Category: Pets

The 3-3-3 rule explains what you need to know about the adjustment period in the first three days, three weeks and three months after adopting a rescue dog. Understanding what to expect and how to help your rescue dog adjust leads to a smoother transition and happier home.

Adopting a dog is a wonderful but challenging experience. When we change jobs or schools, new experiences can be exciting and intimidating at the same time. A rescue dog also needs time to adapt to and understand his new life.

You need to comprehend what he’s going through and try to help him adjust. Generally, puppies adapt more easily than adults do because they are almost blank slates learning new things and being exposed to new environments. Older and shyer dogs usually adjust more slowly. Each dog is an individual and, depending on his background, may take longer than expected to acclimate to a new life. Let him progress at his own pace. Let’s look at what you should know before adopting a rescue dog, what the adjustment issues will look like and what you should do to ease the transition.

Phases of a rescue dog: The first three days

Your new canine companion needs some time to decompress. He probably feels unsure of what’s expected of him and is stressed. He may:

• Feel overwhelmed
• Be scared and unsure of what’s going on
• Not be comfortable enough to “be himself”
• Not want to eat and drink
• Be shut down and curl up in a safe area such as in a crate or under furniture and sleep a lot
• Have diarrhea from stress or dietary changes
• Test his boundaries

Phases of a rescue dog: The first three weeks

During this time, your new addition starts to feel relaxed and his true personality emerges. He may:

• Start to settle in
• Feel more comfortable
• Realize that this could possibly be his forever home
• Figure out his environment
• Get into a routine
• Let his guard down and start to show his true personality
• Show any ingrained behavior problems

Phases of a rescue dog: The first three months

This is the period when your adopted dog’s true personality and temperament are displayed. It’s a great time to bond with him. He may:

• Be completely comfortable in his new home
• Start to trust and build a bond with you
• Gain a complete sense of security with his new family
• Settle into and embrace his new routine

How to help your rescue dog settle in your home

Set up a safe space away from commotion, such as a spare bedroom or laundry room. It should be a welcoming area with a cozy bed and crate.

Establish a routine so that your new canine companion will know what to expect from and feel confident in his new world. He needs regular feedings, exercise, play and training. Use positive reinforcement and speak calmly when getting to know him. Have patience. Introduce him slowly over time to his new environment and family.

The 3-3-3 Rule establishes milestones that help predict what your new canine addition may be experiencing. By understanding what occurs during these three periods, you’ll be better able to help him adjust to his new world. With patience, planning and routines, the bond with your rescued pup will blossom and you’ll have great adventures to come and memories to make.

If you’re looking for dog food for weight loss, selecting the right diet is essential to achieving a healthy body condition. If you’re thinking of simply feeding less, that may help, but there are more effective, and safer, choices for overweight dogs. The goal is to find tasty weight management dog foods (and treats) that will reduce calories while meeting your pet’s nutritional needs. By looking for a few key dog food elements and ingredients, and following science-based formulations and approaches, you can find the best weight management dog food for your best friend.

How to tell if your dog is overweight

According to my organization’s surveys, The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, approximately 56% of all US adult dogs are overweight or have obesity. That equals over 50 million dogs at risk for weight-related conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, kidney disease, skin issues and many forms of cancer. In addition, studies prove that dogs kept at a healthy body condition live up to 2.5 years longer than overweight dogs.

The danger of excess weight isn’t a number on a scale, it’s the harmful hormones and compounds produced by too much body fat (adipose tissue). That’s why it’s important to identify the signs of unhealthy weight and body condition score (BCS) at home.

The first step is to weigh your dog regularly. Identical to our own “battle of the bulge,” your dog’s body stores excess food energy as body fat. When an otherwise healthy adult dog gains weight, chances are most of that is fat. If you can safely pick up and weigh your dog once a month, you can get a good idea of how your dog’s weight is trending. Spotting body weight trends early is essential in avoiding excessive weight gain. Too often, I see pet parents completely unaware that their dog’s weight was creeping up. In addition, if you regularly weigh your dog, you’re more likely to spot inexplicable weight loss early, a common finding in dogs with cancer.

To gauge if your dog is within a healthy weight range, you can consult the breed weight charts on the petobesityprevention.org website or refer to American Kennel Club (AKC) and other breed standards. Don’t be alarmed if your healthy weight dog doesn’t fit neatly within these values. They’re only averages and may vary between organizations. Mixed breeds (including “Oodles and Oos”) can be tricky, so get your vet team involved to help.

Body Condition Score (BCS) for overweight dogs

Your vet will use a body condition score (BCS) and perhaps a muscle condition score (MCS) to determine if your pooch is at a healthy body composition. While the BCS is a subjective assessment of body fat percentage, it has proven to be a helpful tool for tracking progress over time.

At home, you can also perform a modified BCS by comparing your dog’s appearance to the charts and performing a few simple tests.

1. You should be able to easily feel – and count – your dog’s ribs when you lightly run your fingers across the side. If you can’t easily feel those smooth bones, that’s a sign your doggo is probably carrying extra weight.

2. When you look down on your pet from above, you should see an “hourglass figure” or an indentation near the midsection. If your pet looks like a blimp from above, he’s probably overweight or has obesity.

3. When you observe your dog from the side as he stands, you should see a slight tuck or upward slope of the tummy. If the abdomen hangs low and drags near the ground, that indicates the most dangerous and biologically active form of body fat, abdominal adiposity, is present. Time to get professional help.

Creating a weight loss program for your dog

When most dog owners think “weight loss for dogs,” they think “feed less and exercise more.” If only it were that simple.

The most important thing to do if your dog needs to lose weight is to make sure he’s healthy and a disease or drug isn’t to blame. Your vet will perform basic blood and urine tests and review any current conditions or medications. Hypothyroidism is common in many overweight dogs and needs to be controlled first. Arthritis, elevated blood glucose or diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney failure, and hormonal imbalances can be caused or exacerbated by excess body fat and require specific nutritional formulations to aid in weight loss. 

Why feeding your dog less food can be risky

The problem with “cutting calories” by simply feeding your dog less “regular food,” is you risk reducing essential nutrients, creating additional problems to a dog experiencing chronic inflammation due to excess body fat. Most vets can share stories of misguided dog owners who created serious metabolic imbalances in their dogs by feeding a quarter or half of “normal.” In addition, a dog’s metabolism adapts or “resets” in response to reduced calories, resulting in less weight loss than you’d expect.

What to look for in a dog food for weight loss

For overweight dogs, therapeutic weight loss diets remain the safest and most proven method to reduce excess body fat. Keep in mind that marketing terms such as “weight management,” “healthy weight,” “weight care” and “weight control” have no regulatory or legal meaning and are not weight loss diets.

Look for foods labeled:

• Light
• Lite
• Low calorie
• Less calories
• Reduced calories
• Lean fat
• Low fat
• Less fat
• Reduced Fat

These are approved and proven dog weight loss formulations.

In general, feed a food containing the fewest calories per cup or can your dog enjoys. Most therapeutic weight loss formulations will contain less than 260 calories per cup compared to maintenance diets that range from 325 to 500 calories per cup.

I typically start my dog weight loss patients on a higher protein and fiber weight loss diet. Protein and fiber have been proven to help with satiety and make your dog feel fuller, longer, resulting in less begging and pestering behaviors for food. If a dog doesn’t like the weight loss diet, don’t hesitate to ask your veterinarian for another recommendation. There are many well-researched therapeutic diets with a wide variety of nutritional formulations to choose from, so your dog can get healthy while still savoring their meals.

A good rule-of-thumb is to transition your dog to a new food over a seven to ten-day period by adding an additional 25% of the new diet every two to three days. If you’d like to compare nutrition levels between pet foods, my colleagues at Tufts University, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, have created an excellent Pet Food Calculator.

How much food should you feed overweight dogs for weight loss?

You’ll first need to have your dog examined by your veterinarian and an ideal weight calculated based on his current BCS. Based on your pet’s degree of excess weight, your veterinarian may choose a target weight higher than the ideal weight to start (Step Weight Loss). You can visit PetObesityPrevention.org for caloric recommendations or use this basic formula for weight loss in dogs:

Weight in pounds divided by 2.2 gives you weight in kilograms (kg)
Calculate your dog’s Resting Energy Requirements (RER) in calories (kcals) based on ideal or target weight:
30 x (ideal or target body weight in kilograms) + 70 = Daily RER calories

For weight loss in healthy adult, inactive, indoor, spayed or neutered dogs, feeding the RER calories for the step-weight loss target weight (or ideal weight in some cases) should be adequate. In cases that fail to respond to this number of calories, your veterinarian may further adjust the total.

How fast should my dog lose weight?

Whatever weight loss dog food you feed, it should help your dog reach his ideal weight safely and quickly. My general guidelines for weight loss in dogs are 3 to 5% body weight loss per month. For a 95-pound Labrador Retriever that needs to lose 20 pounds, that’s about 4 to 5 pounds per month for five to six months. Most of my canine weight loss patients will be on a weight loss program for three to 12 months.

If a dog isn’t achieving his weight loss goals every 30 to 90 days, you should either reduce calories 10% or try a different diet. I’ve seen too many dogs being fed the same food for months without losing adequate weight. Change the amount, formulation or brand at least every 90 days if your dog isn’t losing weight. Metabolic adaptation is real; changing the diet periodically may be required to keep your dog’s weight loss on track.   

How much should I exercise my dog for weight loss?

Exercise is important, but the majority of fat loss begins — and ends — at the food bowl and treat jar. In general terms, canine weight loss is about 70-percent diet and 30-percent activity. Aim for at least 20- to 30-minutes of walking or structured play daily.

What about dog treats for weight loss?

Take stock of the treats you’re giving. Many of these “calorie grenades” pack an awful lot of energy into an irresistible flavor bomb. For doggie weight loss, try switching to wholesome, low calorie veggies such as baby carrots, sliced cucumbers or zucchini, broccoli, celery or any crunchy greens that charm your canine. 

Baby carrots	2-3 calories per carrot
Cucumber	1 calorie per ¼-inch slice
Apple	16 calories per slice (1/8) large red apple
Asparagus	3-5 calories per spear
Celery	6 calories per 7- to 8-inch stalk
Broccoli	5-6 calories per floret
Banana	7-9 calories per ½-inch slice
Pumpkin	21 calories per ¼ cup (canned, without salt)

Dog weight loss is a journey

Good health is a journey. Losing excess body fat takes time. Stay on the weight loss path your vet maps out, and you’ll be rewarded with a healthier, happier doggo when you reach your destination.  

F1 Goldendoodles are a cross between a purebred Golden Retriever and a purebred Toy, Miniature or Standard Poodle. Dog breeders refer to these dogs as “first generation” (F1) Goldendoodles and they get 50 percent of their genes from each breed. F1B Goldendoodles are a cross between an F1 Goldendoodle and a purebred Poodle or a purebred Golden Retriever.

Although all Goldendoodles will be part Golden Retriever and part Poodle, personality traits and appearance will differ based on how much Poodle or Golden Retriever the Goldendoodle offspring inherited. Dog breeders enhance certain temperament and appearance characteristics of the offspring by choosing to weigh more heavily on either the Golden Retriever genes or the Poodle genes.

Do F1 Goldendoodles have a different appearance than F1B Goldendoodles?

They can. F1 Goldendoodles have furnishings — the longer hair that surrounds a dog’s beard area and eyebrows — and gives the Goldendoodle the signature fluffy look. Poodles have the furnishing gene and Golden Retrievers do not. Furnishings are a dominant gene, so F1 Goldendoodles will always inherit furnishings from the Poodle parent. F1B Goldendoodles may not always have furnishings if two non-furnishing coat genes (also referred to as improper coat or IC) are present from a Goldendoodle crossed with a Golden Retriever. Breeders can test for these genes and share results with potential owners.

Are F1 vs F1B Goldendoodle personality traits different?

The F1B Goldendoodle’s personality traits will depend on which purebred was crossed with the F1 Goldendoodle. If a Poodle was used, the offspring may show a high sensitivity and alertness to its environment, high intelligence levels and an ultra-high trainability level. If a Golden Retriever was used, expect an extremely social and loyal dog, who needs lots of physical and mental stimulation through service jobs, socialization and retriever games.

The F1 Goldendoodle is a 50-50 combination of its parents’ purebred genes, so personality traits are less predictable as with any mixed breed.

How do I know if I’m getting an F1 or F1B Goldendoodle?

Goldendoodle breeders should be able to provide lineage. The Goldendoodle Association of North America, the Goldendoodle’s breed club, lists nationwide breeders they’ve accepted into their club.

Still unsure? Start by making a list of questions to ask Goldendoodle dog breeders. And take your time — patience will help you find the right Goldendoodle for your lifestyle.

Many dogs will be one-time offenders for pancreatitis, while others will struggle with symptoms for their entire lives. Understanding pancreatitis signs and symptoms, the diagnostic process, as well as dietary and holistic management, are important steps toward helping your dog manage the pain.

What does the pancreas do?

The pancreas is an organ located to the right of the stomach that plays an important role in the digestive health of your dog. It produces enzymes that aid in digestion and insulin to regulate blood sugar.

Pancreatitis is defined as inflammation of the pancreas and can present acutely or become a chronic disease over time. Many times, pancreatitis is triggered by dietary intolerance and the consumption of high-fat foods. This is why veterinary emergency facilities experience an increase in pancreatitis cases around holidays, when pets typically eat more human foods. Other causes of pancreatitis include genetic predisposition, cancer, obesity, hormonal imbalance like Diabetes mellitus and certain medications. Causes of pancreatitis are often unknown.

Top signs of pancreatitis in dogs

When considering whether your dog is suffering from pancreatitis, look for the most common signs and symptoms. Symptoms of acute and chronic pancreatitis will vary in length and severity.

Acute pancreatitis is a sudden onset of symptoms including:

• Persistent vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Inappetence or decreased appetite
• Dehydration
• Extreme lethargy

Chronic pancreatitis persists over a long period of time with symptoms including:

• Decreased appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Intermittent vomiting
• Diarrhea

Acute pancreatitis will present with severe symptoms and is more common in dogs than chronic pancreatitis. Chronic pancreatitis may present more subtly and worsen with time. Some dogs with chronic pancreatitis will have periods where they experience more severe, acute symptoms.

How do you diagnose pancreatitis in dogs?

If your dog has pancreatitis symptoms, take him to a veterinarian to determine next steps. During the diagnosis process, you can expect:

• Examination. An exam including abdominal palpation will be the first step to diagnosing your dog with pancreatitis. Your vet will collect information about your dog’s diet, including changes in appetite, and history and frequency of vomiting. Before the visit, log these changes, so you are ready to present them during the exam. This timeline could help expedite your dog’s diagnosis and treatment plan.
• Bloodwork. Because signs of pancreatitis are often non-specific, your veterinarian may run specific blood tests, which can hone in on a possible pancreatitis diagnosis and rule out other medical conditions and contributing factors.

Pancreatic Lipase Immunoreactivity (PLI) is the most sensitive laboratory test available for dogs with pancreatitis because it assesses lipase levels in the bloodstream. During pancreatitis, normal trace levels of lipase increase considerably. While PLI laboratory tests are highly specific, results take longer to receive than alternative in-house tests, which becomes important when treating a sick dog.

• Abdominal Ultrasound. An abdominal ultrasound is a noninvasive diagnostic that assesses organs and structures within the abdomen. This test is around 40-70% sensitive for pancreatitis in achieving a formal diagnosis. Ultrasounds rule out non-related medical conditions that may be contributing to your dog’s symptoms, as well as pancreatic tumors.
• Biopsy. If a pancreatic mass is found, it may need to be removed for testing. Biopsy is the most invasive diagnostic test and may be contraindicated (not suggested) for seriously ill patients. Discuss the details with your veterinarian and consider getting a second opinion.

What should my dog eat if he has pancreatitis?

Diet therapy is the most critical component to the prevention and management of both acute and chronic pancreatitis, and it starts with introducing a low-fat diet.

For acute pancreatitis, a low-fat diet will be an important part of your dog’s temporary treatment plan. For chronic pancreatitis, a low-fat diet will be a permanent change.

Such diet changes may include the following:

• Low-fat prescription commercial diets. These diets will require a prescription from your veterinarian. Examples of low-fat dog diets include:
• Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Gastrointestinal
• Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Gastroenteric
• Hills Prescription Diet Veterinary Care ID
• Low-fat commercial diets. Most common commercial dog food diets include low fat options. Discuss these options with your veterinarian before use. Some examples include:
  • Wellness Core Reduced Fat
  • Blue Buffalo Life Protection Healthy Weight
  • Canidae Pure Healthy Weight
  • Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight
• Low-fat treats. There are many prescription and commercial low-fat treats available. Avoid high-fat table scraps or treats such as marrow bones and opt for homemade treats, such as dehydrated fruits or vegetables, instead. Examples include sweet potato, kale, green beans, carrots and apples. Avoid toxic foods such as onions, garlic and grapes.
• Home-cooked diets. Home cooking for dogs with pancreatitis is a great option because you have control over ingredients and can adjust as needed. Using an online resource such as Balanceit.com you can create a home-cooked diet specifically supportive for dogs with pancreatitis that will provide necessary vitamins and minerals.

Communicate with the people in your dog’s life. Providing house guests, family members, pet sitters, veterinary staff, trainers and groomers with alternative, safe treats can reduce pancreatitis symptoms. Environmental management, such as removing access to trash and cleaning the kitchen to prevent counter surfing, is also important.

Are there holistic treatments for dogs with pancreatitis?

According to Dr. Angie Krause, holistic veterinarian and owner of Boulder Holistic Vet, there are some holistic approaches that may support your dog through pancreatitis symptoms.

Dr. Krause’s suggestions include:

• CBD has natural anti-inflammatory properties and reduces nausea and pain. Start at the low end of CBD’s dosing range (0.25mg/kg twice daily). Find a reputable CBD product that does not include additional ingredients. Dr. Krause uses HempRx products.
• While Dr. Krause suggests all dogs take a quality probiotic, this is especially helpful for supporting the gut health of dogs with pancreatitis. Alternating probiotic strains may be beneficial. Dr. Krause uses Thorne Bacillus and RxBiotics in her practice.
• Chinese Herbs. Certain Chinese herbs can work to alleviate pancreatitis symptoms in dogs. Find a veterinarian who practices Traditional Chinese Medicine near you through the Chi Institute website.

Dr. Krause recommends starting with one diet or supplement change at a time, in order to carefully track results.

What online resources are available for pancreatitis in dogs?

Pancreatitis can be an extremely stressful disease to manage and may leave you feeling discouraged and isolated. Online resources, such as Dogs with Pancreatitis on Facebook, which has 5,000 members, connect you with other pet parents going through a pancreatitis diagnosis with their dogs. These groups are an excellent way to expand you and your dog’s team while also supporting other pet parents.

While pancreatitis is a very serious disease, many dogs who experience it will live long and happy lives! Because pancreatitis shares symptoms with many other conditions, it can be difficult to diagnose. Advocating for your dog and educating yourself will give your sick dog the voice he needs.

Do you have a mixed-breed dog and constantly wonder what combination of breeds went together to create your uniquely awesome canine? Does that curly hair prove it is part Poodle, or do the big ears mean a relative was a Basset Hound? Maybe you asked your vet and groomer and received different guesses. If so, that is not surprising. A 2009 study funded by the National Canine Research Foundation found that when they showed dog photos to over 5,700 pet professionals, only 27% of the dogs were identified correctly.

More and more pet parents are turning to dog DNA tests to finally answer the “what breed is it” question. There are a lot of different tests on the market, so how do you know what is the most accurate dog DNA test? The dog DNA test accuracy largely depends on the size of the company’s breed database and how many DNA markers (data points) your dog’s sample will be compared against.

What is DNA?

DNA is short for deoxyribonucleic acid, a long molecule that carries the unique genetic blueprint information about an organism. You have probably seen graphical images of DNA showing how it is made up of two linked strands twisted around each other that look like a ladder. Making up the rungs of the ladder is a backbone of adenine (A), cytosine (C), guanine (G) or thymine (T), referred to as ACGT. The order and sequence of ACGT determine everything about the dog, such as his fur color, how tall the dog will be, the color of his eyes and even potential health issues. This unique combination of ACGT is the dog’s complete set of genetic information, commonly called the genome.

In 2005, the first complete domestic canine genome sequence was documented and published by the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard. According to senior author Eric Lander, director of the Broad Institute and a professor of biology at MIT, “The incredible physical and behavioral diversity of dogs — from Chihuahuas to Great Danes — is encoded in their genomes. There are 2.5 million genetic differences among different breeds of dogs.” This study also revealed that a dog’s genome sequence helps determine what genetic contributors, such as cancer or other significant diseases, can affect certain breeds.

How do you collect a dog’s DNA?

Collecting your dog’s DNA is as easy as taking a swab of your dog’s cheek. DNA kits typically provide a cotton swab that you put against the inside of the dog’s cheek that you roll and rotate around to collect cells. After letting it dry for a few minutes, you put the swab back in the sleeve and mail it to the company in the provided prepaid mailing envelope.

According to Dr. Adam Boyko, the chief science officer and founder of DNA Embark, once the sample arrives at the lab, the dog’s DNA is separated from the other parts of the cells. This is achieved by washing the cells over a research-grade microarray (a microscope slide that grabs the actual DNA) to analyze it. Using a computer, your dog’s genetic code is compared to genetic makers of purebred dogs to determine your dog’s breed(s). Results are typically sent over email or by mail in two to four weeks and are usually divided into percentages based on the dog’s breed composition.

How accurate are dog DNA tests?

Dog DNA test accuracy largely depends on the size of the company’s breed database and how many DNA markers (data points) your dog’s sample will be compared against to determine his breed(s). Also, each company has different proprietary methodologies to calculate these results.

Some DNA tests also analyze for inherited diseases in the dog’s genome. This is done by looking for specific genetic sequences associated with certain diseases. A DNA test can only warn of the possible risk, not the certainty of your dog acquiring the disease. The test can tell you if your dog may be predisposed to a certain medical condition, but it doesn’t mean your dog will necessarily come down with that condition.

Also, the dog DNA testing industry lacks long-term scientific studies of mapping genetic variants to the risk of diseases. There are limited peer-reviewed studies to validate the data and a lack of funding to conduct this follow-up research. For these reasons, it is important to not make medical decisions based solely on a dog’s DNA test results. If you have any concerns about your dog’s risk for certain diseases based on a DNA test, you should consult your veterinarian.

Which dog DNA test should I purchase?

Deciding on the best DNA test for your dog can be confusing as there are many choices. Not only are there several companies offering dog DNA tests, but some companies offer multiple types of tests to choose from. Here are several factors to consider when selecting your kit.

• Your budget – Costs can range from as little as $68 to over $200 based on how extensive the testing is.
• The DNA test accuracy – Depending on the brand, dog DNA test accuracy for breed identification can range from 90% to 99%.
• The company’s breed reference database – A basic test can compare your dog’s DNA against at least 95 breeds to more than 350 based on the company’s proprietary database.
• Medical conditions and dog traits – For some brands, medical condition testing is a part of the basic test, while for others, it is an additional cost.
• Veterinarian consultations – Based on the results, you may have questions. Some brands have veterinarians you can contact for a consultation.

Once you have decided on your budget and what features are important to you, there are plenty of dog DNA tests to choose from. Below are details on some of the most prominent ones to help you decide on the most accurate test for your needs.

DNAmydog.com – starts at $68.99. The results are returned within two weeks and include a custom certificate with your dog’s photo stating his unique DNA composition. Also available for purchase are a geriatric age test and an allergy test.

Easy DNA – starts at $79. This company offers various animal (and human) DNA testing services. Results take two to three weeks from receipt of the samples by its lab. Results are compared against its DNA database, which comprises over 95 breeds of dogs, plus 350 breeds are offered for $109. For an additional fee, it also has disease testing, inherited disease and trait testing and allergy testing.

Embark Vet – starts at $109. Results arrive in two to four weeks. This test checks against over 230,000 genetic markers and screens over 210 genetic health risks. You may also be able to research your dog’s family tree and determine your dog’s relatives in the canine relative finder application. Embark Vet also has breed and health kits and purebred testing kits. Certain tests include a consultation with an Embark geneticist veterinarian.

OniVet — starts at $119. This test screens for genetic diseases, coat colors, breed traits and parent confirmation. The standard test compares your dog’s DNA to over 350 breeds and will give an adult weight prediction for puppies. Test results are posted online in two to three weeks. Also available is a health add-on that tests over 220 health risks and over 40 physical traits. Other tests include the mycobiome and purebred DNA tests.

Wisdom Panel — starts at $99.99. The results are ready in three weeks. This kit screens for over 350 breeds, 25 medical conditions and over 35 traits. This company has the world’s largest breed reference database. The premium kit includes 180 additional health tests and a veterinarian consultation for any notable health findings.

No matter what your dog’s DNA test reveals (and if you agree with the accuracy of the results), these tests are a fun and great way to learn more about your pup, their likely personality traits, and why they behave the way they do.

Disclaimer: If you purchase items through links on our site we may earn a commission.

Does your dog nip, growl, snarl, snap or bite? Lunge and bark at other animals or people? Do you think your dog might injure someone or another dog? Does he eat rocks or other inedible things? If you answer yes to any of these questions, your dog needs a muzzle. Don’t wait for a bite or foreign body surgery before getting your dog muzzle trained.

What is a dog muzzle?

Dog muzzles are similar to masks but with holes, designed to prevent a dog from engaging in dangerous behaviors like biting. They’re a tool to keep everyone safe and help with training. Dog muzzles are mainly for short-term use (i.e., while undergoing a training or behavior modification) or for specific purposes like vet visits or on walks.

Why do dogs need a dog muzzle?

Dogs can benefit from muzzle training since sometimes vet visits, nail trims or even new environments or introductions to new species (like your new backyard chickens) can be challenging and your dog can be provoked to bite or lunge. But let’s face it: we don’t see many dogs wearing what seems like some sort of medieval torture device. And if we do, we might stereotype muzzle-wearing dogs as aggressive, and wonder what the heck the owner was doing to the dog that he needs a cage on his face. But dogs who wear muzzles aren’t “bad dogs,” they just need space.

Dogs who wear muzzles could be struggling with any number of issues like:

• fear
• anxiety
• stress
• medical issues

Melissa Hatfield, certified behavior consultant and trial consultant for bite cases, says muzzles provide an extra level of safety during the training process. But for some dogs, wearing a muzzle may be a lifelong commitment in certain situations like going for a walk, when the small children come over or even visits to the vet or groomer. As much as training can reduce the potential for risk, there are some dogs who will never be reliable enough to go without this safety net, says Melissa.

Do not use dog muzzles for barking or chewing

Muzzles are not for barking, chewing or other troublesome behaviors. Oftentimes these behaviors are the result of lack of stimulation and exercise or other needs not being met. Certified dog trainer Cindy Martin says a muzzle is not a substitute for addressing the physical and emotional needs of the dog. And without behavior modification and affirmative training, a muzzle can stress the dog and make things worse, says Cindy.

How to find the right muzzle for your dog

Before training your dog to a muzzle, be sure you get the proper type and fit. Muzzles should fit securely yet comfortably. A properly fitted muzzle should feel to the dog like wearing a pair of glasses feels to us — like it’s not even there.

Basket muzzles are popular since they allow for dogs to pant, receive treats and drink. They’re also light-weight, flexible and inexpensive. A popular choice is the thermoplastic rubber Baskerville dog muzzle, which is also adjustable by submerging it in hot water.  

My dog Apache’s muzzle is custom made of biothane by BUMAS.

Pricey, but since he wears it every time he leaves the house, and it’s made especially for him, it was worth it. It accommodates his full pant, drinking and treats. I was also able to select the colors and added security features. A similar less expensive option is made by Trust Your Dog.

If you have an extra-large dog or one with a slim, long snout, the vinyl Jafco dog muzzle is a great option.

And for brachycephalic dogs, check out the Canine Friendly Short Snout dog muzzle. Dogs can’t drink with this muzzle but can eat and pant.

For dogs who are a bite risk, wire basket muzzles, such as the Leerburg dog muzzle, can be a safe choice.

Avoid cloth and Velcro muzzles that force a dog’s mouth shut and restrict necessary functions.

How to get your dog to wear a muzzle

Take the time to train your dog to enjoy wearing his muzzle. If your training is blah your dog will be blah about the muzzle; you need your dog to feel like he’s at a rave or a rock concert when he sees the muzzle, not a black-tie affair.

If trained properly, your dog will voluntarily place his snout into the muzzle. Don’t force it onto your dog’s face! Muzzle training done right should take a few weeks. Cindy’s favorite tip is to first acclimate the dog to the sensation of putting his muzzle into a closed space using a cottage cheese or one quart yogurt container with the bottom cut out. Feed awesome treats from the cutout end, building duration.

Muzzle training isn’t as easy as teaching sit or rollover but should be just as fun and well reinforced. Take your time with each step.

Here is our step-by-step guide to dog muzzle training:

1. Start by showing your dog the muzzle. Any positive attention gets a million-dollar treat or two (or five). Don’t skimp here — treat well.
   

   

2. Put food inside the muzzle and set it up in a box/bowl and let him eat. Any hesitation, stop and go back to the previous step. Up your pay game if you have to: chicken, liver, tripe, cheese, steak, whatever. You want the muzzle to have wow factor! Do this for at least a week ideally at least a couple times per day. If your dog’s totally cool (not just kind of cool, but super-pumped cool) when he sees the muzzle, you’re ready for the next step; if not, stay here. Keep at it until you see a happy dance from your dog when you bust out the muzzle. 
3. Next, invite your dog to place his snout inside the muzzle and feed from the outside. DON’T force it — if he’s not putting his snout in voluntarily, back up a step.
4. Then hold the straps in place for a second or two and release. Treat some more. If your dog is giving the green light, increase the duration slowly each day.
   

   

5. At the end of the second week, you should be able to attach the straps for a second or two, then release.
6. By the end of the third week, you’ve worked up to longer periods of wear: some yard time, a short walk, or while you return a few emails. Whatever, just so he gets used to having it on for longer periods.
7. Generalize to other situations and environments.

Dog muzzle training tips:

• DON’T rush this. Your dog dictates the pace.
• If your dog’s not happy-dancing, back it up a step, break out the million-dollar treats and work to get the rockstar reaction you need to get the all-in from your dog.
• Muzzled dogs should always be supervised.
• Take the muzzle off before signs of frustration or annoyance (i.e., reluctance to putting his face in voluntarily, pawing, etc.).
• If he paws at the muzzle once it’s on, back up to the previous step of success and work there. But don’t remove the muzzle while he’s pawing at it- you don’t want to reward the pawing behavior.

Here are two good muzzle training videos by Chirag Patel and Michael Shikashio

While muzzles are a great management tool, they’re not a substitute for training. If your dog is displaying troublesome behaviors first address the underlying emotions causing these behaviors. Rewards-based trainers, behavior consultants and even veterinary behaviorists can help.

Muzzles keep everyone safe and help dogs (and humans in many cases) enjoy a greater quality of life. Melissa says having the option of wearing a muzzle can give dogs freedom to experience a variety of situations they normally wouldn’t be able to while adding an extra layer of safety for all concerned.

Truth be told, long before I became a trainer, I was one of those open-mouthed gawkers when I saw a muzzled dog. But several years ago, I adopted Apache, a long termer at a rural shelter who will always wear his muzzle in public. And that’s okay. Muzzles keep everyone safe. And at the end of the day, that’s the most important thing.

Imagine being picked up by a stranger and transported to a completely new world, where everything is new to you. Everything you see, hear, touch and smell is scary. That’s what happens when you bring a new puppy home. Your world is foreign and maybe even a bit scary to her. This is why puppy playtime is important: to socialize your dog! During puppy development, your dog is learning what the world is, either full of fun things or scary things. It’s up to you to do everything you can to properly socialize your dog to a wide variety of people, dogs and anything else she may encounter during her life so that she sees the world as a wonderful place to be and can relax within your home.

What is puppy playtime?

Puppy Playtime is really a training session where you are working with your puppy to socialize her with other dogs, people and things. Puppies have a critical socialization period from birth to about 12 to 16 weeks, explains Dr. Carley Faughn, a certified applied animal behaviorist with a PhD in Cognitive Science focusing on animal behavior and cognition, who works as a senior strategist at Best Friends Animal Society.

During that time, it is essential that your dog be exposed to as many things as possible. The key, however, is to have those exposures be positive, says Amanda Cornell, a Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed and owner of Accomplished Canines.

Both Accomplished Canines and Best Friends Animals Society offer robust puppy playtime programs to help socialize young dogs and get them started on the right paw in life. At Best Friends, littermates are brought into a sanitized room each day. During their playtime, volunteers come in to act as friendly strangers. Some with sunglasses. Some with hats. Some tall, some short. Puppies are also introduced to things they may encounter in their everyday life, such as the vacuum, umbrellas, bikes, etc.

The key is to make these interactions positive, so your puppy learns to like meeting new people or can sleep through the vacuum cleaner. To do this, pair something the puppy likes with these new experiences. Reward your puppy with a food reward when she goes toward a stranger or checks out the vacuum (turned off at first) or hears the microwave door open and shut, Dr. Faughn says. Some puppies may also like petting as a reward. Others may need higher rewards, like chopped-up hot dog or cheese, if they are more nervous or stressed, she adds.

A positive association with handling is another key to puppy playtime. Dr. Faughn says to introduce your puppy to collars, leashes and harnesses, as well as being touched everywhere and being picked up. For some puppies, these things are no big deal. For others, you will have to go slow and offer high rewards. For example, you may have to reward your puppy for just looking at the collar at first, working up to her being OK with it going around her neck.

We do a lot of strange things with our dogs that we expect them to be OK with — from taking car rides and wearing clothes to getting vet checkups and chilling out on the couch to a loud movie. Puppy playtime is important in order to create that well-adjusted, laid-back dog everyone wants, Amanda says.

Steps to socialize your dog with puppy playtime

All this puppy socialization may seem overwhelming to you. But really, it’s just taking a few minutes each day to expose your puppy to something new. Here are some steps to socializing your dog with puppy playtime:

• Have puppy playtime daily.
• Make sure all interactions are positive for your puppy. Reward her and pay attention to her body language so you know if you have to change the situation if she is getting stressed or anxious.
• Have a checklist so you can keep track of what and who you have exposed your puppy to, Dr. Faughn suggests. This is also a good place to keep notes if you need to remember what your puppy had a hard time with so you know to work more on that.
• Don’t stop socializing at 16 weeks of age, when the critical period is over. This training should continue into adult and, for some dogs, longer.
• Don’t overwhelm your puppy. Things like “puppy parties,” where you invite everyone over to meet your new dog, can actually overwhelm them Dr. Faughn says. It’s better to just have a short visit with one or two people, or one friendly dog.
• Keep playtime short. Puppies have short attention spans and do best with short, positive sessions.
• Focus on just a couple things at a time. Rather than try to expose your puppy to everything at once, pick two or three things each day to work on.

Why is socializing with dogs important?

Finally, don’t forget that your puppy also needs to be socialized to other dogs. Usually, puppies get socialization from their mom and littermates for the first eight weeks of their lives, Dr. Faughn explains. But that doesn’t mean they don’t need continued interaction with other dogs.

Socializing with other dogs teaches them social skills, like how to navigate different dog personalities and play styles, Amanda explains. These are vital lessons so your dog can be a good canine citizen around other dogs. When dogs interact, the adults will correct puppies, teaching them the lessons they need to socialize properly throughout their lives.

Whether you are socializing your dog with people, things or other dogs, it’s important to learn dog body language (check out this poster of dog body language that you can buy) so you can tell when your puppy is stressed or nervous at any time. If she is, put space between her and whatever is making her nervous and/or up the reward so you can help her overcome her fear. Otherwise, those fears will stay with your dog throughout her life and may even get worse.

When can puppies start socializing with other dogs?

Because the critical socialization period ends between 12 and 16 weeks, start socializing puppies with other dogs immediately, Amanda says.

But what about vaccines? Recent findings from the veterinary field shows that puppies typically are fully vaccinated at 16 weeks, when they get their last round of shots, Dr. Faughn says. She adds that it’s best to talk to your vet about any concerns you may have.

So, what do you do until 16 weeks so you can still socialize your puppy with other dogs? The best thing to do, if they cannot interact with their littermates, is to find puppies on the same vaccination schedule — or close to — or fully vaccinated, dog-friendly adult dogs, Dr. Faughn says.

Setting up playdates for your puppy

Puppy playdates for dog socialization must be done safely. This means making sure all dogs are vaccinated and that any dog you are introducing your puppy to is known to be dog-friendly. If you are not sure if a dog is good with puppies, put your puppy in an X-pen (an enclosed exercise pen) at first, Amanda suggests. This way, both dogs can be off leash, but there is a barrier to protect your puppy until you are sure the other dog is well-behaved around puppies.

Are dog parks good for socializing puppies?

Socializing dogs is a tricky business. You do not want your puppy attacked or frightened. Meeting one friendly dog at a time is best. This is one of the reasons why dog parks are not a good idea for puppies. They can become quickly overwhelmed if a rush of adult dogs comes at them. Dr. Faughn also points out that dog parks are full of disease and germs that your puppy is not vaccinated for yet. Pet parents often do not watch their dogs very closely at dog parks either, which can lead to trouble if a dog decides to play rough or gets aggressive with your puppy.

Is puppy playtime important?

Puppy playtime is a necessary and crucial part of puppy raising. All pet parents need to make sure they are doing everything they can to help their puppy grow into a well-socialized adult dog. Of course, you can do all the right things and still end up with a dog who is nervous about some things or becomes reactive. This is due to the fact that their genetics, including temperament and instincts, play a role in their personality, as does whatever they experienced before they came into your home, Dr. Faughn explains. The best thing you can do if you encounter something you are not sure about is to remain calm yourself — if you get anxious, your puppy will just be more stressed — and get in touch with a certified dog trainer who uses positive reinforcement techniques. To find a certified trainer in your area, check out the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers.

Do dogs really eat poop? Yes, and not for the reasons you might think. Here’s the lowdown on why dogs eat poop, how to tell if your dog is sick and the truth about natural remedies to make your dog stop eating poop.

Is it normal for dogs to eat poop?

When dogs eat poop, it is actually a common behavior — especially among puppies and young dogs, according to Dr. Alex Yeager, an emergency veterinarian with VCA Alameda East Veterinary Hospital in Denver, Colorado. She says the behavior, called coprophagia, which may seem repulsive to humans, is similar to toddlers putting everything in their mouths — it’s a way to learn about the world around them. But with dogs, there can be deeper, underlying medical issues. Let’s take a closer look at some of those reasons.

Why do dogs eat poop?

Dogs eat poop because they are following another dog’s example, it’s an attention-seeking behavior or they have anxiety. Female dogs commonly eat poop after they’ve given birth. The new mother may eat her puppies’ poop to keep the den clean. And she often licks her puppies to stimulate their need to poop. Sometimes her pups simply follow her example and begin the habit.

But for other dogs, eating poop can be an attention-seeking behavioral issue, even when the seemingly dirty habit triggers negative reinforcement from their pet parent, says Dr. Yeager.

Anxiety or stress may also be factors. Researchers have found connections between coprophagia and dogs exposed to harsh potty training methods. The thinking is that some dogs try to eat their poo before their pet parent discovers it and punishes them. They’re trying to hide the evidence, and eating it is their way of getting rid of it. This can even happen inside a crate, where it can become a learned behavior. Dogs kept in isolation may eat their poop as a result of feeling highly stressed and neglected.

My dog is eating his poop — is he sick?

There are several medical conditions that could be linked to dogs eating poop — coprophagia. Make an appointment with your veterinarian to check into, or rule out, these issues:

Some of these conditions have a straightforward treatment, such as deworming. Other times, it’s a temporary issue — dogs on steroids are extremely prone to coprophagia and will snack on anything they can find, including poop.

Is there any research on why dogs eat poop?

There isn’t a ton of research on this habit. If only we knew exactly what dogs are thinking!

But researchers at University of California, Davis surveyed thousands of dog owners in a 2018 study, that utilized data from previous studies to shed some light on the subject. During the study, they discovered about a quarter of the dogs ate poop at least one time in a six-month period. Meanwhile, about 16% of dogs were obsessive poopy eaters, eating more than six times. And they formed a tentative theory that the habit might be traced back to the ancestors of our canine companions — wolves.

Other findings include coprophagia being more common among female dogs, multi-dog households, dogs diagnosed with anxiety, dogs living in crowded or high-volume shelters and among dogs labeled greedy eaters — those that steal food from their fellow doggos.

How to stop a dog from eating poop

For anxious dogs, anti-anxiety medications prescribed by your vet can be a huge help, says Dr. Yeager, to help your dog stop eating poop. If the issue is behavioral, it may take some time and patience, but experts agree that dogs can un-learn poop-eating.

Rhonda Renwick, a dog trainer accredited through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC), volunteers her training services to the nonprofit Harrisburg’s Great Dog Program based in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. She’s used to helping other pet parents with their dogs’ behavioral issues.

So, when one of Rhonda’s own dogs, Bella, began eating poop, Rhonda did two things: she taught Bella the cue “leave it” and she became a backyard stalker. That is, she watched Bella do her business, as often as she could. And if Bella approached her poop, as if to eat it, Rhonda tried to be consistent by telling her to leave it. And here’s the most important part: When Bella listened to Rhonda and walked away from the poop, Rhonda heaped on the praise.

Bella thrived on that positive reinforcement, which eventually helped her kick the habit. Rhonda encourages fellow pet parents to develop an emotional bank account with their dogs. Investing in the relationship with your dog will pay dividends, if training is ever needed. It’s a way of recognizing that you love your dog, even when you don’t love one of his behaviors like poop eating.

Do home remedies stop dog from eating poop?

There are several products on the market that claim, when fed to dogs, will make their poop taste terrible, but Dr. Yeager says these products don’t actually help dogs kick the habit. Furthermore, she warns pet parents to check the ingredients, because some of these products contain garlic and onion, which are toxic to dogs. While they’re often billed as a quick fix, these products could do more harm than good.

Will diet changes help?

Sometimes your dog’s food isn’t satisfying him or providing enough nutrition. Investigate whether your dog might have a nutritional deficiency by talking to your veterinarian about high-quality, well-formulated food recommendations. Switching your dog’s food could put an end to his poop-eating days.

What should I do if my dog is eating cat poop?

To prevent this, Dr. Yeager says keep the litter boxes clean and scooped. Additionally, putting the litter boxes inside protective bins could solve the problem. The bins simply prevent dogs’ access to the kitty poop.

How do I stop my dog from eating poop in the crate?

This habit could have developed when your dog was housebroken, or a behavior he learned under stress within a crowded shelter. Shelter dogs should have access to both indoor and outdoor areas, but unfortunately not all shelters function this way. That’s according to Natahnee Miller, an associate certified IAABC member, who previously worked as a director of behavior care for a large shelter.

Natahnee offers the following tips to end poopy eating habits:

• Try to manage the problem by keeping the yard clean.
• Go outside with your dog, pick up the poop as soon as possible and take it away.
• If you catch your dog attempting to eat his poop, interrupt him and re-direct him in the moment until you have the next tip underway.
• Train them to a strong “leave it” cue.

Keep a clean space for your dog

Keep your doggy’s living area as clean as possible, including the yard. Dogs are more likely to go after old, hard poop that’s been cooking in the sun, versus fresh poop, says Dr. Yeager. She also encourages pet parents to take frequent, supervised walks with their dogs, because walk-induced poop captured in doggie bags will keep the yard cleaner, decrease the chance of future poop snacking and you’ll also enjoy healthy exercise together for a win-win-win.

In conclusion, although there’s still a lot we don’t understand about why dogs eat poop, there are many solutions for pet parents to pursue. Patience and consistency are key, along with a reminder of how much you ultimately love your dog.

Trazodone is rising up the ranks as veterinarians’ go-to medication to help dogs of all ages and breeds contend with behavioral issues, including anxiety, noise phobias and stress. This antidepressant is regarded as a relatively safe and effective medication to tone down worried and frightened dogs and cats.

What is trazodone for dogs?

In technical terms, trazodone is a serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Its mission is to enable the feel-good hormone serotonin to work harder and more efficiently in a dog’s brain to help him feel less stressed and calmer.

Generally, trazodone is prescribed for dogs with situational anxiety, such as when their levels of fear, anxiety and stress escalate during specific times and events, according to Dr. Robin Downing, founder of the Downing Center for Animal Pain Management and director of the Windsor Veterinary Clinic in Windsor, Colorado. Dr. Downing is recognized as an international leader in animal pain management.

Is Trazodone used for people?

Trazodone, which is the generic name (the brand names are Desyrel and Oleptro), was initially used in human medication for patients dealing with schizophrenia and major depression. While it is not approved for use in companion animals by the U. S. Food and Drug Administration, trazodone is often prescribed for dogs and cats by veterinarians a what is called an “off-label” drug.

According to Dr. Lisa Radosta, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist who operates the Florida Veterinary Behavior Service in Southeast Florida, trazodone is commonly administered to dogs as a white tablet. Doses vary based on the pet’s size and other factors. Less commonly, trazodone is prescribed in liquid or capsule forms, she adds.

When is trazodone prescribed for dogs?

Trazodone is often prescribed to aid dogs facing these scenarios:

• Visibly and uncontrollably shaking, drooling and maybe even urinating in a veterinary lobby while awaiting examination. These heightened stress symptoms continue during the veterinary examination.
• Predicted loud events, such as a looming thunderstorm or Fourth of July fireworks celebrations within earshot of dogs who fear such sounds.
• Expected visit to a stranger’s home, where a shy dog may cower and shiver during introductions.
• Scheduled repairs or home improvements by a construction team that will alter the layout of the home, create loud noises from tools and give off unfamiliar scents to the family’s anxious dog.
• Planned family vacations by car. The long hours on the road and overnight stays in pet-welcoming lodgings can make some dogs stressed and anxious from the unfamiliar sights, sounds and smells.
• Following a surgery in which the dog needs to rest and have limited activity in order to completely heal.

Is there any research on trazodone for dogs?

In a 2016 study published in the AVMA Journal, a team of veterinarians led by Dr. Shana Gilbert-Gregory tested the effects of trazodone treatment for stress exhibited by hospitalized dogs. In the study, half of the 120 dogs were given trazodone, the other half were not. It was noted that dogs given trazodone displayed less frenetic behaviors, such as lip licking, panting and whining, than dogs not given the medication.

Dogster reached out to leading veterinarians, who shared more details about trazodone and how to safely give it to your dog.

How much trazodone should I give my dog?

Trazodone is sold per tablet and requires a prescription. It is available as 50-, 100- and 150-milligrams sizes.

What is the best way to give trazodone to your dog?

Trazodone is a slow-release medication, so have your dog swallow the pill whole, instead of crushing it up. Follow this with food. An empty stomach hastens the absorption of trazodone in the body, which could make your dog feel nauseated and drowsy.

How should I safely store trazodone?

Veterinarians recommend that you keep the prescription in its airtight bottle out of paw’s reach, such as in a kitchen drawer. Do not leave it on a counter in direct sunlight. It does not need to be refrigerated.

How long until it takes effect?

In general, the peak effect of trazodone can take up to three hours, depending on the dog, according to Dr. Downing. Although you can’t always predict stress-triggering events like a sudden thunderstorm, you can plan the dose for expected stressful situations, such as the arrival of houseguests or a trip to the veterinary clinic.

How often can I give my dog trazodone?

This medicine can be safely given once a day or as needed, depending on your dog’s behavioral issues and the veterinarian’s prescription instructions. But it is not recommended to give a dose more than every eight hours. Some dogs only need this medication as a single, situational dose to calm them. If trazodone is used every day, it can lose its effectiveness over time.

What happens if I skip a dose or accidentally give my dog extra doses of trazodone?

If you forget to give your dog a scheduled daily dose, do not double up on the next dose, cautions Dr. Downing. Giving extra doses of trazodone can be dangerous. If your dog does receive multiple extra doses over a period of days, contact your veterinarian promptly for treatment recommendations.

How will my dog act after being given trazodone?

Most dogs will appear to be relaxed and calm. Some, however, can resemble a person who is a bit tipsy after drinking alcohol, describes Dr. Downing. That is why she instructs pet parents to restrict any dogs acting “tipsy” from activities requiring balance and focus, such as swimming, running, hiking, fetching and climbing.

Dr. Radosta adds that trazodone is prescribed to act as a “chill pill” in dogs, at times reducing emotional distress. It is not a sedative and does not make the dog feel or act like a four-legged zombie.

How long does trazodone stay in my dog’s system?

Trazodone is a short-acting medication that should lose effectiveness within 24 hours. However, dogs with kidney or liver issues may experience longer effects.

What are trazodone’s side effects?

Some dogs can experience vomiting, diarrhea, upset stomachs, constipation, dizziness and changes in appetite when taking trazodone. Some dogs may display dilated pupils or lethargy. Contact your veterinarian if your dog experiences any of these symptoms at the onset before they become severe.

Is there any drug that works well in concert with trazodone?

Sometimes, trazodone is not quite enough to be effective in relieving stress and anxiety, and your veterinarian may also prescribe gabapentin, which is an anticonvulsant, or an anti-seizure medicine. Like trazodone, gabapentin is prescribed “off-label” to dogs by veterinarians.

Trazodone and gabapentin complement each other and work in different pathways in the body, explains Dr. Downing.

Can my dog take other medications with trazodone?

There are many medications that can interact with trazodone in dogs, but unless you are giving your dog trazodone regularly, there shouldn’t be any health issues from a once-in-a-while use, says Dr. Downing.

That said, drug interactions can occur if your dog is also on the following medications:

• Diuretics (commonly prescribed for dogs retaining excessive fluid or dealing with congestive heart failure)
• Some anti-hypertension drugs to control blood pressure
• Metoclopramide, an anti-vomiting drug used to treat acid reflux, nausea and vomiting
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as meloxicam or carprofen, used to ease joint pain, swelling and stiffness
• Tramadol, an opioid used to manage pain, including post-surgical and osteoarthritis in dogs

Herbal supplements that contain St. John’s Wort can also cause an adverse reaction, adds Dr. Downing.

What are other examples of “off-label” SSRIs that may be prescribed to dogs dealing with behavior disorders?

A popular SSRI is fluoxetine, which is found in Prozac and Reconcile.

Do non-prescription calming options work?

There is a growing number of companies manufacturing calming chews and oils that may reduce anxiety in some dogs. Ingredients typically include organic hemp seed oil, chamomile, ginger root, valerian root, melatonin and passion flower, which are all known for calming properties. Discuss these supplements with your veterinarian as dogs react differently to these ingredients.

What other non-medication options can be used to compliment trazodone?

Some dogs benefit from acupressure sessions, which release feel-good endorphins naturally, says Dr. Downing. Another option is a compression garment, such as ThunderShirt, that applies a steady pressure on their torsos, much like receiving a loving hug.

Adaptil gives off calming faux canine pheromones through a collar, spray or diffuser form, adds Dr. Radosta. Always consult your veterinarian before considering any of these options.

How can I tell if my dog is stressed?

Highly stressed dogs are easy to spot: They tend to whine or attempt to flee the situation by hiding or trying to dart out the door.

Stress happens to everyone, including people and dogs. The key is how you deal with it, says Dr. Radosta. Here are more-subtle signs that your dog might be scared or stressed:

• Acting clingy
• Squinting or blinking his eyes
• Licking his lips
• Lifting his front paw
• Pacing
• Refusing treats
• Shaking his body
• Suddenly shedding heavily
• Turning his head
• Yawning

How trazodone helped my dog, Bujeau

When I got married five years ago, we took the time to properly introduce our cats and dogs to one another. Among them was my spouse’s gentle giant of a dog named Bujeau. She was a 90-pound Bernese Mountain Dog mix who loved cats and was generally mellow except for two triggers – thunderstorms and veterinary visits. She had developed severe noise phobia from the loud, booming thunderstorms typical in Dallas, Texas, and she went into major panic mode by drooling, shaking and even piddling when entering the veterinary clinic for even routine exams. She tried to squeeze her mountain of a body under my chair in the lobby.

Working with my veterinarian, Dr. Debora Charles of the Casa Linda Animal Clinic, we decided that Bujeau would greatly benefit from trazodone before predictable events that caused her panic.

Trazodone was a positive game changer for Bujeau. I gave her a tablet about 90 minutes before a storm or vet visit. I also paired the trazodone with a high-grade treat, usually small pieces of boiled chicken, to help counter condition her association with these stress triggers.

Trazodone was a success. Bujeau even remained calm and mellow while being bathed, brushed and trimmed by the professional pet groomer at the veterinary clinic.

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Arden Moore is a pet behavior consultant, master certified pet first aid instructor, best-selling author, host of Arden Moore’s Four Legged Life national radio show and host of the Oh Behave Show on Pet Life Radio. Learn more at www.ardenmoore.com.

Melissa L. Kauffman

Covering the pet world for more than 30 years, Melissa L. Kauffman has been an editor/writer for a wide variety of pet magazines and websites from the small critters and parrots to cats and dogs. Her advisory team of pets — rescue dogs Tampa Bay and Murphy Brown, plus Cirneco dell’Etna Liberty Belle and rescued parrots Deacon and Pi-Pi — help keep her on top of the latest and greatest pet health research, training and products, anything to give keep them in the high life they are accustomed to. Follow Tampa and his crew on Instagram @tampa.bay.pup.report while Melissa can always be found working on the next issue of Catster and Dogster magazines at caster.com and dogster.com. Contact her ONLY at dogstermag@belvoir.com. (Any email not from belvoir.com is not this Melissa L Kauffman.)