Blog

Does your dog follow you everywhere you go? If your pup is always stuck to your side, you have what is commonly called a velcro dog. The name comes from the hook-and-loop fastener used to hold fabric together. These dogs always want to be with their people, and depending on the breed, they can be very protective. Although some people get annoyed with how needy velcro dogs are, this clingy behavior is natural and with some breeds, desirable.

Top 9 velcro dog breeds:

Any dog can display velcro dog behaviors, but there are dog breeds who have a solid reputation for their velcro tendencies. Here are the most affectionate dog breeds:

Affectionate dog behavior explained

Dogs breeds with a velcro personality were developed specifically to be close to their people. Some of these dogs were bred as companion dogs and attentive to people’s feelings; other breeds were created to work side-by-side with humans. For these dogs, clingy behavior is a breed-specific trait and is desirable. This is something to consider before getting a dog. If you want a more independent companion, these dogs are not the breed for you. A true velcro dog is confident and well socialized, but given the option, he’ll always choose to be close to you.

Our dog breeds section gives insight into finding the right dog for your lifestyle.

Velcro dogs and safety hazards

If your dog always wants to be with you, it’s wonderful, but it can also pose a safety issue. If you find yourself tripping over your dog who is literally underfoot, create a training plan to keep both you and your dog safe. Here’s how:

• Teach your dog to go to his bed or another designated area that is out of the way.
• Lure him there with a treat or toy.
• Then, reward your dog with praise and treats for being on his bed or designated spot.
• Repeat these steps until your dog can go to his bed on cue.

The goal is for your dog to see his bed as a rewarding place, so you won’t trip over him while you’re cooking or moving around your house.

The difference between velcro and anxiety behavior:

Velcro dog temperament is not the same as a dog having separation anxiety, insecurity or feeling uncomfortable on his own. Dogs with velcro dog syndrome prefer to spend time with their people, but they are also perfectly capable of being alone. Dogs with anxiety become distressed or uncomfortable when alone. For anxious dogs, connect with your veterinarian to see if there is an underlying medical issue. Work with a dog trainer who utilizes positive reinforcement techniques to help your dog learn new coping skills. Similarly, if your dog suddenly starts sticking to you like velcro and that isn’t his normal temperament, it could be an indication that he’s in pain or has some other underlying health condition.

If you notice a change in your dog’s temperament schedule an appointment with your veterinarian right away to determine if there is a medical cause for the behavior changes.

When a dog’s thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, a condition called hypothyroidism occurs. Middle-aged and older dogs are most commonly affected. Thyroid hormones help regulate many internal functions, such as metabolism and heart rate. When these hormones are low, vital functions are impaired and symptoms develop. Fortunately, with early detection and treatment, most hypothyroid dogs have a normal life expectancy.

Causes of hypothyroidism in dogs

Lymphocytic thyroiditis, an immune-mediated condition, is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in dogs. It occurs when the immune system attacks and destroys the thyroid gland, resulting in significant inflammation and low hormone production. It is unknown why the immune system decides to attack the thyroid gland, but it is thought to be hereditary.

Hypothyroidism in dogs can also occur due to thyroid gland atrophy. During this process, the functional tissue of the thyroid gland is replaced by fat. Veterinarians also don’t know why this process occurs.

A pituitary gland tumor is another cause, but it is extremely rare. The pituitary gland is located at the base of a dog’s brain and is responsible for secreting thyroid stimulating hormone. In dogs with a pituitary tumor, this process is impaired, and the thyroid gland is not stimulated. Therefore, thyroid hormones are not produced.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism in dogs

Hypothyroidism causes numerous symptoms in dogs, which may include the following:

• Weight gain despite a normal appetite
• Fat accumulation around shoulders, neck and hind end
• Lethargy
• Dull hair coat
• Slow hair regrowth
• Flaky and/or thickened skin
• Patches of alopecia (hair loss)
• Slow heart rate
• Cold intolerance
• Recurrent skin and ear infections
• Fertility issues
• Reduced tear production (dry eye)
• Nerve abnormalities

Dogs with hypothyroidism may have high cholesterol, high fat content and mild anemia on bloodwork.

How to treat hypothyroidism in dogs

Dogs with hypothyroidism require oral supplementation of a synthetic thyroid hormone called levothyroxine. This medication is given daily and is relatively inexpensive. The dose, which is determined by the dog’s weight, may change over time based on his response to treatment. Periodic bloodwork helps the veterinarian assess hormone levels and adjust the dose when necessary. Supplementation is required for the remainder of the pet’s life.

Since hypothyroid dogs are already prone to high cholesterol, switching to a low-fat kibble is beneficial. Omega-3 fatty acids also promote a healthier skin and coat. Your veterinarian can recommend the best type of food to meet your dog’s specific needs.

Life expectancy

Hypothyroidism is not a curable condition. However, most healthy, hypothyroid dogs live long, happy lives with the proper monitoring and treatment. Dogs with additional health issues, such as heart disease or kidney disease, may have shorter lifespans due to the difficulty in managing hypothyroidism alongside concurrent illness.

If left untreated, hypothyroidism results in a poor quality of life, an increased risk of complications and a reduced lifespan. Early diagnosis ensures your pet receives the treatment he needs to be happy and healthy. If you notice any signs of hypothyroidism in your dog, bring him to the veterinarian for evaluation.

Heated dog beds are becoming increasingly popular among pet owners who want to provide their pup with a warm and comfortable place to rest. But are they good for your dog’s health? According to veterinarian and author Doc Halligan, the answer is yes!

Heated beds especially benefit senior dogs with arthritis and other health issues.

“When dogs get older, they may benefit from having soft and heated bedding as their muscle mass decreases,” she says. “They may also develop calluses and sores and their joints can become stiff. Especially for older dogs or those with health issues, orthopedic and heated beds can greatly enhance their quality of life.”

There are many options available, but here are our top picks:

PetMate’s ASPEN Pet Self-Warning Rectangular Lounger; $29.99 – $69.99

1. PetMate’s ASPEN Pet Self-Warning Rectangular Lounger: This bed doesn’t require electricity. Made with soft and plush materials, it features a special heat-reflecting technology used in space blankets to radiate the pet’s own body heat to retain warmth. Comes in the color barn red and cream in sizes small, medium and large. $29.99 – $69.99; petmate.com

K&H Thermo-Snuggly Sleeper Heated Dog Bed; $142.99-$169.99

2. K&H Thermo-Snuggly Sleeper Heated Dog Bed: This bed warms to a dog’s normal body temperature only when the animal is in the bed. It is made of soft and plush materials and has a removable cover and pillow for easy cleaning. Comes in colors gray or sage/tan and in medium and large sizes. $142.99-$169.99; khpet.com

The Pet Life Dream Smart Electronic Heating and Cooling Smart Dog Bed; $94.99-$113.99

3. The Pet Life Dream Smart Electronic Heating and Cooling Smart Dog Bed: This high-tech solution for keeping your dog comfortable year-round features a heating unit to warm the bed and a fan to cool it. It also has a machine-washable removable fleece cover. Comes in colors gray, navy, burgundy red and mocha brown, plus sizes medium and large. $94.99-$113.99; shop.petlife.com

What to look for in a heated dog bed

Not just any heated dog bed will do. Shop for the best one with the following criteria in mind.

Safety – Pick a bed with a shut-off feature so it doesn’t overheat and cause a fire. Also, an adjustable thermostat prevents burns and a chew-resistant cord prevents electrical shock.

Size and Shape – A bed that’s too small won’t be comfortable, while one that’s too big won’t provide enough warmth. Measure your dog to ensure you get the right size.

Durability – This is especially important for pups who love to chew everything in sight. Look for a bed with a removable and machine-washable cover for quick clean-up of accidents.

A heated dog bed can be a great solution to keep your dog warm and cozy. Prioritize safety, size and durability when picking the right one for your pup, and I am sure your dog will have “sweet puppy dreams” in his new warm bed.

Whether your dog simply had a battery in his mouth or fully ingested it, Dr. Anna Robinson, a small animal veterinarian in Texas, says to take swift action. The first thing to do is to flush the dog’s mouth out with tepid water, then call your veterinarian.

“Depending on the age and type of the battery ingested, there isn’t really any first aid you can do, unless your dog immediately vomits up the battery whole and unchewed,” says Dr. Robinson.

Symptoms after dog ate battery

“Batteries contain a variety of toxic metals which can generate local electrical currents causing cell damage in the body,” explains Dr. Robinson. “They have an ‘acid’ that is caustic and burns cells it encounters.”

If your dog ate a battery, it is an emergency. Don’t try to induce vomiting. Instead, contact your vet immediately. Here are some other common symptoms:

“It is important to note that unlike other poisonings, inducing vomiting to attempt to remove batteries can make these effects worse,” she warns. “Veterinarians have also found that activated charcoal is not sufficient to bind out the toxins, which would otherwise be the go-to option.”

What to expect at the veterinarian

Your veterinarian will ask you to call a poison control line, which will assign you a case number and assist the veterinarian (either your regular vet or emergency vet).

The poison control line will ask:

1. For a credit or debit card number up front.
2. Who you are and whether you are a legal owner of the pet you are calling about.
3. For your pet’s signalment (breed, age, sex and if spayed/neutered or not).
4. If you’re in route to a facility.
5. What the pet’s current symptoms are. They may direct you to symptom specific first aid based on your response.
6. The number, brand and age of batteries ingested.

Finally, the representative will give you a case number and contact information for your veterinarian to use.

Treatment plan

Expect your pet to stay with the veterinarian for the healing process, especially if the battery is lodged in the esophagus in either the throat area, around the heart or diaphragm.

“This instance will warrant endoscopic removal requiring a small camera to go through your pet so the battery can be cleanly and effectively removed,” says Dr. Robinson. “Regardless of the individual veterinarian’s skill and equipment, if the battery is deep enough, surgical removal may be attempted but this is very uncommon for esophageal foreign bodies.”

Because batteries can leak chemicals, if it reaches the lower gastrointestinal tract, surgical removal is typically recommended if any portion of a battery is seen on radiography.

Your dog may require in-hospital chelation therapy for heavy metal exposure, regardless of battery location and symptoms. Other services include pain management, gastrointestinal protectants and digital imaging monitoring for symptomatic patients or for dogs who chewed batteries as symptoms can get worse before they get better.