Shih Apso

by Mary Simpson

Published: April 3rd, 2018

About Shih Apso

Weight

15-20 lb

Height

9-11 inches

Lifespan

12-15 years

Group

Not Applicable

Best Suited For

seniors, singles, families with kids and other pets, apartment dwellers, first-time dog owners

Temperament

stubborn, energetic, playful, affectionate

Comparable Breeds

Shih Tzu, Lhasa Apso

Shih Apso Basics

The loving little Shih Apso just loves being the center of attention and brings together the feisty spirit of the Shih Tzu and the cautious, aloof nature of the Lhasa Apso for a wonderful family pet who enjoys being involved in all activities. Because of his need for human interaction, this little guy can suffer from separation anxiety if left on his own for long periods of time.

The loving Shih Apso brings together the feisty Shih Tzu and the aloof little Lhasa Apso for a fun companion dog.

Origin

While both the Shih Tzu and the Lhasa Apso date back to ancient Tibet, the Shih Apso himself is a relatively recent addition to the dog world; likely 30 to 40 years to when breeders began crossing pure-bred dogs to create pups that were free of the health issues that impacted their pure-bred parents. These pooches are also often bred to be gentler, smaller and hypo-allergenic.

Pedigree

Because he is not a pure-bred dog, the Shih Apso does not qualify to join the American Kennel Club (AKC) however both parent breeds are members. The Lhasa Apso was admitted to their “non-sporting” group in 1935 while the Shih Tzu joined AKC’s “toy” group in 1969.

Food/Diet

The Shih Apso will need a top-quality kibble that is specifically designed for his age, size and activity level. Similar to the Lhasa Apso side of his family, he may require a diet rich in protein and with a minimum 14% fat level to support that heavy coat however this little dog can be prone to obesity, so speak with your vet regarding the ideal blend. Because he can inherit joint issues later in life, weight maintenance is important so plan to feed him 2 to 3 smaller meals each day versus free-feeding and avoid foods with fillers that may cause him to overeat to feel full.

The sweet Shih Apso thrives on human interaction and loves nothing more than to be held and cuddled.

Training

The Shih Apso comes from two stubborn breeds so patience will be needed when training this little dog. The Shih Tzu in particular can be a challenge to house-train so it’s important you begin the process at a young age. Early socialization will help this feisty dog learn to play nice with kids and other animals and taking a firm, consistent, rewards-based approach with lots of praise and attention for a job well done will go a long way in getting the results you want.

Weight

The Shih Apso can weigh between 15 and 20 pounds once fully grown.

Temperament/Behavior

This sweet little dog thrives on human interaction and loves nothing more than to be held and cuddled. As a result, he bonds quickly, can become jealous of others he feels are monopolizing your time and ultimately suffer from separation anxiety if left on his own for long periods of time. He does have a curious side with a stubborn, independent streak that makes him a fun family pet and a wonderful, animated companion animal for seniors. Because he can be aloof with strangers, he’s a great watchdog when needed but isn’t considered “yappy” so is a great fit for apartments.

Common Health Problems

The Shih Apso is a generally healthy little dog however its important to be aware of you’re your new pup could inherit down the line from his parent breeds. With the Shih Apso, that can include joint issues including patellar luxation and hip dysplasia, kidney problems and bladder stones.

Life Expectancy

The Shih Apso is a healthy little dog with a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years.

Exercise Requirements

No surprise that the Shih Apso is a lively little dog who will need to burn off energy. Because of his small size, a couple of short daily walks and some interactive playtime should be sufficient to meet his physical needs. Visits to the off-leash park are a great way for him to socialize and help deliver the mental stimulation needed to tackle his highly curious nature.

The loyal Shih Apso thrives on human companionship and can suffer from separation anxiety.

Recognized Clubs

This little dog goes by many names including Lhasa Tzu, Lhasa-Tzu, Lhasatzu, Shihapso, Shih-Apso and while the Shih Apso doesn’t qualify to be a member of the American Kennel Club (AKC) because of his mixed breed lineage he is recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC), the Dog Registry of America, Inc. (DRA), the Designer Breed Registry (DBR), the Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC) and the International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR).

Coat

Your Shih Apso will have a long, silky (sometimes rough) coat and in spite of being a low- to moderate-shedder, he will require daily brushing to keep it free from matts and tangles – particularly around his face. Regular visits to a professional groomer will help keep him looking his best. Both parent breeds are considered hypo-allergenic and while that isn’t an absolute for this dog, he is a good pick for those suffering from allergies. As with all small dogs, brushing teeth will help prevent periodontal disease and weekly inspection and cleaning of ears can hel avoid infection.

Puppies

Your wee Shih Apso pup comes from 2 stubborn breeds so expect him to be a handful as he grows. To ensure he knows how to play nice with new faces and animals, plan to socialize him from an early age and because house-training will be a challenge, start young and exercise patience.

Photo credit: BIGANDT.COM/Shutterstock; Kaigifts/Shutterstock; kong act/Shutterstock

Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and a feline who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

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With the news of the recent American Bully XL ban in the UK, conversations around dog muzzles have been popping up all over social media. The growing discussion has opened the door for dog owners in the United States to consider the benefits of using a muzzle for their own dogs for many reasons, including scavenging, reactivity, and even short-term use for veterinary and grooming appointments. But with so many different styles of muzzle on the market, how do you choose the best muzzle for your dog? We have you covered! In this guide, we will discuss the different muzzle types available, what each type is best suited for, and the proper fit of a dog muzzle. Plus, I will share which muzzle we currently use with our reactive dog, Lucifer, and why. Let’s get started… Things to Consider When Shopping for a Muzzle for Your Dog When selecting a muzzle for your dog, there is no singular “best option” that will work for every dog and situation. On one hand, this can be frustrating as it leaves you feeling overwhelmed navigating the wide assortment of options. On the other hand, it means you can purchase a muzzle uniquely suited for your dog’s needs. Here are a few key factors to consider when making your decision: MaterialThere are several materials to consider when shopping for a muzzle, including metal, plastic, rubber, vinyl, leather, Biothane, fabric, silicone, and more. To determine the best option for your dog, there are a few critical deciding factors: Do you need a muzzle that can prevent a determined dog from biting? Will your dog be wearing the muzzle outdoors in the elements? Is weight a factor for your dog? Does your dog engage in “muzzle punching” when wearing a muzzle (ramming into people with the muzzle)? Will your dog likely shove the muzzle into the dirt while trying to smell the ground? It is important to note that most muzzles are not considered “bite-proof.” This means they shouldn’t be relied on to prevent a bite from occurring. If you are muzzling as a safety precaution due to a bite risk, the best options are vinyl or wire basket muzzles. Ease of Use Like harnesses and collars, some dogs make fastening a muzzle easy, while others can make the process a challenge. This doesn’t necessarily mean they dislike the muzzle or aren’t properly conditioned to the muzzle. For example, if our boy Lucifer is overly excited about going somewhere, he sometimes gets the zoomies. He usually will stand still to let us buckle his muzzle, but it’s hard to control the zoomies when they hit! A muzzle with a quick-release buckle will be your best option if that sounds familiar. This is faster to secure than a traditional threaded buckle. Airflow One primary concern for those considering muzzling their dogs is the airflow that they will offer, and for good reason! This is especially important if your dog is going to be active while wearing the muzzle. Wire basket muzzles are often a favorite for high-energy dogs, allowing for uninterrupted airflow and making it easy for your dog to drink while wearing it. In comparison, leather and Biothane muzzles, especially those designed to prevent scavengers from being able to pick up “goodies” on their walks, generally limit airflow. Carefully consider your dog’s lifestyle and the situations where a muzzle may be needed.

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8 Dog Breeds That Originated in China

Happy Chinese New Year – 2017 is the Year of the Rooster! To celebrate this new year, here’s our list of eight dog breeds that originated in China. In honor of this most auspicious occasion – and because the number 8 has long been regarded as a lucky number in China – let’s take a peek at eight unique dog breeds that call China home. 1. Shih Tzu

Learning About Collapsed Trachea in Dogs

Let’s go over the basics about what you should know about collapsed trachea in dogs Owners whose dogs suffer from tracheal collapse can tell you that when it happens, it’s a sound that fills you with dread and fear. It’s that honking cough that results when a dog’s airway is obstructed. It kind of sounds like your dog is trying to hack up a hair ball and is often mistaken for reverse sneezing. Let’s talk about collapsed trachea in dogs, what you should know, and what your options are. What is Collapsed Trachea in Dogs? The trachea (also known as a windpipe) is made up of hard rings of cartilage and carries air from the nose and throat to small airways (bronchi) that go to the lungs. Tracheal collapse is a common cause of airway obstruction that occurs when these rings of cartilage collapse. Air has to squeeze through this narrowed passageway, which results in a honking cough. What Causes Collapsed Trachea in Dogs? There aren’t any known reasons why this happens, but weak cartilage of the tracheal rings is suspected. This is a congenital abnormality, which means that the dog was born with this health issue. As well, it may be brought about by chronic respiratory disease, Cushing’s Disease and heart disease. Breeds Affected by Tracheal Collapse Toy breeds are most susceptible to tracheal collapse, and it occurs in both sexes equally. These breeds include Yorkshire Terriers, Shih Tzus, Pugs, Chihuahuas, Lhasa Apsos, Toy Poodles, Pomeranians and Maltese. Although it can happen at any age, signs and symptoms frequently appear around the age of six or seven. Symptoms of Tracheal Collapse If you think that your dog has a collapsed trachea, watch for these common symptoms. They may be exacerbated by weight, excitement, heat and exercise. Honking coughLabored breathingExercise intoleranceRetchingRapid breathing and abnormal breathing soundsBluish tinge to the gums Signs can vary and include mild to severe panting, respiratory distress and bluish discoloration of the mucous membranes (cyanosis). This can often look like Cushing’s Disease, and your vet needs to check it out. Additionally, your dog may be begging for breath using abdominal muscles, so check to see if they’re tight. Often, dogs with tracheal collapse are frequently overweight, but that isn’t always the case, so don’t rule it out just because a dog is thin. Because tracheal collapse often happens in older dogs, symptoms may include a heart murmur. Diagnosis Your vet will typically diagnose tracheal collpase because they’ll be able to get your dog to cough by gently manipulating their neck. To confirm, chest and neck x-rays will be taken and the vet will look at how the trachea changes as your dog inhales and exhales (or tries to). You may also need to have labwork done to rule out other comorbid situations or conditions, and in some cases, your vet may want to do studies that look at the trachea and lungs during breathing (fluoroscopy or endoscopy). They may also want to take an ultrasound of the dog’s abdomen to see if there is any organ enlargement. Treatment Your veterinarian will be able to go over courses of treatment, depending on the severity of your dog’s tracheal collapse. For mild to moderates cases, your vet will most likely prescribe a treatment of cough suppressants, bronchodilators, antispasmodics, corticosteroid, sedatives, or antibiotics. If obesity is suspected to be the cause of tracheal collapse, weight loss (exercise and change of diet) will be recommended. There are things that you can do at home to help ease your dog’s symptoms. You can use air filters and purifiers to help get rid of environmental pollutants. And stop smoking in the house or around your dog – in fact, this can be the perfect excuse for you to quit! When walking your dog, use a harness instead of a collar, which can constrict the airway when you apply pressure. Severe cases of tracheal collapse may require surgical intervention. There are various options, but the most common involves attaching prosthetic polypropylene rings to the outside of the trachea. It is a complicated surgery, but the overall success rates are high and encouraging. We’ve added a video below of a dog with a collapsed trachea – you’ll notice the honking cough that’s a trademark of the illness. If you think that your dog suffers from a collapsed trachea, please see your veterinarian immediately. You should never treat your dog with medications without talking to your vet first.

What Is Cherry Eye In Dogs?

I spy with my little eye something that looks red and swollen! Cherry Eye – known as the third eyelid, is not too uncommon an issue, especially in young dogs. Luckily, there are easy solutions. Let’s go over some important facts about cherry eye in dogs and how to fix it. Did you know your dog has three eyelids? Most people don’t – that is, until Fido develops cherry eye. But let’s go back to that third eyelid… This clear lid is called a nictitating membrane, and it houses the glands that are vital to your dog’s vision through their tear production. So, it turns out this thing you never even knew existed is actually pretty important. Cherry eye is common in young dogs under the age of one or two, and has a prevalence in certain breeds, most of them small in size and stature. Breeds such as Lhasa Apso, Boston Terrier, American Cocker Spaniel, the English Bulldog, or the Shih Tzu are especially prone to this issue, but not exclusive to it. 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Mice Have Passed the Mirror Test: What It Means

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Pet Safety Tips for the Holiday Season

The holiday season is here, and you’re probably excited about everything that this festive time of year has to offer. But even though you might be focused on being with the people you love, eating delicious food, and sharing gifts, it’s important to also consider the effects the holidays can have on your pets.To help you enjoy a safe and happy holiday season with your furbabies, here’s a list of holiday safety tips for pets.

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Unlike dogs, cats aren’t exactly known for their love of fetch. If you dream of tossing a toy with your furry best friend for hours, fear note – with a bit of time, patience, and positive reinforcement, you may just inspire a new love for the game in your kitty. This post will discuss why some cats take to fetch so naturally and how play can benefit your cat’s overall health and well-being. Plus, we’ll share how to teach your cat to play fetch step-by-step with tips for success! So, grab your cat’s favorite toy and get ready for a fun game of fetch…Why Do Cats Love Playing Fetch? There are many theories about why cats enjoy this game. The most accepted theory is that the action triggers natural hunting instincts. When an object is thrown, it mimics their prey moving across the room. The cat then chases the toy, stalking and hunting it. Retrieving the toy and bringing it back to you is similar to cats bringing their freshly killed prey to their owners as a gift. Other experts see the game of fetch as an attempt to spend quality time playing together, bonding like we do with our dogs. However, no research confirms either theory. What Toy Do Cats Love Most? Finding the best toy for your fetch-loving cat can be a fun process. Why? There is no “one-size-fits-all” solution. Instead, you’ll have to set aside time to play and test which toys your cat connects with most. Think of it as a fun game of trial and error. We have two cats at home, one of whom is absolutely in love with playing fetch. Pippen, our Maine Coon mix, will bring toys to us randomly throughout the day. She drops them at our feet and meows loudly while pawing at our pant legs, begging us to throw whatever she has brought us. Here are a few of her favorite toys to play fetch with: SmartyKat Skitter Critters Catnip Cat Toys: These little mice are not only the perfect size and weight for cats to carry around, but the fact they include catnip makes them even more enticing. If the theory about hunting is correct, they are a great example of mock prey. Catit Eco Cat Toy: Another prey-like toy, this is arguably the top choice in our house. Pippen loves anything with feathers. If you have a tiny kitten, this is a little harder to carry, but Pippen is relatively small, and she has never had a problem. Andiker Cat Crinkle Balls: This is another one I have heard other cat parents raving about. The balls make a fun crinkling sound while the foil-like mylar material reflects the light, making them a fun visual spectacle to hunt down. SPOT Colorful Springs: These toys may not seem special, but the spring design causes them to bounce around the room unpredictably. This keeps your cat on their toes as they hunt them down with each throw. Cat Tube Spring Toys: These toys are made of lightweight mesh material, making them easy to carry around. If you fold them or push down the ends, then let go, they fly through the air. The goal is to find something your cat loves, wants to retrieve, and can comfortably carry back to you to continue the game. Is It Normal for a Cat to Never Play? While you can expect a range of playfulness from cats, with some cats being very playful and others only playing occasionally when they “feel like it,” it’s not normal for a cat to never play at all. A healthy adult cat should get at least 30 to 60 minutes of playtime daily. This can be in one large play session or, ideally, split into shorter play sessions of 10 to 15 minutes. If you have a cat who appears lazy or unmotivated, you should prioritize turning this around and encouraging them to play more. Otherwise, they will be at a higher risk of potential health complications, including obesity, diabetes, urinary tract diseases, arthritis and other joint-related issues, and fatty liver disease.

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Humans Are Getting Their Pets Sick – Here's What You Need To Know

Zoonosis are diseases that can be transmitted from other vertebrate animals to humans, such as rabies or Lyme disease, and has been around ever since we started domesticating animals. However, recent studies reveal that a new and lesser-known form of zoonose is becoming increasingly common: the reverse zoonose. This is the latest phenomenon, where disease can be transmitted from humans to their pets. Dr. Benjamin Anderson from the University of Florida was amongst the first to warn about the increase of reverse zoonoses. He said that more attention should be paid to disease transmission “in the opposite direction”, and that both pets and their owners can be threatened by it, especially when sharing close quarters with one another.“We’re starting to see a lot of examples of reverse zoonosis. Pets are more susceptible than, maybe, we previously thought,” he said. “Typically, the viruses that I will have as a human are not going to fit into the receptors that a dog or cat has.”This means that reverse zoonoses typically appear when a pathogen in humans mutates and then adapts to a new animal host. In the past, however, it was much rarer for this to happen, because humans and animals have a totally different biology.But now, the viruses like  coronavirus or influenza have a much higher chance of cross-species transmission. This is mainly due to their RNA-based genetic material, which is more likely to mutate or have replication errors. According to Dr. Anderson, there are several diseases that have been documented to transmit from humans to their pets. These include COVID-19, tuberculosis, swine flu, dengue, human-norovirus, and other viral, fungal, parasitic, and bacterial infections.To make matters worse, the highest chances for this to happen is with pets such as dogs, cats, horses, and ferrets, as they have the most genetic similarity to humans, being mammals. “We have to first ask how the pathogen gets into those animals in the first place,” said Dr. Anderson for  Phys.org. “The pathogen doesn’t develop out of thin air in animals before suddenly spilling over into humans. While pathogens certainly can move from animals to other animals and can be picked up from the environment, exposure to humans also plays an important role. It’s this constant back and forth exchange that happens over time, increasing the probability of a mutation taking place that allows the pathogen to infect a new host.”Dr. Anderson also noted the difficulty in tracking reverse zoonoses, as it is a big challenge to link the transmission of diseases between humans and animals. Because of this, Dr. Anderson advises pet owners to be cautious around pets, particularly if they are sick with communicable diseases, like COVID-19 or the flu. Maintain good hygiene around your pets, and avoid direct contact.

How Cold is Too Cold for My Dog to Be Outside?

You might enjoy the magic of wintertime, but that doesn’t mean that your pooch shares your enthusiasm for cold weather – or the situation might be the exact opposite, with your four-legged bestie enjoying snowfall and you dreading the icy temperatures. Either way, you might be wondering if your pet needs some extra protection or different routines during winter – after all, some dogs are less suited for cold than others. So, it begs the question how cold is too cold for your dog, and should you even try going outside in these cases? There are several precautions you can take, but sometimes, you should be wary of extreme temperatures. Let’s delve deeper and learn more. How Cold is Too Cold for My Dog to Be Outside?The tolerance to cold weather can vary among individual dogs based on factors such as breed, size, coat type, age, and overall health. Generally, most dogs can tolerate cold weather to some extent, but there are certain conditions and temperatures where it becomes unsafe for them to be outside for extended periods. Of course, there will be some telltale signs that it’s just too cold to be outside. Signs that your dog may be too cold include shivering, whining, seeking shelter, lifting paws off the ground, or exhibiting signs of discomfort. If you notice any of these signs, it's time to bring your dog inside for some much-needed warmth.Of course, it’s essential to use your judgment and consider your dog's individual needs – you should always prioritize your dog's well-being in extreme weather conditions, but that will differ from dog to dog and climate to climate. Even so, there are some general guidelines for determining if it’s too cold outside for your pet – here’s what you need to know before taking them outside in really cold weather.Consider their coat length and breed: In winter, your pet’s coat can be a determining factor for outside time. Dogs with thick or double coats, such as  Siberian Huskies or  Alaskan Malamutes, may be more tolerant of cold temperatures than those with short coats, like Chihuahuas or Greyhounds. Some dogs were specially bred for living and working in cold environments, while some breeds were developed for completely opposite conditions. If your pet belongs to the latter group, it might be useful to invest in  a warm coat  designed to keep your dog toasty and warm during cold weather.

Amazing Wiener Dog Gives Birth to a Record Breaking Puppy Litter

Puppy litters can certainly be large, but in the case of this brave Wiener dog mom, everyone was taken by surprise! This extraordinary female dachshund brought to the world a litter of no less than 11 puppies – there is definitely potential for a world record here. Winnie, a three-year-old female dachshund, was seemingly a normal pregnant dog, and nobody expected her litter to be this big. Normally, this breed of dog delivers between one and six puppies, but Winnie delivered nearly double that number in September.

Dog Rescued After Surviving a 60-foot Fall from Michigan Cliff

A family’s trip to one of Michigan’s most beautiful landmarks almost ended tragically, when their dog took a tumble from a cliff. The adventurous dog, named Dancer, was rescued after surviving a 60-foot fall from a cliff and spending a freezing night alone in the wilderness. The three-year-old pooch had escaped her leash and plunged off a steep cliff near Miners Castle, in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore area in Munising, Michigan. The lakeshore runs alongside Lake Superior and is located in Michigan’s Upper Penninsula. The National Park Service (NPS) shared in a news release that Dancer fell 60 feet off a cliff to a ledge below. The dog’s owners spent hours searching the area but were unable to find the dog and were convinced that she didn’t survive the fall. Rangers at the nearby Pictured Rocks Park received a message about the lost pooch and decided to enlist the help of Superior High Angle Rescue Professionals (SHARP), a local rope rescue team, to search for the dog. The following morning SHARP members Erik Olsen, Westley Shaffer, and Tyler Davis went to the area and were able to find Dancer, who was cold, but alive. “Though she has spent the night trying to keep warm, she was excited to see the rescuers,” the service wrote. Dancer, who was described as a “professional troublemaker” didn’t have any reported injuries. The lucky pooch has since been reunited with her family and is recovering well after spending the night alone in the wilderness. The park service noted that Dancer was extremely lucky and although her story has a happy ending, her fall should serve as a reminder to everyone that areas of Pictured Rocks can get very cold and extremely slippery.“With this year’s mild start to winter, many areas of Pictured Rocks are more accessible than they are most years,” Chief Ranger Joe Hughes explained. “It is still important to remember to be prepared for slippery, cold conditions that can change quickly.”Whether you’re planning to hit a local trail with your pooch or are planning a trip to a state park, keep your pooch on a leash. Make sure that your pup’s harness is fitted properly so that your pooch can’t wiggle out of it, even if it tries. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Can Cats Suffer From Depression?

Does your otherwise playful and friendly cat no longer seem interested in their favorite toys? It’s natural to worry when you notice a change in your best friend’s behavior. Changes in your cat’s mood or activity level may signal that something more serious is happening. We often watch for the warning signs of physical illness, but what about depression? Did you know that your cat can also struggle with their mental health? This article will examine the very real risk of feline depression, including the warning signs, what to do if you suspect your cat may be struggling, and prevention tips. Discover helpful strategies to boost your cat’s mental health and help them get back to their usual playful, purring self today. Can Cats Get Depressed? Cats are known for their independence and aloof attitude, but this doesn’t mean they don’t feel things – sometimes very intensely. Just like people, your cat can suffer from mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression. Not only does depression impact them mentally and emotionally, but it can also affect their physical health and well-being. This is why it’s important for us to acknowledge the risks, identify signs that something is “off,” and seek help for our cats when needed. How Can I Tell if My Cat is Depressed? We all know cats are masters of hiding when they aren’t feeling well. This is why physical illnesses and sicknesses can be so difficult to spot. The same is true for cats who are facing challenges with their mental health. The signs are often subtle, meaning we, as cat parents, must be hyper-vigilant. Some of the more common warning signs to watch out for include: Increased vocalization (constant meowing, yowling)Loss of appetite Unexplained weight loss Sleeping more than usual or at times they’d typically be active Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyedDecreased grooming or attention to hygieneDull, matted coat No longer seeking attention or interaction Out-of-character aggression or irritability Hiding or isolating themselves Many of these signs can also be associated with physical illnesses or diseases. If you notice any of these changes, make an appointment with your veterinarian. They will run tests to rule out any physical health problems before discussing recommendations to help manage your cat’s mental health.

More And More Pets Are Having Allergies, Trupanion Reports

The time when spring blooms and summer comes to the doorstep is an idyllic period for most, but a lot of people dread this time of the year because of seasonal allergies that cause s lot of sneezing, headaches, and all-around discomfort. Now, it seems, it’s not just us humans that can experience nasty spring allergies – data indicates that our four-legged best friends are also affected by them. Dogs, in particular, are very susceptible to  spring allergies and are increasingly treated for their symptoms, such as itchy skin.Are All Dogs At Risk for Spring Allergies?It is important to be aware that the trees and flowers that bloom in spring can be a source of allergies for your pet. Not only are spring allergies very uncomfortable for dogs, but they can potentially lead to many secondary issues, the most dangerous of which is a skin infection.And if you think that chances for a spring allergy affecting your dog are low, consider a recent report issued by the pet insurance company Trupanion. They claim that there was a 45% increase in allergy claims for insured pets over the course of four years since 2019. This means that allergies are on the rise, both for pets and their owners. In fact, as  Axios reports, according to the insurer Nationwide, spring allergies are at the top of the list of health conditions that end in vet visits. Another key fact is related to allergy drugs. Since two of the major allergy drugs were released in 2013 and 2018, more than 20 million dogs have been treated by them, in an effort to battle spring allergy effects. Of course, if you suspect that your pet is suffering from a spring allergy, it is key to visit your vet as soon as possible. Depending on the effects, your vet can prescribe topical, injectable, or chewable treatments that help reduce  itchiness and other issues. And, considering that such allergies are seasonal, be ready for them with the arrival of spring and the blooming of trees. Learn to spot the symptoms such as itchiness, and to react quickly!

Can I Muzzle My Dog to Stop Barking?

Final Thoughts - Can I Muzzle My Dog to Stop Barking?Excessive barking can be frustrating and, if left unaddressed, can put you, as the owner, in a difficult situation. In some places, this can lead to fines or even eviction due to noise complaints. Unfortunately, the process of training a dog to stop barking isn’t one that is usually solved overnight – but it can be done! While you might have seen it recommended to use an “anti-bark” muzzle to stop your dog’s barking, it is not recommended for anything more than a 10 to 15-minute quick fix. Not only does it not teach your dog not to bark in the future, but the muzzle's design could create a dangerous situation. Instead, start by identifying the cause. Is your dog overly excited? Is there a trigger that makes them feel fearful and stressed? Are they trying to protect you when someone walks onto your property? Knowing the trigger will help you not only stop it but also manage your dog’s barking in the short term. If you feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to contact a professional trainer or certified behaviorist to offer guidance and direction. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Yes, Cats Really Do Love a Game of Fetch... on Their Terms

No training needed when instincts kick in and your feline friend steps up to the plate.

Hypothermia in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

When a dog gets too cold, they’re at risk of hypothermia. But what is hypothermia, what are its symptoms, and what can be done to treat it? Below is a brief guide to dog hypothermia so you can have a better understanding of this condition and why it’s so important to prevent it.What Is Hypothermia in Dogs?Hypothermia develops when a dog’s body temperature drops to 99°F (37.2°C) or lower. A dog’s normal body temperature range is 99.5-102.5°F (37.5-39.2°C).There are three levels of hypothermia: mild, moderate, and severe.Mild hypothermia occurs when a dog’s body temperature is between 90-99°F (32.2-37.2°C).Moderate hypothermia develops when the dog’s body temperature falls even more, to 82-90°F (27.8-32.2°C).Severe hypothermia develops when the dog’s body temperature falls below 82°F (27.8°C).Giving a dog the right treatment to bring their temperature back up is critical, as hypothermia can cause damage to organs, and it could be fatal.  Some dogs may be at greater risk of hypothermia. Puppies, seniors, and dogs who are thin or small are a few examples. Dogs who are ill, including those with chronic conditions, can also be more susceptible. Also, hairless dogs and those with short coats are other examples.What Causes Hypothermia in Dogs?Dogs who are in the cold for too long are at risk of hypothermia. And if they get wet, their body temperature can drop more rapidly. Never leave a dog outside when it’s too cold or windy, or when it’s raining or snowing.It doesn’t have to be extremely cold for dogs to feel the effects either, as a temperature less than 45°F (7.2°C) could put some dogs at risk. Before going outside with your dog, check the wind chill, too, as this will give you a better idea of what it actually feels like out there, and what the risk of frostbite and hypothermia really is.    Also, certain medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism and shock, could increase a dog’s risk of hypothermia.Symptoms of Hypothermia in DogsAs a dog starts to feel cold, they’ll exhibit changes in behavior. Warming them up right away can prevent them from getting even colder. If hypothermia continues to set in, the situation will become more dire as the symptoms progress.Here are some of the symptoms to watch out for:Mild hypothermia may cause a dog to shiver and experience weakness. They may also be less alert, and may try to find ways to stay warm, such as curling in a ball. If you were to feel the dog’s skin, ears, paws, legs, and tail, they may be cold to the touch.Moderate hypothermia may cause the breathing to become shallow and slow, and the muscles may become stiff, resulting in difficulty moving. The blood pressure may drop, and the dog may be even more lethargic and confused. If you were to check the gums, they may be pale.  Severe hypothermia may cause the pupils to become fixed and dilated, and a dog may have trouble breathing. They may not be as responsive, or they may become unresponsive. Also, they may not be shivering anymore. Collapse and coma may occur.How to Help a Hypothermic DogThe symptoms of hypothermia must be taken seriously. Contact your veterinarian even if you think your dog might only have mild hypothermia, as they can provide guidance on what to do, and they might advise bringing your dog in to be examined and treated.In cases of severe hypothermia, a veterinarian will need to treat your dog, so don’t try to fix this problem yourself.Here are a few steps you can take if your dog has mild hypothermia (again, talk to your vet first to be sure you’re taking the right steps and you can treat this at home):Dry your dog if they’re wet. Bring them to a warm area of your home, such as near a heat source. Wrap them in a blanket—you could even warm it up in the dryer first. Use products like the PetFusion Microplush Quilted Pet Blanket, which is super soft and has a light fill that provides more warmth.

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