A new dog owner might get surprised when their pet fully grows up within a year, but some get worried when their dog does not become full-sized even after a year.

Well, this isn't unusual. Most small and medium dogs become fully grown in a year, but larger dogs may take at least two years before they become fully-grown.

This stage of life also marks the need for constant care, diet, training, and socialization for pets; hence, pet owners need to be well aware of their physical and mental stimulation to help them grow better.

But, many people still wonder when their pup has fully grown.

How to tell when your Pup is fully-grown

In most cases, dogs stop growing between 6 and 18 months of age, but some pups continue growing until 24 months.

But not all canines grow at the same rate, with smaller breed dogs growing up much faster than their larger counterparts. This is because dogs with more prominent bones and joints need a bit more time to grow and develop.

Giant dogs like Mastiffs, Great Pyrenees, Saint Bernard, and Newfoundland take the longest to reach full size.

Giant breeds like Great Dane reach their physical maturity within 18 months, but they keep adding muscle and reach their total weight only at age two or three.

Let’s take a look at how long it takes for each dog breed to grow fully.

Small Breeds

Small breeds grow up quickly. They finish growing at around half the age of their larger counterparts.

Small breeds such as Boston Terriers, Jack Russell Terriers, Chihuahuas, and Pugs reach their full-sized framework between six and eight months of age, and they'll keep filling weight until twelve months old.

The small breed dogs also enjoy a longer lifespan compared to larger dogs because they age comparatively slower.

Medium Breeds

Medium breed puppies might take just a bit longer to grow than small breed puppies. You can expect your medium breed dog to reach their physical maturity between twelve and fifteen months of age.

Although they get bigger by 15 months, they usually keep adding weight until they are closer to 18 months.

Airedale Terrier, American Pit Bull, Border Collie, and Standard Poodle are considered medium breeds.

Large Breeds

The large breed is a broad category of dogs divided into two categories; large breeds and giant breeds.

Dogs that reach an adult weight of >50 lb (23 kg) are considered large breeds. The average growth period for large breeds is 12 to 18 months, and they reach maturity between 18 to 24 months, much later than smaller-breed dogs.

Some of the typical large breeds include German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, and Weimaraners.

Giant Breeds

The giant breeds are larger dogs like Great Dance, Mastiffs, Great Pyrenees, and Saint Bernard that reach above 45 kg (99lb).

They take the longest to reach full size. Some giant breeds take at least 18 months to grow the basic framework and continue growing in weight until age two or three.

However, these dogs also age quickly than smaller breeds. Mastiffs live only up to 7 to 8 years, and Dogue de Bordeaux lives only until 5 to 8 years.

How to estimate your dog's full size?

One way to estimate their total size is to use an online puppy size calculator.

• It becomes a bit harder to know how long it takes mixed breeds to become full-sized. You will have to do some guessing by comparing both breed’s weight and size. Not all mixed breeds grow at the same rate.
• Their gender will determine their adult sizes and weight. Male dogs weigh more and are more significant than female dogs.
• Puppies experience the most significant growth rate from birth to about six months of age and weigh 30% of their adult weight. You'd know how much your pup will grow at this time.
• In most pet dogs, sexual maturity occurs between the ages of 6 to 12 months. Smaller breeds reach puberty quicker than large breeds.
• Smaller breeds tend to have their first estrous cycle (reproductive stage) at an earlier age, while large and giant breeds may not come into heat until they have reached eighteen months to two years of age.

The Stages of Puppy Development

Generally, a pup's development is divided into five stages that start from birth and last until age two.

There are some similarities that all puppies face when growing. This vital info will help you recognize the growth in your pup regardless of breed size.

Neonatal (Newborn - 2 weeks)

Pups at this age sleep most of the day because they need sleep for mental and physical growth. They will wake up mostly to nurse. The birth weight will also double within a week.

Transitional (2 - 4 weeks)

The period between two to four weeks signifies a transitional phase where your pup will open its eyes for the first time, learn to walk, and grow its teeth.

Juvenile (4 - 12 weeks)

Pups aged four to twelve weeks are considered juveniles. Most small breeds will reach their physical maturity within this period. The juvenile period precedes puberty.

Adolescence (6 - 12 months)

Adolescence marks the zenith of their physical and mental growth. Female dogs may begin to go into heat. It also marks the slowing down of physical growth as most breeds are fully grown by this time.

Full maturity (1 - 2 years)

It's the time when your pup entirely becomes an adult dog. They will stop growing bigger but will keep adding weight over time. For giant breeds, this stage marks an important developmental age.

What causes a puppy to stop growing?

It may be worrying when your pup isn't growing regularly or is too small for their age.

There are certain instances when your dog may stop growing naturally, and there are several reasons for their stunted growth, ranging from genetics to intestinal worms.

Here's we'll discuss few common reasons for stunted growth in dogs.

Intestinal worm

Pups that are infected with hookworms or roundworms may experience stunted growth.  If a puppy has an extremely heavy worm infection, the worms can steal enough calories from its body; hence, slowing down its growth.

A poor hair coat, diarrhea, and a big potbelly are signs of worm infection.

Malnutrition

Malnutrition is one of the leading causes of stunted growth in dogs. Pups need to eat nutritious food to ensure the healthy growth of tissue cells.

Ensure adequate food and nutrition that supports bones, muscles, and tissue growth in pups. Also, ensure that you don't overfeed your dog or give supplements when they're still growing because too much nutrition can have adverse effects.

You can be assured that strenuous exercise or spaying and neutering does not affect their physical growth; however, you must not indulge them in strenuous exercise. It may damage the growth plates of the long bones and cause abnormal development.

There is a rare disease called pituitary dwarfism in German Shepherds. Some Labrador Retrievers have a genetic component, but these conditions are rare and not generally seen in companion animals.

 Check this infographic for more information. 

To learn more about healthy physical and mental growth in dogs, get in touch with Urban Pet Hospital & Resort, the best doggy daycare in Urbandale.

Each year many pets get injured in household fire incidents, with over 40,000 deaths. This includes dogs, cats, rabbits, and other small animals.

AmericanHumane.org estimates that more than 500,000 pets are affected by house fires, with over a thousand house fires started by pets themselves.

The National Pet Fires Safety Day is celebrated every July 15 throughout the country to remind us that we need to plan for fire safety at home.

In association with ADT Security Services, the American Kennel Club declared National Pet Fire Safety Day in 2009 to educate pet owners on how to take steps to prevent fires and plan for unexpected emergencies effectively.

Our pets are as much a part of our family and we need to keep them safe from potential hazards. The best way to protect them from the effects of a house fire is to plan beforehand.

The first safety measure is to prevent a fire at home, but how do you do that? Let's take a look.

Preventing a Fire

Here are some tips to prevent accidental fire at home.

Extinguish open flames

Open flame exposure is one of the most common ways that your pet may accidentally start a fire. Pets are curious animals and will investigate open fires, including candles, fireplace, and cooking appliances.

Ensure you've fireproofed your home by using flameless candles and an enclosed fireplace. Additionally, putting covers over stove knobs and discouraging climbing in the kitchen can also help prevent accidental fire outbreaks.

Along with starting an accidental fire, your pet may quickly get burned during fire outbreaks.

Keep Kitchen at bay

The kitchen is the primary place where all the fire appliances are kept. A wandering pet can climb onto stoves to search for food or open the microwave lid. A burning stove knob not only burns your dog's nose but also may start a fire.

Ensure to remove stove knobs or protect them with covers before leaving the kitchen. Also, keep candles and other electrical appliances out of your pet’s reach.

Pet-proof Electrical wires

Many pets enjoy chewing on stuff. Dogs and small animals such as hamsters and rabbits often chew on loose wires, making areas with lamps and plugs potential fire-starting hazards.

To ensure proper safety, you'd need to secure loose wires and ensure they're kept out of their reach. Wires lying on the floor are common prey for these animals. While chewing on the wires, they can get themselves electrocuted as well.

Test your smoke alarms regularly

Many homes are fitted with smoke alarms which often come in handy during a fire outbreak. It's a good idea to check your smoke alarms regularly to ensure it works when needed.

There is a little button on it that you can press to test it. If it beeps weakly, then you need to change the batteries ASAP.

Always check your dryer.

Depending on what type of dryer you have, they need to be inspected every year. We all get in a hurry when we’re doing our chores but, don’t forget to clean out your lint trap every time you put in a new load of laundry.

Keep fire extinguishers around.

Fire extinguishers are always the best defense against fire breakouts. You want to make sure you have one in every room with a potential threat including kitchen and washer room.

Planning for Fire

According to the Red Paw Emergency Relief Team, during a house fire, 99 percent of the time, animals never run out of the fire building. They always go hide somewhere they feel safe.

Hence, the number one step in preparing your pet for fire is to make a safety plan. Ensure to practice this plan with the whole family and pet, so everyone knew whose job it is to grab the pet, emergency supplies.

Here are few ways to plan for fire.

Take basic safety precautions

Fireproof your home by installing necessary safety measures. Install smoke detectors that quickly detect smoke and carbon monoxide.

As a pet owner, consider installing a monitored smoking detectors that will notify the fire department if a fire starts while you're away.

Keep your dog collared.

Frightened animals may act erratically and run away during fire outbreaks from emergency personal and into danger when they feel threatened. Keeping a collar on them and a leash near the door will make it easier for rescuers to grab your pet and get them outside to safety quickly.

As a safety precaution, it's a good to microchip your pet just in case you get separated during an emergency.

Protect your pets when you're away

In an ideal situation, a fire breaks out when the homeowners are away. However, taking few precautions will help your furry friend escape when the fire starts.

If you can, keep your pet near an exit while you’re away so they will have a better chance of getting out.

Plan your escape route

Just like your typical escape route, your pet escape strategy starts with identifying all of the exits and planning their evacuation route.

You can use pet gates to keep them in a designated area close to an exit. Also, know your pet's hideaway spots because they will likely retreat during the chaos.

Emergency Care Tips

Your pet will probably suffer from different kinds of fire injuries, including third-degree burns, smoke inhalation, shock, and loss of consciousness.

Planning for emergency care will help respond to your pet's injuries immediately, hence even saving their life.

Here are some emergency safety tips.

• If your pet suffers an injury during a fire, take them immediately to a veterinarian.
  Keep safety aid at home, including gauze pads, alcohol wipes, ice packs, antibiotic ointment, and towels.
• Learn to perform CPR on pets.
• Incase of external bleeding, apply pressure to the wound and elevate until you patch up the wound using a safety aid.
• Treatment of oxygen inhalation can only be treated by providing supplemental oxygen with 24hr monitoring. Refer to the nearest hospital or clinic that provides pet-related emergency services.

Pet Oxygen Masks

Here is the list of few nonprofits that provide pet oxygen masks for emergency purposes.

The Project Breathe Program http://www.invisiblefence.com/why-invisible-fence/project-breathe
Project Paws Alive http://projectpawsalive.org/pet-oxygen-recovery-mask-kits
The Association of Professional Animal Waste Specialists http://apaws.org/about/support/donate 

An estimated 358,500 home fires occur every year where 50% of these fires start in the kitchen. Preparing your family members and pets for a possible fire outbreak will help save lives in the nick of time.

Check this infographic out for more information. 

Get in touch with Urban Pet Hospital & Resort, the best hospital in Urbandale, to get emergency pet services, mobile emergency response, and veterinary services.

Rabbits make wonderful pets and are suitable for people who enjoy playful, fascinating, and independent pets at home.

They are the most common form of a pet found in homes today. Over 1,534,000 US households keep 2,244,000 rabbits as pets. However, although they are the third most popular companion animal in the US, they also make the third most abandoned pets.

Many rabbits land up in shelter and animal rescue every year, incredibly a few weeks after Easter!

Why are rabbits mostly abandoned?

One of the significant problems is overbreeding of rabbits. Breeders often encourage an overpopulation crisis in shelters and rescues for producing animals with a particular set of physical traits.

Moreover, rabbits aren't short-lived, low-maintenance, or cheap pets. They require a lot of care and high cost, which most pet owners are unaware of. Hence, most pet rabbits are abandoned during the few months after Easter.

When rabbits reach puberty (at five eight months), they begin displaying unwelcome behavior such as spraying, poor litter habits, aggression or fear, and chewing. Children often lose interest in fully-grown rabbits, which often becomes an expensive burden.

These are the primary reasons why rabbits are abandoned.

Why adopt an abandoned rabbit?

February has been proclaimed "Adopt a Rescued Rabbit Month to raise awareness about rescuing and adopting rabbits."

If you love rabbits and are considering bringing a new pet, you should seriously consider adopting a rabbit. Adopting a rabbit saves two lives, the one being brought home and the one that will take its place to find its own home.

Adopting a rabbit also helps avoid costs that may include spaying/neutering and the first veterinary exam. Bringing in grown-up rabbits may also avoid the need for litter training and early socialization.

Currently, there are 50 breeds recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association that come in all sizes and colors.

Things to Keep in Mind

Here are some essential things to keep in mind while adopting a rescued rabbit.

Expenses

Owning a pet rabbit comes with added financial responsibility. Rabbits aren't cheap pets; they required proper housing, diet, house proofing, supplements, spay/neuter, and occasional veterinary bills.

Expect to pay $20-$40 for a store rabbit and $5-$20 for a rescued rabbit. The ongoing expenses will range from $20+ per month—the check-ups average $25-$55 per visit. For a high-quality pellet, hay, and fresh foods, a reasonable estimate is at least $25 per month.

Housing

Rabbits are social animals, and they enjoy being raised both outdoors and indoors. Housing for rabbits ranges from outdoor hatches to indoor cages.

Rabbits need social interaction, plenty of exercise, and many enrichment activities; hence a homely environment is essential to keep them indulged at all times. They should also have regular access to a secure outside area.

You can let them accessible when you have successfully bunny-proofed your house.

Bunny proofing

When you bring a bunny home, you must consider bunny proofing your house to keep both your things and bunny safe. Rabbits are curious animals, and they enjoy nibbling on almost everything they may find.

Rabbit proofing your home involves three things:

• Preventing destruction of your property.
• Protecting your companion rabbits from harm.
• Providing safe and fun chewing alternatives for your rabbit.

Bunny proofing also prevents rabbits from chewing on electrical cords and being badly burned or electrocuted.

Enrichment

You'd need to keep your pet engaged, entertained, and indulged in preventing damages. Enrichment activities allow your pet to nibble on essential papers, rugs, and upholstery.

You must consider providing them with entertainment to keep them indulged. Keep empty toilet paper rolls, old phone books, and other paper products in their shelter so that they can nibble on them.

Nutrition

Pet rabbits need a high-fiber (18% to 22% DM), low-protein (12% to 16% DM) diet for maintenance. Timothy grass hay pellets should be fed for maintenance because they are lower in protein, calcium, and calories than alfalfa pellets.

Fiber is the most staple diet of rabbits; hence they must have access to unlimited grass hays at all times. Be prepared to spend at least $25 per month on high-quality pellet, hay, and fresh foods.

Children and Rabbits

Rabbits should be supervised when small children are around. The animal experts advise that because rabbits are physically delicate and require specialized veterinary care, they are not appropriate for families with young children.

What to Do If You Found a Stray Rabbit?

If you land up in a situation where you would rescue a stray rabbit, these are what you need to do.

Alert the animal rescue

The first thing you need to do is inform the veterinary clinic, shelter, or animal rescue around your area about the stray animal. The rescue center has likely heard about the stray rabbit.

Before you jump into rescuing the animal, you should keep the animal rescue in touch. They would likely send help immediately to bring the stray animal in their safe possession.

Capture the rabbit

If you've spotted the stray rabbit in your backyard, around the home, nearby park, or street, and are not quite sure what to do, the first order of business is to capture the animal and put it in a safe place.

It's often easier to lure young bunnies and catch it by hand, but most of the time, it will take a while. Place out water, food pellets, or fresh vegetable outside. Use a net to capture the rabbit, or in the meantime, call the animal rescue for help.

Determine the rabbit species

Rabbitrunaway.org.au recommends establishing whether the rabbit is either a bush rabbit, a baby hare (or leveret), or a domestic pet. Bushbabies and leverets are best left alone as their mothers or nests could be nearby.

It's better not to move the wild rabbits. However, you can keep checking every day to see if the mother has come back to feed the babies.

Assess the rabbit's health

WildlifeHotline.com offers advice on how you should check for dehydration to determine if the mother has fed the bunnies recently. The site also provides a checklist to help you assess the animal's wellbeing.

If you found a stray animal that shows signs of bleeding, difficulty breathing, parasites, or injury, the best thing is to take it to a veterinarian.

Keep the rabbit safe.

Once you have succeeded in capturing the rabbit, you should keep it safe until you take it to the animal center. A crate, a bathtub, or a large box can serve as a temporary home. Don't forget to bring a bowl of fresh water and fresh vegetables.

Adopting a rescued rabbit is way cheaper than purchasing from a breeder. Furthermore, the rescue centers can help match you to the right rabbit as they already know about their animals' personalities.

Get in touch with Urban Pet Hospital, the best pet hospital in Urbandale.

Companion animals make great pets. They take the whole "human's best friend" notion to a whole new level. Unlike other pets, companion pets keep you occupied and help you cope with loneliness, stress, and disabilities.

Why do you need a companion animal?

It’s been medically proven that animals can help lower your blood pressure and beat stress and loneliness. Many people suffer from a lack of companionship, which often leads to the constant feeling of loneliness and depression.

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) estimates that 16.2 million U.S. adults had at least one major depressive episode in a year. This represents 6.7 percent of the U.S. adult population.

In these instances, a companion pet can be beneficial to combat loneliness and depression. They're great listeners and never get sick of spending time with you.

In a recent Human-Animal Bond Research Institute survey, 74% of pet owners said having a pet improved their mental health.

Desiree Wiercyski, a life coach in Fort Wayne, says that "A pet can remind you that you're not alone. Pets offer unconditional love, which can be extraordinarily soothing when feeling isolated."

Although these pets aren't individually trained to perform specific tasks like the service pets, they still make the best companion animals.

So, what are the different types of animals that will become your new companion?

Top 5 Companion Animals

Here is the list of companion pets that might be the right fit for you.

Dog

Dogs are incredibly affectionate and caring animals. They have been with their human companions since they were first domesticated 10,000 years ago. The years of living together have conditioned them to spend significant time with humans.

Dogs' tendency to mercilessly lick their owners is a prime example of their affection. If you're wondering, they love socializing with humans, but if you're not convinced, here are some known facts about keeping a companion dog.

• They’re scientifically proven to lower stress and blood pressure.
• They help their owners to conquer anxiety.
• They boost the sense of self-esteem.
• They support social connections.
• They become a close part of your family, often helping in raising small kids.

Here how you can make the best out of your relationship with a dog.

1. Go for a daily walk with your dog.
2. Indulge in playtime with them.
3. Indulge in physical activity together, such as exercising, hiking, running, and throwing Frisbee.
4. Spend time snuggling and talking

Some of the most preferred companion dog breeds are Papillion, Chihuahua, French bulldog, Golden Retriever, Shih Tzu, Irish Wolfhound, American Staffordshire Terrier, and Pug.

Cat

Cat is one of the most beloved pets in the world. In fact, it is the most kept pet in the US.

According to a national pet owners survey, there was a total of approximately 95.6 million cats living in households in 2017.

• Although most people describe felines as cold, disinterested, and aloof, they actually make a great companion pet. Dogs and cats show their affection differently, but cats have proven to have been loyal and affectionate animals in most cases.
• You can find yourself a great companion in a cat or two. Most households own more than one cat, so you too can adopt more than one companion feline.
• Here are some common ways for cats to show affection: snuggling, hugging, licking, kneading, purring, playing, protecting you, and rubbing against you.
• If you’re looking for a pet that requires a little less attention and maintenance, a cat might be your best bet. They're slightly cheaper to upkeep than dogs.
• Animal behaviorists suggest that you should spend at least 20 to 60 minutes daily with your cat. You can spend time playing with them, talking to them, or giving them a treat. Cats also love being brushed and groomed.

Rabbit

While dogs and cats take away the most attention and applause as pets, rabbits often make an unusual companion to people. If you're wondering, rabbits are very friendly and quickly adapt to human companionship. However, they'd need proper housing and upkeep.

• Rabbits have always been outdoor pets, but many pet owners choose to keep them indoors and outdoor. In general, they need an appropriate kennel, exercise, socialization, and diet.
• Rabbits are social animals, so ensure to keep them close. Also, make sure they have a place to relax.
• Don't forget to bunny-proof your house. They will find a way to chew cables, computer wires, couch piping, rug, etc.
• The staple rabbit diet is fiber. They're also high-maintenance pets.
• Spend significantly with your pet. You can choose to walk with them for 30 minutes twice a day and play for 10 minutes, six times a day.

Birds

Birds are quite an unusual pet for most people because they lack experience in handling an aviary pet. If you care for them right, they'll become highly loving pets. Many bird species are specially bred to become human companions.

For years, birds have been used as therapy animals, as they can provide many mental health benefits, just like the animals that precede them on this list. Ensure to feed them nutritional meals. Birds love seeds, pelleted foods, vegetables, and small amounts of fruit.

• Some of the most kept pet birds include Parakeet, Cockatiel, Cockatoo, Lovebird, Finch, Conure, Parrot, and Dove.
• There are a lot of ways to spend time with pet birds. Some of them include
• Fetch and retrieve is a game where you toss a small Koosh ball in its direction. If you're lucky, it'll catch and bring it back to you.
• Birdie Basketball is another game where you design a birdie-sized basketball hoop and teach them to toss a cloth ball.

Hamsters

Hamsters aren't unusual companion pets; instead, many people own hamsters. Around 11 million people keep hamsters as pets in the world.

They don't require constant attention that makes them an ideal pet for busy people. However, make sure to provide them a proper residence, meals, and privacy.

They're incredibly cheap to keep and maintain. A single hamster can survive up to three years. Some common types of pet hamsters include dwarf hamsters, Syrian hamsters, golden hamsters, and teddy bear hamsters.

Here are few things to keep in mind.

• Choose a habitat with many passages to hide and burrow, like Critter tail tubes connected and a 6-ounce chew-proof water bottle for bedding.
• Keep them out of sight but not away from the sounds of your family. They enjoy privacy but also love staying close.
• They can bit when you mishandle them, so be careful. They also need enough sleep.

Make sure you follow this routine each day.

• Clean the toilet area daily
• Spot change bedding as needed (when soiled/wet)
• Wipeout their food dish weekly
• Change water daily
• Empty their entire habitat weekly or twice a week
• Place all new bedding weekly
• Feed them hamster pellets, small amounts of fresh fruits, vegetables, and nuts.

Guinea pigs, horses, fancy rats, and sugar gliders are other popular companion pets to keep. Horses do need a separate kennel and a lot of space and maintenance, so it isn't a usual choice for a companion pet.

When considering exotic pets, it is also essential to examine local regulations and laws to ensure that it is legal to own a particular type of pet.

Having a pet can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience, but you must provide them with a safe and nurturing environment to ensure their safe keep.

Check this infographic out for more information 

Get in touch with Urban Pet Hospital & Resort, the best pet hospital in Urbandale, to learn more about adopting and raising a companion pet.

First of all, DO NOT WORRY! Being in heat isn't a canine disease but a natural sign that tells your dog is ready to mate.

There comes a time in the life of an intact female dog when they’re ready to breed. This period is called being in the heat or 'Estrus.' You can avoid this by spaying your dog, but we’ll come to that later.

Do you want to help your dog through its heat cycle? Let's learn more about Estrus before we jump into tips for helping your furry friend.

What is Estrus or Being in Heat?

Female dogs come into the heat twice per year. Although the interval can vary between breeds and dog to dog, small breed dogs may cycle three times per year, and large dogs may only cycle once every 12 months.

Like in human, heat in dogs signify 'menstruation.' That means, frequent blood discharge and urge to urinate with behavioral changes.

Her estrogen levels will dramatically increase and then decrease. At this time, the eggs are released from her ovaries.

The dogs first go into heat between the ages of 6 - 24 months. Each estrus period lasts about 18 days.

This is also the time when male dogs will be attracted to female dogs for mating. Keep a lookout for dogs around your house, and try keeping your female dogs indoor to prevent pregnancy.

Did you know male dogs are attracted towards a female dog for the full 18 days, but the female dog will only be receptive to males for about half that time?

How do you know if your dog is in heat?

Toy breeds or small dogs first come into heat for the first time as young as four months, while large dogs come into heat when they're as old as two years. On average, each dog first comes into heat between the age of 6 to 15 months.

There are telltale signs of estrus that you can identify without much difficulty.

Look out for physical and behavioral changes. The dogs often react differently when they come in heat.

• Swollen vulva
• Bloody or straw-colored discharge from the vulva
• Receptive to male dogs
• Excessive licking of the genital area
• Agitated, nervous, or aggressive behavior
• Urinating more frequently
• Change in tail position

Vaginal discharge is the most common sign of estrus.

Keep in mind; there are four stages of the canine heat cycle.

Proestrus

Proestrus marks the start of the heat cycle. The telltale signs include the swollen vulva, blood-tinged discharge, excessive licking of the genitals, and aggression toward male dogs.

It lasts approximately 9-10 days. After that, the bleeding will become more watery or stop.

Estrus

The estrus phase is also known as the fertile phase. This is when she's ready to mate and is receptive to males. This phase is marked by a frequent urge to urinate and slowed vaginal discharge. Since they're ready to mate, they will approach male dogs with their tail held to the side.

Diestrus

The Diestrus phase occurs directly after the "in-heat" stage. It allows your dog to either return to the normal stage or develops into a pregnancy.

They will no longer be receptive to male dogs, and her vulva will return to standard size.

Anestrus

Anestrus is also called the 'inactive phase' as there are no signs of hormonal or sexual behavior in dogs.

What should you do when your dog is in heat?

If you haven't yet spayed your dog, the chances are that it's a tense situation for both of you.

Caring and cleaning

Dogs will bleed when they're in heat, so be prepared to deal with a lot of blood.

• Invest in a good doggy diaper, disposable or reusable ones with liners.
• Designate a special blankie for her use during this time. Dogs love to spend more time sleeping when in the heat, so a comfy blanket will be a great help.
• Keep disposable wipes on hand so you can rapidly swipe across the floor and furniture.
• Offer a safe, chew-resistant toy that she can nudge up against. This, too, will provide a sense of security.
• Ensure to provide enough water and nutritious food.

Don't let your dog out in the yard alone.

Male dogs will find any opportunity to mate with your dog when she's in heat. A dog can easily find a female emitting breeding pheromone, so it's better to keep her inside.

Don't let your dog off-leash

When you're walking your dog outside, such as in a park, don't let it off-leash. The chances are that she'll intend on finding a male dog and wander off.

Consult a Vet

Consult a veterinarian if you notice signs of illness. Dogs can experience health issues immediately after a heat cycle, including bacterial growth in the uterine lining, which can cause a life-threatening pyometra or uterine infection.

Spay your dog

Spaying your dog is a permanent solution to prevent your dog from being in heat. If you have no plans to breed your dog, spaying is the best solution.

Spaying is also a good idea from the dog's point of view because each year, an estimated 8 million animals are euthanized in shelters across the country. Spaying will ensure that lesser animals are landing up in shelter homes.

• Spay or castration is a sterilization process that female dogs undergo where their uterus and ovaries are removed.
• Surgical sterilization removes specific reproductive organs. Ovariohysterectomy or typical "spay" removes ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus from a female dog.
• Hysterectomy is a surgical alternative that removes the uterus and part of the fallopian tube but keeps the ovaries intact to produce hormones.
• Ovariectomy removes ovaries from the female dogs, but the uterus remains intact.

Early spaying of female dogs and cats can help protect them from serious health problems later in life, such as uterine infections and breast cancer.

What is the right time to spay?

Although veterinarians recommend spaying your dog as young as four months old to ensure she never experiences a heat cycle, much recent research indicates that allowing your dog to grow before spaying ensures that the hormones are kept intact for necessary skeletal development.

Discuss health concerns with your veterinarian in Urbandale before deciding what age is appropriate to spay your furry friend.

All in all, caring for your dog is more than necessary. You need to be attentive to her physical and mental needs, giving her lots of affection, and be aware that she might be irritable.

Check this infographics for more information.

Get in touch with Urban Pet Hospital & Resort, the best pet hospital in Urbandale, to learn more about spaying your dogs.

Ehrlichiosis is unlike any other canine disease. If you find pronouncing 'Ehrlichiosis' difficult, you can call it 'Canine Typhus.'

Also known as a canine rickettsiosis, canine hemorrhagic fever, or tracker dog disease, Ehrlichiosis is a tick-borne disease common in dogs. While in some cases, it also infects humans and other animals. The news of Ehrlichiosis in dogs comes out every year, but not many dog owners are aware of the disease, its symptoms, and possible treatment.

Here is everything you need to know about this canine disease.  

What is Ehrlichiosis?

Ehrlichiosis is caused by the bite from Ehrlichia canis, a rickettsial species. It infects the white blood cells. Although there are many species of Ehrlichia, only a few species affect dogs.

Because of its origin in military dogs, it's often referred to as tracker dog disease. Many experts often refer to it is as tropical canine pancytopenia. It is also possible for dogs to become infected through a blood transfusion from an infected dog. Although.

This tick-borne disease also infects humans and other species, including cats. However, dogs do not transmit the bacteria to humans or other animals; instead, ticks transmit to the Ehrlichia organism. Clinical signs of human ehrlichiosis include fever, headache, eye pain, and gastrointestinal upset.

What makes it different from other tick-borne diseases?

Ehrlichiosis is caused by the bite from an infected tick or brown dog tick carrying the bacterium Ehrlichia Canis. It first gained attention when the military canine returning from Vietnam during the 1970s started showing unusual symptoms that made it hard to diagnose.

Ehrlichia Canis was first defined in 1935 and found in the US in 1963. Today, the pathogen is found throughout the US, South America, Asia, Africa, and Australia.

The disease seems to be particularly severe in German Shepherd Dogs and Doberman Pinschers.

Stages of Ehrlichiosis

Dogs mostly appear perfectly normal for one to three weeks after being infected by E.canis. If your dog fails to fight off the infection during this time, it will enter an acute phase of infection when the bacteria start reproducing and spreading throughout the body.

The symptoms last for two to four weeks, after which many dogs appear to get better on their own called a subclinical phase which can last for months to years.

Some dogs never progress out of the subclinical phase, but others eventually enter the chronic phase of the disease.

Ehrlichiosis is divided into three stages

1. Acute (early disease)
2. Sub-clinical (no outward signs of disease)
3. Clinical or chronic (Long-standing infection)

Acute Phase

The acute phase is defined by telltale symptoms including;

• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Respiratory distress
• Weight loss
• Bleeding disorders (Hemorrhage or bleeding)
• Neurological disturbances (Meningitis)

The stage lasts for two to four weeks. If your dog is lucky, they might fight off the infection; otherwise, they'll head into the sub-clinical phase.

Sub-clinical phase

This phase represents the stage of infection with the presence of organism but zero symptoms. It's often called the worst phase because there are no clinical signs, so the disease goes undetected. The only way to address the infection is through a blood test.

Clinical Ehrlichiosis

It only occurs when the dog's immune system fails to eliminate the organism. There are telltale signs of clinical ehrlichiosis, including;

• Anemia
• Fever
• Poor appetite
• Bleeding episodes
• Lameness
• Eye problems
• Neurological problems
• Swollen limbs

The failure of bone marrow prevents the manufacture of new blood cells.

Diagnosing Ehrlichiosis in dogs

The diagnosis is often complicated because dogs infected with Ehrlichia may also be infected with other diseases carried by ticks, such as Babesia, Lyme disease, or Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

You can only diagnose ehrlichiosis when your dog starts showing symptoms, so you need to be awry about the early signs, including fever, lethargy, poor appetite, and lymph node enlargement.

Whichever form of ehrlichiosis a dog has, it is essential that he be evaluated by a veterinarian as quickly as possible.

As part of the diagnostic process, the vets will collect a complete health history, perform a thorough physical exam, and then run a complete blood count (CBC), blood chemistry panel, urinalysis, fecal examination, and specific lab work aimed at diagnosing ehrlichiosis.

Also called serologic testing, the vet will check for the presence of antibodies against the Ehrlichia organism.

Your dog should test positive for exposure to be diagnosed with ehrlichiosis, which is only possible at the sub-clinical phase.

Prognosis

The prognosis is suitable for dogs with acute ehrlichiosis. Your vet will predict possible symptoms in the future and advise regular tests to assess the development of infection.

Treatment

Ehrlichiosis responds well to treatment with the antibiotic Doxycycline. However, a long course of treatment, usually four weeks, is needed. Alternatively, imidocarb can also be used.

If caught before the clinical stage, E. Canis is almost entirely curable.

In severe cases where blood cell counts are very low, blood transfusions may be needed. A dog experiencing anemia or bleeding will require a blood transfusion.

Reinfection is possible, as immunity to Ehrlichia bacteria is not long-lasting.  The prolonged presence of the bacteria leads to hemorrhaging, which typically results in death.

Preventing Ehrlichiosis in Dogs

Ehrlichiosis is a recurring disease, and dogs who have been infected once can develop it again. However, there aren't any vaccines currently available to protect dogs against ehrlichiosis.

For now, the best way to prevent your dog from getting ehrlichiosis is to protect them from tick bites.

For More information please check this infographic.

Talk to your veterinarian in Urbandale to use the best form of tick prevention based on your dog’s health, lifestyle, and the prevalence of ticks and ehrlichiosis in your area. Tick bites are expected during the spring and summer seasons. Use this spring dog care checklist to ensure your furry friend remains flea and tick-free at all times.

Ehrlichiosis is unlike any other canine disease. If you find pronouncing 'Ehrlichiosis' difficult, you can call it 'Canine Typhus.'

Also known as a canine rickettsiosis, canine hemorrhagic fever, or tracker dog disease, Ehrlichiosis is a tick-borne disease common in dogs. While in some cases, it also infects humans and other animals. The news of Ehrlichiosis in dogs comes out every year, but not many dog owners are aware of the disease, its symptoms, and possible treatment.

Here is everything you need to know about this canine disease.  

What is Ehrlichiosis?

Ehrlichiosis is caused by the bite from Ehrlichia canis, a rickettsial species. It infects the white blood cells. Although there are many species of Ehrlichia, only a few species affect dogs.

Because of its origin in military dogs, it's often referred to as tracker dog disease. Many experts often refer to it is as tropical canine pancytopenia. It is also possible for dogs to become infected through a blood transfusion from an infected dog. Although.

This tick-borne disease also infects humans and other species, including cats. However, dogs do not transmit the bacteria to humans or other animals; instead, ticks transmit to the Ehrlichia organism. Clinical signs of human ehrlichiosis include fever, headache, eye pain, and gastrointestinal upset.

What makes it different from other tick-borne diseases?

Ehrlichiosis is caused by the bite from an infected tick or brown dog tick carrying the bacterium Ehrlichia Canis. It first gained attention when the military canine returning from Vietnam during the 1970s started showing unusual symptoms that made it hard to diagnose.

Ehrlichia Canis was first defined in 1935 and found in the US in 1963. Today, the pathogen is found throughout the US, South America, Asia, Africa, and Australia.

The disease seems to be particularly severe in German Shepherd Dogs and Doberman Pinschers.

Stages of Ehrlichiosis

Dogs mostly appear perfectly normal for one to three weeks after being infected by E.canis. If your dog fails to fight off the infection during this time, it will enter an acute phase of infection when the bacteria start reproducing and spreading throughout the body.

The symptoms last for two to four weeks, after which many dogs appear to get better on their own called a subclinical phase which can last for months to years.

Some dogs never progress out of the subclinical phase, but others eventually enter the chronic phase of the disease.

Ehrlichiosis is divided into three stages

1. Acute (early disease)
2. Sub-clinical (no outward signs of disease)
3. Clinical or chronic (Long-standing infection)

Acute Phase

The acute phase is defined by telltale symptoms including;

• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Respiratory distress
• Weight loss
• Bleeding disorders (Hemorrhage or bleeding)
• Neurological disturbances (Meningitis)

The stage lasts for two to four weeks. If your dog is lucky, they might fight off the infection; otherwise, they'll head into the sub-clinical phase.

Sub-clinical phase

This phase represents the stage of infection with the presence of organism but zero symptoms. It's often called the worst phase because there are no clinical signs, so the disease goes undetected. The only way to address the infection is through a blood test.

Clinical Ehrlichiosis

It only occurs when the dog's immune system fails to eliminate the organism. There are telltale signs of clinical ehrlichiosis, including;

• Anemia
• Fever
• Poor appetite
• Bleeding episodes
• Lameness
• Eye problems
• Neurological problems
• Swollen limbs

The failure of bone marrow prevents the manufacture of new blood cells.

Diagnosing Ehrlichiosis in dogs

The diagnosis is often complicated because dogs infected with Ehrlichia may also be infected with other diseases carried by ticks, such as Babesia, Lyme disease, or Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

You can only diagnose ehrlichiosis when your dog starts showing symptoms, so you need to be awry about the early signs, including fever, lethargy, poor appetite, and lymph node enlargement.

Whichever form of ehrlichiosis a dog has, it is essential that he be evaluated by a veterinarian as quickly as possible.

As part of the diagnostic process, the vets will collect a complete health history, perform a thorough physical exam, and then run a complete blood count (CBC), blood chemistry panel, urinalysis, fecal examination, and specific lab work aimed at diagnosing ehrlichiosis.

Also called serologic testing, the vet will check for the presence of antibodies against the Ehrlichia organism.

Your dog should test positive for exposure to be diagnosed with ehrlichiosis, which is only possible at the sub-clinical phase.

Prognosis

The prognosis is suitable for dogs with acute ehrlichiosis. Your vet will predict possible symptoms in the future and advise regular tests to assess the development of infection.

Treatment

Ehrlichiosis responds well to treatment with the antibiotic Doxycycline. However, a long course of treatment, usually four weeks, is needed. Alternatively, imidocarb can also be used.

If caught before the clinical stage, E. Canis is almost entirely curable.

In severe cases where blood cell counts are very low, blood transfusions may be needed. A dog experiencing anemia or bleeding will require a blood transfusion.

Reinfection is possible, as immunity to Ehrlichia bacteria is not long-lasting.  The prolonged presence of the bacteria leads to hemorrhaging, which typically results in death.

Preventing Ehrlichiosis in Dogs

Ehrlichiosis is a recurring disease, and dogs who have been infected once can develop it again. However, there aren't any vaccines currently available to protect dogs against ehrlichiosis.

For now, the best way to prevent your dog from getting ehrlichiosis is to protect them from tick bites.

For More information please check this infographic.

Talk to your veterinarian in Urbandale to use the best form of tick prevention based on your dog’s health, lifestyle, and the prevalence of ticks and ehrlichiosis in your area. Tick bites are expected during the spring and summer seasons. Use this spring dog care checklist to ensure your furry friend remains flea and tick-free at all times.

Wouldn't you agree that some dog breeds are more accessible to train than others? Although all dog breeds make a perfect companion, few canine breeds excel in learning new commands and are more consistent than others.

DVM Dennis Riordan of Riordan Pet Hospital claims that,

As with any other trait, intelligence will vary from dog to dog, depending on the family tree and other factors. Intelligence is measured in dogs based on how many repetitions of a command it takes for them to figure out what you want them to do and how often they follow learned commands the first or second time you say it.

Smart dog breeds, regardless of origin, have one thing in common: they can quickly comprehend situations and act accordingly. Having a smart pet will also save you from possible dangers.

Pet behavior specialist Sarah Hodgson says,

It's all relative. Some are social and emotionally dependent on people, so they are easier to train and far more receptive to our vision of what they should do.

Here is a list of dog breeds that will probably be easiest to train and condition your lifestyle.

Ten Smartest Dog Breeds

Here is the list of ten dog breeds that are known for their adept behavior and quick learning ability.

Border Collie

Many pet behaviorists and trainers put Border Collie on top of the list of smart dog breeds. So, what makes Border Collie the valedictorians of the canine world?

Originally called "a shepherd dog," Border Collie is a working and herding breed that hails from Anglo-Scottish border regions such as UK, Scotland, England, and Ireland.

They were developed to be excellent shepherd dogs, making them very trained, active, and adaptive canines. They really enjoy the company of other animals and children if introduced well from early on.

In addition to learning cues quickly, they are quick enough to learn and understand routines, handle daily tasks, and take up new activities.

Handling a flock of hundreds or thousands of sheep isn't an easy task, but the Border Collie manages to do it very well.

However, it would be best to be wary about providing enough physical and mental stimulation to Border Collies who can become hyperactive and destructive to satiate their physical and mental energy.

Poodle

We all know Poodles for their fluffy hairdo and occasional movie appearances. But, these elegant dogs are more than just vanity.

Did you know poodles are adept hunters, effective water dogs, and highly trainable?

Poodles were originally bred in Germany for bird hunting and water retrieving. Some were even used for cattle herding and transport medical supplies to the battlefield.

However, they're very remarkable for their loving nature, trainable quality, and consistency inside all of the toughness.

Keep in mind that poodles thrive on attention and can develop bad habits such as nuisance barking if ignored or left alone. The young pups can be aggressive to people outside their families or to other dogs.

German shepherd

We all are familiar with the German shepherds as Police dogs, but did you know they are very hardworking and gentle companions?

With proper training and socialization from an early age, they become the ideal household breed. Their intelligence and protective demeanor make them the perfect pet for families with children.

Their enormous stature, athleticism, and high energy make them the second most popular dog breed in the US. Hence, they are mainly used for military and police work, and sometimes as service dogs such as for the blind.

German Shepherds are prone to hip dysplasia when they age, so you should always keep this fact in mind when raising the dog.

Golden Retriever

Golden Retriever is famously known for its lush, soft coat and hyperactive lifestyle. The medium-large gun dog was initially bred to retrieve shot waterfowl and game birds, hence the name "retriever."

It is one of the most popular dog breeds around the world. Most pet owners take up Golden Retriever because they are competent working dogs, easily trainable, natural athletes, and great family pets. They are also very obedient, making them the perfect family dogs.

Retrievers are also chosen as service and therapy dogs and, in some cases, search and rescue dogs.

As with any purebred dog, Golden Retrievers have their share of health problems. They're prone to Cancer, Hip & Elbow Dysplasia, Cataracts, Epilepsy, Hypothyroidism, Heart Disease, and Skin Conditions.

Doberman Pinscher

Doberman Pinscher has long been used as a police dog because of its agility, speed, and highly trainable quality. Despite their lean stature, they're solid.

A German tax collector for protection on his rounds originally bred the Doberman pinscher. In WWII, they were trained to guard sleeping troops, lead soldiers through the jungle, and give warning barks if enemies were hiding nearby.

They're very trustworthy and protective of children in the family, as long as they've been socialized and trained appropriately. They're also some of the lowest-maintenance dog breeds.

Shetland Sheepdog

Shetland Sheepdog, popularly known as Sheltie, is originally a sheepdog. Don't mistake their small stature for incapability. Shelties are keenly observant and thrive on having a job to do.

They bear a close resemblance to their larger cousin, the collie, and are equally intelligent dog breeds.

As herders, they were required to keep track of many wandering animals for long periods, often without supervision.

They're easy to train if you have a calm voice and a light hand on the leash. They also make great family dogs thanks to their gentle and pleasing personality.

Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retriever or Labs is originally a waterdog, long employed as a duck retriever and fisherman's mate. It's a medium-large gun dog most popular in the US.

A hardworking dog breed, they make the best hunting dog. They're excellent at learning new tricks and excel in agility exercises. Thanks to their hyperactive nature, they make a very agile outdoor dog.

Labs make a great dog breed for water rescue, therapy work, and assistance. However, it would help if you were wary of their seldom violent nature to cause bites and injuries to family members.

Papillon

Paillon, also known as Continental Toy Spaniel, is a small-breed dog that has long been a favorite among royals. They're known for their regal appearance and charming personalities.

They've long been conditioned to become family dogs; hence they're very adaptive to training, learning new tricks, and performing for people.

Despite its elegant stature, Papillon is known for its active, athletic, and companionable behavior. They're brilliant and agile at competitions; hence they often become the dog breed to take home most top prizes at agility trials.

Rottweiler

Rottweilers are people dogs and are affectionate towards their families. They also make excellent guard dogs.

They were initially used as herding dogs and cart-puller. They were one of the first breeds used as guide dogs.

It's easier to train Rottweillers because they learn commands quickly compared to other dog breeds. However, thorough training and socialization are an absolute must from an early age. With a good training session, you can train a young Rottweiler within 6-7 weeks.

Australian Cattle Dog

The Australian Cattle Dog or Cattle Dog is a famous herding dog originally developed in Australia. They were crossbred between blue merle shepherds from England and native Australian dingo.

They were trained to drive cattle over long distances across rough terrain; hence they make a great pet adapt to training. They're very active dogs; hence you should provide them enough physical and mental stimulation through work, sport, or exercise.

They are fiercely protective when used as a watchdog; hence, proper training and socializing are essential from an early age.

Some of the other popular smart breeds are pembroke Welsh Corgi, Miniature Schnauzer, English Springer Spaniel, Beglian Tervuren, Collie, Keeshond, and Schipperke.

Check this infographic out for more information. 

Please talk with your dog trainer to learn more about your pet's nature and abilities to train them well. Every dog is receptive to training; all they need is the proper conditioning. Get in touch with Urban Pet Hospital & Resort, the best doggy daycare in Urbandale.

Calcium is an essential micromineral that helps to build and maintain strong bones.

Did you know, both humans and dogs need calcium to maintain strong bones, hearts, muscles, and nerves?

Yes, calcium deficiency can have substantial adverse effects on your pets’ growth.

Why is calcium essential for dogs?

Some studies suggest that calcium, along with vitamin D, may have benefits beyond bone health: perhaps protecting against cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

A too little calcium or Hypocalcemia condition is called when the calcium level in the blood is lower than usual.

Hypocalcemia in dogs is associated with severe disorders, including antifreeze poisoning, inflammation of the pancreas, kidney failure, and parathyroid gland failure.

You can figure hypocalcemia by analyzing the telltale signs, including muscle twitching, loss of appetite, weakness, and listlessness. In some cases, it can cause convulsions or seizures.

How does a healthy animal control calcium levels?

The parathyroid glands embedded in the thyroid gland control the Calcium levels. The glands are responsible for monitoring the level of calcium in the blood. When calcium levels are too low, the glands release a hormone called parathyroid hormone (PTH), which acts to return calcium levels to normal.

Diagnosing and treating Hypocalcemia

To diagnose Hypocalcemia, your dog requires a routine blood test to reveal low total calcium. If the repeated value for total calcium is still low, then doing an ionized calcium test is recommended. It gives the definitive measure of calcium levels.

Your vet will further test the condition of other vital organs to assess the damage before administering the needed medical help.

If you're wondering, yes, hypocalcemia can be managed with a medication called Calcitriol plus nutritional supplements containing Vitamin D and Calcium.

However, it would be best if you were wary about feeding excess calcium to your dog. A buildup of excess calcium in the blood leads to hypercalcemia which can cause various physical and mental ailments.

Six best Calcium-Rich Foods for Dogs

Here are the best sources of calcium for your dogs.

Yogurt

Yogurt is rich in calcium and probiotics. The milk product made from bacterial fermentation is a healthier calcium choice for dogs. However, many dogs have trouble digesting yogurt because of lactose contents. Consider talking to your vet before adding yogurt to your dog's meal plan.

A cup of Yoghurt contains 450 mg of calcium. This is probably the only food source with so much calcium in it.

Consider adding yogurt to your canine's food regularly. Generally, one to two teaspoons of yogurt a day is a fair amount to give your dog.

In case your dog is a bit overweight, you can pick low-fat yogurt from the store. Also, avoid flavored yogurt that can be toxic to some dogs.

Cheese

Cheese is another excellent source of calcium for dogs. It also makes a fantastic treat for your dog as long as they're aren’t lactose intolerant. Lactose can upset your dog’s digestion, so be wary about consulting a vet before giving cheese to your dog.

You can give them any available cheese, including cheddar, mozzarella, and cottage cheese. Because cheese is as fattening as it is tasty, moderation is key. Try choosing a cheese type that is low in fats.

An ounce of hard cheeses, like cheddar or jack, contains 200 mg of calcium. Only add a slice of cheese, broken into pieces, to their meal.

Avoid feeding them cheese mixed with herbs or other products as it can lead to health complications.

Chicken and Fish

White meat is another excellent source of calcium. Unlike dairy products, meat doesn’t include lactose that troubles canine digestion.

Chicken and fish is also an excellent protein source. According to veterinarians, a daily dog meal should include at least 30% protein.

Chicken, Salmon, trout, mackerel, and sardines are popular meat choices for dogs. Each portion could content from 170 mg to 370 mg of calcium. However, it is advised that you cook the fish well before offering it to your pet.

Be wary about feeding seafood to your dog as it may contain mercury. Raw tuna isn’t toxic to dogs, but you may want to feed them other types of fishes that don’t contain mercury, such as salmon, herring, flounder, and Wild Menhaden.

Vegetables

Vegetables are another excellent source of Calcium. Some vegetables are high in calcium, including Acorn squash, Argula, Bok Choy, Broccoli, Chard, Chicory, Collard greens, Corn, Dandelion, Kale, Mustard greens, potato, Spinach, and Turnips.

Spinach and Broccoli contain the highest amount of calcium; Spinach contains 240 mg of calcium for one cup, and Broccoli has 180 mg.

Not every dog will love to eat these vegetables, so you need to be creative with them. Cut veggies into bite-size pieces and incorporate them into your dog’s meal that contains meat or snacks.

Bones for dogs

If you’re a dog owner, you’d know that all dogs love to chew on bones. This is good because bones contain a good source of Calcium. Along with providing a good calcium source, bones will help to keep their oral hygiene in check.

Be wary about feeding them cooked bones that can easily crack into tiny shards. Although cooked bones are best for digestion, your dog can often chock on them.

A safe way to add bone to your dog’s meal is to ground it into a powder and then incorporate them into the dog’s food. You can also buy bone meal supplements for dogs.

Dogs love to keep chewing on bones, and they often spend much time doing it, so it’s a good idea to occasionally throw a large bone at them.

Calcium Supplements

Calcium supplements are an easy source of calcium for dogs. With calcium supplements, you needn't worry about lactose toxicity or indigestion.

Calcium pills for dogs take the guesswork out of giving your dog the right amount of calcium to boost their immune system and bones.

Consider mixing broken calcium pills or grounded calcium pills into dog food before providing it to them. Be wary about providing human calcium to dogs because it is formulated for humans.

Check out this infographic for more information.

Talk to your vet before providing adding a new source of calcium to dog food. A vet can properly diagnose their condition to advise if you should limit or increase their calcium intake.

Get in touch with Urban Pet Hospital & Resort, the best pet hospital in Urbandale, to learn more about preventing hypocalcemia in dogs.

We get fearful of many things in daily life, including someone shouting at us, fighting with someone, and road accidents, so it isn't unusual for dogs to fear similar frightful experiences.

AKC Chief DVM Jerry Klein points out,

Fear is a defense mechanism and isn’t something we can eliminate. Wolves and other wild canids rely on fear to keep them alive.

It only becomes a severe problem when fearful behavior poses dangers to the dog and other family members. Also known as Phobia, the fear culminates into an intense and persistent fear of something. 

Is phobia a problem?

Whether you know it already or not, your canine companion is phobic, and it’s a big problem.

These common phobias can have various causes, including a lack of early socialization, a negative experience, or a sudden frightful experience.  You can tell your dog is under stress by seeing the tell-tale signs, including cowering, trembling, drooling, barking, destructive and aggressive behavior, and, in some cases, aggression.

The additional cause of phobias in dogs includes genetics, but this is very rare. Most of the time, your dog grows phobia for something when they have a frightful experience.

Unlike us humans, dogs can't rationalize their phobia. Hence, it's our responsibility to reduce their stress when they're phobic and assure them that they're safe.

7 Common Fear and Phobias in Dogs

The frightening stimuli listed below are among the most common fears and phobias in dogs.

Thunderstorms

The loud thundering noise from the sky often trembles our own feet, so it isn't usual for dogs to fear thunder.

There are a few reasons thunderstorms instill terror in dogs. The most obvious of them is the loud noise. Dogs that are frightful of thunderstorms are also frightful of deafening noises.

There is even research that suggests noise phobias can be inherited.

The other more scientific reason behind the fear of thunder is the release of static electricity into the air. Dogs experience this static as a tingling throughout their hair coat and may even receive multiple shocks before the storm lifts.

This is why many dogs flee to the grounded areas in the home to escape the exposure to static electricity during thunderstorms.

Vetstreet's Dr. Marty Beckers suggests that rubbing your dog's coat with a dryer sheet can help to minimize static.

Fireworks

The fear of fireworks is much similar to thunderstorms. Fireworks instill a fear of loud noise in dogs which often turns into phobias. A sound phobia is common in dogs that are mostly inherited. 

According to Dr. Klein,

Herding breeds are susceptible to noise phobias, perhaps because they are so attuned to their environment.

Not only are fireworks extremely loud, but they also cause frightening odors and visual effects. The vivid display of lights and the smell of gunpowder often make dogs tremble in fear. This may make dogs run away, coil in, or become lost.

Dogs with a severe fireworks phobia may require anti-anxiety medication or sedatives. As an option, you can use preventive measures like Thundershirt, a snug-fitting garment that helps calm dogs by applying gentle, even pressure to the torso.

Car Rides

Fear of riding cars or any other vehicle is common in dogs who have experienced a frightful moment or lack gradual exposure to car rides. 

The traumatic experience often includes road accidents, being stuck inside the car, and a car ride to the veterinarian.

Dogs often become car sick when they aren't used to riding vehicles from an early age. It's similar to young children who get motion sickness from riding cars for the first time.

It's possible to overcome their fear response of car and motion sickness by working up to taking rides in small steps such as opening the door, getting in, spending some time, and then getting out or taking a brief ride around the house or neighborhood. After every successful step, you should reward them with treats or praise to install a positive appreciation.

The Visit to Vet

Most dogs are fearful about visiting veterinarians because they associate it with a past negative experience such as getting injected, surgical treatment, restrained, and strange smells.

Dogs have blood injection phobias, commonly referred to as a fear of needles, a similar experience faced by many people. They don't understand that veterinary visits are in their best interest; hence you should make them feel secure in a strange environment.

The irrational fear of the vet may be dealt with by bringing them to the vet for an occasional social visit that doesn't involve an examination. You can reward them with treats after every visit to instill a positive reaffirmation.

Being Alone

Fear of being alone or separation anxiety is a situational phobia. It often results in destructive behavior such as chewing on stuff, housebreaking accidents, incessant barking, and relieving themselves.

Dogs that aren't used to being left alone often face separation anxiety.

As a treatment, you can make necessary habit changes to alleviate their anxiety. Desensitization, the process of slowly getting the dog used to being left home alone, can also benefit dogs suffering from separation anxiety.

If the separation anxiety is severe, you can consult with the vet to provide medication to your dog.

Fear of strangers and other dogs

Fear of person is common in dogs that lack socialization from an early age. Most dogs fear meeting new people because they had a bad experience with them, such as being abused and abandoned.

Dogs that have not spent much time around other animals will exhibit fear of animal. This is commonly due to a lack of socialization.

For this reason, dog trainers and veterinary professionals recommend socializing your dog early and often. It would be best if you considered taking them to doggy daycare to introduce them to other animals. Interaction with other animals in the park often helps in socializing them at an early age.

Nervousness around strangers can be an inherited trait, but research shows that proper socialization can overcome this problem.

What should you do?

Here are few things you should keep in mind.

• Keep an eye on your dog's body language so you can be more aware when they start exhibiting signs of fear. The standard body languages include pacing, panting, shaking, attempting to hide, salivating, etc.
• If your dog starts growling at something, you should immediately remove them from that environment.
• Talk to the behaviorist to develop a desensitization and counter-conditioning program for your dog.
• Start socializing your dog with other humans and animals at an early age.

Check out this infographic for more information.

Get in touch with Urban Pet Hospital & Resort, the best doggy daycare in Urbandale, to start socializing your dog in the presence of expert animal behaviorists and trainers.