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Best Dehydrated Dog Food

Angela Vuckovic
by Angela Vuckovic
Published:  December 13th, 2022
Maximilian100/Shutterstock

Do you want your dog to experience all of the benefits of the raw diet but are concerned about bacteria in raw meat? Dehydrated dog food is a perfect compromise, as it offers the same benefits as raw diets without the risk of illnesses caused by harmful pathogens. Minimally processed, dehydrated dog food is suitable for dogs of all life stages and has an enticing flavor and a nutrient-dense profile, meaning your dog gets the most nutrients out of every bite. Dehydrated dog foods combine the convenience of kibble with the nutritional profile of a raw diet into shelf stable and easy-to-make complete and balanced meals for your pooch.


Dehydrated dog food products are becoming increasingly popular, and there are many different brands you can choose from. However, choosing the best dehydrated dog food for your pooch is hard, especially if you aren’t familiar with the nutritional profile of these foods and the way they are made. If you’re unsure what to look for in dehydrated dog food, we are here to help! We handpicked the 10 best dehydrated dog foods on the market that are suitable for dogs of all life stages, including puppies, adults and seniors, and pooches with allergies, sensitive stomachs, and skin and coat issues.

Editor’s Choice: The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Dehydrated Whole Grain Dog Food

Check Price $79.03

Complete and balanced for everyday feeding, this recipe has been formulated to meet the nutritional needs of dogs of all life stages, including the growth of large-size dogs. Featuring ranch-raised beef, organic oats, barley, carrots, apples, and cranberries, this dehydrated dog food is full of the good stuff that supports optimal health and wellness. This food is made from minimally processed, human-grade ingredients which support healthy digestion, skin and coat health, and a strong immune system. The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Dog Food comes in several mouth-watering flavors and is easy to make – mix the dehydrated food with warm water, stir well, and wait several minutes before serving it to your pooch.

Pros

  • Made in the USA using human-grade ingredients
  • No by-products, meat meals, soy, wheat, corn, or fillers
  • Suitable for dogs of all sizes and ages
  • Easy to make within minutes

Cons

  • Not for picky eaters

Runner Up: Orijen Original Freeze-Dried Dog Food

Check Price $39.97

Freeze-dried to preserve all the goodness, these delicious medallions can be fed as a meal or used as a topper to enhance the flavor of your dog’s regular food. Loaded with animal ingredients, this food features a high protein count that supports lean and strong muscles and helps keep your doggo energized throughout the day. Formulated to be biologically appropriate, this food provides a concentrated source of protein and nutrients, just like raw food, but is much more convenient and easier to prepare. Add warm water to these freeze-dried medallions, steer well and serve to your dog as a complete meal or mixed with kibble.

Pros

  • Made from 100% raw ingredients
  • Suitable for all breeds and life stages
  • Easy to digest
  • Supports overall health and wellness

Cons

  • Medallions can crumble during transport

Customer’s Choice: Ziwi Peak Air-Dried Dog Food

Check Price $56.08

Crafted using New Zealand’s free-range and grass-fed lamb and wild-caught seafood, Ziwi Peak Air-Dried Dog Food provides premium nutrition from every bite. This formula features lamb as the single protein source, making it suitable for dogs with allergies or sensitive tummies. Holistic ingredients, including organic kelp and New Zealand green mussels, support healthy digestion, skin and coat, joint, brain, and heart health and reduce inflammation. This formula is gently air-dried to preserve all the essential nutrients your dog needs to stay healthy. It is made without grains, artificial flavors and preservatives, and cheap fillers associated with allergies, obesity, and other health issues.

Pros

  • Available in several tasty flavors
  • Air-dried to preserve essential nutrients
  • Can be used for daily feeding or as a topper
  • Complete and balanced nutrition for all life stages

Cons

  • Can be easily crushed

Best for Puppies: Dr. Harvey’s Canine Health Miracle Dog Food

Check Price $74.70

Dr. Harvey’s Canine Health is a base mix formulated to provide balanced, homemade nutrition to your pup. Made using human-grade ingredients, this dehydrated dog food contains wholesome, natural ingredients, including vegetables, crushed eggshells, and six types of organic grains. To make this food complete and balanced for daily feeding, rehydrate it with hot water and add meat and fish oil. Instead of added sugar, salt, fillers, preservatives, dyes, chemicals, or by-products, this food contains nutrient-dense, whole foods that support immune function and digestion, increase energy, and support healthy skin and coat.

Pros

  • Improves digestion
  • Made in the USA with non-GMO ingredients
  • Prepared within minutes
  • Suitable for all dogs and life stages

Cons

  • The oatmeal texture isn’t appealing to some dogs

Best for Sensitive Stomachs: Ultimate Pet Nutrition Nutra Complete Dog Food

Check Price $35.09

Formulated by veterinarians, this freeze-dried blend is made with premium-quality ingredients and is complete and balanced for daily feeding. Featuring ranch-raised beef as the main ingredient, this recipe contains antioxidant-rich fresh fruits and vegetables. The lack of grains, fillers, preservatives, and artificial colors makes this food suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs and allergies. Each delicious freeze-dried bite is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, prebiotics, and amino acids that support eyesight, digestion, mobility, and immune function. Use this food as a mixer or a stand-alone meal by mixing it with warm water and leaving it to soak for several minutes.

Pros

  • Zero fillers, artificial flavors, and preservatives
  • Grain-free and easy to digest
  • Full of antioxidants, prebiotics, and amino acids
  • Made in the USA with ranch-raised beef

Cons

  • Breaks and crumbles easily

Best for Allergies: Only Natural Pet Max Meat Holistic Air-Dried Dry Dog Food

Check Price $34.99

Formulated to mimic your dog’s ancestral diet, this air-dried food packs a nutritious punch and tastes enticing even to picky pooches. It is made from high-quality meat and organ meat which is high in protein and supports lean and strong muscles. This food doesn’t contain grains, which makes it a great option for dogs with grain allergies or sensitive stomachs. The carefully selected ingredients make this air-dried food suitable for daily feeding or as a delicious topper and a high-value training treat. Reinforced with all essential vitamins and minerals, this food is suitable for dogs of all life stages – from puppies to seniors.

Pros

  • It can be served as a meal, topper, or a treat
  • High in protein and easily digestible
  • Delicious flavor most dogs love
  • Made without grains and fillers

Cons

  • Texture can be inconsistent

Best for Picky Eaters: Addiction Homestyle Venison & Cranberry Dinner

Check Price $25.30

Addiction Homestyle Air-Dried Dog Food is formulated to combine the nutritional benefits of raw food with the safety and convenience of kibble. The nutritious ingredients used in this formula are gently air-dried to seal in all essential nutrients your pooch needs to stay healthy and thrive. Made with venison as the main ingredient, this formula is suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs and allergies to poultry or beef. Different types of fruits and vegetables, including carrots, papaya, cranberries, blueberries, mango, spinach, and apples, are sources of essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health and strong immune function.

Pros

  • Easily re-hydrated using warm water
  • Easy to digest
  • Supports healthy skin and coat
  • Grain-free

Cons

  • Mushy consistency

Best for Seniors: Sojos Complete Senior Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food

Check Price $113.73

This recipe is specially formulated to contain all the essential nutrients senior dogs need to stay healthy, energized, and mobile in their golden years. Made with real, wholesome ingredients like turkey, sweet potatoes, flaxseed, cranberries, salmon, and apples, among others, this formula boasts a high protein count that supports lean and strong muscles. Sojos added glucosamine and chondroitin to improve joint health and mobility, omega fatty acids to support skin and coat health, and DHA and EPA to support cognitive function and reduce inflammation associated with arthritis. This recipe is made in the USA without artificial flavors, preservatives, fillers, soy, or other artificial ingredients that offer no nutritional value to your pooch.

Pros

  • Complete and balanced for senior dogs
  • Supports joint health and mobility
  • Promotes cognitive function
  • Made with natural, wholesome ingredients

Cons

  • Not for dogs with sensitive stomachs

Best Grain-Free: Dr. Mercola Healthy Pet Essentials Dehydrated Beef Entrée

Check Price $71.97

Made with grass-fed beef, including organ meat and bone, and supplemented with butternut squash, organic spinach, beets, blueberries, kelp, and safflower oil, this dehydrated dog food contains all essential nutrients to support the dietary needs of puppies, adult, and senior dogs. This food doesn’t contain grains or gluten, which makes it suitable for pooches with allergies and sensitive stomachs. Dr. Mercola reinforced this food with all essential vitamins and minerals that support immune function, coat and skin health, and overall wellness. This beef entrée is complete and balanced for daily feeding, or you can use it as a topper for your dog’s regular food.

Pros

  • Free of grain, gluten, and sugar
  • Complete and balanced for all life stages
  • Yummy flavor most dogs love
  • High in protein

Cons

  • It may cause diarrhea in some dogs

Best for Skin & Coat: 360 Pet Nutrition Freeze-Dried Raw Multi-Meat Formula

Check Price $26.96

Chock-full of real ingredients freeze-dried raw in their natural form, this food contains all the essential nutrients adult dogs need to stay happy, healthy, and active. Made with beef, chicken, salmon, whitefish, beef liver, chicken liver, and chicken hearts, this recipe is packed with protein to support lean and strong muscles and keep your dog energized all day long. This complete and balanced food contains omega fatty acids to support healthy skin, glossy coat, strong joints, and cognitive function. The high protein and fat content make this food ideal for active or working adult dogs that need extra calories to stay on top of their daily duties. Rehydrate this freeze-dried food using water, and serve it to your pet as a complete meal or mixed with kibble.

Pros

  • Made without fillers, grains, cereals, or artificial preservatives
  • Omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat
  • Nutrient-dense and high in protein
  • Made in the USA

Cons

  • It has a strong smell

What to Look for in Dehydrated Dog Food?


Dehydrated dog food is usually a better option than kibble, but not all dehydrated dog foods are made the same. Unfortunately, some manufacturers use high temperatures or cooking techniques that diminish the nutritional profile or low-quality ingredients, artificial flavors, or preservatives that don’t provide nutritional value. Here are a few things you should look for in dehydrated dog food to ensure your pet gets the best nutrition from each bite.


Protein


No dog food is complete without protein. Whether you decide to feed your dog kibble, raw food, or dehydrated dog food, you must ensure it contains a minimum amount of protein recommended by the AAFCO, which is 18% for adult dogs, and 22% for puppies. Good dehydrated dog foods exceed these amounts, meaning they’ll keep your pooch fuller for longer.


No Artificial Ingredients


Natural, wholesome ingredients have a higher nutritional value and are better for your dog’s overall health. It’s important to choose a dehydrated dog food that doesn’t contain artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, fillers, or other harmful ingredients. These ingredients offer no nutritional value, and no dog should consume them. The good thing is that you’ll rarely come across a dehydrated dog food brand that uses artificial ingredients, but it doesn’t hurt to be careful, so check the ingredient list either way.


Calories


Many dehydrated dog foods are more nutrient-dense than kibble or wet dog food and have more calories. This is an important factor to consider, especially if you have a less energetic pooch or a senior dog with lower calorie needs than a puppy or a working dog. How many calories your dog needs depends on their activity level, age, health, and physiology. Puppies always need more calories than adult dogs, and seniors and spayed/neutered pooches need fewer calories than adult dogs. To prevent weight gain, determine your dog’s daily calorie needs to figure out how dehydrated dog food fits into the mix.


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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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Best Canned Dog Foods

Today’s pet food market is vast, with more offerings regularly coming out. You may be overwhelmed when it comes to choosing the best canned dog foods. You want to find something your dog will enjoy eating, but will also benefit from in health and nutrition. But that’s why we’re here! We’ve scoured ingredients and labels, as well as reviewed and tested tons of wet dog foods in search of what you might need for your furry friend. Not every dog parent will have the same needs when it comes to finding the best canned dog foods. Some are looking for specifics due to an age or stage in life. Others may need to pay attention to diet restrictions or weight management as well. Others still may want something delicious and budget-friendly, and we’ve done all the work for you to find the best canned dog foods for your pups. Why Look For The Best Canned Dog Foods? Did you know that from a nutrition standpoint, water is even more critical to a dog’s diet than what ingredients are in his dog food? 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For example, smaller breeds will need smaller kibble, as they could choke on larger bits of food. Or perhaps your dog has health issues that you need to address. Allergies, such as wheat and gluten, mean that you need to watch your dog’s diet carefully.Step Two: Read the LabelsYou read the nutritional labels on your food before you buy it – you should do the same with your dog’s food. Look at the list of ingredients carefully, especially the first five. These first five should start with high-quality protein or meat. The FDA requires dog food companies to list the ingredients in order of weight. The first ingredients are going to be those that are present in your dog’s food in the largest amount. The number of protein sources listed will depend on the food recipe. While many dog foods will offer multiple protein sources, limited ingredient diets are formulated based on fewer ingredients to reduce the risk of food allergies. Stay away from foods that list ingredients such as corn, rice, or wheat in the top five. Other ingredients that you may see in the top 5 that indicate a high-quality food include beneficial carbohydrates (barley, oats, brown rice) and healthy fats (fish oils, flaxseed, sunflower oils). You can also watch for vegetables packed with key vitamins and minerals. These ingredients add to the quality of your dog’s food and aren’t just fillers. Step Three: The Guaranteed Analysis StatementEvery dog food you buy will have this statement, which offers detailed info on ingredients and their percentages. These accurate details will pinpoint the nutritional ingredient value of the dog food. The Guaranteed Analysis Statement also offers the minimum guarantees for protein and fat and maximum guarantees for moisture and fiber.Step Four: The Category of Dog FoodWhere are you buying your dog’s food? This can say a lot about the quality of the food itself. Basically, there are three categories of dog food: grocery store food, premium food, and health food. Grocery store food can be found at grocery and big box stores and is typically made with lower-quality ingredients. These brands are usually cheaper and will not give your dog the most nutrient-dense ingredients. Premium food can be found in pet stores and veterinarian offices and features higher-grade ingredients, while Health foods provide dogs with the highest quality and most nutritious ingredients.Step Five: Don’t Be Afraid to ExperimentSometimes you’ll have to try a few to find the right one. Keep a journal and record your dog’s reaction to each of the different dog foods. You should introduce a new dog food to her diet slowly – only feed one particular dog food at a time and slowly increase the amount of new food given to avoid diarrhea and vomiting. Be on the lookout for coat appearance and stool consistency. As well, a good indicator of a food preference is an empty bowl – if your dog really likes a certain food, you’ll be able to see the bottom of the bowl.Don’t Be Fooled by Prices and Marketing Gimmicks It’s important to note that price isn’t always an indicator of the best dog food. Of course, dog foods that contain higher quality ingredients will most likely be costlier, but that doesn’t mean it’s the right one for your dog. There is a lot of mixed information available about what your dog needs in terms of proper nutrition. The problem is that a lot of the labels and marketing pushes aren’t regulated, which can create confusion for the average dog owner trying to navigate the options available. While we all try to make the best choices for our dogs, those that fall for these marketing gimmicks may be making a passionate choice based on smoke and mirrors. Dog foods that are labeled as ‘All-Natural’ are free from artificial ingredients, animal by-products, or synthetic chemicals. But another popular label often seen on dog food is simply ‘Natural’. This small change carries a major impact. There is no legal or regulated definition of ‘Natural’ in the dog food industry, so it can be used freely by any company that chooses to. Another popular term used to market dog food that has no real concrete meaning is ‘Holistic’. While products with this label often make claims to offer health benefits, there is no regulation as to when a dog food can make this claim. The label ‘Organic’ is strictly regulated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Any dog foods that are labeled in this way must meet the same strict requirements laid out by the USDA for the use of the label on human foods. This includes rules regarding how the ingredients are grown, harvested, and processed for use in the food. These foods are free from the use of bioengineering, synthetic fertilizers, antibiotics, and growth hormones.  Any dog food that meets these requirements will be labeled with the USDA Organic Seal. Going back to the discussion of price, dog food brands that use labels like ‘Natural’ and ‘Holistic’ will often charge premium pricing for the benefits that they claim to offer. Unfortunately, the lack of regulation for these terms means that there is no guarantee that you are receiving any benefit for this added cost. When searching for food with a specific benefit, try to find foods that have high-quality studies and research publicly available. If you’re unsure of where to start, ask your veterinarian for some guidance. What do you think the best dog food is? Please share your picks and preferences in the comments section below.

More Dogs Than Ever Euthanized as Shelters Hit Capacity

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

Is Rock Salt Toxic to Dogs?

As winter comes, the roads become icy and treacherous and rock salt is used to make them less slippery. While roads covered with rock salt are common in the chillier months of the year, dog owners are wondering if it is safe for their pets to walk on rock salt or accidentally ingest it. After all, dogs are known to be inquisitive and eager to lick or nibble on anything and everything so the idea is not as far-fetched as some might think at first. So, without further ado, let’s find out if rock salt is toxic to dogs and how you can best protect your pet in the winter months.Is Rock Salt Toxic to Dogs?Sadly, the answer is yes – rock salt, commonly used for de-icing roads and sidewalks in winter, can be toxic to dogs if ingested in large quantities. Rock salt, or sodium chloride, can cause salt poisoning or hypernatremia in dogs. Ingesting excessive amounts of salt can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, excessive thirst, increased urination, and in severe cases, it can even result in tremors, seizures, or death.And that is not all. In addition to the risk of ingestion, rock salt can also cause irritation to a dog's paws if they walk on treated surfaces. The salt can cause dryness, cracking, and discomfort, and dogs may try to  lick their paws to alleviate the irritation, leading to ingestion of the salt. After all, the roads are meant for cars and tires, so it was sadly never taken into account that pets would walk on them as well. Still, as a caring owner, there are a number of precautions that you can take in order to ensure that your dog doesn’t ingest rock salt – here are some of the most popular ways.Clean their paws after walks:Wipe your dog's paws with a damp cloth after walks to remove any salt or de-icing chemicals. Do this after every walk and as soon as you get home. Remember to take care of your pet’s paws and paw pads. When injured or unkempt, they can cause great discomfort. Furthermore, you can consider using  dog boots if your pet doesn’t mind it – they’ll keep their paws safe and warm.

What Is Pyoderma In Dogs?

The sight of an itchy dog often raises concerns among pet parents. From parasites, like fleas and ticks, to uncomfortable skin issues and irritation, the explanation is rarely a positive one. In some cases, even finding a cause is an uphill battle. One condition you may have read about or heard your veterinarian mention is pyoderma. But what is pyoderma, and what does this mean for your best friend? In this article, we will dive deep into the world of dog skin issues, uncovering not only the warning signs and possible causes of pyoderma in dogs but also the steps you can take to offer some much-needed relief from the itch and irritation. Let’s get started… What is Pyoderma? Pyoderma is a term used to refer to a bacterial skin infection, with the word literally translating to “pus (pyo) in the skin (derma).” It is one of the most common dog skin conditions. Luckily, it is also often easy to treat once it has been diagnosed. Most dogs recover fully with the proper medication. The condition is classified into one of three types based on its location in or on the skin. They include: Surface Pyoderma: infections on top of the skin’s surfaceSuperficial Pyoderma: infections in the outermost layer of the skin, including in the hair follicles (which may be referred to as superficial bacterial folliculitis)Deep Pyoderma: infections in the deeper layers of the skinThe condition itself isn’t always visible, making it sometimes difficult to spot. This is why it is so important for dog parents to familiarize themselves with the warning signs of skin irritation and seek veterinary help. They can do the tests necessary to look beyond what is visible to the naked eye. What Causes Pyoderma in Dogs? Every healthy dog has bacteria on the surface of their skin. When a dog’s skin becomes irritated for any reason, they respond by scratching at the spot. This creates openings in the layers of the skin where the bacteria can move deeper, creating the perfect environment for them to grow and thrive. There are several potential triggers for the initial irritation, including: Environmental or seasonal allergies Food allergies Flea allergy dermatitis Chronic exposure to moisture (like skin folds)Seborrhea Impaired blood flow to the skin Endocrine disorders (Hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease) It can also start when the skin is damaged due to an injury. Even a minor injury could cause just enough of an opening into the skin’s layers to begin the cycle. Is Dog Pyoderma Contagious to Humans? As this is a bacterial infection, it isn’t a risk of transmission like an airborne virus would be. Some strains of the bacteria can occasionally lead to an infection in humans or other dogs. However, the risk is incredibly low unless you have a compromised immune system. You can minimize the risk of transmission by focusing on keeping your home clean as your dog fights the infection. This includes regularly cleaning their food and water dishes as well as any bedding your dog sleeps on regularly. If you have an open wound, keep it covered when spending time with your infected dog.

How To Tell if a Dog Is Cold

You might think your dog feels fine in cold weather, thanks to their thick coat, but they can definitely feel the chill—and when they aren’t warm and comfortable, they could develop serious problems like hypothermia. So, it’s important to know the signs that your dog is cold, and to take steps to keep your pet comfy, whether they’re indoors or outside.  Although any dog can be affected by cold temperatures, wind, and snow, some are going to feel the drop in temperature sooner or more intensely. Puppies and seniors, as well as small dogs and those with short coats, are a few examples, along with hairless dogs and those who are ill or have chronic medical conditions.Signs Your Dog Is ColdHere are some of the ways to tell if your dog is cold:Your dog feels cold to the touch – An easy way to tell if your dog is cold is by petting them and feeling the temperature of their body. A good place to check is their ears, but also touch their paws, belly, and skin under their fur. If their body is cool to the touch, there are ways to warm them up.Your dog doesn’t want to be active – If your dog isn’t as active as they usually are, they might be feeling the chill in the air. Feel their body, as discussed above, to see if they’re cold, and take steps to make them warm. A dog who’s moving more slowly than normal while outside should be brought inside right away. Your dog is shivering – Just like people shiver when they’re cold, dogs will too, so this is an obvious sign that your pet needs to be warmed up as soon as possible. If your dog is trembling, consider the temperature inside your home, as you might need to turn the heat up. And if your dog is shaking while outside in the cold, bring them inside right away.Your dog is searching for ways to stay warm – If your dog wants to lie down next to the fireplace or heater, or they want to snuggle up next to you or under a blanket, they’re looking for ways to get warm. In addition, your dog might be reluctant to go outside, whether for a walk or to go potty. If they’re outside and you see them trying to find some shelter to warm up, bring them in immediately.  Your dog’s body language and vocalizations change – If you know your pet’s normal behavior and demeanor, it should be easy to tell when they’re cold. There will be signs that they’re uncomfortable, and they might exhibit anxious behaviors that let you know something is wrong. For example, your dog may tuck their tail, have a hunched posture, or curl up in a ball, and they might also bark or whimper. What To Do if Your Dog Is ColdWhenever your dog is showing signs of feeling cold, take action right away. Remember, a dog who gets too cold is at risk of hypothermia. Also, the cold can make some dogs, such as those with arthritis, experience even more discomfort. If your dog is outside, bring them inside. And if they’re wet from rain or snow, dry them gently.If your dog is already inside, move them to a warmer area, such as near a heat source and away from drafts.Help your dog feel warm and cozy indoorsYou can rub and massage your dog to help generate some warmth with your hands. Give your pet a cozy bed to rest in, and cover them with a blanket. You can also lie down next to your dog to help them warm up.There are heated dog beds you can use whenever your dog is chilly, along with dog heating pads that can work well too—just be sure to use these products as directed for safety and so your pet won’t get too hot. Keep your dog warm while outsideBefore heading outside with your dog, check the temperature. Generally, if it’s colder than 45°F (7°C), you should take additional precautions to ensure your pet won’t get too cold. But you know your individual dog best, so you’ll know when they need extra protection and less time outside.There are various jackets, sweaters, and boots made for dogs of all breeds and sizes. Put these on your canine companion before heading outside so they can stay warm while they go potty or go for a short walk.If it’s too cold for a walk or play session outside, don’t force your dog to stay out there. Instead, find ways to play with your dog indoors until the weather warms enough to be safer and more comfortable for your pooch.Use products that help your dog warm up and stay warmHere are a couple of items to consider buying for your dog: K&H Self-Warming Crate Pad

Possible Cancer Vaccine for Dogs in the Works

Mark your calendar because May 2024 marks the end of a 5-year clinical trial that may put an end to many canine cancers.

Is Your Cat Itchy? Causes and Treatments for Itching in Cats

Itching, or pruritis, in cats has various causes, so it’s a symptom of multiple problems. Sure, a cat will have an itch they need to scratch every now and then, just like people do. But if you see your cat scratching more than usual, or they’re scratching, licking, or biting themselves so much that they’re losing fur and causing cuts and scabs on their skin, there may be an underlying issue that should be addressed.Whether your cat is scratching at one area or they’re itchy all over, don’t ignore this problem. Read on to learn about some of the causes of itchiness in cats, along with some of the things you can do to provide relief. Remember, it’s always best to consult a veterinarian about your cat’s symptoms so you can give your pet the right treatment.Reasons Why Your Cat Is ItchyHere are some of the conditions that can cause a cat to feel itchy:AllergiesA lot of things can cause an allergic reaction in cats that leads to itchy skin. For example, if your cat is allergic to an ingredient in their food, such as a particular protein, their allergy might manifest as itchiness. As another example, your cat might be allergic to something in the environment, such as dust in the house or pollen that blows in through a window. And some cats have contact allergies to products, from litter to plastic or fabric, that can cause a reaction. The goal is to find the allergen and remove it from your cat’s environment as best as possible. In the case of a food allergy, using food trials with the guidance of your vet can help you figure out what’s causing the reaction so you can start giving your cat food that’s appropriate for them. ParasitesBites from insects and parasites can cause your cat to feel itchy. Fleas and mites are a couple examples. And, yes, indoor cats can get fleas, as they could be brought in from outside and find their way to your feline.When it comes to mites, such as ear mites or mange, your veterinarian can prescribe treatments after performing some tests for an accurate diagnosis.For flea allergy dermatitis caused by flea bites, it’s a matter of eliminating the flea infestation and preventing future infestations. You can use over-the-counter products, such as Frontline Plus for Cats, which is a topical treatment you apply between your cat’s shoulders (where they won’t be able to lick it off). It kills flea eggs, flea larvae, and adult fleas, as well as ticks and chewing lice, and each dose works for a month. But you also need to thoroughly clean your home and your pet’s things to be sure you eliminate fleas in the environment.

Check Out Giant Dogs On the Free 2024 Calendar of the Portland USACE

Who knew that calendars featuring gigantic cats could be such a hit! Last year, the Pacific Northwest-based U.S. military personnel issued their own calendars which featured enormous kitties that oversaw construction projects making a seemingly ordinary calendar - a ton of fun. Needless to say, their hilarious (and completely free) calendar went viral, so they wanted to repeat last year’s success. This year, however, the Portland branch of the US Army Corps of Engineers, which is based in Oregon, decided to “branch out”, and their new yearly 2024 calendar will feature gigantic doggos as well. This was a logical follow-up to their viral social media campaign of the previous year, when kittens stole the show. The personnel of this military branch handles tough civil works in the whole of Oregon and southwestern Washington, so a bit of lighthearted humor really goes a long way for them. Their staff got the idea of superimposing photos of cats and dogs into quality landscape photos of the most important public infrastructure projects that the teams were involved with. The idea was an instant hit. And now, their 2024 calendars in both cat and dog editions can be freely downloaded in a PDF format, allowing quick and easy printing. You can find the dog calendar here and the cat calendar here.“This product was created to tell the story of our district and what we do in a way that’s actually enjoyable for the average member of the public,” Portland district spokesman Chris Gaylord said. Mr. Gaylord further said that the whole project was their effort to portray an otherwise rough and industrial work in a more entertaining light. And it is also a way for the workers to get some steam off as well. After all, they are busy throughout the year, operating more than 700 dams and 12,000 miles of inland waterways. “It was really so inspiring to see how much joy this little product brought to people all over the world,” Gaylord said, after their first calendar “won over the internet”, getting an incredible 530,000 downloads on their website. To make matters even more memorable, the photos of the pets are from the employees themselves! Gaylord received almost 750 photos from 150 workers. Choosing just a few to include in the calendar was no easy task. But to make everyone satisfied, a page at the end of the calendar includes a grid with most of the pets that did not make it onto the big pages. What do you think – which pooch of the month is your fave?

Never Scoop Again With Litter-Robot, The Purrfect Gift For Cat Lovers

Cats like a clean litter box just as much as cat owners do, but scooping clumps can be a hassle. Whisker’s Litter-Robot, the highest-rated, self-cleaning litter box for cats, eliminates the need to scoop the litter box. The newest model, Litter-Robot 4, provides a clean bed of litter for your cats after every use. It features patented sifting technology that sifts out waste after every use and deposits it into a tightly-sealed waste drawer, helping to keep odor under control. For Black Friday, you can scoop one up for less, with $75 off bundles with the Purrfect Litter-Robot accessories you will want.What Sets the Litter-Robot Apart? Litter-Robot 4 features an advanced, patented, sifting technology with QuietSift™ for nearly-silent sifting. That’s right, you don’t have to scoop and you don’t hear the litter being sifted. What could be better?

A Dog is Adopted After 7 Years in Shelter After An Emotional Discovery

One pet shelter in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, has been the home of a darling rescue dog named Ella for 7 long years. But the long wait for a happy ending is finally over – as Ella was recently adopted, and under very special circumstances at that. The staff at  Bloomsburg Animal Resource Center have titled this “an extremely special adoption”, and advised readers that “they might want to grab a tissue real quick for this one”.Ella had been at the shelter for the last seven years, making her the center’s longest resident. But recently, things took a turn for the better, when Ella was spotted by Kaitlyn, a resident who quickly fell in love with the rescue pooch. When coming to the center, Kaitlyn said that her long-time furry friend, Jo, recently passed away, and now she was ready to meet a new dog.And as soon as the two met, the match was made. It was obvious that they were meant for each other. Ella quickly made everyone know that Kaitlyn was her “human”. Usually, it wasn’t so. Ella was a victim of abuse and had a long history of fear and aggression. It would take several visits for her to get relaxed around strangers. But with Kaitlyn, this was not the case. The bond was near-instant. “She immediately walked over to Kaitlyn with no hesitation, allowing her to give Ella scratches and pets right away,” the staff of the adoption center said.At the end of the adoption meeting, when Kaitlyn was about to leave, she suddenly noticed something that made her overwhelmingly emotional. What she spotted was the bandana that Ella was wearing around her neck. Her eyes welling with tears, Kaitlyn said to the staff that it was the exact bandana that belonged to her recently passed away dog, Jo. She said that after the passing, she donated all the bandanas to the center. “This bandana that Ella is wearing, it’s Jo’s. I donated them all here when he passed,” Kaitlyn said, quickly showing a picture of Jo wearing it. The symbolism and the connection were incredible. It was a sign that the two were meant to be together. When they realized what happened, the staff was moved to tears: “Out of the 20 dogs in our shelter right now, this bandana. This specific bandana. Jo’s bandana. It was on Ella.”Later, Kaitlyn said that the bandana is a sign: “I like to think of it as Jo’s stamp of approval.”And so it was, that after 7 long years of waiting, the kind and gentle Ella found her new forever home, and a human friend who would treat her right.“Every morning, Ella used to pop up off her bed and greet you at the door of her kennel right away,” the staff at the Animal Resource Center said. “We’ll miss that tomorrow, it’ll be such a bittersweet moment realizing that as we pause to reflect on a few of our favorites times with Ella — but my goodness the amount of pure happiness we will feel every day knowing Ella finally got what she deserved: ELLA GOT ADOPTED.”

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.

A New Four-Legged Robot May Soon Replace Guide Dogs

Robots aren’t only taking human jobs! Our four-legged colleagues may soon need new jobs because there’s a new AI-powered robot guide dog in town. Named RoboGuide, the four-legged robot guide dog was born and bred at the University of Glasgow. The research team that created the robotic pooch, says that RoboGuide could help blind and visually impaired people move more freely in indoor spaces. Their new design solves some of the most common problems in assistive tech.“One significant drawback of many current four-legged, two-legged, and wheeled robots is that the technology which allows them to find their way around can limit their usefulness for the visually impaired,” said Olaoluwa Popoola, the project’s principal investigator. “Robots which use GPS to navigate, for example, can perform well outdoors but often struggle in indoor settings, where signal coverage can weaken. Others, which use cameras to ‘see’, are limited by the line of sight, which makes it harder for them to safely guide people around objects or around bends.”To overcome these limitations, the RoboGuide uses a series of sensors that analyze its surroundings. Software created by the team allows the robotic pooch to find optimal routes between locations and interpret sensor data in real-time, so it can avoid hitting obstacles while guiding a blind or visually impaired person.This robotic pooch also obeys its owner. Thanks to large models, RoboGuide understands speech, and can even talk to its handler. The RoboGuide was showcased at the university’s Mazumdar-Shaw Advanced Research Center. The team working on the prototype said that the robotic pooch uses several innovative technologies and that their goal is to release a complete version in the following years.Professor Muhammad Imran, dean of graduate studies at the James Watt School of Engineering and co-investigator on the project said: “Our assistive technology project for the visually impaired embodies innovation, fostering inclusivity.”“In Glasgow, we’re pioneering world-changing technologies that hold the potential to transform lives and reshape societal norms. This achievement was made possible through collaboration with industry and charity partners and co-creating the design with the invaluable input of end users.”The prototype was tested for the first time with volunteers at the Hunterian, Scotland’s oldest museum, in December. During the trial,  the robotic pooch guided the volunteers around the museum and provided interactive speeches on six different exhibits. With an estimated 2.2 billion people in the world living with some form of vision loss, the team hopes to create a commercial product to help guide visually impaired people indoors.“Ultimately, our aim is to develop a complete system which can be adapted for use with robots of all shapes and sizes to help blind and partially sighted people in a wide range of indoor situations,” said Wasim Ahmed, who’s also a co-investigator on the study.  The RoboGuide project is backed by two leading charities. Both the Forth Valley Sensory Centre Trust (FVSC) and the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) are supporting the development of RoboGuide. “Mobility is a big issue for the blind and partially sighted community,” said Jacquie Winning, the chief executive of FVSC. “RoboGuide is a wonderful solution to that problem, and we are delighted to help test this innovative and creative robot.”James Adams, the director of RNIB Scotland, added: “We’re delighted to be supporting the research and development of technology that could be part of making the world more accessible and empowering blind and partially sighted people to live their lives confidently.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Hundreds of Cats and Dogs Saved from an Animal Testing Laboratory

In a groundbreaking action, the Beagle Freedom Project (BFP), a non-profit organization that rescues animals used in testing, has shut down an animal testing facility in Nowata, Oklahoma, and rescued over 200 dogs and cats from certain death.This monumental action closed down one-third of the flea and tick product testing industry in the U.S., ending years of cruel experimentation on an untold number of animals, and saving thousands of cats and dogs from the same dreadful fate.Most of the animals kept in these facilities are bred specifically for testing, meaning they spend their entire lives in terrible conditions. According to the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), animals in laboratories are kept alone in steel cages, with little room to move, and devoid of animal and human companionship.More than 200 cats, dogs, and a family of pigs were kept in horrifying conditions in the 30-acre facility in Nowata, Oklahoma. The poor animals were kept outside in the cold, in nothing but small tents to serve as a shelter. Those kept inside were housed inside tiny cages placed on hard concrete. In the past, the Nowata laboratory has been the subject of many USDA citations and violations. The animals kept there had to endure aggravating pain and discomfort caused by fleas and ticks breeding on their bodies. To make matters worse, the cats and dogs were forced to wear cones so they couldn’t relieve the itching and the pain.“We had to end this,” the president and founder of the Beagle Freedom Project, Shannon Keith, said. “Rather than rescue the dogs and cats one by one, while the facility continued its cruel operations, several months ago, we took a chance and approached the owner of the facility about relinquishing his USDA license and ending operations.”And they were successful! Animal Health Innovations Inc. has ceased operations and surrendered its USDA license. “The importance of this monumental achievement cannot be overstated. Not only have we rescued hundreds of animals from being tested on and certain death, we have also created a pathway for others to do the same,” said Keith to Agusta Free Press.But, that’s not the end. The Beagle Freedom Project plans to transform the former laboratory into a rehabilitation and adoption center called the Freedom Fields - a place where the rescued animals will receive medical attention and the love they deserve.“This has never before been accomplished. We are overjoyed that not only will we give more than 200 dogs and cats their freedom and identity, but that we will also transform an animal testing facility into a place of hope, happiness, rehabilitation, and love,” added Keith.The new space should consist of a doggy park, catio, cat cafe, dog dens, groom room, and lots of open space for dogs and cats to run around and play in. Additionally, there will be a barn for farm animals and a visiting center where the visitors can learn about animal testing before meeting the adoptable animals. Extensive renovations are already underway at Freedom Fields, including replacing small metal cages and makeshift outdoor tents surrounded with electrical fencing with warm and sturdy barns for large farm animals. A landscaped dog park and cozy indoor/outdoor spaces will make rescued cats and dogs feel at home. According to Keith, there are safer and better methods of flea and tick control, and these products don’t have to be tested on animals. Currently, the Beagle Freedom Project is arranging the closure of another large laboratory and is working with companies to provide safer and more ethical methods of flea and tick control for cats and dogs.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Hypothermia in Cats: What You Should Know

Hypothermia puts your cat’s health at risk, and if not treated in time, can be fatal. So, it’s wise to know even just the basics about hypothermia so you can recognize the symptoms and get your cat the help they need right away. Here’s a short guide to get you started.

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