Category: Pets

As pet owners, we want to ensure our dogs maintain healthy teeth and gums, but sometimes brushing alone isn’t enough. According to veterinarian Doc Halligan, “While nothing can replace regular brushing every other day, dental sprays and additives can be a helpful supplement, especially for dogs that are difficult to brush.”

There are a lot of choices when it comes to dog mouthwashes and rinses, but not all products are created equal.  Paw through these five picks for best dog mouth wash that we found were safe, effective, easy to use and appetizing to the dog.

Oxyfresh Premium Pet Dental Spray is a unique unflavored, alcohol-free solution for a dog’s bad breath. Its patented blend of Oxygene and zinc neutralizes organic compounds that cause bad breath. $14.95/8 oz.; oxyfresh.com

TropiClean Fresh Breath Advanced Whitening Dental Health Solution is a water additive that promotes daily plaque and tartar defense while brightening your dog’s teeth. $14.99/16-oz.; tropiclean.com

Warren London Dog Dental Spray & Water Additive fights plaque, tartar, bad breath and gum disease with plant-based peppermint extract and cinnamon. It can be added to the dog’s water bowl or applied directly to their gums. $13.99/8 oz.; warrenlondon.com

Zymox Oratene Enzymatic Brushless Oral Care Dog & Cat Dental Water Additive freshens breath, kills germs, and removes plaque without any brushing required. $25.79/8-oz.; zymox.com

Vet’s Best Breath Freshener Dog Dental Water Additive is a vet-formulated solution that helps fight plaque and tartar with natural ingredients like grape seed extract, thyme oil and neem oil to reduce buildup. $16.57/16 oz.; vetsbest.com

How to choose a dog mouth wash

Let’s talk about what makes a great doggy dental rinse. Hint: If you’ve ever tried to use one, taste is a big factor as it’s not going to do your pup any good if he turns up his nose to the mouth wash. We like to look for these four criteria when shopping for dog mouth wash.

Safe – The product should be specifically formulated for dogs, as human products may contain harmful ingredients.

Effective – Look for products that reduce plaque and tartar buildup, freshen breath and promote healthy gums. Ingredients like chlorhexidine and enzymes can work wonders in combating bacteria.

Appetizing – Dogs can be picky, so choose a mouthwash or dental rinse with natural flavors that appeal to them, like chicken, beef or peanut butter.

Easy to Use – Look for products that are easy to administer so it is less stressful for both you and your dog.

Keeping your dog’s teeth and gums healthy is super important for their overall well-being. Whether you use a dental spray, water additive, or brush their teeth regularly, feel good knowing that taking care of their dental health can lead to a happier and healthier pup!

Want to read more on dog dental issues? Check out 9 Top Doggie Dental Issues.

Appropriately nicknamed the King of Terriers, the Airedale Terrier conveys this by being remarkably adaptable, talented and a confident breed. Renowned for his independent problem solving, cleverness and hard-working nature, the Airedale yet finds time for fun, and even silliness. The breed is known for both his dedication to a job and to his family. This breed works best with active families that have plenty of time, energy and patience. The Airedale was among the top 10 most popular breeds in America in the early 20^th century and came in at No. 65 in the 2022 AKC popularity ranking.

Airedale Terrier size

He’s the largest terrier, weighing in around 55 pounds or so. Males are 55 to 60 pounds or so with females Airedale Terriers being somewhat smaller. Larger Airedales are sometimes called Oorangs, the name of an Ohio kennel in the early 1900s that developed this variation.

Airedale Terrier temperament

A no-nonsense home guard, Airedales are characteristically watchful, yet not overly reactive. If company is greeted by the family, most Airedales likewise accept the guests. When it comes to canine company, Airedales aren’t typically enthused with visitors. They may be aloof and watchful or altogether annoyed and unfriendly with new dogs. While exposure to many animals and obedience training help the Airedale learn manners, even a well-socialized Airedale usually turns his nose up at the dog-park environment.

Since the Airedale has a strong chasing instinct, owners must supervise him around cats. And with the Airedale’s Terrier tendencies (code for rodent chasing!), he’s not the best match for the family’s rabbits, hamsters or guinea pigs.

The Airedale has a deeply held sense of family responsibility. Although certainly friendly with children, Airedale puppies may be a bit rambunctious, chaotic and exuberant around very small children. They show their affection with wild play, jumping or play biting. And they aren’t exactly quick to mature either. Although always high-energy, an Airedale calms down and starts to show reserve once he’s perhaps 3 years old.

While well-exercised Airedales possibly can live in apartments, preferably this action-focused breed has a fenced yard. Owners with limited time to exercise an Airedale might want to consider another breed: A dog bred to Do It All won’t likely sit around all day. Bred to work and work hard, Airedales have both the physical strength and mental versatility for about any dog sport: tracking, barn hunts, obedience, protection sports, agility and rally — to name but a few.

Although quick to learn, Airedales have independent natures. After all, they were taught to work under self-direction rather than side by side with man, waiting for each and every command. Because of their independence, many can’t be trusted off leash: their drive to chase is too pronounced. The Airedale’s curiosity, perseverance and resolve lead to success, but occasionally to mischief.

While they can excel in obedience, Airedales can also be hardheaded and inconsistent during routine exercises. Trainers must be creative, exciting and hold fast to their own sense of humor when the Airedale goes off in the weeds after prey. Many Airedales consider their owner’s obedience commands as requests. Some days they will concur, and other days they’ll disagree.

Airedale Terrier shedding and grooming

The Airedale is a light shedding breed. No breed is truly “hypoallergenic,” but the lower shedding breeds may match up better with families with allergies. Double-coated, the adult Airedale has a wiry topcoat and a soft undercoat that needs regular brushing and either trimmed or hand-stripped regularly.

Airedale pups are born almost black with small tan markings. Over time the tan areas get larger until the black coat is more of a saddle, only on the dog’s sides, upper back, up the neck, etc.

The texture of the pup’s coat changes as well. The Airedale pup’s coat will change from a soft fluffy coat to the trademark wiry coat. Grooming a full-grown Airedale includes brushing several times a week to remove dead hair and a haircut or stripping about four times per year. Most owners choose a professional groomer for trimming, or for the even trickier task of hand stripping (removing individual hairs). Families who plan to show their Airedale will likely ask a professional groomer to strip the dog’s coat. Stripping the coat best maintains the natural texture and colors.

Owners interested in grooming their Airedales at home need special tools, and ideally grooming instruction from professionals. Equipment for the home groomer would include blades, clippers, disinfectants, scissors, combs, brushes and a stripping knife.

Airedale Terrier health

This breed can live from 11 to 13 years. Be on the watch for hip dysplasia. Also note that because the Airedale has a stoical side, illnesses may go unnoticed until severe. His high pain threshold can make the timely recognition of injury after an accident difficult.

History of the Airedale Terrier

Originating in England’s Valley of Aire, Airedales appear to be crosses of Broken Coated Olde English Black and Tan Terriers, Otterhounds and possibly other breeds. The Otterhound scent skills, water-resistant coat, and swimming ability complemented the Terrier’s fearlessness, agility and tenacity genes.

Early Airedales were exceptionally versatile, all-around workers: They guarded the homes, hunted small game, kept track of livestock, and killed water rats and otters. Hunters (along with the occasional poacher) used Airedales to help find and retrieve birds. In contrast to some of the sporting breeds developed to hunt with English nobility, Airedales were developed by commoners for their own use. The regular folks didn’t have the resources for multiple dogs; they couldn’t afford a small Terrier for ratting plus a powerful dog for hunting bigger predators such as martens, foxes, badgers and otters.

So, the Airedale was developed to “do it all.” And he did! The breed combines the requisite adaptability, stamina, fortitude and hardiness. Yet notwithstanding his toughness, early Airedales needed to show an even temper with the family, including the children. After all, they were also a companion dog to the household.

Earlier names for the Airedale Terrier were Waterside Terrier, Bingley Terrier and Broken-Haired Terrier.

Airedale Terriers in the military

The Airedale was among the first British dogs trained for police and military work. In the early 20^th century, Lt. Col. Edwin Richardson trained Airedales for military tasks, such as looking for the wounded and carrying messages in tins. Lt. Col. Richardson established the first British War Dogs training school at Shoeburyness, Essex. WWI was the first war Britain made distinct use of dogs: Airedales (and other breeds) served as sentries that guarded trenches and as messengers. They also carried first-aid and supplies for soldiers at the front.

In World War I as well as World War II, the multitalented and resilient Airedale was celebrated for his trustworthiness and dedicated work. Airedales were single-minded in a task; few would leave a job half done. When given a task they completed it, even when wounded.

Airedale Terrier AKC Group

Historically, terrier breeds were developed to hunt and kill vermin, badgers, foxes and other animals that go to ground. They’re celebrated for drive, fortitude, independence and plenty of courage. The Airedale Terrier today remains classified in the American Kennel Club’s Terrier Group. If you look through the AKC groups, you’ll find that some of the breeds with terrier in their names fall outside of the Terrier Group. For example, the Yorkshire Terrier is in the Toy Group, the Boston Terrier is in the Non-sporting Group and the Black Russian Terrier is in the Working Group. But the King of Terriers, the Airedale, remains a terrier both in classification and perhaps even more so, in personality.

Everywhere you look things have gone to the dogs! Earning a living as a dog trainer is fun and doable. Although the dog training industry remains unregulated, certification helps you stand out from your competition and offers many other benefits for networking, marketing and continuing education.

While you’re considering certification, or working on completing it, here are the basic steps to become a dog trainer:

• Become versed in canine body language and emotions
• Shadow other dog trainers to get hands-on experience
• Find a qualified mentor. Look local for someone to show you the ropes in person. Focus on training facilities that use rewards-based methods. Avoid trainers who use language about “dominance,” “pack leadership,” offer “balanced training,” and advise “using corrections” to train dogs. Steer clear of those who use shock/e-collars. Try the directories on PPG’s Zip Code Search or CCPDT’s websites for both local and online options. Read the bios and reach out! Most trainers are happy to help newcomers to the profession.
• Volunteer for a rescue or shelter for more interaction with all dog breeds, sizes and personalities.
• Gather training supplies. For a start, here’s our list of the top 10 essential dog training supplies.
• Practice with your own dog, following our top training tips for beginners
• With permission, work with friends and family members’ dogs
• Read. Read. Get your paws on relevant dog-training related articles, books and studies. But, be picky. Read books whose authors have credentials and the books and materials have citations and credible sources. Get started at PPG and APDT.
• Look for local or online courses. Check out the aforementioned professional organizations’ and schools’ websites for online courses and webinars. Start with what piques your interest and branch out. There are a lot of affordable online conferences. Here are some to get you started.
• Narrow your focus on the types of training you’d like to do. Some types of training to consider are: basic manners, behavioral issues (i.e. aggression, over reactivity, phobias/compulsions, separation anxiety), trick training, sport training (i.e. agility, nose work, treibball, flyball, conformation) or working with certain breeds.

Rewards-based training is what modern dog training is about and the future of the profession. Be choosy about your study and mentor resources and select evidence-based practices.

How to start a dog training business

Once you’re educated and experienced, it’s time to zero in on the prize: your own business.

Before taking on your first client, get organized:

• Decide what type of training (listed above) your business will focus on. Some examples are basic manners, working with certain breeds or dogs with certain behavior issues. Finding a niche will make you a stand out and help develop and hone your skills
• Will you be hands-on, virtual or both?
• Choose a name for your business
• Research and choose a legal business structure and complete necessary paperwork
• Get liability insurance
• Start petworking! Market and promote your services: Visit local veterinarians and other pet-related business, set up booths at local events/festivals and promote yourself on social media.

Spending your days with dogs can be a blast, but can also be exhausting, so take care of yourself too. Make time for downtime so you’re refreshed and can put your best paw forward for your clients. The bonus? Since the pet care industry is expected to top $275 billion by 2030,  a dog training career can be both lucrative and rewarding.

The simple answer is yes! Many dogs enjoy green beans as treats, snacks or meal toppers. In addition, green beans are affordable and low calorie. At 31 calories per cup, they are an ideal treat for pups on a diet.

Nutritional components of green beans include:

• Fiber
• Healthy carbohydrate
• Antioxidants
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin K
• Vitamin A
• Calcium
• Potassium
• Vitamin B6
• Essential fatty acids

How to feed green beans to your dog.

There are a few guidelines to follow when feeding your dog green beans.

Serve your dog plain green beans. Never cook green beans for your dog with additional ingredients, such as salt, butter, fats or sugar. Avoid canned green beans as well, since they often contain high salt content.

The best ways to offer your dog green beans include:

• Cooked (boiled or steamed with no added salt)
• Dehydrated
• Fresh/uncooked
• Frozen
• Always plain with no added ingredients

How many green beans can my dog eat?

Start by introducing small portions to your dog at a time and monitor how her GI tract responds.  

• Small dogs (>20lbs): 1-to-2 green beans daily
• Medium dogs (20lbs-50lbs): 2-to-3 green beans daily
• Large dogs: (<50lbs): 3-to-4 green beans daily

Remember: These tasty treats are not a substitute for a balanced diet and should not exceed more than 10% of your pup’s daily dietary intake.

If you have any worries with how your pup may respond to green beans or if she has a sensitive stomach, consult with your veterinarian before adding this tasty treat into their diet. Bone-appetit!

Read our article on other safe vegetables and fruits for your dog.

A puppy cut is a dog’s haircut that is one, consistent, typically short length all over the dog’s body.

While the dog’s parents and the groomer determine the actual length of hair for their dog, depending on activity levels and outside temperatures, hair length typically ranges from a shave to several inches of hair.

The history of the puppy cut

The term puppy cut comes from the dog show world to describe how to care for and maintain a Poodle puppy’s coat to prepare her for competing in dog shows.

Anyone who has seen a striking Standard Poodle in a dog show can guess that much work goes into developing and nurturing the coat.

Maintaining a Poodle puppy’s coat during her first year is essential because it determines what kind of coat she will end up with — this can make or break her career in the show ring.

Now, the term puppy cut is used universally as a general description of a low-maintenance, simple, single-length cut.

Are puppy cuts just for puppies?

No! Any dog can get a puppy cut style; it simply refers to a consistent, shorter haircut. This versatile cut can be adjusted to your dog’s age and activity level.

A longer version of this grooming style in the cold winter months can keep an older, less active dog cozy, while a shorter version of the puppy cut in the warmer summer months gives a young, energetic pup the freedom to enjoy his lake or pool swims without ruining his ‘do!

Should my dog get a puppy cut?

It depends on your dog’s fur. The puppy clip is unsuitable for dog breeds who are double coated and shed, which makes a smooth, single length cut difficult to maintain. These dogs also typically have furnishings, or longer hair around the back legs and rear, under the stomach and chest and behind the front legs.

When a dog breed with furnishings is trimmed down to all one length, she doesn’t look like her breed anymore!

Dog breeds who should steer clear from puppy cuts include:

A few dog breeds who are conducive to the puppy cut style are:

Puppy cut grooming maintenance

To keep the puppy cut hairdo clean, mat-free and trimmed to the universal length, take her to the groomer every six to eight weeks.

Depending on your dog’s length of hair, earlier than six weeks or later than eight weeks may be appropriate. Your dog groomer can help determine the appropriate time frame between cuts.

When should my puppy get a first groom?

Veterinary and humane society professionals recommend puppies are 12-to-14 weeks old before they get their first grooming.

Before this age, a puppy is not fully up-to-date on first vaccinations and risks exposure to viruses and ailments an adult dog can quickly shake off.

Even though the definition of a puppy cut can vary by length, what really matters is how cute your dog looks!

For more grooming tips, read our article on choosing the best dog brush based on coat type.

There are many variations of canine tumors and not all are created equal. Some tumors are less problematic for dogs, while others risk spreading throughout the body. Understanding common types of tumors, how they present and are treated, and symptoms to watch for, is essential in early treatment and intervention.

Two main types of dog tumors

Tumors are characterized as either benign or malignant:

Benign tumors are noncancerous tumors that will not spread throughout the body.

Malignant tumors are cancerous and have the ability to spread cancer throughout your dog’s body. Early intervention is a key component to treatment and recovery.

Common tumors in dogs include:

• Benign, fatty tumors that tend to be soft and mobile (not attached to your dog’s body wall) and range in size.
• Mast cell tumor (MCT). Malignant tumors that often look like warts or bug bites and can change in size. MCTs are most commonly seen in Boxers, Boston Terriers, Bull Terriers, and Pugs.
• Wart-like, viral tumors that typically appear in or around a dog’s mouth. Papillomas are benign but contagious between dogs and are typically characterized as whitish masses with cauliflower texture.
• A fast growing, benign tumor typically found in young dogs. These tumors are known for infection and ulceration, however tend to resolve on their own with time.
• A highly malignant tumor stemming from blood vessels. This tumor often affects the liver, skin and spleen and commonly impacts senior pups.
• Malignant tumor of the bones, osteosarcoma causes significant pain, often affecting a forelimb.
• Malignant tumors often found in the oral cavity of dogs and can be very aggressive. There is now a melanoma vaccine available to dogs diagnosed with this tumor!
• Sebaceous gland tumor. Raised nodules that originate from sebaceous glands. In rare cases, sebaceous cysts become malignant. Remember that no tumor should go unmonitored or forgotten!

Symptoms

Dog tumor symptoms will vary greatly depending on many factors and may include:

• Visualizing a lump or bump
• Limping
• Pain
• Low appetite
• Difficulty eating
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Coughing
• Weight loss

If your dog shows any of these symptoms, visit your veterinarian.

Diagnosis

The most common ways to diagnose dog tumors include:

• Fine needle aspirate (FNA). A fine needle aspirate (FNA) involves collecting samples of cells from your dog’s tumor using a needle and syringe and viewing these cells microscopically.
• A biopsy involves collecting and submitting a small amount of the tumor for pathology review. A biopsy reveals detailed information about the tumor and can help to stage malignant tumors.

Your veterinarian may recommend additional testing such as radiographs, abdominal ultrasound or a lymph node biopsy.

Treatment

Treating malignant tumors may include:

• Surgical removal
• Radiation
• Chemotherapy
• Palliative or hospice care

Treating benign tumors may include:

• Surgical removal
• Managing infection
• Lifelong monitoring

Early detection at home

Benign tumors should remain closely monitored by you and your veterinary team. If changes occur in size, shape or consistency, have them reassessed. Regular exams by your veterinarian are key in finding tumors less visible to the naked eye.

Early detection of malignant tumors often happens at home. Regularly massaging your dog can help you keep tabs on current and new tumors. Monitor changes in your dog’s everyday behavior and listen to your gut. You are your dog’s biggest medical advocate!

How are all our furriest friends spending their summers? They’re making splashes in the pool, chomping down on yogurt-berry pupsicles, and showing off their most festive 4th of July outfits! Thank you to all our readers for sharing your pups’ photos with us.  We’re showing them off on our Dogster social media pages – check out our #dogsterdogs in action! This summer, I’m working with my pups on their comfort levels near the water. We’re making progress! Emmy and I are graduating this weekend from the pool and are going on a little paddle boarding adventure to the lake by our house. Emmy has always hated getting wet, so she’s come a long way.

Something to think about this month: How will you keep your dogs calm during 4th of July fireworks? Many dogs get anxious and fearful of the loud, unpredictable noises. Here are some tips on calming your dog, which will make your celebration a happier one, too. Wishing all our puppy pals a happy 4th of July!

Planning to attend any dog events near you? Send us pictures of your pup to be featured on our social media pages.

Or email us at dogstermag@belvoir.com.

July 2023 monthly dog holidays

Lost Pet Prevention month

National Pet Hydration Awareness month

July 2023 dog holidays

July 1: ID Your Pet day

July 4: International Whippet day

July 11: All American Pet Photo day

July 15: National Pet Fire Safety day

July 21: World Collie day

July 21: National Craft for Your Local Shelters day

July 31: National Mutt day

July 2023 dog events

 July 8, 2023: If you’re in the Los Angeles area, head to Pawlympics from 4 to 7 p.m. at South Park Doggie – Doggieland for a series of competitive games and activities for dogs.

July 9, 2023: The11^th annual PAWmicon, a Pop-culture themed festival held by Helen Woodward Animal Center to celebrate the superheroes of real life who adopt orphan animals. PAWmicon, located at AleSmith Brewing Company in San Diego, Calif., will feature events, such as the PAWsplay contest for contestants to dress themselves and their pooches up as their favorite pop culture characters. There’s also a trivia competition, music, animal artists, games for the kids and craft beer.

July 12, 2023: Marin Humane is hosting its next drop-in community clinic for pet parents in need at Pell Plaza in Novato. Bring your pet to the mobile clinic at 500 Redwood Blvd., from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. to get: free vaccinations (DA2PP, FVRCP, rabies), free microchipping, free flea/tick treatment, free mini-check-up by a veterinarian and pet food and supplies!

July 14-16, 2023: Del Monte Kennel Club Dog Show. Held at 4380 Carmel Valley Rd, Carmel-By-The-Sea, Calif., 93923. All breed entry for Conformation, Obedience and Rally.

July 14-18, 2023: One of the largest American Veterinary Association events of the year, the AVMA Convention 2023 will be held in Denver, Colo. for veterinary professionals to experience 600 hours of high-quality CE, highly rated special events, innovative solutions and networking opportunities.

July 19-23, 2023: Houston World Series of Dog Shows. Throughout the five-day event, the show offers an extensive shopping venue, numerous seminars, entertainment exhibitions and obedience/companion events. During the  Meet the Breeds event, the public can get hands-on experience with more than 110 purebred dog breeds and discuss care, personality traits and temperaments with breed experts.

July 19-21, 2023:  The Association of Service Dog Providers for Military Veterans Partner Members invite all to attend the annual  National Service Dogs for Veterans Conference in Washington, D.C. The annual conference consists of two full days of  formatting for administrative, veterans, mental health and dog training tracks and a half day roundtable training session. Tickets include breakfast for all three days,  lunch for two days and an opening night reception.

July 22 – 23, 2023: Join more than 50 of the top pet influencers from all over the US and Canada, such as Crusoe the Dachshund, Tika the Iggy, and Jonathan Graziano  for PetCon 2023, held in Chicago. There will be meet and greets, a pet adoption garden, a shoppable marketplace featuring small businesses, speaker sessions, a non-profit showcase and lots of fun activities!

Want to see what dog holidays are coming up in 2023? Check out Dogster’s dog holiday list.

 

Yvonne Villasenor

Yvonne Villasenor is a freelance journalist and lifelong animal lover based in Orange County, California. Her work has been featured in The Los Angeles Times, Daily Paws, This Dog’s Life, among others. When not writing, Yvonne enjoys lounging with her precious pets, exploring Southern California and watching funny animal videos. You can contact her via her website and Instagram.

If you’re looking for an impressive dog trick, don’t forget about the classic bow. This trick puts the natural dog play bow behavior on cue so you can ask your dog to bow anytime, anywhere. This playful position — elbows down on the ground, bottom in the air — is also a great stretch for your dog’s core and back. You don’t need a lot of space or supplies to get started.

To teach your dog to bow, you need:

• lots of small pieces of treats that your dog is excited about.
• If clicker training, use a clicker to mark when your dog is in the right position.
• Or, say “yes” as a verbal marker when your dog is in the right position.

Sassafras Lowrey, CPDT-KA, shows us how teaching your dog to bow is an easy trick for most dogs to learn. ©Sassafras Lowrey

How to teach a dog to bow:

Step 1: Start in a quiet area of your home with minimal distractions. With your dog standing in front of you, get her attention with a treat.

Step 2: When you have your dog’s attention, use that treat to lure her head down toward the floor. As her head goes down and back, she will naturally lower the front of her body.

Step 3: When your dog’s elbows touch the floor and her back legs go up, click if you’re clicker training, or use a verbal marker like “yes,” and then quickly treat your dog.

Dogster trainer tip: If you find your dog is dropping into a down position instead of staying in a bow, you can toss a treat instead. This will help cue that we want the bow position, not a down.

Step 4: Repeat several times, continuing to lure your dog into the bow position and praising and treating your dog when her elbows touch the ground, and her bottom goes up. When your dog is consistently following the lure, add in a verbal cue of your choice like “bow” or “fancy.” Say your cue word as your dog’s elbows go down, and her bottom goes up.

Step 5: Fade out the treat lure. Start by luring your dog into the bow position with an empty hand. Then, praise and treat your dog when she goes into the position.

Step 6: After several repetitions of luring with an empty hand, start to phase out the full lure. Use your verbal cue with a smaller hand signal. Start to add duration where your dog is holding the bow position longer before you click, treat and release your dog.

Step 7: Once your dog is smoothly performing the bow behavior on cue, continue to phase out the lure, so you eventually have only a verbal cue or a small physical cue. Then, practice doing the trick in different positions like bowing or curtsying yourself! Also start practicing bow in new and more distracting environments.

To take your dog’s temperature, use an assistant to gently restrain and keep your dog still and distracted. Apply a small amount of lube, such as petroleum jelly, to the tip of a digital rectal thermometer. Insert the thermometer approximately one inch into the dog’s rectum until you hear a beeping sound to indicate the temperature has been read. Once done, gently remove the thermometer and disinfect it.

What is a normal temperature for a dog?

A normal temperature for a dog is between 99.5 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures outside of this range could indicate an underlying health issue that should be addressed by a veterinarian.

Can I take my dog’s temperature with a human thermometer?

Digital rectal thermometers designed specifically for pets are recommended because they are fast and accurate. However, if a pet thermometer is unavailable, a human oral thermometer can be used in the same way as previously described. Ear thermometers may also be used but they tend to be less accurate for dogs. Since a dog’s temperature naturally runs higher than a person’s temperature, human thermometers may also display a fever warning when there is not actually one present.

When should I check my dog’s temperature?

Check your dog’s temperature for the following reasons:

• to rule out a fever if he feels warm
• if you suspect he is sick.
• If your dog has spent an extended period of time outdoors in hot weather, you may consider checking a temperature if the dog begins showing signs of heat stroke.

Read our article about how to cool a dog down in the summer.

What to avoid

If a dog starts squirming or clenching when you try to take his temperature, do not proceed. Trying to take the temperature of an uncooperative dog can cause unnecessary stress, which may lead to aggression. If in doubt, consult a veterinarian prior to taking your dog’s temperature to ensure it is necessary for the situation.