she brought her stuffed dog Snoopy into class with her every day. Now, she writes about her adventures in pet ownership and tirelessly researches products, news and health related issues she can share with other animal enthusiasts. In her free time, Amy loves perusing used book and record stores, obsessing over the latest pet products available and chasing squirrels with wild abandon (a habit attributed to spending too much time with her pooches).

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Chickpea Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipe

I’m learning all about grain-free recipes this month. And I’m also realizing that Oscar is acquiring a taste for them! If your dog can’t digest grains, there’s no reason why he can’t enjoy a tasty, homemade biscuit. This time around, I’m pleased to present my Chickpea Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipe. This type of flour is full of flavor, dietary fiber and protein. Because it’s a bean, it’s not considered a grain – which is good news for dogs who can’t digest gluten. And this recipe has the extra benefit of banana, peanut butter and flax seed meal. Chickpea Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipe Makes about 25 medium-sized cookies Ingredients: 2 cups chickpea flour 1 banana 3 tablespoons peanut butter 1 large egg 1 1/2 tablespoons flax meal Directions: Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.In a small bowl, mix banana, peanut butter and egg until completely combined and smooth.In a large bowl, mix the flour and flax seed. Add the wet and dry ingredients together until the dough comes together.Warning: This is going to be some tough dough! Set parchment paper on the counter to roll the dough out onto. Roll the dough to a 1/2- to 1/4-inch thickness and cut out the cookies using a cookie cutter of choice. Transfer the cookies to a parchment-lined baking sheet.Bake the cookies for 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown. Cool treats on cooling rack store in fridge or freezer in airtight container. This was my first time working with chickpea flour. I found the dough tough to work with and the smell was a bit strange at first – it had a bit of a savory scent. But Oscar liked them and that’s always my indicator of a job well done!

Healthy Hound Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipe

We love our dogs and we want the best of everything for them. This heart-felt sentiment is the inspiration behind the Healthy Hound Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipe. Using garbanzo bean and coconut flour, these homemade treats are grain free. Add the benefits of coconut oil, flaxseed meal and turmeric (which is used to detoxify and treat stomach ailments), and you’ve got yourself a healthy treat to give to the pooch who rules your heart. Healthy Hound Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipe Makes about 30 cookies Ingredients: 1 1/2 cup garbanzo bean flour 1/2 cup coconut flour 1 teaspoon parsley 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 2 tablespoons brewer’s yeast 2 tablespoons flaxseed meal 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional) ½ cup chicken broth ½ cup coconut oil Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.In a small pot over medium heat, bring the chicken broth and coconut oil to a boil.In a large bowl, mix flours, brewer’s yeast, flaxseed meal, turmeric, parsley and garlic powder.Add broth/oil mixture to flour and mix well.On a piece of parchment paper, roll the dough into a ¼ to ½ thickness and cut with cookie cutters in desired shapes.Bake for 15-20 minutes on a parchment lined cookie sheet. Take out of oven and let cool. Store in airtight containers in fridge or freezer. Some pet parents don’t feel comfortable feeding garlic to their dogs, so feel free to leave it out. It won’t affect the recipe’s outcome in any way.

Gluten-Free Dog Treat Recipe

*Editor’s Note: Originally, we had posted this recipe as a grain-free do treat recipe, but had included gluten-free oats and rice flour in the recipe. We realize that these are considered grains and are gluten-free, so we’ve changed it to a gluten-free recipe. To make this grain-free, take out the rolled oats completely or substitute with 1 sweet potato, and use coconut flour instead of rice flour. Why Gluten-Free For Dogs? Gluten is a protein that is found in some cereal grains and wheat. But there are some gluten-free grains like corn, quinoa, rice and Amaranth Millet. Just like in humans, some dogs have gluten sensitivity and gluten-free treats are a nice way to give them some love. What are signs of a potential gluten sensitivity in dogs? If your dog does a lot of itching and scratching, particularly at his paws, he may be suffering from a gluten intolerance. Other signs of gluten intolerance in dogs include: Dull, poor coat Red, itchy pawsFrequent diarrheaWeight lossChronic ear infectionsConstant chewing or licking of paws Just like you’d expect to do in human children, if your dog shows some of those symptoms, you’ll want to explore what happens if you go gluten-free with him. Long-term battling of gluten intolerance or allergy isn’t good for his dog gut. Good dog gut health is important to his overall immune system as a leaky gut will basically attack his own body. This can affect nutrient absorption and make it hard for him to thrive. How Do I Know If My Dog Has Gluten Intolerances? Your vet will likely want to rule any other issues out and will look for symptoms that accompany. They likely may run a blood test or look at a fecal sample to be sure nothing else is the issue and they may even want to to endoscopy if symptoms are severe. They will likely talk to you about allergy tests that can detect the difference between a true allergy and an insensitivity. It’s important to know the difference because an allergy could even be life-threatening. You could also do an elimination diet as you would with a human and that information can help you and your veterinarian decide what’s going on with your dog. I love making Oscar and the other office dogs homemade dog treats and was tickled when I came across this gluten-free dog treat recipe. I love that it’s made with simple, all-natural ingredients. Seriously, you would probably pay $10-$20 for these treats in an upscale dog boutique. But with this gluten-free dog treat, you’ll be going against the grain and making your dog a healthy and homemade treat that will save you big bucks. Gluten-Free Dog Treat Recipe Makes about 30-40 cookies 1 banana, mashed 1/2 cup of mashed blueberries 3 tablespoons natural creamy peanut butter 1 egg, beaten 1 3/4 cup coconut/rice flour 2/3 cup gluten free rolled oats 1/3 cup of warm water 1. Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F. In a small bowl, mix together the banana, blueberries, peanut butter and egg until completely combined. In a medium bowl, add the flour and rolled oats and mix. Add the wet and dry ingredients together and combine until the dough forms. If the mixture is too dry add a bit of water to moisten the dough. 2. Roll out your dough onto a piece of coconut-floured wax paper (the dough is sticky and the flour will help). Roll the dough to a 1/4-inch thickness and cut out using a cookie cutter. Place cut out cookies on a non-stick baking sheet. 3. Bake cookies for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown. Take cookies out of the oven and let them cool. 4. Ask your dog to sit or perform a trick and give him a treat! If you made these treat, we’d love to know how they turned out. You can post pictures on our Facebook page or leave a comment down below.

Grain-Free Coconut and Banana Dog Treat Recipe

Coconut flour makes any treat gluten and grain free. Plus, who doesn’t like the taste of coconut – om nom nom! With the Grain-Free Coconut and Banana Dog Treat Recipe, we added a touch of coconut oil for added health benefits, as well as almond milk, which is lactose free and safe for dogs (unless, of course, they have an allergy to almonds). Add banana, peanut butter and banana to the mix, and you’ve got yourself a treat the whole family will want to eat. Why Grain-Free Treats? In the last several years, veterinary cardiologists have been increasingly disturbed by the number of dogs who suffered from dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). DCM is a heart condition that decreases a dog’s heart’s ability to pump blood through its body. Some breeds, like Retrievers, are more prone to DCM, but cardiologists were concerned because they seemed to see more dogs of various breeds not previously having issue being diagnosed. The FDA actually opened an investigation in the matter. They found that 90% of the dogs with DCM they studied were on a grain-free diet and 93% of those contained lentils or peas. A relationship between grain-free diets and DCM hasn’t still been fully proven, but many vets have found that when dogs were taken off grain-free diets, their conditions resolved. Still, many dogs do benefit from the digestive help that a grain-free diet and treats can offer, so here’s a well-loved recipe. Grain-Free Coconut and Banana Dog Treat Recipe Makes about 20-30 cookies Ingredients: 1 cup coconut flour 2 egg 1/3 cup natural peanut butter 1 banana, mashed 1 Tbsp honey 1 Tbsp coconut oil ½ cup almond milk Directions: Preheat oven to 300 degrees.Stir egg, peanut butter, banana, coconut oil and honey in a bowl and mix well.Stir in the coconut flour and mix well. Add almond milk as needed to help dough come together.Coconut flour recipes are crumbly, so you won’t be able to roll it out. Instead, scoop your tablespoon portions and place the balls on cookie sheets.Bake cookies for 20-25 minutes.Remove from oven and cool on wire rack. Now, how good did they smell coming out of the oven? Please let us know how your dog liked them by leaving a comment down below. And on a baking note, the coconut flour has a very different consistency than regular flour – it doesn’t hold together all that well. If you have any tips on how to keep coconut cookies from falling apart, please share them with us.

Grain-Free Almond Delight Dog Treat Recipe

Next up in my adventures in grain-free baking is almond flour. After baking with almond flour, my house smelled amazing! But it’s not just the smell that makes my Grain-Free Almond Delight Dog Treat Recipe a must-try – almond flour (or almond meal, as it’s also called) offers a good amount of manganese and vitamin E, a healthy serving of monounsaturated fats and protein, and is low in carbohydrates and gluten-free. I’ve also added coconut old, quinoa flour and carrot to this recipe. Both almond butter and milk are included, but can be substituted with peanut butter and water. Why Grain-Free For Dogs? You might ask why so many dog foods and treats are labeled ‘grain-free’ and it’s because there’s a lot of science that supports grains leading to gut dysbiosis, obesity, chronic inflammation and more. What is a mycotoxin in dog food or treats? They’re basically the toxic byproduct of a fungus or a mold. Mycotoxins will contaminate grain crops before they are harvested or after they are stored (especially in mass quantities like feed ingredients often are). They are most commonly found in barley, wheat, corn, soybean and cottonseed as well as beets and peanuts. Mycotoxins can often affect other foods that are common ingredients in dog foods and treats: pearl millet, rice, sunflower seed sna dorghum. A well-known (and very dangerous) mycotoxin is aflatoxin. Experts consider it one of the most naturally occurring carcinogenic we know of. Think about how many dogs these days end up with cancers? Guess what a survey that took place in 2004-2013 found? Mycotoxin contamination in over 75% of the samples they took of grains and byproducts that were going to be used in animal foods. The saying, “You are what you eat,” may never have had more meaning. A major target for aflatoxins is in your dog’s liver. That’s a huge problem because that can create immunosuppression and toxicity–your dog’s liver is designed to filter and help prevent those things from happening. In the United States, human and pet foods are not allowed to have more than 20ug of mycotoxin per kg found. The problem is that grains typically contain several different types of mycotoxins that interact with each other as nasty toxins are prone to do and increased toxicity can occur. This exposure can build up in your pet over time. So what do many pet-parents do as an alternative? They look for low-grain or grain-free dog foods and treats. They look for ingredients that have been tested and verified and many make treats and foods themselves. Just like with this amazing recipe your dog won’t even even believe is that delicious. And you know what? They are that delicious–and human-grade ingredients means you can try them too. Just save some for your dog! Grain-Free Almond Delight Dog Treat Recipe Makes 20 cookies Ingredients: 1 cup almond flour 1 cup quinoa flour 1 egg 1/4 cup melted coconut oil 1/4 cup almond or peanut butter 1/4 cup almond milk or water 1 shredded carrot Directions: Preheat the oven to 350 F degrees and line cookie sheets with parchment paper.In a large bowl, stir almond and quinoa flour together. In a smaller bowl, mix egg, melted coconut oil, almond or peanut butter, carrot and almond milk or water.Combine the wet and dry ingredients together in the larger bowl. Mix until a moist dough forms.Roll dough into a ball and cover in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 15 minutes.Roll dough out onto parchment on counter. Using rolling pin, roll out to ½-inch thickness and cut out using cookie cutters.Place in oven and bake in oven for 20-25 until golden brown. Allow to cool and store in air tight container. Keep in refrigerator or freezer. Did you try this recipe on for size? How did it turn out? We’d love to see your creations – please post a picture on our Facebook page for us to ooooh and ahhhhh over!

This Farm Offers Cuddle Sessions With A Pack Of Adorable Goldens

For decades,  Golden Retrievers have been one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States – heck, in the world. It’s no secret that Goldens are simply everyone’s favorite! Cute, goofy, and cuddly, these dogs are such a wonder and so much fun to be around. And now, thanks to Golden Dog Farm from Jeffersonville, Vermont, the fans of this famed breed can enjoy a very special experience centered around these adorable furballs.This family-run farm launched a special Golden Retriever Experience – a one-hour session allows guests to enjoy refreshments such as cider and snacks, all in the company of a huge group of cuddly golden retrievers called “happy”. The session is usually called the “happy hour” just because of this, and allows anyone to immerse themselves in the company of “at least '' 10 dogs Umm, sign me up for any activity that includes dogs, especially ten of ‘em! The Golden Dog Farm is run by Doug and Becca Worple and in an interview with  USA TODAY, the couple happily exclaimed that the bookings for the experience sold out incredibly quickly. It was certainly not what they expected earlier this year when they came up with the idea and started it all. Not at all surprisingly, it was COVID that caused the idea to come to fruition. During the height of the virus rampage, Doug Worple’s job, based at a travel-oriented global digital advertising agency, suddenly experienced a major hiccup. Trying to get a bearing at this trying time, Doug said he “used the moment to take a step back and consider what was next.” And, together with his partner Becca Worple – herself a photographer and a media representative at a radio station – Doug decided it was best to sell their home in Cincinnati, Ohio, in hopes of moving to a family cottage in Ontario. It was a time of big changes."Then the border closed," Doug Worple said. "Now we're two weeks out of closing on our house and didn't know where to go, so we decided to buy an RV and traveled to 35 different states, 17,000 miles in the RV with two of the dogs."And during this incredible and life-changing adventure, the couple decided to start a golden retriever-based business, and to finally settle in beautiful Vermont. "We've just always loved goldens and always wanted to have a lot of goldens," Worple said. "With what I was doing, I saw the power of influencers and social media and all that and I joked we need to have an Instagram farm full of golden retrievers, and soon we started looking at what that might look like."And once they arrived at Jeffersonville, Vermont, a sign they were looking for appeared – and they were left speechless. While driving through town, they suddenly spotted a truck full of golden retrievers, driven by Dana Menne of Butternut Goldens. It was a match made in heaven. "(Becca told me), 'If God were to send to me a sign we needed to move someplace, it would be a truckload of goldens,'" Doug Worple said.In no time, their idea about a golden retriever “happy hour” began to take some serious shape. And especially thanks to the Butternut Goldens.  "Collectively both of us wanted to do something like this but they didn't have a place to do it and we didn't have enough goldens," Doug Worple said. "But together we could make it happen."At the moment, their “happy hours” are sold out until Dec. 17, but the Worples have plans to extend the dates to April, giving everyone a chance to enjoy this experience. The one-hour experience runs on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and costs $75 for adults and $50 for children."People are so happy when they're here, they have this childlike joy on their faces," Worple said. "People cry because they're so happy."What about you? Would you enjoy an hour cuddling with golden retrievers?

How Much Sleep Do Dogs Need?

Sleep allows all big and little creatures to rest, regenerate, grow, and gain strength for further milestones in life. Dogs, too, need to have enough  sleep to thrive – both during the day and through the night. But some doggos love to snooze more and others, and then there are those who won’t sleep that much at all. So what is the bottom line? How much sleep do dogs need exactly? While there can’t be a general, straightforward answer (after all, not all dogs are identical), there are some general rules and guidelines to follow. How Much Sleep Do Dogs Need Daily?The amount of sleep a dog needs can vary depending on factors such as their age, breed, and activity level. Generally, dogs sleep a significant portion of the day, and their sleep patterns can be quite different from humans. Here's a rough guideline for how much sleep dogs typically need on a daily basis – based on their age, lifestyle, and so on.Puppies, naturally, need a lot of sleep, usually around 18 to 20 hours a day. They have bursts of energy and playfulness, which are followed by periods of deep sleep. Puppies are still growing, and sleep is essential for their development.Adult dogs, on the other hand, are not such sleepy heads. Still, they will sleep more often than not. Most adult dogs sleep around 12 to 14 hours a day, although this can vary. Larger breeds tend to sleep more than smaller breeds. Active and working dogs, such as herding or hunting breeds, may require more sleep to recover from their daily activities. There are also seniors, who get tired more quickly and need plenty of rest during the daytime. Older dogs may sleep more than younger adults, often in the range of 14 to 16 hours a day. Senior dogs tend to be less active and love to snooze whenever there’s a chance. It's important to note that individual dogs can have different sleep needs. Some dogs may sleep more or less than the average, and this can be influenced by their overall health and well-being. It's also influenced by their daily routine, exercise, and mental stimulation. Then again, some doggos are straight-out lazy – they love to snooze, hate to jump around and exercise, and snore as much as they want! This is not something you should worry about unless it comes about suddenly. That’s just how some dogs are. 

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More Dogs Than Ever Euthanized as Shelters Hit Capacity

Each year millions of cats and dogs enter shelters and rescues nationwide. Almost a million more animals have entered and lingered in the nation’s shelters in the last three years, resulting in an ongoing capacity crisis. Last year, 3.2 million dogs entered shelters and rescue organizations nationwide. More than 359,000 dogs were euthanized in 2023, compared to 330,000 cats that were euthanized last year. This marks a four-year peak in non-live outcomes for dogs and the first time the number of dogs euthanized has surpassed the number of euthanized cats.  These heartbreaking findings were published in an annual report of shelter populations compiled by Shelter Animals Count, an Atlanta-based nonprofit organization founded in 2012. “Everywhere you turn, the shelters are in crisis,” said the organization’s executive director Stephanie Filer. “It’s truly about an imbalance of animals coming in at faster rates than they’re leaving.”According to Filer, for years cats were considered most at risk because they entered shelters at high rates, but faced low adoption rates. However, focused efforts to reverse these trends are giving results, and the newest data shows a positive shift.“We have seen major positive change,” said Filer. “Adoption rates are high and intakes have decreased, and there are efforts to keep cats at home or in their communities.”Unfortunately, dog programs are suffering, with adoption rates significantly lower than in recent years. “Too many dogs are entering shelters and being left behind,” added Filer, according to USA Today. “Unlike cat adoptions, which continue to increase, dog adoptions have essentially flatlined.”When people think of animal shelters, most imagine scores of large-sized mixed breeds and pit bulls. But in reality, there are purebreds like huskies, French bulldogs, Labradors, and even designer dogs.The one thing no animal advocate thought possible happened - the rates of dog euthanasia surpassed the rates of cat euthanasia for the first time in a long time. “The real reason we’re saying, ‘Wow,’ is that it wasn’t that way for a lot of years. And now it is,” said Filer.More than 6.5 million cats and dogs ended up in U.S. shelters and rescues in 2023. While the number of intakes remained relatively steady, this was the fourth consecutive year of overpopulation. While more dogs were adopted in 2023 than in 2022, the adoption rates were insufficient to meet the demand.The high cost of living, job loss, and housing cost challenges are the main reasons adoption rates aren’t keeping up with animal intake. At the end of 2023, an additional 70,000 cats and 107,000 dogs are waiting for a forever home in one of the many shelters and rescues nationwide. “With more animals entering shelters than leaving, animal welfare organizations and their communities need to continue working together to keep pets in loving homes and out of shelters, including finding ways to increase access to veterinary care and advocating for pet-friendly housing policies,” said Matt Bershadker, president and the CEO of ASPCA.Experts agree that the promotion of shelter adoptions is the best way to solve the ongoing capacity crisis. Adopting an animal from a shelter saves a life, but it also supports the struggling shelters and their staff. Although adopting a cat or a dog from a shelter isn’t possible for everyone, there are other things you can do to help. Volunteering in your local shelter, fostering a pet, or donating are great ways to get involved and help alleviate the shelter crisis.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Often Do Dogs Need to Go Out to Pee?

When nature calls, dogs answer. And when dogs answer, so do you – by taking them outside to do their business. In other words, if you have a potty-trained dog, they will rely on you to know when their bladder is full or at least to take them out frequently enough so it doesn’t get full in the first place. This leaves most owners with the question – how often do dogs need to go out to pee? You don’t want them to have an accident inside the home but you probably don’t want to take them out for a walk every hour or so (even if you did have the time for it) so it’s important to find the right balance. Here’s what you need to know so you can make it work for you and your dog.How Often Do Dogs Pee?The frequency at which dogs need to go out to pee can vary depending on several factors, including their age, breed, size, activity level, and overall health. In general, you can use the following guidelines as a starting point, but it's important to pay attention to your individual dog's needs and adjust accordingly. Sometimes, it’s enough to just observe the signs your dog gives you, like nudging you or standing by the door. But at other times, it requires a bit of “intervention”. When it comes to the connection between a dog’s age and their peeing habits, the younger the pooch, the more they need to go out. Puppies have smaller bladders and higher metabolisms, so they typically need to go out more frequently. A general rule of thumb is to take a puppy out every 1 to 2 hours, especially after eating, drinking, playing, or waking up from a nap. Make sure to let them know why you are going out so they’ll gradually relate walkies with peeing time.Adult dogs, on the other hand, can usually hold their bladders for longer periods. Most adult dogs need to go out every 4 to 6 hours. Some larger breeds may have more bladder capacity and can hold it longer, while smaller breeds may need to go out more frequently, so have that in mind too. Of course, as dogs age, their ability to hold their bladders may decrease. Senior dogs may need to go out more frequently, potentially every 3 to 4 hours. What is more, some senior dogs may suffer from incontinence, meaning that they can’t really control when or where they pee. In this case, you could  use disposable dog diapers until their condition improves or in periods when you’re not there to take them out more frequently and prevent accidents.

Why Is My Bird Biting Me?

If you’re a bird parent, you love and cherish your feathered friend – but what do you do when your bird nips or bites? This is a behavior that can be both surprising and concerning, especially for first-time bird parents. But know, you’re not alone!If you’re wondering, “Why is my bird biting me?” This article is for you!We will explore the different factors and explanations for your pet bird’s newly developed biting tendencies, helping you understand the motivations, identify when there is a deeper problem requiring your attention, and learn how to address the behavior appropriately.Let’s look at how to set you and your bird up for a long, happy relationship by addressing problem biting today.Do Bird Bites Hurt?The short answer to this is – Maybe? Whether or not your bird’s bite will hurt depends on a few factors, including how the bird bites, their overall intention, your bird’s size, and your level of pain tolerance.Bird bites can range from a light little nibble that merely tickles to bites that have the capability of causing serious damage, especially to vulnerable areas like the eyes, ears, nose, lips, fingers, and toes.The potential for a bird bite to cause severe or lasting injuries highlights the importance of understanding your bird, why they may bite, and how to prevent this situation from happening. It’s also one of the most important reasons to consider when deciding if a bird is right for your child, elderly, or special needs family member.Even smaller birds can cause a surprising amount of pain. Often, it’s not the initial bite that causes the most pain. Instead, it’s the way that they will dig in or even grind their beaks that will lead to discomfort, stinging, and soreness.

Study Shows These Dog Breeds Most Likely To Have an Extra Row of Teeth

Is your pooch more likely to sport a second row of teeth? The so-called “Shark Teeth” is a little-known dental condition that can affect up to 7% of doggos around the world. The “disorder” is officially known as persistent deciduous teeth (PDT) and it means that instead of falling out as you’d expect, baby teeth remain in the gums when adult teeth come through. The condition is not particularly dangerous, but even so, it can be odd or cause slight discomfort to a dog. Recent studies revealed that the dog breeds most likely to suffer from PDT are the Toy Poodle, the Yorkshire Terrier, the Maltese, and the Chihuahua. What exactly is PTD? And what does it cause? The disorder causes  malocclusion, or - in simpler terms - a misaligned bite. In the long run, this can cause your pet’s mouth to bleed, and also increase the risk of periodontal disease, which is considered a serious gum infection.The research team at the Waltham Petcare Science Institute in Leicestershire, led by Corrin Wallis, released their new study that focuses on PDT specifically. “Dogs use their teeth for a multitude of tasks and, as such, it is vital for their health and wellbeing that their oral health is maintained,” Wallis and colleagues  say.  “Persistent deciduous teeth (PDT), those that fail to fall out at the appropriate time, are associated with malocclusion (misaligned bite), soft tissue trauma and increased risk of periodontal disease.”In the course of their extensive study, which has been published in the journal  Research in Veterinary Science, the team from Leicestershire examined medical records from up to 2.8 million dogs in the US, in just a span of five years, from January 2010 to December 2014. The study itself was a major undertaking. Ultimately, it was revealed that the prevalence of PDT was 7%. When it comes to individual breeds, it was revealed that the highest prevalence is amongst the Yorkshire Terriers with 25.1%, followed by the Maltese and the Poodle, both with 14.8%.On the lower end of that spectrum, the lowest prevalence was with the Greyhound, with 0.1%, followed by the Rhodesian Ridgeback with 0.2%. Amongst those breeds with lower percentages were also the English Bulldog, the Boxer, and the Great Dane, with 0.4%. All of this reveals that the smaller the breed, the higher the percentage. The team is not certain why smaller breeds have a higher percentage, but it could be linked to their genetics. The team said that it was crucial for owners of smaller breeds to have a thorough oral examination at around six months of age. This can help them identify and remove PDT in its early stages. “Once identified, PDT can be removed and if this is carried out by six months of age, the chances of problems associated with PDT, such as the development of periodontal disease or malocclusion, can likely be greatly reduced,” they said. 

A Former Elvis Impersonator Adopts Elvis, the Dog Who No One Wanted

Elvis, the only dog who didn’t get adopted at Anti Cruelty’s Fall in Love adoption event, finally found a forever home with an owner who used to work as an Elvis Presley impersonator. A three-year-old pit bull terrier mix was the only pooch out of 22 dogs and 39 cats who didn’t find a forever home at the November 11 adoption event. After the event, Elvis had to be sent back to his kennel which served as his home for around four months.Shortly after the event, the shelter took to social media to ask for help finding this handsome boy a forever home. The post that has gone viral said: “Elvis is the only dog that didn’t find a home during our Fall in Love adoption event. He met a lot of potential adopters but sadly did not get adopted. Help us find Elvis a family to love!”In the post, the shelter described Elvis as a “three-year-old meatball” with “the silliest personality.”“His giant smile lights up every room he enters. Elvis is a snuggler, so he hopes you’re okay giving up your personal space.”Elvis arrived at the shelter as an injured stray dog. Since the pooch didn’t put weight on his hind leg, the shelter took X-rays which showed a fractured pelvis. Although the fracture healed completely during his stay at the shelter, Elvis might be prone to arthritis in the future. A few days later this handsome boy found his forever home! And this is where things get really interesting. The couple who adopted the cute pup has a special connection to him - one of them used to be an Elvis Presley impersonator.Loren Agron, one of the pup’s new dads, worked as an Elvis-impersonating waiter at Ed Debevic’s, a 1950s-themed diner where staff entertained customers with choreographed dance routines. Agron dressed up as Elvis Presley and called himself Elvis Parsley.“I wore a black cowboy shirt and quintessential giant Elvis sunglasses, I had long sideburns and my hair was all pumped up and slicked back,” Agron told The Washington Post.“Elvis has always been a big part of my life because I’ve always loved music from that era,” he added.First, Agron went to the shelter to meet Elvis alone, and then he came back with his partner, Drew Wilhelm. “While we were sitting in the waiting room to meet him, I felt like a father waiting for his newborn son to arrive,” said Wilhelm. “As soon as I saw him, I knew that was our dog,” he added. “He couldn’t stop jumping on us, he was so excited we were there to see him.”The couple adopted Elvis that day and took him to his forever home.  “Elvis has left the building,” the shelter wrote alongside a photo of the happy family. “His adopters have been waiting for the right time to welcome a dog into their family, and once they saw Elvis on the news, they couldn’t deny that it was fate.”The couple plans to keep the handsome pup’s legendary name and smitten with their new four-legged companion. “The couple is head over heels in love with their new family member and already has a dog bed and tons of toys waiting for him at his forever home,” the shelter wrote in a post. “Loren is a dedicated ACS supporter and has hosted many of the ACS’s fundraising events at Chicago’s fabulous drag queen, Debbie Fox. We couldn’t be happier for Elvis who finally got his happily ever after!”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Much Exercise Does My Cat Need?

Cats are often known for their laidback and aloof personalities, lounging around the house like true couch potatoes. But just like us, our kitties need regular exercise to live a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life. That’s where your job as a cat parent comes in! In this article, we will explore the importance of exercise for your cat, including how much exercise they need, the benefits of being active, and fun ways to include more physical activity in your cat’s daily routine. Whether you have an energetic young kitten or a calm senior cat, understanding their exercise needs can make a significant difference in their overall well-being. How Much Playtime Does an Indoor Cat Need? When choosing the perfect pet for your family, you have likely heard about how laid back and easy to care for cats can be. After all, they just lounge around the house all day. Right? The truth is that your cat needs daily activity to stay healthy and in shape. The exact amount of exercise your cat needs will depend on several factors, including their age, breed, lifestyle, and individual health needs. For example, a cat that is obese and needs to lose weight to improve their health may need more physical activity than a cat that is already of a healthy weight. That being said, the general rule of thumb is that a healthy adult cat should be engaging in 30 to 60 minutes of active playtime every day, split into shorter 10 or 15-minute play sessions. If you are unsure about your cat’s specific needs, contact your veterinarian. They will be able to provide insight into how exercise and playtime can improve or help to maintain your cat’s quality of life at this stage and as they continue to age. How Do I Know My Cat is Getting Enough Exercise? There are several behavioral signs that a cat isn’t getting enough exercise that you can watch out for. Cats that don’t engage in regular physical activity often suffer from boredom, depression, or anxiety. While our cats obviously can’t speak to tell us this, we can pay attention to their body language and behavior to catch any signs of trouble. Some key signs to watch out for include: Destructive Behavior: One of the first signs people notice when a cat is bored is that they start to exhibit bad habits and destructive behavior. This could include scratching your furniture, tearing apart the toilet paper, ripping curtains or screens, or stealing items they know they shouldn’t. It’s like a young child. They are bored and looking for ways to keep themselves entertained. Excessive Vocalization: Do you have a naturally vocal cat? If so, they may be trying to tell you that something’s wrong verbally. Some cats, when bored, will cry out for attention. This is a behavior we see in our two every time their morning playtime is even 5 minutes late. Change of Appetite: If they are feeling anxious or highly stressed, some cats will stop eating. Others, like humans, will turn to food during times of boredom. Any unexplained changes to your cat’s diet should be considered a sign of trouble – whether it’s a need for more exercise or something health-related.Over-Grooming: Cats are masters of self-grooming, but if a cat is stressed, anxious, or bored, they may take their grooming too far. This can often lead to the development of bald patches or skin irritation. Aggression or Irritation: Some cats become irritable or upset when experiencing stress and anxiety. This could result in uncharacteristic biting or scratching directed towards you, other family members, or other pets in the home. Loss of Energy or Lethargy: This may come as a surprise as most people will associate not enough exercise with having pent-up energy just begging to come out. However, a cat that isn’t getting enough physical activity can become depressed, which may present as being lazy, uninterested, or more aloof than usual. Another important sign to watch out for is unexplained weight gain. Just as humans will gain weight if they aren’t getting enough exercise, so will your cat. Sure, they likely aren’t concerned with “how they look” each morning – but obesity is a growing problem in the United States and can introduce serious health consequences!

Followers Cry Fowl as Staffie Peggy and Magpie Molly, Separated

Fans of the social media darlings start an online campaign to reunite the odd couple.

Is Melatonin Safe For Dogs?

Melatonin is an important hormone, which is naturally produced in the pineal gland of the brain. It has numerous beneficial aspects, such as it can help regulate mood, sleep cycles, and reproduction. However, its production is directly stimulated by darkness, while it is inhibited by light. What does this mean? It means that both dogs and humans will produce melatonin only when it is dark outside. As soon as the dawn arrives with the light of day, melatonin production ceases. This means that many people will supplement melatonin, or use it throughout the day for various reasons. Which brings up the question - is melatonin safe for dogs? Let’s find out. Is Melatonin Safe For Dogs? Melatonin is generally considered extremely safe for dogs, and it is almost always safe to give it to them - when it is used appropriately and under the guidance of a veterinarian. While melatonin is used in humans for the above-mentioned reasons, for dogs it is usually used for treating various skin conditions, anxiety, or sleep disorders. But even with all the positive aspects, it is necessary to first heed the advice of your veterinarian, before giving melatonin to your pet. This is because the proper dosage is important. The dose of melatonin administered depends on your pet’s size, weight, and overall health condition. Generally, veterinarians recommend starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it if necessary. Dosages typically range from 0.5 to 3 milligrams per dog, but this can vary. Mistake the dosage, and you risk a lot of side effects, like digestive upset, lethargy, and changes in mood or behavior.What is more, melatonin might not be suitable for dogs with certain health conditions or those taking other medications. Because of this, it is always crucial to seek professional advice before administering any supplements or medications to your pet. Ignoring this can cause a lot of harm.

New Study Shows Surprising Effect of Pet Ownership on Seniors

You’ve probably noticed how your four-legged bestie influences your mood for the better, but did you know that your pet might be beneficial to your brain? That’s right! The latest studies show that your pet and their company could be just the thing to lower the risk of dementia in your golden years. These findings are especially important for single senior pet owners who are at risk of this troubling illness as they reveal that having a pet can make a drastic change. A recent study that involved adults over the age of 50 who lived alone revealed that those living in the company of a loved pet will have considerably less decline in their verbal fluency and verbal memory - compared to those who lived without a pet. This research was published in the  journal JAMA Network Open and was based on data taken from 7,945 people in the mentioned age group.This study, however, only reflects on people who live alone and does not involve participants who lived with other persons in the household. Still, while the results reinforce the fact that loneliness is a major risk factor for cognitive decline and dementia in old age, they also reveal something new – that the company of a pet counts as much as the company of human family members, if not more so.The early signs of cognitive decline can be fluency, verbal issues, cognition, and memory problems, and so on. But if you have the company of a pet, whom you can address and care for, can greatly reduce the feelings of loneliness and keep these cognitive issues at bay. This study and its results are very important in today’s day and age and for many Americans in particular. Recent U.S. Census Bureau insights revealed that almost 28 percent of all households in the United States were “one-person households” in 2020. This is an alarmingly large number and shows us that many people aged 50 and older will face lonely senior years. Of course, even though the results of this study show that older people can maintain their mental health through the company of a pet, the research team emphasized that more advanced studies and clinical trials will be required to fully confirm the results. Yet even so, the lack of an effective therapy that can reverse or slow cognitive decline and treat dementia means that these results are a small but very important benefit for the understanding of these issues. And, needless to say, all those who are entering their senior years and want to spend them in a healthier and more beneficial way now know that their next station should probably be a local pet shelter. Find a pet you can love and cherish - and keep your brain healthy while showering them with affection.

Is Dog Food Bad for Cats?

In households where cats and dogs coexist together, you can bet that furballs will “share” everything. Sofas, lounging chairs, cozy spots, beds, toys – you name it. Well, sure, not all of it is sharing in the real sense of the word, as it is more of your cat just claiming all of it for itself. That’s just how cats are. But hey, no harm in your cat and dog sharing a bed or a lounging spot. However, what would happen if your cat happened to “share” your dog’s food? Can dog food be bad for cats? Here’s what you should know if your feline is keen on nibbling your dog’s kibble.Is Dog Food Bad for Cats?Cats and dogs are different – it doesn’t take much thinking to figure that out. Not only in their behavioral traits but in their nutritional needs as well. And since their nutritional requirements differ, dog food will generally not be adequate for cats. While dog food is not toxic to cats, it does not have all the nutrients necessary for cats, and it is not formulated in the same way. Cats need specific nutrients like taurine, arachidonic acid, and certain vitamins that are not present in sufficient amounts in dog food. For example, dogs can survive with lower levels of Vitamin A and proteins, while cats cannot. And even if your cat somehow enjoys dog food and prefers to munch on it at feeding time, it is ultimately not good for her. In fact, feeding cats dog food over a long period can lead to nutritional deficiencies and health problems. It's essential to feed cats a balanced diet formulated specifically for their needs to ensure they stay healthy. This includes plenty of protein (more than doggos), and amino acids like taurine and arginine. In fact, these amino acids are essential for cat health. Taurine is especially important for cats. Unlike dogs, cats cannot synthesize enough taurine in their bodies, so they must get it from their diet. Taurine deficiency can lead to serious health issues in cats, including heart problems and vision issues.Cats also require arachidonic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid found in animal tissues. Arachidonic acid is necessary for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and reproductive function. While dogs can synthesize arachidonic acid from other fats, cats cannot produce enough on their own and must obtain it from their diet. The same goes for Vitamins A and D. They are essential components of a cat diet, and cannot be found in dog food in adequate measures. 

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