Alopecia is the scientific term describing a lack of hair where it should normally be found. Alopecia can affect large areas of skin or be restricted to a single, small patch. Hair loss may be complete, resulting in a bald spot or partial, leaving behind an abnormally thin coat. Alopecia is caused by either increased…
People are often confused when it comes to the term “hypoallergenic dogs.” Technically, from a scientific standpoint, there is no such thing. Studies have been conducted and all dogs, no matter the breed, have the same traits that can trigger allergies in people. However, and this is important if you are allergic to dogs, some…
All dogs, whether large or small, are pregnant for about 63 days from the date of conception. However, conception does not necessarily occur at the time of mating. Female dogs have a heat or estrous cycle twice a year. In the wild, wolves usually have only one cycle per year but domestication over thousands of…
What many people label as separation anxiety in a dog is actually just plain old-fashioned boredom and an opportunity for the dog to have some fun destroying the couch. General destruction on its own is not separation anxiety. True separation anxiety behaviors are demonstrated at other times as well – a need to be right…
Arthritis in dogs is fairly common in dogs as they get older but it can also develop in younger dogs who have hip or elbow dysplasia or other bone and joint problems. It can occur in any breed or mix and affects both male and female dogs, spayed/neutered or intact. The symptoms of arthritis in…
Cancer is very common in pets just like it is in people. In fact, it is the leading cause of death in older dogs. Owners need to be alert to signs of this dreaded disease to increase the chances of an early diagnosis and successful treatment. What is Cancer? Cancer, or neoplasia, is the abnormal…
President Harry Truman once famously said, “If you want a friend in Washington, get a dog.” Quite a few presidents over the centuries have followed that advice. The latest dog in the White House is Bo, a Portuguese Water Dog. Bo came to the White House through the Obamas’ friendship with Senator Ted Kennedy who…
The puppy spins and spins, attempting to grab that alluring tip just out of reach. He trips, stumbles, falls on his plump behind, and finally bites down on the fluff of fur he has been chasing. His audience cheers him on and claps when he finally manages to reach his goal. He lets go of…
According to the American Kennel Club, the following breeds are the most popular dog breeds in the United States: 1. Labrador Retriever The Labrador Retriever has been the most popular breed in the U.S. since 1990. These gentle, intelligent, family dogs were first recognized by the AKC in 1917. Originally from Canada, the breed began…
When searching for a dog you often see breeders referring to registries and other dog breed organizations. They may only use the initials of registries or they may mention registries that you’ve never heard of. Here’s a brief overview of some of the more popular registries in the United States. AKC — The American Kennel…
Buying a purebred puppy is a lifetime commitment and a decision not to take lightly. Puppies require time, energy, and dedication to raise properly and train to be well-behaved and rewarding companions. Far too often, the decision to buy a purebred puppy becomes an emotional one, and people jump too quickly into it. The same…
There’s no limit to the different ways you can choose a name for a dog. Some people name dogs after sports teams and great players. Other people look for inspiration in mythology. There are dogs named Thor and Zeus, right down the pantheon of gods. More than one dog has been named Apollo for his…