Healthy Dog Teeth
Keeping your dog’s teeth clean can help keep your dog healthy. Use a soft toothbrush. Start by offering your dog a taste of the dog toothpaste. The next time, let him taste the toothpaste, then run your finger along the gums of the upper teeth. Repeat the process with the tooth brush. Get the bristles […]
Senior Dog
As you may know, dogs age at a rapid pace and before you know it your best friend might be considered a senior dog. As your dog ages from adult to senior, you may notice some changes and special requirements that need to be met. Knowing what to expect can better prepare dog owners to […]
Anal Glands in Dogs
What Are the Anal Glands? The anal glands (also called anal sacs) are two glands that secrete a pungent fluid that travels through tiny ducts that open into the anus. Typically, this fluid is released during defecation. Where Are the Anal Glands Located? The anal glands are located on either side of the anus, just […]
Function of the Skin and Hair Coat in Dogs
What Are the Skin and Hair Coat? The skin and hair coat comprise the outer covering of the body and the skin is the largest organ of the body. Together with the claws, pads and skin glands, they form the integumentary system. Where Are the Skin and Hair Coat Located? The skin is located on […]
Dewclaw Removal
Dewclaw removal is the surgical removal of the first digit, sometimes referred to as the thumb. This toe is located on the inside of the paws. What Are the Indications for Dewclaw Removal? Dewclaw removal is most often performed in puppies around 2-5 days of age to comply with specific breed standards or to prevent […]
Structure and Function of the Claws and Footpads in Dogs
What Are the Claw and Footpad? Claws are appendages at the extremities of the digits of dogs. The footpad is the tough spongy pads of thick skin beneath each foot. Where Are the Claw and Footpad Located? The toenail, or claw, emerges from the end of each toe. The foot also has cushiony pads for […]
Function of the Tail in Dogs
What is the tail? The tail is the posterior elongated part of a dog that extends beyond the trunk or main part of the body. Where is the tail located? The tail is located at the end of the vertebral column. In other words, it is the hind-most part of the backbone. What is the […]
Why Do Dogs Wag Their Tails?
An old joke about wagging tails goes like this: A young boy is afraid to pet a dog. An adult says, “He’s friendly – look, he’s even wagging his tail.” The boy responds, “Yeah, but he’s barking and growling – I don’t know which end to believe!” This poor excuse for a joke contains a […]
Why Do Dogs Growl?
Coming across a growling dog is a frightening experience, as any mail carrier can tell you. The sound of a growl heralds the menacing possibility of sudden attack. Our first instinct – to leave the dog alone – is a good one. But there are different qualities of growls used in different situations. Growling is […]
Why Do Dogs Howl?
The family gathers around the piano to sing a few favorite songs. As musical tones float in harmony from the group, the dog joins in with a howl that just doesn’t seem to have a place in “Row, Row Your Boat.” Relax – your dog’s howl isn’t a comment on the family’s singing ability (though […]
