Category: Pets

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Wonderdog: The Science of Dogs and Their Unique Friendships with Humans

Wildlife expert, zoology correspondent and science writer Jules Howard presents this celebration of dogs and the scientists who have lived alongside them. Our relationship with dogs has considerably evolved, and this book takes a look at the historical paths we’ve walked together and how psychologists and animal behaviorists have built upon the study of dogs with important results. With the help of veterinarians, ethologists, neurologists, historians and the author’s own dogs, this book reveals the study of dogs to be key in the advancement of compassion in scientific research — and crucial to making life on Earth better for all species.

$27.95; Pegasus Books

Faithful Friends: Norman Rockwell and His Dogs

Since the beginning of his career, dogs were integral to Norman Rockwell’s art, often conveying the emotion of a scene (like the family dog bounding forward to greet a soldier returning from war). He sometimes used his own dogs as models: Raleigh the German Shepherd, Butch the Springer Spaniel and Pitter the Beagle mix. Written by Margaret Rockwell (the artist’s granddaughter by marriage), this book reproduces 50 of Rockwell’s best paintings with canine characters, along with his drawings and reference photos of dogs, and rarely seen Rockwell family photos. The text takes us inside Rockwell’s home and studio, illuminating his life with dogs.

$17.95; Abbeville Press

Sit, Stay, Heal: What Dogs Can Teach Us About Living Well

For more than two decades, esteemed veterinary oncologist Dr. Renee Alsarraf has treated cancer in canine patients. But when she was diagnosed with cancer herself, the disease she dedicated her professional life to fighting left her afraid and unsure. But in receiving her diagnosis, she realized that the empathy she had for animals went both ways. Those furry, four-legged friends seemed to understand her own difficult journey and showed her the true power of unconditional love and positivity. The book is an unforgettable and moving testament to both the healing nature of dogs and the resilience of the human spirit.

$27.99; HarperOne

Forever Home: The Inspiring Tales of Rescue Dogs

Sometimes a dog’s journey to his forever home isn’t a simple, straight line. Behind every dog featured in this touching photo series by photographer Traer Scott is a heartwarming tale of resilience and love. Scott, a Rhode Island-based photographer, whose earlier books include Finding Home and Shelter Dogs, chronicles their journeys to their forever homes with full-color, close-up portraits, along with their adoption stories. Whether you’re a new puppy parent or simply an animal lover, this celebration of pet rescue and adoption in all its forms is the ideal tribute to our canine friends.

$19.95; Princeton Architectural Press

Second Chance Beer Company’s main motto is “Seize a Pint, Save a Pup.” That’s because this small, independent craft brewery in San Diego, California, is dedicated to helping rescue dogs.

The brewery was co-created in 2015 by CEO Virginia Morrison and her husband, master brewer Marty Mendiola. Animal welfare is a big element of the company and something that the two are very passionate about.

“When we talked about opening our own brewery, we knew giving back would be a large part of our ethos,” Virginia says.

One percent of the sales from their beers New Day and Buddy (each featuring dogs on the beer can) goes toward Second Chance Dog Rescue and The Animal Pad in San Diego, as well as Follow Your Heart in Gilbert, Arizona. Since the brewery’s beginnings, more than $257,000 has gone to the dog rescues.

The ultimate dog-friendly brewery

To say that Second Chance Beer Company is dog-friendly is an understatement. Virginia and Marty bring their dog, Citra, to work every day. Two dogs the couple fostered, Chinook and Chuck, have found their forever homes with brewery employees, and they come to work every day as well. Other dog-owning employees also bring their canine buddies to work, and patrons are encouraged to bring their pups to join in the fun.

Helping rescue dogs get adopted

The brewery is instrumental in helping rescue dogs find their forever homes by hosting dozens of events. A portion of sales from fundraising events like the annual Pupapalooza goes to the animal rescues they support.

For 2023, the brewery’s goal is to get 23 dogs adopted and donate at least $2,300 to each of their rescue partners.

“Beyond that, we will open more dog-welcoming tasting rooms and continue to raise awareness of the benefits of adoption,” Virginia says.

In addition to dogs, Virginia’s other passion is Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. She founded the San Diego Brewer’s Guild’s DEI committee in 2019 and is currently the national Brewers Association’s DEI Committee Chairperson.

As Second Chance’s website says, it’s “a community where beer brings people, and their pups, together. More than just a brewery — we embrace diversity, value innovation and give back without compromise.” 

To learn more about Second Chance Beer Company, visit www.secondchancebeer, or follow the brewery on Instagram @secondchancebeer and Facebook @secondchancebeercompany.

If you love to cook with a charcoal grill, use charcoal for composting or have charcoal around for its many other uses, your dog may want to investigate this flammable, black substance at some point. We pet parents always want to include our dogs in family events, like barbecues, but sometimes we get distracted and don’t keep an eye on our furry friends. That can be very dangerous for your canine pal.

This is why we should keep hazardous items away from dogs, especially when those items are used around food that may entice your pup to put something in his mouth that he shouldn’t. But what if your dog does manage to eat some charcoal? What should you do?

Here are a few facts about dogs and charcoal that every pet parent should know.

Is charcoal toxic to dogs?

First of all, charcoal itself is not toxic to dogs, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe either. Dr. Lauren Pastewka, Chief Veterinary Officer of Pet Paradise, advises, “Charcoal containing lighter fluid or other fire accelerants can be toxic and potentially fatal if consumed due to the petroleum products used.”

Also, coals that are still hot from use can cause further injuries to dogs. Dr. Pastewka says, “Hot charcoal can cause burns to a dog’s mouth and tongue, which are extremely painful and can lead to secondary wound infection. Additionally, the burns can cause the tongue and throat to swell leading to difficulty breathing.”

So, the danger your dog faces from eating charcoal depends a lot on the type of charcoal used, the amount and whether it’s still hot. That said, you should still give your vet a call if your dog has eaten any charcoal, just to be safe. Dr. Pastewka says, “If you suspect your pet has consumed charcoal, determine which type of charcoal was present, monitor your pet closely for signs of illness, and contact your veterinarian immediately.”

Is activated charcoal safe for dogs

With all the dangers dogs face from eating charcoal, you may be wondering about a substance that can appear in certain dog treats known as “activated charcoal.” This is especially common in doggy dental treats, but vets may also use it to treat dogs when they’ve ingested something toxic.

Dr. Pastewka notes that activated charcoal differs from regular charcoal “in that it is purified further, resulting in a more porous material with a significantly higher surface area.” Activated charcoal “binds to toxins via a process called adsorption, which allows them to pass through the body without absorption into the bloodstream,” and that can be particularly useful in ridding a dog’s body of toxic substances.

Activated charcoal should not pose a danger to pets if it is consumed in safe, vet-approved amounts. Always follow guidelines when it comes to treats that contain the substance, and never administer activated charcoal to your dog without your vet’s guidance. If you see signs of stomach upset, vomiting or diarrhea, stop giving your dog activated charcoal immediately.

Side effects for dogs who eat charcoal

The symptoms your dog can experience after eating charcoal can vary depending on which type they’ve eaten and the amount.

Symptoms may include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Upset stomach
• Mouth and throat sores or burns
• Skin irritation
• Weakness
• Head tremors
• Gastrointestinal obstruction

Dr. Pastewka notes, “Regular charcoal is indigestible and may cause irritation as it passes through the gastrointestinal tract. Larger pieces have the potential to cause intestinal obstruction that would require surgery to remove.”

What should you do if your dog ate charcoal?

If your dog ate charcoal, contact your veterinarian. This is absolutely necessary if your dog ate any charcoal with fire accelerants or if they ate a large amount of charcoal. Your dog will need urgent care in these cases.

Information to tell your veterinarian:

• What symptoms, if any, your dog is showing
• What type of charcoal your dog ate
• How much charcoal your dog ate
• How big the pieces of charcoal may have been
• Whether the charcoal was still hot when your dog ate it

Dr. Pastewka says, “Your veterinarian will be able to offer specific guidance based on your individual pet’s history and type of charcoal involved.”

If your vet or an emergency vet isn’t available, you may want to call the ASPCA’s pet poison control hotline at (888) 426-4435. Note that you may be charged for the call.

Of course, the best way to keep your dog safe is to prevent him from coming into contact with charcoal in the first place. Always keep the substance out of your dog’s reach in the future. If you cook with charcoal, watch your dog carefully, dispose of charcoal properly, and store it away from snooping pooches.

Fetch is a fun game for dogs and people to play together. What is fetch? Fetch is an activity where the human throws an object, such as a dog ball or toy, and the dog retrieves it. Some dogs seem to be born to fetch, and often seek out playing fetch with their owners. But fetch doesn’t come naturally to all dogs. However, all dogs can learn to fetch and enjoy the game.

Supplies needed to teach your dog to fetch: 

• Toy or ball that your dog likes
• Clicker if you are clicker training
• Lots of training treats cut into small pieces

How to teach your dog to fetch:

Start by teaching your dog to fetch at home at a quiet time without a lot of distractions, so your dog will be able to focus on learning this new skill.

Step 1: Reward your dog for holding a toy or other object. Start with a toy or ball that your dog likes and hold it out to your dog. Click/praise and reward with a treat after any engagement with the toy, such as sniffing or nudging at the toy. Then show the toy to your dog and click/praise and reward your dog for putting his mouth on the toy. When your dog is consistently putting his mouth on the toy, add your verbal cue of your choice like “take” or “hold.” Once your dog is putting his mouth on the toy and showing engagement, you’re ready to work on fetch.

Step 2: Extend a toy out to your dog and ask your dog to hold it using the verbal cue. When your dog takes the toy, praise/click and give a treat.

Step 3: Put the toy down in front of you on the floor and ask your dog to pick up the toy. When he does, praise/click and treat. When your dog is consistently picking up the toy and bringing it to you, introduce a verbal cue of choice like “fetch” or “bring.”

Step 4: Start to move the toy further away, and then ask your dog to bring it. Go slowly with the distance you’re asking your dog to fetch; the goal is to make sure your dog is having fun and is successful instead of trying to see how far your dog can fetch. Keep the game interesting by alternating between having the toy a close distance and having it further away. Always reward your dog for bringing the toy back.

Step 5: Once your dog is consistently fetching a toy placed at various distances, start to throw the toy and use the verbal cue to ask your dog to bring it back. Practice the skill with other balls and toys, too. Build up the difficulty gradually by first tossing a toy a short distance in the house, before starting to ask your dog to fetch while outside or in other distracting situations.

Keep rewarding your dog for fetching:

Although fetch is a highly rewarding game for some dogs, it isn’t naturally rewarding for all dogs. Some dogs will develop a love of the game, while others will fetch on cue when asked, but don’t find personal enjoyment in the game. For these dogs, keep reinforcing by using a treat to reward the fetch behavior.

Teaching fetch to dogs who don’t like toys:

Teaching fetch to dogs who don’t naturally enjoy playing with toys can be more challenging, but it’s not impossible! Start teaching with a soft plush toy that has a pouch to put treats inside. The scent of the hidden treats will inspire most dogs to show interest in the toy and be willing to put the toy in his mouth. Build on that behavior to teach your dog to hold and then fetch the toy. Once your dog understands the skill you can ask your dog to fetch other balls or toys.

Products for playing fetch with your dog

Although fetch can be as simple as throwing a ball to your dog, who then chases it and brings it back to you, there are ways to make it more exciting for dog who love to fetch. These dog products can make fetch more easy for the human and fun for the dog who loves to fetch over and over again.

A Siberian Husky named Caleb is the star of a new movie called The Year of the Dog about a man struggling with sobriety and his bond with an athletic rescue dog. The movie started as an independent feature film premiering at the 2022 Chelsea Film Festival in New York and in February will be released in theaters nationwide.

What makes Caleb the rescue dog a hit on screen?

Before landing the role of Yup’ik, Caleb bounced around from shelters to fosters homes, often labeled as too playful and energetic for adoption. It was that spunk that caught the attention of first the California-based Performing Animal Troupe and then producer and actor Rob Grabow and dog trainer Jon Van Dyke, who know that those qualities often make the most memorable dogs on screen.

What dog training was involved?

Jon, who likes to work with a dog for at least six months to build trust, had about six weeks to work with Caleb, a 1-year-old puppy with hardly any training. “He could barely sit when I met him, but he was melt-your-heart cute,” says Jon.

The first few days were focused on relationship building. Jon and Caleb ate, watched movies and played together in order to establish a trusting bond. They worked on basic cues and then moved onto more specific training for scenes.

“All those things that others saw as his imperfections — his high energy, his playfulness, his stubbornness — they are precisely the things that made him able to carry so much of this film,” Rob says.

What’s in store for Caleb’s movie career?

Caleb lives with his adopted family in California and has been focusing on Petco commercials and TV. There are talks of him landing a role in another film.

Where can readers learn more about The Year of the Dog movie?

Visit theyearofthedogmovie.com or follow the movie’s cast on Instagram and Facebook @theyearofthedogmovie

Fetch is a fun game for dogs and people to play together. What is fetch? Fetch is an activity where the human throws an object, such as a dog ball or toy, and the dog retrieves it. Some dogs seem to be born to fetch, and often seek out playing fetch with their owners. But fetch doesn’t come naturally to all dogs. However, all dogs can learn to fetch and enjoy the game.

Supplies needed to teach your dog to fetch: 

• Toy or ball that your dog likes
• Clicker if you are clicker training
• Lots of training treats cut into small pieces

How to teach your dog to fetch:

Start by teaching your dog to fetch at home at a quiet time without a lot of distractions, so your dog will be able to focus on learning this new skill.

Step 1: Reward your dog for holding a toy or other object. Start with a toy or ball that your dog likes and hold it out to your dog. Click/praise and reward with a treat after any engagement with the toy, such as sniffing or nudging at the toy. Then show the toy to your dog and click/praise and reward your dog for putting his mouth on the toy. When your dog is consistently putting his mouth on the toy, add your verbal cue of your choice like “take” or “hold.” Once your dog is putting his mouth on the toy and showing engagement, you’re ready to work on fetch.

Step 2: Extend a toy out to your dog and ask your dog to hold it using the verbal cue. When your dog takes the toy, praise/click and give a treat.

Step 3: Put the toy down in front of you on the floor and ask your dog to pick up the toy. When he does, praise/click and treat. When your dog is consistently picking up the toy and bringing it to you, introduce a verbal cue of choice like “fetch” or “bring.”

Step 4: Start to move the toy further away, and then ask your dog to bring it. Go slowly with the distance you’re asking your dog to fetch; the goal is to make sure your dog is having fun and is successful instead of trying to see how far your dog can fetch. Keep the game interesting by alternating between having the toy a close distance and having it further away. Always reward your dog for bringing the toy back.

Step 5: Once your dog is consistently fetching a toy placed at various distances, start to throw the toy and use the verbal cue to ask your dog to bring it back. Practice the skill with other balls and toys, too. Build up the difficulty gradually by first tossing a toy a short distance in the house, before starting to ask your dog to fetch while outside or in other distracting situations.

Keep rewarding your dog for fetching:

Although fetch is a highly rewarding game for some dogs, it isn’t naturally rewarding for all dogs. Some dogs will develop a love of the game, while others will fetch on cue when asked, but don’t find personal enjoyment in the game. For these dogs, keep reinforcing by using a treat to reward the fetch behavior.

Teaching fetch to dogs who don’t like toys:

Teaching fetch to dogs who don’t naturally enjoy playing with toys can be more challenging, but it’s not impossible! Start teaching with a soft plush toy that has a pouch to put treats inside. The scent of the hidden treats will inspire most dogs to show interest in the toy and be willing to put the toy in his mouth. Build on that behavior to teach your dog to hold and then fetch the toy. Once your dog understands the skill you can ask your dog to fetch other balls or toys.

Products for playing fetch with your dog

Although fetch can be as simple as throwing a ball to your dog, who then chases it and brings it back to you, there are ways to make it more exciting for dog who love to fetch. These dog products can make fetch more easy for the human and fun for the dog who loves to fetch over and over again.

If you love to cook with a charcoal grill, use charcoal for composting or have charcoal around for its many other uses, your dog may want to investigate this flammable, black substance at some point. We pet parents always want to include our dogs in family events, like barbecues, but sometimes we get distracted and don’t keep an eye on our furry friends. That can be very dangerous for your canine pal.

This is why we should keep hazardous items away from dogs, especially when those items are used around food that may entice your pup to put something in his mouth that he shouldn’t. But what if your dog does manage to eat some charcoal? What should you do?

Here are a few facts about dogs and charcoal that every pet parent should know.

Is charcoal toxic to dogs?

First of all, charcoal itself is not toxic to dogs, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe either. Dr. Lauren Pastewka, Chief Veterinary Officer of Pet Paradise, advises, “Charcoal containing lighter fluid or other fire accelerants can be toxic and potentially fatal if consumed due to the petroleum products used.”

Also, coals that are still hot from use can cause further injuries to dogs. Dr. Pastewka says, “Hot charcoal can cause burns to a dog’s mouth and tongue, which are extremely painful and can lead to secondary wound infection. Additionally, the burns can cause the tongue and throat to swell leading to difficulty breathing.”

So, the danger your dog faces from eating charcoal depends a lot on the type of charcoal used, the amount and whether it’s still hot. That said, you should still give your vet a call if your dog has eaten any charcoal, just to be safe. Dr. Pastewka says, “If you suspect your pet has consumed charcoal, determine which type of charcoal was present, monitor your pet closely for signs of illness, and contact your veterinarian immediately.”

Is activated charcoal safe for dogs

With all the dangers dogs face from eating charcoal, you may be wondering about a substance that can appear in certain dog treats known as “activated charcoal.” This is especially common in doggy dental treats, but vets may also use it to treat dogs when they’ve ingested something toxic.

Dr. Pastewka notes that activated charcoal differs from regular charcoal “in that it is purified further, resulting in a more porous material with a significantly higher surface area.” Activated charcoal “binds to toxins via a process called adsorption, which allows them to pass through the body without absorption into the bloodstream,” and that can be particularly useful in ridding a dog’s body of toxic substances.

Activated charcoal should not pose a danger to pets if it is consumed in safe, vet-approved amounts. Always follow guidelines when it comes to treats that contain the substance, and never administer activated charcoal to your dog without your vet’s guidance. If you see signs of stomach upset, vomiting or diarrhea, stop giving your dog activated charcoal immediately.

Side effects for dogs who eat charcoal

The symptoms your dog can experience after eating charcoal can vary depending on which type they’ve eaten and the amount.

Symptoms may include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Upset stomach
• Mouth and throat sores or burns
• Skin irritation
• Weakness
• Head tremors
• Gastrointestinal obstruction

Dr. Pastewka notes, “Regular charcoal is indigestible and may cause irritation as it passes through the gastrointestinal tract. Larger pieces have the potential to cause intestinal obstruction that would require surgery to remove.”

What should you do if your dog ate charcoal?

If your dog ate charcoal, contact your veterinarian. This is absolutely necessary if your dog ate any charcoal with fire accelerants or if they ate a large amount of charcoal. Your dog will need urgent care in these cases.

Information to tell your veterinarian:

• What symptoms, if any, your dog is showing
• What type of charcoal your dog ate
• How much charcoal your dog ate
• How big the pieces of charcoal may have been
• Whether the charcoal was still hot when your dog ate it

Dr. Pastewka says, “Your veterinarian will be able to offer specific guidance based on your individual pet’s history and type of charcoal involved.”

If your vet or an emergency vet isn’t available, you may want to call the ASPCA’s pet poison control hotline at (888) 426-4435. Note that you may be charged for the call.

Of course, the best way to keep your dog safe is to prevent him from coming into contact with charcoal in the first place. Always keep the substance out of your dog’s reach in the future. If you cook with charcoal, watch your dog carefully, dispose of charcoal properly, and store it away from snooping pooches.

What is a Labradoodle?

A Labradoodle is a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Miniature or Standard Poodle. This can include a Poodle or Labrador Retriever crossed with a Labradoodle or two Labradoodles bred with each other. Because there is no dog breed standard for Labradoodles, the mixed breed dog can have a wide range in size, color and temperament and can inherit any combination of Labrador or Poodle genes. Dog breeders enhance certain temperament and appearance characteristics of the offspring by choosing to weigh more heavily on either the Labrador Retriever genes or the Poodle genes.

What do Labradoodles look like?

Labradoodle appearance depends on whether she inherited more Poodle or Labrador genes. Poodles have thick, wavy to curly coats that are typically low-shedding and are prone to matting and tangles. Labrador Retrievers are moderate shedders and come in three colors, chocolate, black and yellow. They have dense, short double coats with the outer coat adhering to their love of swimming and the soft undercoat providing warmth.

Labradoodles range in color from white fur to dark and have furnishings, or the longer hair that surrounds a dog’s beard area and eyebrows and gives the Labradoodle the signature fluffy look. Poodles have the furnishing gene and Labrador Retrievers do not. Breeders can test for these genes and share results with potential Labradoodle owners. To learn more about how furnishing genes work, read out article about F1 v. F1B Oodles.

What’s the difference between a Labradoodle and an Australian Labradoodle?

While a Labradoodle has only Labrador and Poodle genes, an Australian Labradoodle also has Cocker Spaniel genes. The two mixed breeds have similar appearances and temperaments and are often grouped into one general “Labradoodle” category by the general public.

Differences between a Labradoodle and Australian Labradoodle include:

• Labradoodles can have a lot of variation between coat types, ranging from fluffy to wiry, with varying degrees of shedding, explains Dr. Lisa Chimes, a veterinarian who developed a line of grooming products called DOG by Dr. Lisa. The Australian Labradoodle tends to have a more consistent low-shedding fluffy coat.
• Australian Labradoodles often have less Labrador genes than Labradoodles and tend to be more similar to Poodle-Spaniel mixes, or Cockapoos.
• Many Australian Labradoodle breederss cross Australian Labradoodles with Australian Labradoodles to get a more consistent offspring.
• American Labradoodles were first bred in 1989 to accommodate a couple who needed a hypoallergenic guide dog. It’s unclear when Australian Labradoodles were first bred.

American Labradoodles and Australian Labradoodles are not official dog breeds recognized by the AKC, but they do have a prominent breed club called the Australian Labradoodle Association of America that’s working toward achieving a breed standard.

Labradoodle traits

The Labradoodle is one of the most popular Oodles, based on the social affectionate and loyal nature of the Labrador Retriever. Both the Retriever and the Poodle are intelligent, highly trainable and have loads of energy. Both Labradors and Poodles are popular service dogs because of their consistent temperament and trainability and love to be around humans. Consequently, Labradoodles thrive on human interaction and owners need to allow them to express this or the dogs can become anxious and clingy.

How big do Labradoodles get?

The Labradoodle has a huge range in size from 15 pounds to more than 65 pounds, depending on what size Poodle is used for breeding.

Labradoodle size range:

• Miniature Labradoodles: Between 14 and 16 inches in height at wither
• Medium Labradoodles: Between 17 and 20 inches in height at wither.
• Standard range: Between 21 and 24 inches in height at wither.

Confirm with your breeder that you are getting the size Labradoodle that you are expecting.

Labradoodles as family dogs

Labradoodles can be great matches for families who have the time to socialize, exercise and teach their Labradoodle manners. Because both breeds are social, Labradoodles work well in families and with individuals who can include their dog in the daily business of their lives. Labrador Retrievers are bred to be outdoor adventurers and need ample time to run, fetch and socialize with their owners and other dogs. Crossed with the social and energetic Poodle, the Labradoodle needs an outlet to burn some energy both physically and mentally.

How to groom a Labradoodle

Labradoodles are high on the grooming maintenance list because their fluffy coats are prone to tangling and knots. They should be professionally groomed every 4-6 weeks, advises Dr. Chimes.

Professional grooming services should include:

• Overall hair clip
• Trimming nails
• Tidying up hair around the eyes, muzzle, feet and anus
• The hair around the ears should be carefully trimmed. Do not pluck the hair inside the ears, Dr. Chimes says.
• Bath every 4-6 weeks (with grooming appointment)

Home grooming should include daily brushes with a comb and slicker brush.

“Daily brushing is the best thing you can do to prevent knots,” says Dr. Chimes. “It keeps their skin and coat healthy and less stinky by spreading the natural skin oils, while removing loose hairs and debris.”

How long do Labradoodles live?

Labradoodle longevity ranges from 12 to 15 years.

Labradoodles are in high demand, so we cannot emphasize enough, doing your research before choosing a Labradoodle breeder.

When looking to support your pup’s optimal health, supplements will always come out as a hot topic. With many dog supplements on the market, all varying in price and health claims, it can be difficult for a new or even seasoned pet parent to choose the best ones. One thing is for sure: Recommendations for glucosamine for dogs have always remained a top choice among veterinarians, breeders and pet enthusiasts alike. Let’s jump right into discussing all things “glucosamine”!

What is glucosamine for dogs?

Glucosamine is a compound naturally found in the body that supports healthy formation and repair of cartilage and tissue and is often used to support both humans and canines. Many veterinarians recommend glucosamine for arthritic dogs, in addition or as an alternative to NSAIDs. While further studies are needed to continue confirming glucosamine’s positive results for dogs, many dog parents have reported healthy impacts.

Benefits of using glucosamine for dogs can include:

• Improved joint function.
• Help maintaining joint health.
• Slowed onset of arthritis.
• Anti-inflammatory properties.

Best glucosamine supplements for dogs

Glucosamine supplements are commonly paired with chondroitin, a similar compound, or methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), which is primarily used as an anti-inflammatory. Studies show positive results when using these compounds together to treat osteoarthritis. Glucosamine is often found in fish oils, as well. In fact, a new human study has reported better results when using high doses of omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine simultaneously, as opposed to just glucosamine.

Many of the recommended veterinary glucosamine products are blended supplements, containing other therapeutic supplements and herbs; one of the most commonly recommended being Dasuquin. In addition to glucosamine, Dasuquin includes other therapeutic ingredients such as MSM, chondroitin, green tea extract and boswellia. Thorne Arthoplex is another glucosamine blend made from Throne’s veterinary line that includes additional ingredients, such as MSM, curcumin and chondroitin.

If you shop around and find another glucosamine product on the market, run it by your holistic or traditional veterinarian. Many, if not most, glucosamine supplements are not FDA approved. Consider this when shopping for your dog’s glucosamine product!

Glucosamine dosage for dogs

The best approach to starting your dog on a glucosamine supplement is consulting with your veterinarian! As mentioned above, many reputable glucosamine supplements include additional ingredients, and this should be considered when calculating your dog’s glucosamine dose.
However, here are some broad glucosamine dosage guidelines for dogs:

• Glucosamine supplements tend to have a “loading dose” where the initial dose administration is larger than the maintenance dose.
• For joint health, glucosamine doses usually begin at 50-100mg/kg once daily. This is for an oral/by mouth supplement.
• Maintenance use may be a lower dose.

Managing your pup’s health with nutraceuticals is a great way to support him using natural approaches. This can be especially helpful for dogs where pharmaceuticals (such as NSAIDs like Rimadyl or Carprofen) are contraindicated or used with increased caution. There are many, many supplements on the market for your dog, so always check with your vet before starting your dog on a glucosamine, or any new, supplement.

If you’ve bred or are considering breeding your female dog, you may be wondering how to best support her body and the development of her litter in-utero. As humans, we highly encourage the use of prenatal vitamins for pregnant females, which contain an array of vitamins, folic acid, iron and zinc. Does something like this exist for dogs, and if not, what are some ways that you as a pet parent can support your pregnant dog?

Prenatal vitamins for dogs

Commercial prenatal vitamins for dogs do exist, but the truth is that the best prenatal vitamins for your pregnant dog are likely to already be found in your dog’s quality, commercial diet. Be sure that this food is labeled for all life stages.

Research shows that folic acid supplementation reduces the risk of certain birth defects such as cleft palates, neural tube defects and spinal bifida. Two additional supplements that may be considered are a fatty acid supplement including EFA and DHA and Vitamin B9.

It is absolutely paramount to consult with your dog’s veterinarian for guidance before beginning any of these supplements. Please do not give human prenatal vitamins to your dog.

How to support your pregant dog

Much prenatal care begins before your dog becomes pregant!

Prenatal care includes:

• Assessing genetics. It is not responsible to breed dogs who have a history of genetic disease, such as dysplasia. Do your due diligence and consult with your veterinarian before breeding your dog.
• Proper diet. This is possibly one of the most important aspects when supporting pregnant dogs. The best and most sustainable diet for these dogs is a quality, commercial diet. You can feed your pregant female as you would any healthy dog during the first two trimesters, so long as she is not gaining or losing too much weight. During the third and final trimester, it is recommended to switch to a commercial puppy formulation. Avoid large-breed puppy formulations, as the calcium phosphorus content will not support your healthy dog. Discuss the best diet with your veterinarian.
• Maintain appropriate weight. Both underweight and overweight dogs and their litters are at risk. Underweight dogs are likely malnourished and are at risk of stillbirths or underweight puppies. Obesity during pregancy can cause a myriad of issues including difficulty during labor and can decrease milk production.
• Work with your veterinary team. Find a veterinarian who specializes in breeding dogs and establish a relationship! Pregancy can be a stressful and anxiety producing time, especially the closer your pup gets to going into labor. Having a medical team on standby will be absolutely essential, not only for your peace of mind but also for the health of your pregnant dog and her litter.

When it comes to breeding a dog, some of the most important aspects for success include how healthy she is entering into pregnancy, your resources for supporting her through pregnancy and postpartum care. Always consult with your veterinarian before deciding to breed your dog to ensure that both you and your pup are fully prepared!

Note: Dogster believes in spaying and neutering dogs so as not to add to the many homeless dogs in rescues and shelters. Never breed dogs on a whim and spay her to avoid having your dog get accidently pregnant. Responsible dog breeders strive for the highest level of care, keep litters to a minimum and offer a home for life for all their dogs so none ever end up homeless. Read more on responsible dog breeders here.