Heat Stroke is a medical emergency for dogs, requiring immediate interventions to lower an affected dog’s body temperature, including moving him to the shade, offering fresh water to drink, and sprinkling him with cool (never cold!) water. . . .
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Should My Dog Have Water in Her Crate?
Ready access to water is as essential for keeping dogs hydrated as it is for people. But crating your dog complicates things. A water bowl inside a crate can spill and leave your dog uncomfortable—in what should be her cozy, inviting den. During housetraining, the ramifications are even worse.
So, how can you crate your dog and keep her hydrated?
Your priority is always giving your dog easy access to fresh water. Keeping that goal top of mind, you can wisely determine whether to crate her without water, how long you can leave her crated without water, and the instances where water in the dog crate is a good idea.
Read MoreCommon Hazards for Dogs Around the House
What do dish detergent, raisins, chocolate, and mothballs have in common? They’re all hazardous for dogs—and they exist in many households. Of the many responsibilities that come with owning a dog, protecting him from dangerous foods, cleaning supplies, and other toxins should be a priority. To keep your dog safe, know where the household toxins are stored, and take steps to keep these hazards out of your dog’s paw and jaw reach.
Read MoreWhen Should Your Dog Exercise?
By: Orvis Staff
Your dog should exercise every day—whenever it fits best in your daily schedule and your dog is able. That’s because the most effective exercise routine for dogs (and people, for that matter) is the one that happens day after day. Morning, noon, or night. Rain or shine. If it’s time for your dog’s workout, you put on his collar and leash and get moving.
Read MoreDog Exercise Needs by Breed
Exercise recommendations for dogs range between 30 minutes and two hours of moderate to high-intensity exercise daily. The time and intensity vary so widely because different dog breeds have distinct exercise needs. Some breeds are natural athletes with an abundance of energy to burn throughout the day. Other breeds take life at a slower pace and don’t require the dog equivalent of CrossFit—a few daily walks do the trick.
Read MoreShould You Cover Your Dog’s Crate?
By: Orvis Staff
Crate training is an important step in pet ownership, but should your dog’s crate be draped with a blanket, sheet, or crate cover? Whether you cover the crate depends on your dog. Some dogs love the security provided by a darkened, enclosed space, while others can feel anxious in a confined area. How should you introduce a crate cover to your puppy or adult dog, and what options are the safest? We explore the advantages and drawbacks so you can decide what works for your furry best friend.
Read MoreSenior Dog Behavior Changes: What to Expect
By: Orvis Staff
Photo by Stacy
In addition to their grey whiskers and slower pace, the behavior of senior dogs changes as they age. These behavior changes in your BFF can range from minor, such as slight shifts in sleep habits, to severe issues that require medical care. Often they are related to the cognitive decline, pain, and other ailments common in older dogs.
Read MoreHow to Tell If Your Dog Is Too Cold
By: Orvis Staff
Clear signs your dog is too cold include shivering, whimpering, curling in a ball, and balking at walks outside on a frosty day. But there are other signs your dog needs protection from the cold, and may require immediate warming up or even emergency medical attention. We have the answers to questions you may have about your chilly dog so you can take steps to keep him toasty warm and comfortable throughout the winter, and all year long.
Read MoreThe Best Exercises for Dogs at Every Age
By: Orvis Staff
Regular activity keeps the spring in your dog’s step throughout his life. But the best exercises for your dog change depending upon his age. Puppies, adult dogs, and older dogs have unique and distinct exercise needs.
Read MoreWhat Can Puppies Eat?
By: Orvis Staff
Puppies look cute when they behave, but always be on alert.
Photo by Debbie, Beaumont
After weaning, puppies can eat high-quality puppy food with the nutrition their young bodies require. They need specialized food because they are growing so fast, and they eat more often than adult dogs and older dogs. Feeding requirements also vary between large breed puppies and small and medium breed puppies. Read on to learn how to feed the newest, furriest young addition to your family.
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