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Best Puppy Shampoo

Angela Vuckovic
by Angela Vuckovic
Published:  February 6th, 2022

A puppy shampoo will keep your pooch fresh-smelling, their coat soft, and their sensitive skin healthy. Read on to learn which puppy shampoo is the best choice for your pet!

Puppies are a true joy in every dog owner’s life. And while they can be a real handful and rowdy, puppies are also quite sensitive and fragile. It takes a lot of dedication and care to bring up a healthy, happy puppy to adulthood. One of the foremost aspects of this care is proper hygiene. Regular baths are a must! Now, it is well known that puppies aren’t the biggest fans of bath time. But they are still very important. And to have a stress-free bath, you need a great and reliable puppy shampoo that won’t irritate their sensitive skin.

A puppy shampoo will help soothe irritated skin, repair damaged coats, nourish the skin, and keep everything clean, shiny, soft, and smelling great! And best of all, they can also help keep fleas and ticks at bay. While it might seem straightforward, choosing a good puppy shampoo is quite the task! There are a lot of ingredients and features that you need to take into account. This list of the 10 best puppy shampoos on the market will help make that choice easier.

1. Editor’s Choice: WAHL Gentle Puppy Shampoo

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Time for that very first bath? Then you should make it truly royal and enjoyable. Wahl’s super gentle shampoo is a result of a special formula, and it ensures that your puppy gets the very best treatment. This unique formula has a great pH balance and is completely free from parabens and alcohol. This ensures that your puppy won’t have any irritation on sensitive skin, and will have no tears during the bath. What is more, the shampoo is based on a cornflower and aloe mix and will protect your pet’s coat while keeping it shiny, clean, and scented. Wahl also helps you save some money thanks to 70% more content for the same price. That means more baths and more foamy enjoyment for your little puppy!

Pros

  • Gentle on puppies
  • Free from parabens and alcohol
  • Lovely scent

Cons

  • The lather could be better

2. Runner Up: Burt’s Bees Natural Buttermilk Tearless Shampoo

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It’s always best to rely on a natural solution for all your puppy’s needs. Burt’s Bees offers a great and healthy solution that is 99.7% natural! This gentle puppy shampoo has ingredients based on buttermilk powder, honey, and beeswax. As such, it perfectly moisturizes the skin, soothes sensitive areas, and leaves your pet’s fur soft and smelling wonderful. This formula is free from artificial fragrances, colorants, sulfates, and any harsh chemicals. It is also pH balanced, ensuring no irritation for puppies in their sensitive age. As it is 100% safe, this shampoo is often recommended by leading vets as a reliable natural solution. It’s a great and healthy shortcut to spotless puppy hygiene!

Pros

  • Natural ingredients
  • Soft fragrance
  • Soothes the skin

Cons

  • Scent barely noticeable

3. Customer’s Choice: BioSilk Therapy for Dogs

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The puppies that can benefit most from a great shampoo are those with a fluffy or long coat. Make sure that it stays shiny, soft, and healthy with this BioSilk Therapy shampoo. This special formula boasts a floral-inspired Jasmine scent that is bound to make the whole house smell like blossoms! This puppy shampoo softens, repairs, and conditions your pet’s fur, and is free from parabens and sulfates. It also boasts optimal pH balance and can be safely used in combination with topical tick and flea products. Another great feature is that is also a tearless shampoo, which means that it won’t affect your pupper’s sensitive eyes. Great for puppies 8 weeks old and up, this shampoo is a luxurious solution for a luxurious fluffy coat!

Pros

  • Made in the USA with human-grade ingredients
  • Softens the coat
  • No parabens or sulfates

Cons

  • The scent can be strong for some

4. Best for Itchy Skin: EarthBath Ultra-Mild Puppy Shampoo

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We all know that puppies can be super sensitive – in every aspect. Their delicate skin and fur will need some extra attention in those early days, so make sure that you are using a reliable and mild shampoo, especially if they have itchy skin. EarthBath provides a solution with their ultra-mild wild cherry formula that is based on gentle cleansers, organic aloe vera and is pH-balanced. It also contains no soap, gluten, DEA, parabens, synthetic dyes, sulfates, or phthalates. All of this makes it super gentle on your puppy’s skin and fur. Not surprisingly, this shampoo can be used on puppies as young as 6 weeks. Perfect for those first baths!

Pros

  • Soothes irritated skin
  • Suited for puppies as young as 6 weeks
  • Gentle on the skin

Cons

  • The cherry scent might not be everyone’s cup of tea

5. Best Tearless: Pet Head Puppy Shampoo

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Who said that bath time can’t also be a fun time? With this superb puppy shampoo, your pet won’t come to dread cleaning time! This shampoo is all about sustainability and ecology! It is made in eco-friendly environments, it is not tested on animals, it comes in 100% recyclable bottles, and is totally made from natural ingredients. It has a “yummy orange scent” which will make your pupper wonderfully fragrant all the time. This shampoo is also very gentle on the skin and is hypoallergenic, which minimizes the threat of skin irritation. With zero harsh chemicals, it is one of the gentlest shampoos on the market. And it is totally tearless too!

Pros

  • pH-balanced tearless formula
  • Recyclable bottles
  • Lovely scent

Cons

  • Bottles can leak

6. Best Scent: Synergy Labs Veterinary Formula Shampoo for Dogs

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If your vet recommends it, it has to be good! Synergy Labs offers one of the foremost puppy shampoos with their mild, pH-balanced formula. This extra gentle and tearless shampoo is specially formulated for puppies in their first year of life, starting from 6 weeks. Free from sulfates, DEA, and parabens, it leaves your pet’s coat soft and fluffy – and smelling great too. And best of all, it won’t irritate the eyes or the skin. This shampoo is recommended by vets for puppies 6 weeks and older and helps cleanse the skin without drying it out too much. The scent is gentle but lasting and reminiscent of baby powder.

Pros

  • Vet approved
  • Gentle on the skin
  • Good lather

Cons

  • Can be difficult to rinse out

7. Best for Fleas: Arava Flea & Tick Control Puppy Shampoo

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For puppies, at a time when they are most vulnerable, fleas and ticks can be quite a major nuisance and a huge threat to their health. This puppy shampoo helps keep these critters at bay. This special formula relies on a blend of essential oils to eliminate fleas and ticks without exposing your puppy to harsh chemicals. The main ingredients here are natural essential oils of citronella, rosemary, geranium, thyme, cloves, and other insect-repelling oils. They are supplemented with soybean and castor oils, and the special dead sea minerals which are a true secret ingredient in this unique recipe. The whole mixture is great as both a shampoo and a flea repellent. This purely botanical formula has a soft and pleasing scent, and it also leaves your pet’s coat shiny and soft. Being one hundred percent natural, it won’t irritate your dog’s skin in any way.

Pros

  • Plant-based formula
  • Essential oils eliminate fleas and ticks
  • Leaves coat soft

Cons

  • Effects are not long-lasting

8. Best Hypoallergenic: TropiClean Hypo Allergenic Shampoo

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Since puppies can have such sensitive skin and are very gentle, a hypoallergenic shampoo might be the best choice in those early days. TropiClean Gentle Coconut is a shampoo that is designed for puppies with allergies and sensitive skin and is made from 70% organic ingredients. These include a blend of Aloe Vera leaves, oatmeal, Vitamin E, and mild coconut cleanser. This shampoo does a great job of keeping your pet’s fur soft and shiny, leaving it smelling irresistible. The bottles of this shampoo are made from 50% recycled material, and as such, they are considered as an Earth-friendly green packaging product. A great way to keep your puppy clean and healthy, while looking after the environment.

Pros

  • Mild and gentle formula
  • Nice coconut scent
  • Made with natural ingredients

Cons

  • Lids can leak

9. Best for Long Hair: Bio-Groom Fluffy Puppy Shampoo

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Nothing is more charming in puppies than their fluffy hair. It makes them look like chubby clumsy balls of fur. But not all puppy shampoos will give their hair that effect. Bio-Groom makes it a certainty! Recommended by top breeders and professional groomers worldwide, this tearless, pH-balanced puppy shampoo is perfect for all puppies, but particularly those with longer coats. It is specially developed to soothe the puppy’s delicate skin and to cause no irritation. All the while it helps leave the coat soft, shiny, and endlessly fluffy. It also won’t interfere with any topical flea and tick treatments and is safe to use in combination with them. Another great feature is the fact that it rinses out very quickly – meaning less hassle for you.

Pros

  • Leaves the coat soft and fluffy
  • Tearless
  • Optimal pH Balance

Cons

  • Soapy scent

10. Best for a Soft Coat: Crazy Dog Baby Dog Shampoo

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Crazy Dog’s unique puppy shampoo formula leaves a pleasing scent that lasts a long while, but that’s not the only great thing about it. Ideal for puppies, but also good for adult dogs, this shampoo is just perfect if you want your pet’s coat to be soft and shiny. It also moisturizes and protects the skin, and can repair damaged hairs too. It helps with those pesky tangles too, which is great if you have a dog with silky, sensitive hair. Nothing better than snuggling with a soft, fresh-smelling puppy!

Pros

  • Lasting scent
  • Repairs damaged hairs
  • Soapy formula

Cons

  • Not everyone likes the scent

Do You Need a Special Puppy Shampoo?

A puppy shampoo isn’t simply used to clean your pet and keep them shiny and smelling nice. There is a lot more involved “behind the curtains” – a lot more that is vital for great hygiene and good health. This is why your puppy needs a special shampoo, rather than a generic one for adult dogs.

Moisturizes the skin

Puppy shampoo is great for moisturizing your pet’s skin. At a very young age, dogs can be quite sensitive. Their skin can become dry and flaky and vulnerable – if not cared for properly. A good shampoo can leave the skin moisturized after a bath, and for a long time too. This is a great way to prevent skin issues that stem from dried skin, such as dandruff and itchiness.

Soothes irritations

If you spot dried and irritated skin on your puppy early on, it can be remedied with a gentle warm bath and a good puppy shampoo. That way you can soothe irritations, alleviate symptoms of skin-related issues, and make your pet feel more comfortable and happier.

Keeps fleas and ticks at bay

For puppies, ticks and fleas can be a major threat. You should pay special attention to keeping these critters at bay at that tender young age. Certain puppy shampoos that are based on natural ingredients and plant-based essential oils can help eliminate the threat of fleas and ticks. Other shampoos usually work in combination with topical flea treatments, and won’t wash away their effects. With proper and regular use of these shampoos, you can make sure that your pet stays protected from fleas and ticks from the very beginning of their life.

Keeps the coat soft and shiny

One of the important advantages of puppy shampoo is its ability to condition, repair, and maintain the delicate coat of the puppies. Dog hair is constantly damaged from outside sources and can get dry and stiff. Regular baths will help keep it soft and fluffy, and the shampoo will repair the hair and condition it. With evenly spaced baths, you can ensure that your pet’s hair remains in prime condition virtually always!

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Angela Vuckovic
Angela Vuckovic

A proud mama to seven dogs and ten cats, Angela spends her days writing for her fellow pet parents and pampering her furballs, all of whom are rescues. When she's not gushing over her adorable cats or playing with her dogs, she can be found curled up with a good fantasy book.

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Working Dog Gets Stolen and Dropped in a Shelter 700 Miles From Home

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How to Get Your Dog to Stop Counter Surfing

Does your dog surf the counters in search of a tasty snack? Counter surfing is a common problematic behavior in dogs, where they jump up on kitchen counters or tables to steal food or other items that would usually be out of their reach. Naturally, that type of behavior is a big no-no, no matter how impressive it is for your pooch to manage to actually do it. Not only that losing perfectly good leftovers is no fun, but most human foods are not good for your pet to eat - some can be downright dangerous. This is why you should make sure to correct this bad habit as soon as you notice it.Your pet needs to know that counter surfing is unacceptable behavior and that it’s something they can’t do. But how exactly to get your dog to stop counter surfing without having to resort to punishments? Here are some tips and tricks.How to Get Your Dog to Stop Counter SurfingThe first and most practical tip is to simply cut access to the restricted area – e.g. kitchen counters. Use baby gates,  pet gates, or crate your dog to prevent access to the kitchen, or simply keep a close eye on your dog at all times while they’re in the kitchen and lock the door (if applicable) when you’re not around. If you don’t do anything to prevent access or to monitor your pet’s behavior when they’re in the kitchen, they might take it as a sign to do as they please. 

Do Dogs Experience Grief?

Anyone who has ever shared their heart and home with a dog can attest to how deep the emotional connection we form with our best friends is. It is this bond that makes saying goodbye so difficult. But are we the only ones experiencing this pain?If you have recently experienced the passing of a pet or family member and noticed your dog acting a little differently, you may be wondering – Do dogs experience grief, too?In this article, we will dig into the truth about canine emotions and canine grief. This includes understanding what grief means to your dog, learning to recognize the signs that they may be mourning and tips for helping your best friend navigate this difficult time.Do Dogs Experience Grief or Mourning?The short answer is yes, dogs do grieve the loss of a person or animal in their lives. In a 2022 study led by Dr. Federica Pirrone, a veterinary physiologist at the University of Milan, 86% of dog owners reported that they saw a change in behavior in their surviving dog after losing a companion.Our dogs form close bonds with one another and with us. This can be seen both in wild dogs, with the relationships that exist between pack members, as well as the domesticated dogs of today.While they can’t tell us how they are feeling (although we wish they could), dog parents often witness physical and behavioral changes that indicate something is “off” for their dog following a loss. This occurs when a family member (human or pet) passes or even if a family member moves away like a child moving out of the family home.Recognizing that our dogs also go through a grieving process allows us to take steps to help our beloved furry friends deal with this difficult time.

Dog Who Spent 900 Days in a Shelter Returned 1 Day After Being Adopted

The staff at the Valley Animal Center in Fresno, California was joyous when a Labrador retriever pit bull mix named Sora was finally adopted. Sora, who was the shelter’s longest resident, has waited 900 days to be adopted into a loving, furever home.Sadly, less than 24 hours after the adoption, the poor pooch was returned to the shelter. The Valley Animal Center in Fresno, the largest no-kill shelter in California’s Central Valley, welcomed Sora nearly 4 years ago after the pup’s previous owners surrendered the pet. Since then, Sora hasn’t garnered much attention from prospective adopters, which is shocking to shelter staff who know the pooch well. “Sora is a high-energy dog who loves to play and gets super excited anytime she gets to go on walks,” said Sim Kaur from Valley Animal Center to Newsweek. According to Kaur, Sora loves to walk and hike and will make an amazing travel companion to an outdoorsy person. The sweet pooch also loves playing with tennis balls and is always in the mood for a game of fetch. Sora has tested well with children over the age of five and is affectionate and lovable with adults.Despite being overlooked for so many years, this cute pup recently caught the attention of a potential adopter. After a few meetings, the person decided to adopt Sora, giving this pooch the happy ending she deserved.Then, the worst possible thing happened! Just 24 hours later, the new owner called the shelter to say they would be returning the pup. Sora arrived at the shelter heartbroken and looked particularly sad to be back in the same kennel she called home for so many years.This turn of events shocked Kaur, who believed Sora’s adopters should have given her more time to decompress and settle in her new home before deciding to return the pet to the shelter.“Being in a shelter for many years affects the mental health of our adoptables and it is no different for Sora,” she added. “Sora did not get enough time to decompress in her new home and was introduced to new family members too quickly.”Sora’s sad story was posted on TikTok and has received more than 1.6 million views, leaving doggy lovers around the world in tears. Sharing the video of Sora with another pooch, Eros, who was also returned quickly after adoption, the shelter wrote: “Their tails wagging with hope as they were welcomed into their new home. However, after a short period of time, these shelter dogs found themselves back in their kennels. They are still hopeful that somewhere out there is their furever home where they will be cherished as they deserve.”One day is not enough time for a shelter dog to adjust to its new home. Especially, if the dog in question has spent more than 900 days stuck inside a shelter. Unfortunately, staff at animal shelters see this happen often. Some people who adopt shelter dogs simply don’t give them the time they need to adjust to a new home, and all the unfamiliar sights, smells, and people. It comes as no surprise, to most people, that any dog that has spent any time in a shelter, much less 900 days, will need some time to adapt to its new life and recover from the stress they have experienced. Hopefully, the next person who adopts Sora will understand her and give her the time she needs to adjust to her new home. This adorable pooch is still looking for her furever home. If you think Sora will fit right into your family, submit an adoption application here. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What to Know About Osteoarthritis in Cats

Osteoarthritis, also referred to as OA, is a condition that’s common in cats – experts have found that 90% of kitties over the age of 12 have it. And because cats may hide the signs, it can be overlooked, so it’s a good idea to learn about the symptoms and keep an eye out for them, especially as your pet gets older. The good news is, if your feline friend is diagnosed with this condition, there are things you can do to help her experience less pain.

How Much Exercise Does My Cat Need?

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

What to Know About Cat Reproduction

With a better understanding of feline reproduction, you can take steps to prevent unwanted litters, and you’ll know what to expect if you have an intact female or male.What does it mean when a queen (intact female cat) is in heat? How long does a pregnancy last? And why does it seem that cats are so good at reproducing? Below are the basics to help you get started.  There Are Multiple Stages in the Cat Heat CycleA cat’s estrous cycle, also known as her heat cycle, consists of multiple phases. Also, females are seasonally polyestrous, so they can go into heat more than once throughout the breeding season.The stages of a cat’s heat cycle are:Proestrus – During this phase, which will last about a day or two, you probably won’t notice any obvious changes in your cat.Estrus – During this phase, which lasts about a week on average, a female cat will behave in a way that lets males know that she wants to mate.Interestrus – If a cat doesn’t mate, she’ll go into this phase, which can also last about a week on average, until she goes into proestrus again. If a queen mates, ovulates, and becomes pregnant, she will enter diestrus.If a queen isn’t in a heat cycle at all, she’s in anestrus, which can last months.Cats Can Get Pregnant When They’re a Few Months OldCats become sexually mature around 6 months of age, on average, but it can happen even sooner than that. For example, a female can go into heat when she’s a mere four months old.This means that even kittens can mate and get pregnant. If you have intact male and female kittens, this is definitely something to be aware of. Talk to your veterinarian about the best time to spay or neuter your feline companions to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Cat Pregnancy Is Roughly Two Months LongA cat’s pregnancy can be shorter at 60 days or longer at 71 days. On average, a cat will give birth in about nine weeks, or 63 to 65 days. In other words, the pregnancy will be roughly two months long.On average, a cat will have four kittens, but she might have just one or she might have six or more. A queen’s age may affect the size of her litter—for example, a cat who’s pregnant for the first time is more likely to have a smaller litter, as is an older queen.After giving birth, a cat might go into heat again sooner than you think. It might even happen while her kittens are still nursing. So, if you’re caring for a mother and her litter, it’s important to prevent another pregnancy by keeping her safe indoors and away from intact males. Cats Are Induced OvulatorsWhat’s interesting about cats is that they’re induced ovulators. Put simply, when cats mate, the female ovulates, releasing eggs from her ovaries. And since the eggs are released with mating, it times out in a way that boosts the odds of pregnancy.A queen typically needs to mate multiple times before eggs are released, and she could mate with more than one male while she’s in heat.  A Litter of Kittens Can Have Different FathersAs mentioned above, a queen will mate more than once while she’s in heat. Well, another interesting fact about cats is that they can mate with more than one male while they’re in heat, so they could end up with kittens that have different fathers.In other words, a single litter of kittens could have two or more fathers. This is known as superfecundation.There Are Several Signs of Pregnancy in CatsHow can you tell if a cat is pregnant? Even though there are going to be several signs as the fetuses develop, you might not notice anything right away.You might first notice the queen’s nipples becoming more obvious. This is followed by weight gain that will eventually cause her belly to be big and round. Changes in behavior are also often seen in pregnant cats. Her appetite will increase, she may become more needy and affectionate, and she’ll look for a nest where she can give birth safely and comfortably.If you are caring for a pregnant cat, consider getting a product like the Sport Pet Pop Open Pet Kennel, which features two entryways, has a waterproof bottom, and comes with a removable, machine washable pad. She might view this as the perfect nesting box, and you’ll feel good knowing she’ll be secure in there with her kittens.

28-pound Cat Named 'One Frosty Too Many' Finds a Forever Home

A morbidly obese cat found wandering the streets in Virginia has found a forever home after Richmond Animal Care and Control shelter posted a funny adoption ad on their Facebook page.Tipping the scales at 28.5 pounds the shelter named the chubby feline ‘One Frosty Too Many’ or Frosty for short, after Wendy’s frozen treats. “You know we love a cat with a belly, and lord almighty this one has the best belly in town. Meet One Frosty Too Many,” wrote the shelter on its Facebook page. The shelter described the cat as 28.5 pounds of pudge with a side of crankiness. “As long as you let him do what he wants when he wants, everything is fine; still we recommend you proceed with caution.”The person who brought Frosty to the shelter said he found the chubby cat roaming the streets of Richmond, shared shelter director Christie Peters. The cat was morbidly obese but was otherwise in good general health. “We put him on a strict low-calorie diet and he wasn’t too happy about that,” said Peters, estimating that Frosty is about two years old. “Because he was cranky, we kept telling him he’ll feel a lot better when he loses weight.”Frosty’s adoption ad garnered a lot of attention, and many were interested in adopting the chubby tabby. However, one woman beat everyone to it and took Frosty home. Maggie Thompson, her husband, and two sons were on the way home to Stafford when she saw the Facebook post about Frosty. “I thought, ‘Oh, I want that cat,’” said Thomson, who owns a pet-sitting business, according to The Washington Post. She persuaded her husband, Mike, to stop in Richmond so they could visit the shelter and ask about adopting Frosty.As soon as she met Frosty, she knew that she couldn’t go home without him. “He got on my lap and started purring,” said Maggie. “With animals, they pick you. You just know when it’s right, and they do, too.”Thomson’s sons, Mickey and Andy, were ecstatic they’d be taking home a chubby cat. The family already has two cats, Rose and Wolfie, which are around one year old. “They are under seven pounds each - less than 14 pounds together,” said Thompson. “But I had a feeling they’d all get along just fine and become friends.”After Thompson filled out adoption papers, the shelter staff explained to her that Frosty would need to follow a strict diet and eat low-calorie cat food twice a day until he’d dropped half his body weight. The shelter didn’t have a large enough carrier for Frosty, so they placed him in a dog crate. “We put him in the back of the car, and he didn’t protest at all. He was a good rider and was pretty quiet the whole trip,” said Thomson. When they arrived home, Thomson placed the family’s newest addition into a spare room for a few days to gradually introduce him to their other two cats.Thomson decided that their new cat deserves a new name, one that won’t be associated with desserts. “We’ve decided to call him Gus. That’s what he looks like to me. I now call him Gussie, and he responds well to that.”Gus has adjusted nicely to his new home and loves lounging on the bottom level of a cat tree. Thomson plans to start a weight-loss journey page for Gus on Facebook to track his progress.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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.

These Dog Foods Are Recalled Due to Potential Salmonella Contamination

Owners should always be careful about the food that they give to their pet – and it’s only natural that every caring owner will naturally want the best for their pet. But sometimes, even getting the best of the best is not a guarantee as accidents can happen anytime. In this case, the issue is that several popular dog food brands got potentially contaminated with salmonellla. Recently, owners had been shocked to find out that three brands of pet food were recalled - having tested positive for salmonella. And in fact, the past year saw at least seven recalls of dog food brands that were either contaminated with this nasty bacteria, or had harmful elevated levels of vitamins. And, to make matters worse, 2019 saw several dogs get seriously ill after consuming the food. And our dear four-legged friends are not the only ones at risk - handling the contaminated dog food, we too are exposed to salmonella. In 2012, up to 49 people in the United States and Canada fell ill after an outbreak of salmonella that was traced to dry dog food. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 10 persons were so ill that hospitalization was required.According to the CDC, the pesky salmonella bacteria causes “an estimated 1.3 million infections in Americans every year, resulting in 26,500 hospitalizations and 420 deaths.”As for the latest recalls, a notice from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, released on October 30th, includes the following foods: “one by Mid America Pet Food of Mount Pleasant, Texas, involving three lots of Victor Super Premium Dog Food, Select Beef Meal & Brown Rice Formula after random sampling found salmonella, which can sicken pets as well as people who come in contact with it.” Furthermore, it is stated that the food was “Sold by retailers across the U.S., the recalled products come in five-pound, 15-pound and 40-pound bags with a best-by-date of June 12, 2024, and contain one of the following three lot numbers on the back of the products: 1000016890, 1000016891, 1000016892.”The second recall involves TFP Nutrition of Nacogdoches, and their Retriever All Life Stages Mini Chunk Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food, in 50lbs bags, with best-by-dates of October 2024 and production codes of either 3277 TFP or 3278 TFP. Lastly, the third recall in the latest wave is Blue Ridge Beef of Statesville, North Carolina, which is recalling Breeders Choice dog food with the UPC code 8 54298 00193 1 due to possible salmonella contamination.In case you suspect your pet has eaten any potentially infected foods, it is important to know the  symptoms of salmonella poisoning in pets: they can be lethargic, listless, or have diarrhea that is followed by fever and vomiting. If you recognise these in your pet, don’t hesitate to contact your vet. And, if you suspect that the dog food you have is contaminated, make sure to destroy it in a way that children, animals, or people cannot get in contact with it.

Can You Prevent Joint Pain in Dogs?

As dogs near their golden years, different health issues tend to pop up – sometimes completely out of the blue, and sometimes a little less unexpectedly. One of the more common health problems dogs experience as they age that can be predicted fairly easily and as such prevented on time are joint issues. Providing proper support for your dog while they are still young and agile can dramatically improve their quality of life later on, so it pays to start thinking ahead when it comes to joint health, especially if your pet is in a high-risk group for developing this type of problem (large breed dogs, working breeds, highly active dogs, etc). Here’s what you need to know to make sure your pet doesn’t suffer from joint pain in their senior years.5 Crucial Steps to Prevent Joint Pain in DogsWhile some factors contributing to joint pain are beyond our control, there are different proactive steps we can take to support our pet's joint health:#1 Maintain a Healthy WeightJust as in humans, obesity in dogs exacerbates joint strain and can accelerate the onset of joint problems. A balanced diet will go a long way in helping your pet maintain a healthy weight, so strive to ensure they are getting only quality food that is based mostly on protein and doesn’t contain unhealthy fats and too many fillers such as soy or corn.#2 Provide Regular ExerciseModerate, low-impact exercise helps keep joints limber and muscles strong. However, be mindful of your dog's limitations, as pushing them too far can end up being counterproductive. Activities like swimming and walks are excellent choices, just make sure to tailor the pace to your pet’s capabilities.#3 Quality Supplementation Providing a diet rich in essential nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin, supports joint health. However, even when feeding a good quality kibble, it’s not always feasible to rely on your pet’s diet alone to be enough to provide all of these joint-nurturing ingredients in the right ratio. This is where dog joint supplements come in to enrich your pet’s diet with specific nutrients. 

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