General Dog Health

Open wide and say woof! Our General Dog Health section covers a variety of concerns, questions, products, and topics that help you stay informed when it comes to your pooch’s well-being. Learn more about how you can make your four-legged family member feel their best, both mentally and physically.

Dog’s physical condition is not the only indicator of their health. What makes a dog healthy and happy is a complex topic that includes many aspects of their lifestyle, and in Petguide.com’s General Dog Health blog, we try to give you the complete overview of all those important facets.

Worried about your dog’s health issue? Read our articles on dog illnesses and medical conditions such as cherry eyes, allergies, gingivitis, and more. Wondering what goes on in that cute head of theirs? Take a look at eye-opening articles on empathy in dogs or emotions dogs can experience. We also cover how dogs influence our health, so make sure to check out our articles on how dogs make us happier and improve our lives.

For those of you who love reading interesting facts, quirks, and curiosities about dog’s health, you’re in the right place. Discover the real truth about doggie pheromones and canine plastic surgery, find out what is hybrid vigor and double merle dog, and if vaping and second-hand smoke really have an impact on your pooch’s health. Always wanted to know where healthiest dogs live or if tail docking has any benefits? Stay up to date with latest findings and studies that concern dog health!

A wholesome lifestyle helps your pup have optimal health. Our guides and articles help you learn all the essentials needed for a dog’s well-being and provide your dog with the best care possible. And don’t be shy – if you have a question about General Dog Health, please feel free to ask us.

Warning: The Deadly Dangers of Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs

Winter can come with many unpleasant surprises - including antifreeze poisoning in dogs. Recognizing the symptoms is key to saving your pet's life.

7 Ways To Keep Your Dog’s Teeth Clean

We love it when our doggos have that pearly white smile, don’t we? It means that their teeth and gums are in good shape and that’s a good indicat…

Wheelchairs For Dogs: How To Know If Your Dog Needs One

Your pet can gain their mobility back with a wheelchair for dogs- here are the cases that require the help of mobility aid for a better quality of life.

Pet Wellness Doesn’t Have to Cost a Fortune

An affordable pet care program is here for you and your pet from Vital Care by Petco. Find out the perks and benefits of this program.

New Study Fuels Anti Tail Docking and Ear Cropping Standards

New study on tail docking and ear cropping sheds new light into the necessity of these practices and questions their validity.

10 Signs Your Dog is From a Puppy Mill

Puppies from puppy mills often come with a host of health problems. By knowing what to look for in puppy mill puppies, you can help stop their sale.

What Pet Parents Need To Know About Reverse Sneezing In Dogs

Before you freak out, you should know that reverse sneezing is fairly common in dogs, and that flat-face breeds are more prone than others.

Top 10 Best Dogs For Allergy Sufferers

What dogs won't make you sneeze? Learn the basics about hypoallergenic dog breeds and our recommendations for the top 5 best dogs for allergy sufferers.

Do Dogs Get Seasonal Depression?

Seasonal affective disorder, also known as SAD or seasonal depression, is connected to shorter days, colder weather, and bleaker views and can affect people of all ages and backgrounds. But what about our dogs? Can they get seasonal depression as well?

Expert Advice: Supplements and Diet For Senior Dogs

Older dogs have specialized dietary needs. Sabine Contreras, Canine Care and Nutrition Consultant, knows just what to serve up to your senior dog to ensure h…

Are Dogs Colorblind?

We've all heard that dogs are colorblind, but is it true? Let's take a look at this popular belief, and if it really holds true.

Tick SR Makes Dog Tick Removal Quick and Painless

If your dog as ever had ticks, you never forget that experience. But there's a solution for quick and painless dog tick removal and it's called Tick-SR.

Can I Put Vaseline on My Dog?

Does your dog have dry or irritated skin? You may be wondering, can I put Vaseline on my dog? Read on to learn if it's safe for your pooch.

Why Do Dogs Circle Before They Lie Down?

Watching your dog try to find a place to relax can make you dizzy! Have you ever wondered why do dogs circle before they lie down?

How to Read Your Dog’s Vital Signs

When your dog is in medical distress, you need to know how to read his vital signs. We explain what to check and how to do it. Regardless of age, breed or he…

5 Benefits of Playing With Your Dog

Did you need a reason to play with your dog? We have 5 great benefits why you should play fetch with Fido.

California Vets Want to Prescribe Medical Marijuana to Pets

For many pets, non-psychoactive cannabis oil successfully treats health issues, and if the new bill passes, your veterinarian can be the one prescribing it.

Do French Bulldogs Tolerate Heat Well?

Because of their face shape, French Bulldogs are susceptible to heatstroke and overheating, which can be life-threatening. Here are some main rules to stick to in the summer if you have a Frenchie pet.

Is Your Dog’s Bad Breath Telling You Something About Their Health?

Sometimes, your dog's stinky breath is not just a nuisance- it can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. Recognize the signs in time!

Why Does My Dog Eat Grass?

Have you noticed your pooch sneakily snacking on grass? Here's why your lawn clippings suddenly seem as appetizing as kibble.

What Emotions Do Dogs Actually Experience?

Naked feelings of love, fairness and jealousy of our loyal companions Any long-time dog lover will be able tell you that their dog has feelings. But is there…

Vets Warn: Dry Drowning Is a Risk for Dogs, Too

Want to take your pooch to the beach for some summer fun? Read this first. Sunny days on the beach, frozen treats, and vacation time– what’s no…

How Dogs Can Help Prevent Suicide

The winter months often lead to increased depression and thoughts of suicide. Dogs offer a unique form of furry therapy that helps get you out of your head.

Head Pressing in Dogs: Should You Be Concerned?

It sounds like a harmless behavior, but head pressing in dogs can point to something more serious. Here's what to watch out for and how to treat it.

Gastrointestinal Obstructions in Dogs

If your dog eats something he shouldn't, it can cause a gastrointestinal obstruction. To prevent this from happening, here's what you need to know about the problem.

Tips On Making Your Home Comfortable For Your Senior Dog

Your dog deserves a comfortable retirement – here’s how to make it golden He’s been by your side for a long time. Even though he’s no…

My Dog Has A Tooth Fracture – What Should I Do?

Ouch! Did your dog bite off more than he could chew and fractured a tooth? Here’s what you need to know about this common dental issue. Dogs are just a…

Researchers Find Shared OCD Genes in Dogs, Humans, and Mice

Newest findings indicate that OCD, one of the shared conditions that can affect both us and our pets, can be identified through four genomes.

Can Dogs Be Allergic to Pollen?

Believe it or not, dogs can be allergic to pollen, just like humans. This condition is known as canine pollen allergy or canine hay fever. Here's what you can do to help your pet.

How To Stop Stinky Dog Farts

Urgh! What's that smell? We've been blaming rotten smells on the dog for many years, but what can you do if you've got a legitimate problem with dog farts?

Dogs Panting: Why Does Your Pooch Do It?

Tongue hanging out; drool hitting the floor - they're the telltale signs of dogs panting. Your pooch does it when he's hot, as well as other reasons.

Chronic Ear Infections in Dogs: They’re Smelly and Tough to Resolve

For those of us with floppy-eared dogs, we know the signs of a pending ear infection all too well. The constant ear scratching, head shaking and that tell-tale…

Dog Lice: Everything You Need To Know To Protect Your Dog

You might start scratching reading the word ‘lice,’ and shiver at the thought of your dog having lice. Here’s what you need to know to prev…

What’s All the Controversy Around Hybrid Vigor in Dogs?

From breeders to pet parents, it seems like everyone has an opinion about hybrid vigor. But what is it and is it a good or bad thing?

Is Smoking Weed Around Dogs Dangerous?

As more states (and countries) legalize the use of marijuana, smoking this substance is less taboo. But will lighting up a joint affect your dog's health?

Pet Blood Donation: Giving The Gift Of Life To Man’s Best Friends

There's a critical need for pet blood donation across the country; find out how your pet can help give the gift of life!

Common Myths About Spaying And Neutering Your Dog

As a responsible pet parent, you'll be faced with whether or not you will spay or neuter your dog. Let's look at common myths about spaying and neutering.

5 Vet-Approved Tips For Buying Safe Dog Treats

In the wake of recent dog deaths and illnesses, Dr. Liz Hanson offers tips on choosing safe treats Yesterday, we told you about how nearly 600 pets have died…

Take The Itch Out Of These Common Dog Allergies

Let's go over the most common dog allergies you'll come across, what kind of symptoms you can expect to see and what you can do about them.

Plug It In, Chill Out: Do Pet Pheromone Plugs-Ins Really Work?

If you've got a stressed out or anxious pet, you're willing to try anything to help calm him down. But do pet pheromone plug-ins actually work or help?

Pet Hoarding: What is It and What Causes It?

Compulsive animal hoarding (also known as Noah Syndrome) is being studied on various levels including sociological, psychological and veterinary.

Know Your Enemy: Most Common Types of Dog Fleas

‘Tis the season for those nasty little pests to come out of hiding and irritate you and your pet. Be on the lookout for these common types of dog fleas.

Cynophobia: Why Are Some People Afraid of Dogs?

Fear of dogs is common. Cynophobia - the fear of dogs - can be overwhelming, and can affect the quality of a person's life.

Tricks of the Trade: Fear-Free Veterinary Strategies

A trip to the vet? No thank you! If your dog hates going to see the veterinarian, there are things you can do to ensure a less stressful visit.

Why Does My Dog’s Breath Stink?

Holy cow - what's that smell coming out of your dog's mouth?! If you're wondering why your dog's breath stinks, take a look at what we have to say.

The Dangers of Rat and Mouse Poison to Dogs

Some dogs will try anything that looks tasty from off the ground. Keep your dog away from rat and mouse poison.

All You Need to Know About Vet Telehealth

Veterinary telehealth, also known as pet telehealth, veterinary telemedicine, or virtual vet is a form of a remote veterinary practice – in other words, veterinarian-provided medical advice and services through any available communication technologies, just as call centers, smartphone apps, chats, etc.

Canine Malocclusion: Dogs With Underbites

Dogs with underbites have a certain look - it gives them a stern yet adorable demeanor. Known as canine malocclusion, here's what you need to know.

Best Dog Cones

Your dog's recovery period doesn't have to be more stressful than it already is- take a look at our top 10 list of best dog cones to find the ideal model.

Is Papain Safe For Dogs

If you’re scratching your head wondering what the heck is papain and where or why would you even begin to look for it, the answers are easy. The natural version of papain is found in your grocery store’s produce section and you may recognize it better as papaya.

Dog Snorting: Why It Happens and What to Do About It

It's kind of cute when a dog snorts and sneezes. Some breeds can't help but snort or sneeze often. Here's what you should know about dog snorting.

6 Best Pet Releaf Products For Your Pets

Pet Releaf products are amazing–they activate our pets’ Endocannabinoid Systems and lets our pets’ brains get full body relief wherever they need it. That’s important. That’s vital. They deserve and demand our attention. Here are the six best Pet Releaf Products you’ll want to know about for your pets. These could all dramatically improve your pet’s life.

Seasonal Allergies Bring Scratches and Sniffles in Our Pets

Pets can react to seasonal allergies. Unusually warmer temperatures this season mean more allergic reactions, and experts offer professional suggestions.

Do Dogs Have Belly Buttons?

Is it an innie or an outie? No, we're not talking about you - we're talking about your dog! Have you ever noticed if your dog has a belly button?

Taking a Bite Out Of Gingivitis in Dogs

Did you know that most dogs will suffer from gum disease during their life? Here's how you can help stop gingivitis in dogs.

What is a Double Merle Dog?

You've probably heard of a merle coat... but what about a double merle dog? This unusual coat coloring can bring with it a potential list of health problems.

Why Do Your Dog’s Paws Smell Like Corn Chips?

Have you noticed a certain smell in the air after your dog licks his paws? We looked into why a dog's paws emit a corn chip scent - here's what we found.

8 Scratchy Tips About Ticks

In order to defeat your enemy, you must know your enemy. And for your dog, that means you need to be an expert about all things tick related.

Tips to Handle a Poison Emergency

You've got an emergency on your hands - you need to think fast. What do you do? Keep these tips around in case you have a poison emergency.

What to Expect With a Veterinary Teeth Cleaning

Dogs need to have their teeth cleaned. If you don't take care of doggie dental needs at home, your pooch will need to go in for a veterinary teeth cleaning.