How to Get a Dog to Take a Pill

by Angela Vuckovic

Published: May 22nd, 2024

A-photographyy/Shutterstock

For most dogs, taking some form of pills – be it a supplement for preventing health issues or a medicine to treat existing ones – is a part of their daily routine. Sadly, that doesn’t mean that most dogs are used to the process and that they take the pill without protesting. Even though in most cases pills are not optional, our doggos often stubbornly refuse to ingest them. They’ll whimper, run, or straight out refuse to open their mouth. So how do you go about it and give a pill to your dog? Here are some useful tips and tricks that can make this task simple and quick!

How to Get a Dog to Take a Pill – 5 Simple Tricks You Can Try Right Now

One of the best tricks you can use is to hide the pill in food. As we all know, most pooches are voracious and will gobble up anything you have in your hand. Any tasty treat will be quickly gulped down, with the hidden pill as well! In case you have a smart doggo on your hands, you can trick them by “accidentally” dropping some food with the pill hidden inside it and try to fake – prevent them from taking it – that works wonders for my spoiled poodle who’d eat anything if she thinks it’s forbidden. You can also try peanut butter, as it is sticky and flavorful, making it hard for the dog to detect the pill. Meat is great too, as dogs love it and it can hide a pill easily.

If your dog is a picky eater or simply finds a way to get the pill out of the food every time you try to sneak it, you can also utilize the specially designed pill pocket treats for dogs, which have a special hiding place for a pill. They’re irresistible too!

Of course, some pills can be crushed (but not all of them), which makes them all the easier to hide and give to your pet. So, if the medication can be crushed, mix it into a small amount of wet food. This can be the easiest and simplest way to complete the task.

Another simple and efficient way of giving your dog a pill is using a special pill popper tool for dogs. The way this tool is designed helps to place the pill at the back of the dog's throat, making it easier for them to swallow. Of course, some dogs can be squirmy and distrustful of this, so if you have a particularly squirmy dog, this might not work.

But for dogs that are obedient and cooperative, a straightforward hand-feeding technique could work. To do this, gently open your dog's mouth by holding the upper jaw with one hand and the lower jaw with the other. Place the pill as far back on the tongue as possible and then close your dog's mouth and hold it shut, then gently stroke their throat or blow on their nose to encourage swallowing. Simple and quick, and certainly deserving of a tasty treat afterward. In fact, whichever method you opt for, you should reward your pet afterward, letting them know that swallowing pills is not all that scary and that they did a good job.

Thanks to this positive reinforcement method, you can gradually train your dog to accept the pill in the future too. Stay positive and consistent, and your dog will quickly get accustomed to the process.

Of course, you should always check if your pet has actually swallowed the pill. They are smart, after all, and might try to trick you and spit the pill out when you are not looking.

In case you continue to have trouble administering pills, consult your veterinarian. They may be able to provide the medication in a different form, such as a liquid, or offer additional advice specific to your dog's needs.

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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How Can I Remove Plaque From My Dog's Teeth?

We love our dogs and many of us won’t say no to puppy smooches – but to be fair, not all furballs have the freshest breath out there. If your dog has  bad-smelling breath, the culprit might be plaque buildup and the bacteria overgrowth that comes with it. We all know that bacteria are responsible for all things smelly, and when it comes to oral hygiene, the reason why bacteria are there in the first place is bits of leftover food that slowly but surely turn into tartar on your pet’s teeth. The best way to prevent plaque on a dog's teeth is to brush them, but what about existing buildup? How can you remove plaque from your dog’s teeth at home – or is it something that has to be done professionally? Here’s what you need to know about plaque and tartar and how best to remove them.How Can I Remove Plaque from My Dog's Teeth?Maintaining good dental health in dogs is crucial for their overall well-being. Addressing plaque in your dog's teeth is not just about maintaining a bright smile; it's a key aspect that contributes to their overall health, happiness, and longevity. Regular dental care is an investment in your dog's well-being that pays off in various ways - it’s sure way to prevent dental diseases such as  gingivitis and  periodontitis, eliminate bad breath odor, avoid tooth decay and loss, and maintain your dog’s good appetite. After all, dogs depend on their teeth to eat properly. Just imagine the effect of bad or missing teeth. Unchewed food, indigestion, vomiting – the list is long. So it goes a long way to act on this ahead of time and prevent tartar buildup and remove any existing one. Here are just a few tips to consider when dealing with persistent dog teeth plaque:Prevent Buildup With Regular BrushingDogs need to brush their teeth just like us! They’ll need your help to do it, of course. Remember that it is never too late to start. Start slowly and gently with short brushing sessions, gradually increasing the time as your dog becomes more comfortable. Of course, you should use  a toothbrush that is designed specifically for dogs or a similar fingerbrush. The toothpaste also needs to be for dogs only (never use human toothpaste as it may contain ingredients harmful to dogs).

A Six-legged Abandoned Dog Has Surgery to Remove Extra Limbs

A six-legged cocker spaniel found abandoned in a supermarket parking lot in Wales has had surgery to remove her extra limbs. The pooch was named Ariel, after the Little Mermaid, because her extra limbs were fused together, resembling a mermaid’s tail. Greenacres Rescue, a non-profit group from Haverfordwest in Pembrokeshire, Wales, took Ariel in, arranged her surgery, and found her a foster family.  Ariel, who was born with multiple birth defects, was operated on at Langford Vets Small Animal Referral Hospital. Surgeon Aaron Lutchman performed the surgery and managed to save all four limbs amid fears that one hind leg might have to be amputated. “She’s doing really well, she’s bounced back and she’s a happy little dog and we’re hoping she’s going to go on to lead a fabulous little life,” said Lutchman. “She’s got her own little character and even though she’s had a tough start in life she really has done well to come through this as she has… if we can do what we can to help then that’s just absolutely brilliant.” According to Mikey Lawlor, founder and manager of Greenacres Rescue, Ariel was skinny and distressed when she was rescued. “The vet who initially assessed Ariel noted that, in addition to her two surplus back legs, she also had an additional vulva,” said Lawlor. A CT scan later revealed that Ariel was born with only one kidney, which increased the complexity of the medical treatment she required. Unfortunately, the pup’s pelvis never formed properly because she had two hip joints on one side of the body. As a result, Ariel’s normal hind leg had no muscle tone, so there was a chance that that leg had to be amputated as well. “Thankfully, that wasn’t the case though as it’s shown signs of having strengthened a lot in recent months,” Lawlor added.Ariel is recovering nicely after her surgery, having lots of love and fuss from the nursing team. Now that the surgery is behind her, everyone is hoping that she’ll have an easy and quick recovery.“There were two procedures which lasted about two hours, but both went fine. The next day she was up, walking around and eating and drinking.”“Now we just need to keep our fingers crossed she doesn’t get any infections, but she really is in the best of hands,” added Lawlor according to BBC. The brave pooch was discharged over the weekend and has already returned home to her foster family in Wales. According to her vet, Ariel has to rest for the next two weeks to recover completely. The founder of Greenacres Rescue hopes that the organization will be able to find a forever home for Ariel after she completes physiotherapy and recovery. “The response we had to Ariel’s story so far, including calls and emails from as far away as New York and Australia, has been incredible - so I’ve no doubt she’ll be snapped up,” said Lawlor.“I just can’t say enough of a thank you to everyone who’s contributed to helping her.” The organization raised around $19,000 for Ariel’s life-changing surgery thanks to donations from people all over the world.“Ariel was a complicated little dog whose care required close collaboration across a number of our specialist teams, including orthopedics, soft tissue surgery, anesthesia, and radiology,” said Vicki Black, the director of Langford Vets’ Hospital. “As part of the University of Bristol, we are a center committed to career-long learning and are proud to innovate and treat pets like Ariel. We are delighted such a lovely animal has recovered well from her surgery.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How to Give Your Dog a Pill

If you’ve ever had to give your dog a pill, you know how difficult it can be. Here are some tips on how to make any pill easier to swallow. Dogs love to eat, and some dogs don’t seem to care whether the thing they are eating is actually food or not. Unfortunately, dogs have a way of knowing when you’re trying to give them medication and that’s just about the only time they won’t eat anything you hand them. Whether you’re trying to give your dog his monthly heartworm preventive or some kind of medication, you’ll need to get creative. Keep reading to learn some simple ways to give your dog a pill by hiding it in something else. Related: Tricky Tips On How To Hide Your Dog’s Medicine Pill Pockets A pill pocket is simply a small round treat with a hollowed out middle. You can insert the pill into the pocket and feed it to your dog the same way you would feed him a treat. This trick works best for dogs who tend to swallow their treats whole without much chewing. If your dog chews everything thoroughly, he’s more likely to taste the pill and might be wary of accepting the pill pocket later. Wet Food Another simple trick to get your dog to take a pill is to mix it in with some wet food. This works especially well if you usually feed your dog dry food, so he is more likely to see the wet food as a special treat. Keep in mind that some dogs will still be able to taste the medication and might eat around it. Related: Helpful Tips for Giving Your Cat a Pill Cooked Chicken Nothing is more irresistible to a dog than “people food.” If you’re trying to give your dog medication, one idea is to hide it in something especially tasty like a piece of cooked chicken. Hopefully, your dog will be so excited to eat the treat that he doesn’t even notice the pill inside. Empty Gel Caps If your dog generally doesn’t have a problem taking medication but the taste is throwing him off, one idea is to take an empty gel capsule and place the medication inside. If your dog can’t actually taste the pill, he might be more likely to take it. You can also combine this trick with pill pockets or hiding the pill in some kind of food. Other Options for Giving Dogs Medication The tricks listed above work well if you’re trying to give your dog a pill but what do you do if it’s an oral medication? Liquid medications can sometimes be mixed with wet food or with something else your dog is likely to eat. You can talk to your veterinarian about options for flavored medications or chewable tablets as another option if your dog still won’t take the medication. If all else fails, you can administer the medication by hand. Carefully open your dog’s mouth and place the pill as far back into his mouth as you can. Then, holding his mouth closed, lift his nose and stroke his throat, encouraging him to swallow. Before using any of these tricks, make sure that your dog’s medication can be given with food. If the pill is supposed to be taken on an empty stomach, ask your veterinarian whether using a pill pocket is still okay or if you need to figure something else out.

How To Remove A Tick From A Dog

They’re more than an irritant – these little bloodsuckers can mean big trouble for you and your pooch. Here’s how to remove a tick from a dog. Ticks are tiny external parasites that feed on the blood of dogs and other animals – they can even latch on to a human. There are several different species of ticks which can affect dogs and all of them have the potential to transmit deadly diseases to your pet. You should take the time to learn how to protect your dog from ticks, as well as educate yourself on how to remove a tick from a dog. Related: Flea And Tick Control: Fact Or Myth? How do Ticks Affect Dogs? Technically ticks are not a type of insect – they are a type of arachnid and there are a number of species which commonly affect dogs. The most common species of ticks known to affect dogs are the American dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis) and the brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus). Ticks tend to live in brushy areas of undergrowth, particularly tall grass, and they can easily climb onto your dog’s legs as he plays outside. These tiny creatures can be found anywhere on the dog’s body but they tend to prefer the area around the head, neck, and ears. Related: Top 10 Flea and Tick Prevention Tips Though they may be small, ticks are visible so it is a good idea for you to check your dog after spending any time outside, particularly during the summer and fall months. Even once your dog has been bitten by a tick it can take a few hours for the tick to transmit disease, so if you find and remove the tick quickly your dog will probably be okay. To ensure that your dog is protected from tick-transmitted diseases, however, you should administer a monthly topical flea and tick preventive. These products not only help to protect your dog from diseases transmitted by ticks but they kill the adult and developing forms of the parasite. Steps on How to Remove a Tick from a Dog In addition to transmitting diseases like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ticks can also cause blood loss and anemia, especially in young dogs. If you find a tick on your dog’s body, you need to remove it immediately by following the steps below: Put on a pair of rubber or latex gloves to protect yourself – contact with the tick’s blood could potentially expose you to Lyme disease.Treat the area with rubbing alcohol to disinfect it.Use a pair of tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible.Pull the tick swiftly upward and away from the body, removing the head and mouthparts as well as the body.If the mouthparts are left behind, do not try to remove them – this could cause more irritation – just treat the area with a disinfectant.Disinfect the site of the bite again and dispose of the tick by placing it in a small jar with some rubbing alcohol to kill it. After removing a tick from your dog’s skin – especially if the mouthparts are left behind – you should monitor your dog for several days. Check the site of the bite several times a day for inflammation and irritation. If the area swells and doesn’t appear to be improving, you may want to take your dog to the vet for a check-up. A Few Extra Tips to Keep in Mind When Checking for Ticks and Removing Them Here are a few other things to consider in order to keep your pet safe, and to effectively and safely remove a tick if you have found that one has bitten your dog: Check your pet for ticks anytime he spends time outside. If you do find a tick, it should be removed within 24 to 36 hours, but preferably sooner than that.Does your dog have a double-coat or long fur? Consider using a hair dryer on a cool setting to move the fur and look for signs of ticks.Your dog might end up showing signs that something is wrong. For example, he might bite at a particular spot on his body, or he might be scratching at himself. Check the area, as there might be a tick there.When removing a tick with tweezers, don’t jerk or twist the parasite; use steady pressure to pull it out.As an alternative to using tweezers, there are tick removal products that you can try instead. An example is the Tick Key, which you can keep with your keys whenever you head out.You shouldn’t remove a tick only with your fingers, unless you absolutely have no choice. In that case, use a paper towel or a tissue to protect yourself, and disinfect your hands right after. Again, you want to avoid getting tick blood or saliva on your skin.Avoid crushing or squishing ticks when you’re trying to remove them. Doing so might actually cause infected fluid to move through the parasite’s mouth and into your dog’s body.It isn’t a good idea to try products like petroleum jelly or nail polish in order to attempt suffocating a tick after it’s bitten your dog. Like squishing it, this could boost the risk of infection because it could make the tick vomit. It also isn’t a good idea to use a hot match or cigarette for the same reason.You could save the tick and take it to your vet’s office to have it tested. This can help you figure out what type of tick bit your dog, as well as whether or not it was carrying a disease.When disposing of the tick, don’t just put it down the sink or in your trash, as it could simply crawl out. You want to be sure that it’s dead so that it can’t cause anymore harm. That’s why we recommend killing it with rubbing alcohol, as mentioned above.Although there are a lot of natural products out there that claim they can repel or even kill ticks, it’s wise to talk to your vet about the best and most proven products that you can use safely on your pooch to keep these dangerous parasites away. It isn’t worth risking a bite by using a natural remedy when there are effective products that are safe to use on canines. Feel free to contribute your own ways of how to remove a tick from a dog in the comment section below – we’d love to hear your ideas!

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FDA Approves New Treatment for Anxiety and Fear in Cats

It’s no secret that most cats get really stressed out when they have to leave the house, especially for a trip to the veterinarian. And the anxiety and fear that your pet experiences can certainly affect you as a pet parent as well, making you feel awful about having to put your cat through such a scary experience.The good news is there are things you can try to help reduce the stress your kitty feels, and one of the latest solutions is a new treatment recently approved by the FDA.Bonqat for CatsIn November 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved pregabalin, also known as Bonqat, for cats.The oral solution is not a sedative; instead, it affects the neurotransmitters that are involved in acute anxiety and fear. Therefore, it can be used to reduce the stress experienced by cats who are being transported for any reason, and it can be helpful for those who get frightened when they go to the vet.To determine if this medicine would be effective, cats were given either a placebo or Bonqat before being transported by car and examined by a veterinarian (the cats had a history of being fearful and/or anxious under those circumstances). The results? While roughly one-third of the kitties who got the placebo had a positive response, just over half of those given the medicine did better while being transported and examined. Also, over the course of two examinations, 77% of the kitties who took Bonqat had less fear and anxiety, while 46% of those given the placebo exhibited an improvement in their fear and anxiety levels.Discuss Bonqat with Your VeterinarianYou can only get Bonqat with a prescription from your veterinarian, so discuss its pros and cons to determine if this medicine would be right for your cat based on factors like age and medical conditions. And bear in mind that side effects, such as ataxia, vomiting, and lethargy, might occur with Bonqat.To reap the benefits of Bonqat, you simply give it to your cat about 1.5 hours prior to transporting them or taking them to the vet. This medicine is a liquid, and it can be given to your pet with a bit of food.Also, there are some precautions that need to be taken while administering this medicine to your cat. For example, it shouldn’t make contact with your eyes, mucous membranes, or skin. So, in addition to talking to your vet about how to use it correctly to ensure your cat gets the best results, you also want to be well-informed about how to handle this medicine safely.For more information about Bonqat and how it works, click here.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

New Study Reveals The Best Time To Spay or Neuter Dogs

We all know the importance of spaying and neutering our pets – it can prevent life-threatening diseases, improve their behavior, and it is generally more humane. But what is the ideal time for spaying or neutering your four-legged bestie to ensure they get to reap all those benefits without any of the risks? Not all sources agree on the ideal time, but most experts agree that it should be done around 6 months, just before the first heat cycle. However, a new study sheds more light on the timing for pet sterilization – and the dangers that premature spaying or neutering could hold.A research team based at the University of California in Davis released their latest neutering guidelines in the Frontiers in Veterinary Science journal. Original research on the matter was begun in 2013, and it showed that neutering dogs too early in their lives can increase the risk of cancer and specific joint disorders. And now, a decade later, the research has expanded to include more dog breeds and to offer better results. The team leaders, Lynette Hard and Benjamin Hart of the School of Veterinary Medicine carefully analyzed data that was gathered for over a decade, on all dogs treated at the University of California Veterinary Hospital. Five dog breeds were the focal point of the research process: German Short / Wirehaired Pointer, Newfoundland, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Mastiff, and Siberian Husky. They were analyzed for the effects of neutering and spaying before the first year of age. What was discovered is that early neutering greatly increases the risk of joint disorders in German Shorts and Wirehaired Pointer breeds. Similar was found for males of the Mastiff breed and Newfoundland females. Early neutering in female Rhodesian Ridgebacks, however, found an increased possibility of cell tumors. The Siberian Husky showed somewhat better results, with no significant risks for males, while the females showed the possibility of some disorders. "It's always complicated to consider an alternate paradigm," Lynette Hart, department vice-chair and professor, said. "This is a shift from a long-standing model of early spay/neuter practices in the U.S. and much of Europe to neuter by 6 months of age, but important to consider as we see the connections between gonadal hormone withdrawal from early spay/neuter and potential health concerns."The team emphasized the need for “personalized decisions” when it comes to neutering and spaying dogs. Each owner should take into account their dog’s breed, age, and sex before going on with the procedure. Of course, advice from the vet is also crucial. It was also emphasized that early neutering can lead to an increased risk of cancer, especially cancer of the blood vessels, lymph nodes, and mast cell tumors. The connection between cancer and neutering was traced down to the removal of sex hormones in dogs. These are crucial for the later development of the dog, such as the closing of bone growth plates.Yet even so, it was noted that neutering your pet at the right time can greatly reduce the risk of other health issues in the future, most importantly uterine infections and prostate cancer. Similarly, neutering can help with dog behavior, especially for males. They are less prone to roaming, violence, aggressive behavior, or marking territory. Ultimately, neutering also helps regulate the dog population, which reduces the number of strays and decreases the pressures on animal shelters. "We're invested in making contributions to people's relationship with their animals," said Benjamin Hart. "This guidance provides information and options for veterinarians to give pet owners, who should have the final decision-making role for the health and well-being of their animal."

Cat Saved from Hot Car Now Modeling for Target

It was a heartbreaking discovery for animal lovers in June 2002 when 47 cats were rescued from extreme heat in a vehicle parked at an eastern Minnesota rest stop. The cats were medically assessed, cared for, and adopted out to loving families. Unfortunately, during the rescue, one of the cats ran off, leading to a month-long search. A cat matching the missing kitty’s description was found sitting on a doorstop in the area and brought to Tuff Start Rescue by a good Samaritan. The cat was in rough shape after a sweltering heat and a month on the run. “When he got to us, his jaw was severely fractured, his temperature wouldn’t read, he had a severe maggot infestation in his mouth, his ears, everywhere,” described Dr. Nicole Perreault, a veterinarian, and Tuff Start Rescue’s founder and president. “It was like a visceral pain when I looked at him, and wondered, OK, what do we do here? What’s the most humane [thing to do?] but then he lifted his head and looked at me, and I thought, ‘OK, you have survived all this time to make it to this clinic and this rescue.’ So I was like, we’re gonna give this a shot.” The cat, named Hercules, had a long road to recovery, including specialized foods, around-the-clock medications, and jaw surgeries to stabilize his jaw. Little did anyone know that this second chance was only the start of an impressive story… Throughout his recovery, Hercules was under the care of his foster mom, Jill LeBrun. Before long, it was clear that life with LeBrun wasn’t just a temporary stop in his journey. Accepting that it was meant to be, LeBrun officially adopted Hercules and happily welcomed him into her family. Now ten years old, Hercules continues to thrive in LeBrun’s care. He loves bird watching, nibbling his favorite kitty treats, and being loved on by anyone and everyone. He has also started a new chapter in his life. After discovering a local animal talent agency was searching for cats “with unique faces” for upcoming work, LeBrun submitted a photo of Hercules for consideration. His adorable little face and tongue, always hanging out, quickly captured hearts, and he was called in for a photoshoot. Shortly after the photoshoot, she was shopping at Target when she was met with a heartwarming surprise – a familiar face staring back from the store shelves. “I got to the cat litter aisle, and all of a sudden, the whole aisle was like, Hercules’ face on all the rows of cat litter pails,” LeBrun described. “There was another woman in the aisle looking for products, and I had to stop myself from looking over at her and being like, ‘That’s my cat!’” She confessed to being a proud cat mom, taking pictures of the products before straightening up all the pails to best showcase her adorable little model. Why is LeBrun so excited to share Hercules’ story? She hopes his tale of recovery and success can help encourage others to consider fostering or adopting an animal in need -even if they look a little “different.” You never know when you’ll find your new best friend (or the next furry model).Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Pandemic Puppies Are Behaving Badly, Study Shows

Puppies bought during the COVID-19 pandemic are more likely to exhibit one or more problem behaviors, a new study suggests. Research by the Royal Veterinary Colledge (RVC) has found that four in five (82%) owners of pandemic puppies have resorted to using punishment-based training methods to try to curb their dog’s problem behavior. The study found that moving the dog or shouting at them were the most commonly used aversive training methods. Other owners reported using water pistols, rattle bottles, and choke chains. Only 18% of owners who participated in the study said they didn’t use any aversive training methods or aids. Not only are aversive training techniques such as yelling at the dog or pulling its lead ineffective but they are also linked to further behavioral problems. The survey which was funded by the Battersea animal rescue charity asked more than 1,007 UK dog owners to list problem behaviors exhibited by their dogs. The list consisted of 24 problem behaviors reported by the owners. They ranged from control behaviors ( pulling on the leash) and attention-seeking behaviors, to aggressive behaviors and fear behaviors (anxiety around other dogs or people).Almost all (97%) owners said their dog exhibited at least one problem behavior from the list. At 21 months, owners on average reported five behavioral problems, while 20% of owners reported that their dogs had eight or more problem behaviors. According to owners, pulling on the leash is the most common problem behavior (67%), followed by jumping on people (57%), and not coming back when called (52%).Denise Mariner-Chappell got a Labrador retriever Ted during the pandemic. Strict lockdown measures made it hard to properly train and socialize her new pooch.“He’s a crazy dog when he’s out,” she said. “He’s just manic. He just wants to play and sniff, and everything, but not with humans.” Dr. Rowena Packer, the lead author of the study explained that problem behaviors are very common in pandemic puppies. In many cases, owners exacerbate these issues by using punishment-based training methods. “Although we understand these problem behaviors can be very frustrating for owners, they are often a sign a dog is struggling to cope or that they haven’t been taught an appropriate response in a situation, rather than dogs intentionally behaving badly,” she added.Packer warned that punishing the dog can make it anxious and fearful and cause it to develop further behavioral problems, including aggression. According to Robert Bays, Battersea’s senior animal behavior manager, the charity has seen an influx in dogs with behavioral problems coming into centers. These pups are suffering from separation anxiety and show other problem behaviors, which can be linked to training challenges brought on by the pandemic. “Without the right kind of positive training and support, a small behavioral problem in a puppy or a dog can quickly escalate into a serious issue, so we are deeply concerned with this study’s findings that so many owners are using aversive training methods,” said Bays.This training approach can cause additional behavioral problems in adulthood and also significantly damage the relationship between the dog and its owner. The study found that puppies who were still exhibiting problem behaviors by the age of 21 months were at a higher risk of being rehomed or euthanized. “A key piece of guidance arising from our study is that attending puppy classes is a vital way to support owners in using the best training techniques available.”Although many pandemic puppy owners missed these training classes due to lockdown restrictions there are thankfully many certified trainers who offer training classes for adult dogs. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Is A Wet Dog's Nose Good or Bad?

A dog’s nose is their tool for discovering the world around them through scent, but dog noses are important for much more than sniffing – the state of your pet’s nose can sometimes be indicative of their health. It can be dry and flaky or wet and soft, so what is better? Is a dry nose a bad sign? Or a wet one? Or are they both normal? These are the questions that are often proving to be troubling for dog owners. So let’s try and answer them once and for all!Is A Wet Dog's Nose Good or Bad?A wet dog's nose is usually a sign of good health. Most often, the nose is wet because the doggo is licking it! They do this frequently in order to keep them clean and to enhance their sense of smell. In fact, a moist nose helps them trap scent particles more effectively. The moisture on their nose captures scent molecules from the air, allowing them to better identify and track smells. This ability is crucial for tasks such as hunting, tracking, and even detecting certain medical conditions in humans. 

How to Clean Dog Diarrhea From Carpet

Sure, sharing your life with a dog is fun and your days are filled with love, but sometimes, it can get messy. Like, real messy. After all, even though we love them, dogs are not the neatest of animals out there (that title would go to kitties, I’m afraid). In the daily life of a dog owner, there is bound to be a bit of dirt, hair, and - inevitably, poop – to clean up after your pet. And as if picking up poop from the street after your pet wasn’t bad enough, sometimes accidents happen inside your home, and the messes are that much harder to clean. Especially when you’re dealing with diarrhea and not your regular ole poop situation. But even though it’s far from pleasant to clean up after, it’s not the end of the world if an accident happens. While it can be difficult to thoroughly clean dog diarrhea embedded in the carpet fibers, everything can be cleaned if you are persistent enough – and know how to approach the issue. Here are some tips and tricks that can help you clean dog diarrhea from carpet – stains and smell both.How to Clean Dog Diarrhea from Carpet: Step by StepNow, keep in mind that cleaning dog diarrhea from a carpet can be a messy task, but it's important to clean it thoroughly and as quickly as possible to prevent lasting stains and lingering odors. Even if you are disgusted by the sight before you, it is necessary to keep at it until the job’s done. Someone has to do it, right? And we all know it ain’t gonna be your pooch.So, first things first, you’ll need to gather supplies. It is always good to have them handy and keep them stored in a secure cabinet. You never know when an accident can happen and they will be needed, so be sure to be stocked on  pet-safe cleaning supplies (if you’re not already, now is a perfect time to pick up all of your basic necessities). 

These Are the States With the Most Spoiled Doggos in 2023

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

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According to ASPCA, These Are The Top 10 Pet Toxins of 2023

No matter how careful you are, accidents happen – this is particularly true when it comes to pet  poisoning cases. Not only that cats and dogs have some uncanny ability to get into stuff that they’re not supposed to get into, but you also can’t always know what things could be a potential toxin to them. And believe us when we say, there are a lot of potential pet toxins in an average household!The annual report by the  ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC)  only goes to prove this. Each year, they examine all the compiled data to determine which are the most commonly encountered pet toxins each year. It helps keep owners aware of the threats, and to keep vets always one step ahead. In 2023, the APCC was extra busy, having received hundreds of thousands of calls about items and substances that pets were exposed to. Incredibly, these substances totaled over 351,000!Even though they were contacted about such an imposing number of potentially hazardous substances, they managed to narrow down the most common culprits and compile the list of top 10 pet toxins in 2023, which will serve as a great reminder of what to look out for.Over-the-counter medications, including cold and flu medicines, ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and vitamins and supplements. With 16.8% exposure, these medications are the number one threat in 2023. Almost every home has some sort of medications stored, and they aren’t always expertly hidden. Accidentally, pets can discover them and suffer many dire consequences if they ingest them. Human food and drink are almost equally as dangerous, with 16.2% reported calls. A lot of what we consume daily is toxic to pets. This can range from common items such as raisins, onions, garlic, grapes, or sweets, to more rare items such as protein drinks and bars, xylitol gums, and energy drinks. If your pet gets their paws on any of these, it can end up in an emergency vet visit. Prescription medications for humans are very dangerous to pets, and many reports were made in regard to inhalers, ADHD medications, heart medications, and similar. Prescription medications are often strong drugs and definitely not meant for pets.Chocolate is the number 4 threat for 2023. A staggering 13% of calls were related to this sweet. Dogs are mostly found consuming it as cats do not have sweet taste buds or the appetite of dogs. Still, chocolate is not meant for pets and can cause many side effects.Veterinary products are at number 5 with 8.3% reported exposures. Callers reported ingestion of chewable tablets or soft chews, many of them used for calming pets. Owners are urged to keep medicines locked away, as pets can like their sweet taste and go after them when you are not looking. Plants and fungi accounted for 8.1% of exposures. Dogs are inquisitive and can find these plants on their outdoor adventures. But many plants can cause a threat to dogs, so make sure to acquaint yourself with a list of toxic plants to look out for.Household products are also on this list, with 7.1% of exposures reported. Pets consumed various dangerous items, such as deoxidizer packets, batteries, and various miscellanea lying around the house. Be aware of what’s lying around that’s easy to reach.Rodenticides are a major threat to pets. People can use poisons to get rid of pests, but our pets don’t know that. If they ingest them, it can be extremely dangerous, leading to kidney failure, bleeding, and even death. When you are out on walks, always be careful what is lying around. Insecticides are almost the same. People use bug sprays, ant baits, and poisonous powders all over the place. Always make sure that the area you are in is free from anything that can be a threat to your pet. Recreational drugs are last but not least. With substances such as marijuana becoming increasingly legal, pets can come in contact with them as well. But there are also hallucinogenic substances such as mushrooms, especially psilocybin, and muscarine, which can be very harmful to pets. 

Are Candles Safe for Pets?

Final Thoughts: Candles and PetsWhether you want to include a candle in your holiday décor while keeping your pet safe or simply burn a candle to mask those pesky “pet smells,” there ARE options available to enjoy the gentle glow of a candle without creating unnecessary risks for your companion.Choose a pet-safe candle that is made from plant-based wax, avoiding those scented with potentially toxic essential oils like peppermint and pine oils. Set your candle up on a secure surface out of their reach and supervise your pet the entire time it burns. When you’re done, ensure your candle is stored safely where your pet can’t reach it.These simple precautions may be the difference between a festive holiday scene and a trip to your local emergency vet!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Dog Ran A Mile to Her Doggy Daycare Center for Help After A Car Crash

A frightened dog ran a mile through heavy traffic to its doggy daycare to get help after she and her owner were in a car crash. Melisa Fickel, the dog’s owner, said that Aries, a three-year-old pit bull mix has always been a smart pooch. The pup, who was adopted in 2020, learns tricks quickly and loves to play in the park. Aries recently got a chance to show exactly how smart she is. The pooch and her owner were heeded to a local park in Detroit, Michigan when another car hit them from behind. Luckily, no one was injured, and both vehicles sustained only minor damages. However, the car accident spooked Aries, prompting her to jump out of the car’s window and run off into traffic. “I had the windows down because Aries likes to hang her head out,” said Fickel to a local TV station. “As soon as there was that smack, as soon as I felt and heard it, almost instantaneously, she was out the window.”Fearing the worst, Fickel was concerned about her pup’s safety. While dealing with the police and her insurance company, her mind was preoccupied with all the ways Aries could be in danger,“I can’t really think about it because so many things could have happened,” she added.What Fickel didn’t know is that Aries ran about a mile down the road, to the safest place she could be in - the Hounds Town Metro Detroid, the doggy daycare she frequently visits. Security footage recorded at the daycare showed Aries arriving at the center during the staff’s noon break when employees usually shut down the lobby to clean and catch up with other tasks. According to Dominic Pace, the daycare’s general manager, he and another employee were in the lobby when they saw something outside. “We noticed something dart past the front door,” said Pace. “It was like a black blur that just went past.”Thinking that they might have seen a dog, Pace went outside and found Aries standing by the sidewalk leading to the daycare’s front door. The pooch was panting and looked scared. Once inside the daycare, Aries has calmed down. Pace thought the dog looked familiar, so he called Travis Odgen, the daycare’s owner. At first, Odgen thought that it might be a stray dog, but as he got a better look, he instantly recognized Aries. “I was like, ‘Oh, that looks like Aries’ and then she walks closer and I’m like ‘That is Aries!’” he said. “I start to pet her and she gives me kisses, and she rolls over for me, recognizing me.”Although happy to see Aries, Odgen was confused to see the pooch without her owner. He immediately called Fickel to find out what was happening and to tell her that her dog was in the daycare.Everything made sense once Odgen learned about the fender bender and Aries’ escape. He assured the pup’s owner that she was safe and sound, minus a small cut on her paw. The staff promised to look after the pup until her owner sorted out everything and was able to pick her up.According to Pace, Aries is a very friendly and sweet dog who loves to flop on her back, expecting belly rubs from anyone nearby. “Dogs do have an intuition of knowing where they are and where they can be safe,” he said. “She knows that she’s safe here, that she has people here that will take care of her and dogs are pretty intuitive when it comes to that kind of thing.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

New Study Reveals Dogs Can Sniff Out Neurodegenerative Diseases

We all know that doggos have incredible noses and a superb sense of smell. It is tens of thousands of times stronger than our own. This makes us wonder – what secrets can such a sense of smell unveil? Many scientists consider the canine sense of smell a great potential to enhance human lives thanks to its accuracy. And that is exactly what was unveiled in a recent study published in “bioRxiv”, by researchers Samuel V. Johnston and Lisa Holt from Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. Thanks to their efforts, and the incredible abilities of doggos, it was revealed that our four-legged friends have the potential to detect neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s. Parkinson’s disease is a terrible condition, affecting primarily seniors. What is even worse is that this disease has many difficulties in diagnosis, which prevents doctors from accurately identifying the disease in the early stages. But the breakthrough study could change all that! Thanks to doggos and their powerful noses, we could be on the brink of completely changing the way Parkinson’s is diagnosed. “Dogs have an extraordinary olfactory capability, which far exceeds that of humans. Dogs’ sense of smell seems to be the main sense, allowing them to not only gather both current and historical information about their surrounding environment, but also to find the source of the smell, which is crucial for locating food, danger, or partners for reproduction.”  writes Agata Kusiak, from the Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University. “Dogs can be trained by humans to use their olfactory abilities in a variety of fields, with a detection limit often much lower than that of sophisticated laboratory instruments.”Utilizing this remarkable sense of smell, scientists trained 23 dogs of different breeds and backgrounds, to successfully differentiate between samples of both Parkinson’s-positive individuals and Parkinson’s-negative individuals. The results were more than successful, with the dogs showcasing 86% sensitivity and 89% specificity in distinguishing the samples. In many ways, this is a revolutionary study and opens new doors and new possibilities in medical diagnostics. What is even better, it offers new hope for the timely detection of Parkinson’s disease. However, it is important to note that the study is still in relative infancy, and is still awaiting peer review. But the potential here is incredible. If validated, the study could help improve patient outcomes, and help with early diagnosis of this troubling disease.

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