Fever in Dogs: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

by Mary Simpson

Published: March 2nd, 2021

fever in dogs symptoms causes and treatment

Fever is a concern when it happens – and our dogs can even get one. Before you panic, read on to know what you should know about fever in dogs.

As with all humans, dogs can run a fever when their body is fighting off something nasty. The difference is that unlike humans, dogs don’t get the same tell-tale flushed face, sweat trickling off their forehead, or the ability to tell you that he’s feeling pretty crappy.

For we pet parents, its up to us to know our pet’s general disposition and to be able to pick up on when our little guy is feeling a little under the weather. In fact, you should have an established baseline for your pet when it comes to his temperature and standing heart-rate. Think about it – how else will you know if his heart is racing or his temperature is higher than normal, if you don’t know what is “normal”?

While a dog’s temperature will range between 99.5 and 102.5F degrees, just like humans, it will increase when his body is trying to fight an infection. Whether its down to a minor cut that’s become infected, or something more serious that may not be readily visible, if up to you to determine whether he’s running a fever, what’s causing it, and how to treat it.

Is it a Fever?

So, he’s acting off and you’re not sure if it’s just an upset tummy or something more serious. How can you tell if a fever is involved? The easiest way is to look for physical symptoms such as a dry/warm nose, bloodshot eyes, uncontrollable shivering, lethargy and a loss of appetite, as well as ears that feel warmer to the touch that normal.

The second method is by taking his temperature. Ear thermometers are less invasive than the old-school rectal thermometer and they’re a lot easier to administer. Simply put it inside your dog’s ear and within seconds you’ll have an accurate reading. They’re a little pricier than the rectal version, but certainly less stressful for your pooch and a key addition to your pet’s first-aid kit.

What’s Causing the Fever?

The cause and treatment of the fever may be as simple as dosing a minor injury with an antiseptic, followed by bandaging to protect while it heals. Or it could be down to a recent vaccination that’s messing with his system and will subside over the next 48 hours. That’s if you’re lucky. The truth is, a high temperature means your pooch is fighting some type of infection and even something like a cut or scratch may be past the point of a home remedy. If it looks oozy or is a bite from another animal, get him to the vet.

If its not an open wound, you should consider other causes such as internal infections including urinary tract, bladder, or kidney. Even a bad tooth or simple ear infection (common in floppy-eared dogs) will cause his temperature to spike. And if his fever is accompanied by vomiting or diarrhea, he may have ingested something toxic. Because a fever is always a sign that something is amiss, never hesitate to let your vet take over when in doubt.

How to Treat the Fever?

For a low-grade fever try applying compresses soaked in tepid water to your pet’s ears, paws and core area throughout the day. If not effective, give him a bath in tepid (not hot, not cold) water, two to three times a day. Be sure to bundle him up snugly afterwards to prevent him catching a chill while he’s drying. And because a fever can cause dehydration, your pet needs to keep drinking his water. If he’s listless, bring the water to him. I have one of those large medicine dispensing syringes that I use when my pets are under the weather. Just “injecting” a little water into their mouth can pique their interest in drinking. But monitor your pet closely and if the fever doesn’t break, or he stops drinking entirely, bring him to the vet for a more fulsome once-over and plan of action.

Mary Simpson

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

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What is Ataxia in Dogs: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

A sensory dysfunction that causes a loss of balance, ataxia in dogs can be the sign of a serious problem. Here’s what you need to know about the condition. Some dogs are naturally a little bit clumsy, but at what point should you be concerned about your dog’s loss of balance? Ataxia is the medical term for loss of balance and it can sometimes be a sign of a serious problem. Keep reading to learn more about the symptoms, causes, and treatments for ataxia in dogs. What is Ataxia? The term ataxia refers to a sensory dysfunction that results in a loss of coordination in the dog’s head, limbs, or trunk. There are three types of ataxia commonly seen in dogs: sensory, vestibular, and cerebellar. Sensory ataxia, also known as proprioceptive ataxia, results from progressive compression of the spinal cord whereas vestibular ataxia is typically caused by damage to the vestibulocochlear nerve. Cerebellar ataxia is a neurological disorder caused by damage to the cerebellum in the brain – the part responsible for coordination and movement. Related: What Are the 6 Most Common Illnesses in Dogs? What Are the Causes and Symptoms? Sensory ataxia in dogs is linked to problems with the spinal cord, so the most common symptoms are related to loss of balance and an awkward or unbalanced gait. Some potential causes for this type of ataxia include structural or developmental abnormality in the spinal cord, tumors of the spine, infection in the vertebrae, inflammation or trauma of the spinal cord, or a medical condition called degenerative myelopathy. Other symptoms of sensory ataxia include misplacing the feet and progressive weakness. Vestibular ataxia is related to the vestibulocochlear nerve – the nerve that transmits signals from the inner ear to the brain. Damage to this nerve can lead to changes in the dog’s head or neck position as well as problems with hearing. You may notice problems with balance such as tipping, leaning, or even falling over. In cases of central vestibular ataxia, the dog may also exhibit sensory deficits, changes in eye movements, weakness in the legs, and drowsiness or stupor. Related: What is Laryngeal Paralysis in Dogs? Cerebellar ataxia occurs when the cerebellum of the brain becomes damaged, often by a brain tumor or some kind of infection. Most commonly, however, it is caused by a congenital or hereditary defect. Symptoms of cerebellar ataxia typically develop slowly over the course of several months or years and they include swaying, abnormal gait, loss of coordination, tremors, falling, and weakness. Some dogs also exhibit rapid eye and head movements as well as head tilting, problems hearing, and behavioral changes or lack of appetite. How to Diagnose Ataxia in Your Dog If you notice changes in your dog’s gait or behavior, it is not something you should ignore. Behavioral changes can be a sign of a serious problem and prompt treatment could make a difference. At the first sign of trouble, bring your dog to the vet for a checkup. If, after a routine physical examination of your dog, your veterinarian agrees that your dog may be experiencing ataxia, they can move onto a more in-depth examination involving a serious of diagnostic tests. This will include a detailed neurological exam that will help your vet to determine the type of ataxia, which will also help to better understand the cause. A good portion of this testing process will involve ruling out potential conditions and causes. This may be frustrating as it feels as though you aren’t learning anything new, but every potential factor that they can eliminate from the list, the better your veterinarian can understand the situation. What Are the Treatment Options? The treatment options for ataxia in dogs vary depending on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. In minor cases, you may be able to address the cause directly with some careful TLC and medication resulting in a quick and significant improvement. While these cases may technically be ‘cured’, it is important to keep the cause of ataxia in mind and take steps to prevent it from happening again. For example, if your dog is experiencing vestibular ataxia from inflammation in the inner ear because of an ear infection, you will want to put more focus into cleaning your dog’s ears and preventing an infection from returning. Some dogs are more susceptible to ear infections than others. Have a conversation with your veterinarian about their recommendations to prevent future infections and keep your dog healthy. Some more serious cases of ataxia may be cured through surgical procedures, removing the physical lesion that is present in your dog’s body causing the ataxia to occur. Leading up to and following the surgery, you can take steps to provide short-term relief from the effects of ataxia, such as medication to calm any nausea that your dog may be experiencing. Your veterinarian may also recommend hospitalization to allow for careful supervision and fluid therapy. While this may be frightening at first, no one wants to see their dog in a situation in which they require a hospital stay, the prognosis for those that are seen as a candidate for a surgical approach like this is very good. In cases where the underlying cause of the ataxia cannot be cured, pain management and supportive care may be the only options. This can range from the introduction of medications or minor changes to your dog’s lifestyle right up to major life changes such as helping your dog to stand up or walk. You can make changes to your home to better suit your dog’s changing needs by adding ramps to prevent your dog from using stairs which may lead to falls and injuries. This may also include using ramps for places where your dog would normally jump, like getting up onto the furniture or getting in and out of your vehicle. If the condition progressively worsens, euthanasia may be required. There is no specific time or signs to indicate that this is the best choice. Most veterinarians recommend monitoring your dog’s quality of life by assessing the things that are most important to him and whether he can continue engaging in these activities. For example, if your dog suddenly has no interest in playing with his favorite toys or can no longer get comfortable sleeping in his favorite place in your home, it may be time to have a conversation with your veterinarian.

Tetanus in Dogs: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Although it’s uncommon, there’s still a chance that tetanus can affect your dog. Here’s what you need to know about tetanus in dogs. While you’ve likely heard about this serious medical condition, it’s probably not on your vaccine radar because it has been all but eradicated in North America. In fact, today’s tetanus vaccines can provide highly effective protection for up to 10 years from the time of inoculation. Great for humans, but what’s the deal when it comes to our pets? I mean, given that the toxins that lead to tetanus are generally picked up through deep, puncture-type wounds, wouldn’t that leave our always-busy four-legged kiddos highly vulnerable to becoming infected? The short answer is no. Tetanus is as uncommon in dogs or cats in North America as it is in humans. Truth be told, our dogs are less susceptible to the effects of these toxins than we are as humans. But before we breathe a collective sight of relief remember that the term “less” doesn’t mean your pet is completely immune from this debilitating illness. The potential for him to become infected does exist, so let’s take a look at how you can recognize the signal that something is wrong and what steps you can take to both prevent and treat it. What Exactly is Tetanus? It’s a serious, toxin-related medical condition that is caused by the Clostridium tetani bacteria. The spores from this particular bacterium can be present in soil, feces, dust, and saliva and because it’s anaerobic, it doesn’t require oxygen to survive. That’s why deep puncture wounds are so effective at allowing it to flourish – once the skin heals, you don’t realize that the toxin is spreading. How Was My Dog Infected? Because the spores from Clostridium tetani are widespread and can survive for years in the environment, it’s easy for a dog to pick it up by simply walking through a contaminated area or being bitten by an infected animal. And because it thrives in a low-oxygen environment, you’re not likely to see any reaction around your pet’s wound such as swelling or infection. However, inside the wound, the bacteria are rapidly multiplying to produce the tetanospasmin toxin that will travel to his nervous system, spinal cord, and brain. What Are the Signs of Tetanus? Symptoms typically appear between 1 and 2 weeks after your pet becomes infected. They can include stiffness in his hind limbs, his neck, and jaw followed by an all-over stiffness throughout his legs and body. Your pet can also become hypersensitive to sudden sounds or movement and may suffer from muscle spasms if startled. Now, remember that dogs are highly resistant to tetanus which means it’s more likely you’ll find a little stiffness that’s restricted to the area around the wound – which will still need medical intervention. How is Tetanus in Dogs Diagnosed and Treated? If the entry wound is still present, your vet may debride the surrounding tissue to remove as much of the infection as possible and limit the toxin spread. But because the bacteria may have entered your pet’s system via a wound that has since healed, a visual exam won’t suffice. In that case, your vet will need to do a complete physical as well as blood tests to look for elevated white blood cells, urine tests to check for proteins, and likely electromyography which can identify electrical activity in the muscles caused by the spasms. Treatment is based on how quickly the condition has been caught and can range from the use of an anti-toxin in the early stages to antibiotics that help prevent it from spreading. The best way to prevent your pet from being exposed to this type of bacteria is to stay on top of any injuries. Bathe, and thoroughly flush wounds, and watch for any symptoms that suggest he has become infected with the toxin. Again, it’s very rare for an animal in North America to contract Tetanus, but let’s be better safe than sorry, right?

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.

The Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments of Alopecia in Dogs

Even the furriest dog can suffer from hair loss, otherwise known as alopecia. If you start to notice bald spots on your dog, here’s what you can do about them. As your puppy grows up, you may notice changes in his coat. If, however, your dog starts to lose patches of fur or if his coat seems to be thinning all over, it could be a sign of a problem – it could be alopecia. Alopecia is simply the medical term for hair loss and, in many cases, it is a symptom of an underlying condition. Keep reading to learn more about alopecia in dogs. What Causes Alopecia in Dogs? Though it most commonly refers to hair loss, alopecia actually covers a variety of changes to a dog’s coat including failure to grow or overall thinning. The most common cause for alopecia in dogs is an underlying medical condition such as Addison’s disease, hypothyroidism, allergies, or cancer. Related: What Causes Hair Loss In Dogs? Depending on the underlying cause, alopecia can be either gradual or acute – this simply means that it may come on slowly and worsen over time, or it may seem to happen all at once. Regardless the cause, alopecia is usually very noticeable in dogs, though it takes different forms such as bald circles or all-over hair loss. It may also be accompanied by inflammation or crusty, scaly skin. There are many different causes for alopecia in dogs but the most common is mange – this is a condition caused by Demodex mites. A dog may also develop alopecia when the normal growth of hair is interrupted by something like an infection, trauma, immune disease, or hormonal abnormality. In cases where you notice multiple patches of hair loss, it may be due to inflammation of the hair follicles that leads to a disruption of hair growth. More widespread hair loss usually indicates some kind of disease such as ringworm or a bacterial infection. Can Alopecia Be Treated? The best treatment for alopecia can only be determined by the underlying cause. If the root cause is a bacterial infection, medicated shampoos or topical ointments may be beneficial. If alopecia is caused by an underlying condition like hypothyroidism, that condition needs to be treated first and, hopefully, the alopecia will resolve itself. Related: What Is Mange In Dogs? Because there are so many potential causes for alopecia in dogs, you need to have your vet diagnose the cause before you try any treatments. If you try an antibiotic ointment and the cause for the alopecia is hormonal, for instance, the treatment won’t work, and you could actually cause other problems for your dog. Do yourself and your dog a favor by getting an accurate diagnosis first and then start a course of treatment. Once you have restored your dog’s coat to health, it is important that you maintain that health with proper grooming habits. Brush your dog at least a few times a week, depending how heavily he sheds. Not only will regular brushing help to reduce shedding, but it will also help to distribute the natural oils produced in his skin that help to keep his coat healthy. Avoid over-bathing your dog because you could dry out his skin and coat, and don’t use any products that aren’t approved for dogs.

The Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments of Pneumonia in Dogs

It’s more than just a cold – it’s a respiratory illness that affects canines and humans. Here’s what you need to know about pneumonia in dogs. Although dogs are affected by different pathogens than humans are, they can still get sick with some of the same diseases. Pneumonia, for example, is a respiratory illness that can affect dogs. In fact, there are two different types of pneumonia in dogs – bacterial and aspiration – keep reading to learn more. What is Pneumonia in Dogs? The canine respiratory system is divided into two parts – the upper respiratory tract and the lower. The upper respiratory tract consists of the nose, throat, and trachea (or windpipe) while the lower respiratory tract consists of the smaller airways (the bronchi and the bronchioles) as well as the air sacs in the lungs themselves known as alveoli. Pneumonia is a condition in which the lungs or the lower respiratory tract become inflamed. When both the lungs and the airways become inflamed it is called bronchopneumonia. Related: Kennel Cough Symptoms And Treatments What is the Difference Between Bacterial and Aspiration Pneumonia? In most cases of canine pneumonia, the underlying cause is a bacterial infection. There are many different strains of bacteria that can contribute to pneumonia in dogs but the most common are Streptococcus zooepidemicus, Bordetella bronchiseptica, Pasteurella multocida, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. You may already be familiar with the bacteria Bordetella bronchiseptica because it is also responsible for “ kennel cough,” a contagious respiratory infection that can be easily spread from one dog to another. When this infection spreads from the trachea and bronchi into the lungs it may develop into bacterial pneumonia. Bacterial pneumonia can be secondary to other health problems as well, such as inhalant allergies or viral infections like parainfluenza and canine adenovirus. Related: What Pet Parents Need To Know About Reverse Sneezing In Dogs While bacterial pneumonia is caused by a bacterial infection, aspiration pneumonia is characterized by inflammation caused by the inhalation of some kind of foreign matter – it can also result from aspiration of vomit or regurgitated stomach contents. Symptoms of aspiration pneumonia include difficulty breathing or swallowing, coughing, fever, nasal discharge, rapid heart rate, and altered mood or appetite. Some of these symptoms overlap with the signs of bacterial pneumonia which include symptoms like cough, fever, loss of appetite, sluggishness, difficulty breathing, and nasal discharge. How is Pneumonia in Dogs Treated? The proper treatment for pneumonia in dogs is dependent on the underlying cause. For cases of bacterial pneumonia, multiple strains may be involved so your veterinarian will need to collect samples to identify the various strains. In most cases, bacterial pneumonia in dogs is treated with antibiotics. If your dog is also severely dehydrated or underweight, he may need hospitalization or, at the very least, fluid therapy. Aspiration pneumonia is usually diagnosed through diagnostic tests such as abdominal palpation, chest x-rays, and a complete blood profile. Treatment for aspiration pneumonia usually may require suction of the airway and oxygen treatment. In either case, your dog will also need time to rest and recover. Pneumonia, in its many forms, has the potential to be a very serious and even life-threatening condition for dogs. Respiratory distress is never something you should ignore – if your dog has trouble breathing, seek emergency veterinary care as soon as possible.

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Study Finds Pet Parents Care More About Their Dogs Than Their Cats

Pet parents tend to place themselves into one of two categories. You can either be a dog person or a cat person - there’s nothing in between. This may come as a shock to all cat lovers, but scientists have found that dog owners care more for their dogs than cat owners care for their cats. At least that’s the case with pet owners across Denmark, Austria, and the United Kingdom.Although these findings have been observed in older studies, veterinary scientists from the University of Copenhagen in Denmark, wanted to find out whether cultural factors had any effect on the results. Their results were first published in the Journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science. “We and others have found that people are willing to spend much less on their cats than on their dogs,” said Peter Sandøe, professor at the University of Copenhagen and the study’s lead author. “We wanted to find out whether cats could eventually end up having the same high status as dogs do today.”The scientists surveyed 2,117 pet owners, including 844 dog owners, 872 cat owners, and 401 owners who owned both cats and dogs. Participants were asked questions about their pets’ health insurance, their willingness to pay for life-saving medical treatment, and other questions designed to determine how much owners care for their pets. Pet owners from all three countries had a higher attachment score for dogs than for cats. Dog owners were more likely to buy insurance for their dogs, and said they were willing to spend more for life-saving treatment for their dogs. However, the results of the study varied greatly across the countries. The differences were most noticeable in Denmark, where 41% of dog owners said they were willing to pay a high cost of life-saving medical treatment for their dogs compared to 26% of cat owners. On the other hand, the United Kingdom’s results were in favor of dogs, but only slightly. Around 34% of dog owners in the UK said they would pay more for their dogs’ medical treatment compared to 28% of cat owners. According to scientists, such a slight difference isn’t statistically significant. ‘While people care more about their dogs than their cats in all countries, the degree of difference varied dramatically between countries,” said Sandøe. The researchers originally hypothesized that people in Denmark might be more unaccustomed with cats living indoors than people living in Austria and the United Kingdom since Denmark became urbanized much later than these two countries. Thanks to a much more recent rural history, cats in Denmark might be seen as just another farm animal.According to researchers, several studies hypothesize that when cats are more likely to spend time indoors, they tend to become much closer to their owners, who consequently care more about them. This was confirmed by studies in the U.S. and Mexico, where many cats are indoors-only felines.So it comes as no surprise that in Denmark, where just one out of five cats is kept strictly indoors and many have outdoor access, most pet owners care less about cats. Researchers think that pet owners’ level of care for their pets may depend on the level of interaction and dependence, as well as other factors. "There seems to be no natural limit to how much people will end up caring about their cats compared to their dogs,” said Sandøe. “The British are often portrayed as a nation of cat lovers, which is certainly confirmed by our study. The Danes have a long way to go, but they may eventually get there.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

These Are The 10 Most Common Male and Female Dog Names, Survey Reveals

Naming a new puppy that’s come into the world or thinking of a name to symbolize a new beginning for a rescue dog is a precious moment – but sometimes you need a bit of inspiration to think of a fitting name for your fur baby. Some people prefer names with personal meaning or symbolism, but most just sift through name lists in hopes of finding one that fits our pooch and sounds nice. Well, this list can help you find the most popular names for dogs these days and see if any of them stick!  Sniffspot, the so-called “AirBnB of dog parks”, went through their massive database of 100,000 dog names and through hard work determined the 10 most common boy and girl dog names. The results are very interesting – take a look!Here are the top 10 male dog names:10. Leo:A very unique name that’s quick on the tongue, and very fitting for large and majestic doggos. A lion always comes to mind.9. Ollie:Believe it or not, Ollie is a gender-neutral name, but fits perfectly with energetic and goofy male puppers.8. Moose:Who would think that Moose is such a common dog name? It is fun, that is for sure, and strangely fitting too.7. Zeus:The mighty God of thunder in Ancient Greece has come a long way over the centuries. Nowadays, his name is given to dogs!6. Oliver:A classic, elegant, and fun name that, although used for humans, fits doggos as well. 5. Finn:An old-timey name that belongs on the pages of some good youth novel, Finn is remarkably fitting for puppers.4. Loki:The trickster god of the Old Norse has found his way into the modern age in a rather odd way. Lately, Norse gods are a popular choice for dog names.3. Bear:How adorable would it be to name your tiny little pup Bear? 2. Cooper:A simple but very fun name that works well for male pets of all characters and sizes.1. Milo:A very ancient-sounding name, Milo is the number one choice of many owners. Are you surprised that this is number 1? Well, you saw the most common names for boy dogs, so now it’s the girls’ turn. Let’s see their list!10. Sadie:This adorable female dog name, it brings to mind the summer, flowers, and all things girly.9. Nova:In stark contrast to Sadie, Nova sounds quite futuristic, and strong, and rolls easily off the tongue. Did you know that a Nova is an astronomical term? It is the name given to bright stars that appear suddenly in the sky and release powerful energy. Wonderful symbolism.8. Willow:Back to vintage and cozy-sounding names with Willow, a true classic that belongs to the pages of an old children’s book.7. Nala:Here’s a name that is quite a surprise. It is unique, modern, and not heard that often. But, according to this survey, it belongs with other most common female dog names!6. Stella:A name of Latin origin, it translates to “star”. And what better name to give to your zoomy, fun, and lovely female pup?5. Bailey:This is another fun and homely name that is often given to pets. Any similarity with a favorite drink is pure coincidence!4. Lucy:If you have a kind, loveable, and gentle female doggo, then you cannot go wrong with a name such as Lucy!3. Daisy:This is one of the most popular names given to animals, especially cows. But surprisingly, it works well for dogs too!2. Bella:A classic feminine name, Bella is ideal for all female puppers, no matter their character.1. Luna:And the number one female dog's name is Luna, which is Latin for “Moon”. It is simple and pretty, which makes it an easy choice for many owners!So, were you surprised by this survey? What is your favorite dog name? Let us know!

Scientists Finally Identify Mystery Dog Illness Sweeping America

If you are a dog owner in the United States, you have likely already seen the news reports about the mystery illness responsible for the deaths of several dogs, prompting veterinary professionals to caution pet parents about taking their pets out to public spaces. But we may finally be able to spot the light at the end of the tunnel… Dr. David Needle, pathology section chief at the College of Life Sciences and Agriculture at the University of New Hampshire, reported that scientists have finally identified the cause of the illness. While this doesn’t mean that life for our dogs can return to normal immediately, it does mean that they are one step closer to finding a cure and moving past this nightmare. The research article has yet to be published, but the team is sharing their initial findings to provide hope for pet parents and the veterinary community. The pathogen responsible for the mystery respiratory illness is described as “a funky bacterium.” “It’s smaller than a normal bacterium in its size and in the size of its genome,” explained Needle. “Long story short, it’s a weird bacterium that can be tough to find and sequence.” Searching for the cause of this illness wasn’t easy for researchers. Initially, there were no known bacterial, viral, or fungal pathogens, meaning they were searching blind. However, after testing 30 samples from New Hampshire, genetic material from an atypical bacterial species was discovered. The next step in understanding the cause of the illness and working towards a cure (and possible preventative) is to compare these findings to samples from dogs in other states to verify that it is, in fact, the same pathogen in all reported instances. States with possible cases of the disease include: CaliforniaColoradoFlorida Georgia IdahoIllinois IndianaMarylandMassachusettsNew HampshireOregonPennsylvania Rhode IslandVermontWashingtonOne challenge faced by veterinarians is the fact there is no test to confirm that all reported cases are, in fact, the same illness. What Are the Warning Signs?Common symptoms resemble respiratory infections like canine influenza and kennel cough, conditions usually seen in higher numbers at this time of year. Luckily for the human members of our family, there are currently no reports of the illness being transferred to humans. Veterinarians recommend watching out for the following symptoms: Coughing or sneezing WheezingDifficulty breathingNasal or eye dischargeDehydration Loss of appetite Weight loss FeverLethargyHow Can You Keep Your Dog Safe? Until a cure has been identified, dog parents are encouraged to focus on preventative measures. Ensure your dog’s vaccinations are current, protecting them against known respiratory problems. Avoid public spaces like dog parks, doggy daycare, and grooming establishments where dogs may be exposed to the illness. If you must go to a public space, steer clear of shared food and water dishes. Your dog will be just as happy to spend this time playing with you as they would with another dog!If you notice any signs of respiratory trouble or illness, don’t panic. Contact your veterinarian to share your concerns and make an appointment.

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?

Husky Detects a Dangerous Gas Leak and Saves the Entire Neighborhood

Kobe, a four-year-old husky became an internet hero after saving his home and the entire neighborhood from a catastrophic gas leak. According to his owner, Chanell Bell, the canine started digging a large hole in the front yard of their Philadelphia home. At first, Bell didn’t think much of Kobe’s strange behavior. However, as the hole grew bigger, she became concerned that Kobe was trying to tell her something.“I trust his judgment because that isn’t his typical behavior and he is usually right,” said Bell, according to PEOPLE. “He has great senses and he never digs holes unless he is helping me dig; I knew something was up.”Earlier in the month, Bell had a gas leak in the house, and out of caution, she decided to check the hole Kobe dug with a gas detection device. “I had a reader already in the house to make sure there were no leaks coming from my old heater,” explained Bell. “When I saw the hole, I realized it was odd behavior for my dog. My intuition told me to check it.”Immediately the device detected gas. A potentially catastrophic amount of gas was coming from the hole Kobe dug in the yard!Bell alerted authorities right away and they informed her that the entire neighborhood should be grateful that Kobe detected the leak when he did. “We were told it could’ve caused serious health effects like respiratory issues, brain damage, and even death. They told me that something as simple as a light switch turning on could’ve caused an explosion, too.”As soon as they arrived at the address, the gas foreman and crew turned off the gas and started to work on the pipes. During the repairs, the crew discovered three other gas leaks in the neighborhood, all caused by old pipes. The crew worked for three days to repair the leaks and install new pipes. Workers told Bell that something as simple as turning on a light switch could have caused the gas to ignite and blow up the entire house. While they worked, the crew praised Kobe.“They were so impressed with Kobe and mentioned what a good dog he was,” said Bell, adding that people should always listen to their pets and their senses. The gas company said that it adds Marcaptan to the natural gas it administers to homes to produce a smell similar to rotten eggs to allow for easier leak detection. “Just like this customer, any time anyone smells a foreign odor or egg-like smell, they should immediately call,” said the utility company, in a statement. “It feels amazing to know Kobe saved our block, I am very thankful to have him,” added Bell. “I hope this spreads awareness to others about the dangers and severity of gas leaks and to pay attention to your fur babies!”  Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What Should I Do If My Dog is Afraid of Nail Trims?

The dreaded nail clippers – a source of stress and occasional doggy drama in our home as well as for many dog parents. You see, our youngest pup, Lucifer, and I have been on quite the journey to conquer his fear of nail trimming. If you’ve ever found yourself in a similar situation, you know the struggle all too well!But fear not, because in this article, I’m sharing our personal tale of progress and a toolkit of tips we’ve picked up along the way to help overcome your dog’s fear of nail clipping.So, let’s swap nail-trimming anxiety for confidence and cooperation, one paw at a time.Why Does My Dog Hate Nail Trims?The first step to overcoming a fear of nail trims is understanding why the sight of nail clippers is a source of anxiety for your dog. After all, the clippers themselves aren’t frightening or intimidating.For many dogs, the fear of having their nails cut is rooted in a desire to protect their paws. This is a survival instinct, as they need their paws to survive in the wild, both to escape predators and be able to catch food. They haven’t been taught that the process of having their nails cut or their paws handled isn’t going to cause harm.If your dog was previously okay with having their nails trimmed and suddenly changes their mind and lashes out when you try, this is a sign of trouble. Have you recently cut your dog`s nail and accidentally nicked the quick of the nail? If so, your dog may associate the experience with the pain and discomfort they felt at that moment.This could also indicate that your dog feels pain in their leg or paw. Watch for other signs of distress or discomfort, like lameness, limping, or excessively licking the area. If you suspect your dog is in pain or if your dog has shown a behavior change that you can’t otherwise explain, contact your veterinarian. They can run the tests necessary to help diagnose the problem and recommend ways to provide effective pain relief.For us, with Lucifer, we are overcoming a reaction due to previous pain. He suffered injuries to his front paws before he was rescued and adopted out to us as a puppy. While we have worked with specialists to help him heal and move on from these injuries, he is still more protective of his paws and dislikes having them handled. What Happens if You Wait Too Long to Cut Dog Nails?Keeping your dog’s nails trimmed and cared for is an integral part of grooming. How often you need to trim their nails will vary, depending on their breed, age, and lifestyle. Some dogs will naturally wear down their nails from walking and running on rough surfaces, as they would in the wild, while others don’t engage in these activities frequently enough to keep up with nail growth.When a dog’s nails become overgrown, they interfere with their ability to stand and walk properly, reducing traction and potentially causing injuries in their feet and tendons. This is because the nails contact the floor before their paw pads. Over time, this can also lead to long-term injuries, deformities in the paw or leg, or arthritis. This can also cause older dogs to slip and fall due to losing traction and unsteadiness on their feet.

How Often Should I Clean My Dog's Ears?

Some dogs have them long and droopy, others short and pointy – but whichever way they’re built, ears need to be cleaned! Of course, dog ears are much different than human ears, and they can accumulate dirt surprisingly fast, which is why it will be your job to keep them spotless at all times. Otherwise, the gunk and the dirt can lead to a whole range of problems that can be difficult to deal with – not to mention extremely painful for your pet.There’s no doubt that you need to include ear cleaning in your pet’s “beauty routine”, but just how often do you have to do it? Here’s all that you need to know about dog ear issues and how frequently – and when – you should clean them. How Often Should I Clean My Dog's Ears?Of course, the frequency with which you should clean your dog's ears depends on several major factors, including your dog's breed, ear shape, and any pre-existing ear conditions. In general, most dogs do not require any super frequent ear cleaning, and overcleaning can actually be harmful. The easiest way to go about this is “as needed”. One of the common reasons to clean a dog's ears is if they appear dirty or have a buildup of wax or debris. Check your dog's ears regularly for signs of dirt, discharge, redness, odor, or excessive wax. If you notice any of these issues, it's time to clean their ears. For dogs prone to ear issues, however, such as breeds with floppy ears ( Cocker Spaniel,  Basset Hound, etc), frequent swimmers, or those with a history of ear infections, you may need to clean their ears more often. This could range from once a week to once a month, depending on their individual needs. Furthermore, if your dog loves to swim, make sure to dry their ears thoroughly after each swim session. Moisture in the ear can create a conducive environment for ear infections. Remember that all sorts of critters live in water, and can enter your dog’s ear. That is why good cleaning and a thorough wipe after each swim is important and helps keep their ears healthy and clean.In addition to regular cleaning, you should be on the lookout for signs of ear problems in your dog, such as frequent shaking of the head, scratching at the ears, redness, swelling, foul odor, or discharge. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your veterinarian before attempting to clean the ears. Catching issues early can prevent them from becoming more severe, so it’s important to regularly check and clean your dog’s ears, no matter their age, size, or breed. Sometimes, of course, it's best to leave ear cleaning to the professionals. Your veterinarian or a groomer can clean your dog's ears safely and effectively, especially if your dog has a history of ear infections or if the ears are very dirty. If you are ever unsure of how to go about the cleaning process, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. They can provide specific recommendations based on your dog's health and breed. 

Why Do Some Dogs Have Bad Body Odor?

Dogs are cute, no doubt about that, but most of them are not winning awards for their lovely BO – in fact, if we’re being honest, most pooches are a bit stinky. Of course, if you make sure to keep them clean with regular baths, grooming, and teeth brushing, you can eliminate or at least significantly reduce any unpleasant smell. But sometimes, even if you are very attentive about your dog’s hygiene, they can still smell a bit funky. Why does this happen? And what should you do in that case? Lastly, is there a way to prevent unpleasant body odors in your dog? Let’s try and answer all these stinky questions.Why Does My Dog Smell Bad?Are you catching a whiff of something foul whenever your dog enters the room? Are you struggling to keep them clean and smelling fresh? There could be a number of reasons why your pupper is stinky, and it is important to go over everything in order to properly address this issue. Firstly, you want to consider their hygiene. Lack of regular grooming and bathing can lead to a buildup of dirt, oils, and bacteria on a dog's skin and coat, resulting in a bad odor. Make sure you are giving your dog a regular wash or a bath, and that you are using  special shampoos that are safe for pets and smell nice.

Research Suggests Longer Nosed Dogs Live Longer

Yes, the flat-faced pooches we know and love have not only myriad health issues but also shorter lives.

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. 

Vegan Dogs and Cats? Maybe!

Pet food manufacturers have amped up the quality of the vegan options to meet industry standards for protein.

These Are the States With the Most Spoiled Doggos in 2023

With the holiday season fast approaching, it is the time for presents, cuddling, yummy meals and, to be honest, spoiling the one you love, including your four-legged bestie. But are there some pet parents that take it a bit too far, and if so, do we know in which states they live? If you are one of those owners who like to pamper their furry friend and spoil them to no end, stick around to find out who’s guilty of overindulging their doggo just like you!An interesting  Forbes Advisor survey estimates that around 22.2% of dog owners in the USA, or one in five, admit to having spent more money on  Christmas gifts for their dogs, rather than gifts for friends and family. This means that there are certainly some pampered and spoiled doggos to be found across the nation, but what is more interesting is that dog owners in certain states tend to spoil dogs more than in others. Now, after a nationwide survey, the results are in!With a score of 100 out of 100, Florida definitely wins as the state with the most spoiled dogs! The Sunshine State is reported to have around 66.5% of owners who spend more money on their dog’s health, grooming, and gifts, than on their own. They are also more likely to pamper dogs by perfuming them, pushing them in strollers, buying them clothes and gifts, or taking them to restaurants. Interestingly, the second place, and right behind Florida, is Alaska, with a score of 98.69 out of 100. Nearly half of all dog owners in this northerly state admit to regularly throwing birthday parties for their pooches, purchasing them special outfits, and even putting cologne on them. They too will spend more money on their pets than on themselves.Behind Florida and Alaska in places 1 and 2 respectively, are the following states:3. Washington - 91.82 out of 1004. Colorado - 82.04 out of 1005. California - 77.96 out of 1006. New Jersey - 77.52 out of 1007. Illinois - 77.23 out of 1008. Texas - 70.80 out of 1009. Delaware - 69.93 out of 10010. Virginia - 69.34 out of 100The survey also offered some indicators and activities that might suggest that you are spoiling your dog. If you regularly do some of these activities, you might be pampering your pooch as well!Taking family photos with the dog Ordering the dog a special treat at a restaurant Bringing the dog on vacationPushing the dog in a strollerSpending more money on the dog’s health and grooming than on their own Buying the dog outfits and accessoriesSo, what’s the result? Are you too on the list of owners who spoil their pets? Let us know!

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