John Malone

Your long-haired Chihuahua’s luxurious coat is a point of pride. Ensuring it remains healthy and tangle-free requires dedicated care. With the right approach, grooming becomes a special time for you and your furry friend to bond. Essential Grooming Tools for Your Long-Haired Chihuahua The Mat-Busting Brush: A slicker brush with soft pins is ideal for small … Read more

Your dog’s constant licking of their private parts is a sign something’s not right. It could be a simple hygiene issue, but there’s often an underlying medical or behavioral condition that needs attention. Here’s how to get to the bottom of the problem and provide your dog with the relief they desperately need. Understanding Normal vs. … Read more

The German Shepherd Lab mix, fondly called the Sheprador, is a popular hybrid adored for its lively personality, sharp mind, and unwavering devotion. While their lifespan generally ranges from 10-12 years, numerous factors play a part in your dog’s longevity. Let’s delve into ways you can help your Sheprador enjoy a long and fulfilling life. … Read more

Those tiny black sesame seeds sprinkled on buns or treats might pique your dog’s curiosity. Ever wondered, can dogs eat black sesame seeds safely? The good news is, in moderation, they can. But always introduce new foods with caution to avoid tummy troubles. Let’s dive into the unique qualities of black sesame seeds and the … Read more

Yes, grapes and raisins are extremely toxic to dogs and can lead to fatal kidney failure. Even a small amount can have devastating consequences. It’s essential for all dog owners to understand the dangers and how to act fast in an emergency. Why Grapes Are Deadly for Dogs While the precise toxin remains a mystery, scientists … Read more

This unusual mix blends the Aussie’s sharp mind and herding drive with the Bloodhound’s incredible tracking talent and gentle spirit. This isn’t a dog for beginners. It demands an owner with extensive experience, unwavering dedication, and a lifestyle that can accommodate its unique energy and instincts. Understanding the Parent Breeds Australian Shepherd: Medium-sized, athletic dogs known … Read more

In a nutshell, dogs kick their legs for a few reasons. Mostly, it’s an involuntary reflex to scratches, but they also might do it to stretch, play, or even signal a potential problem. Let’s dive deeper into the fascinating world of dog leg kicks! 1. The Famous Scratch Reflex You know that feeling when you … Read more

Most Yorkshire Terriers’ ears will stand up between 3 and 6 months of age. However, some Yorkies may be “late bloomers” and their ears won’t perk up until around 9 months old. In rare cases, a Yorkie’s ears may remain floppy, but that doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with them! Yorkie Ears: A Journey from … Read more

Your puppy’s playful nips and roughhousing are normal, but they need guidance. Here’s what to do: 1) Say “Ouch!” in a high-pitched tone to signal pain. 2) Immediately stop playing and leave the room briefly. With consistent training, understanding, and the help of socialization, you’ll transform those wild play sessions into positive bonding experiences. Why … Read more

The best way to stop your dog from barking at people is to understand why they bark and then choose positive training techniques that address the root cause. Common reasons dogs bark include fear, excitement, territoriality, or boredom. Using desensitization, counterconditioning, and managing your dog’s environment are your best tools. Understand Why Does My Dog Bark at … Read more

Your new puppy is going to be a wonderful addition to your family, but bringing home a furry friend takes planning. Here’s the ultimate guide to ensure both you and your pup are ready for the exciting transition. Puppy-Proofing Your Home Hazard Hunt: Get on puppy-level and tour your home, removing choking hazards, securing wires, and … Read more

Short answer: Most healthy short-haired dogs benefit from a bath every 1-3 months. However, this depends heavily on their individual needs, activity levels, and skin health. Think of bathing your short-haired best friend like changing your own bedsheets. Sure, there’s a general timeframe, but if you work in a muddy field all day, you’ll probably … Read more

The answer depends on whether your puppy is nursing from its mother or if you’re bottle-feeding with formula. A puppy’s weight is also a major factor in determining how much and how often they should eat. Nursing Puppies Puppies nursing from their mother usually don’t need supplemental feeding. Mom’s milk provides everything they need at … Read more

The average dog litter has 5-6 puppies, but the actual number can vary wildly, ranging from 1 to 12 puppies or more!  Several factors influence litter size, the most significant being the dog’s breed. Let’s explore what determines a dog’s litter size and provide tips for those expecting a furry family. Breed: The Primary Influence Dogs, … Read more

While the average German Shepherd pregnancy lasts about 63 days, individual dogs may carry their puppies slightly longer or shorter (between 58 and 68 days). The German Shepherd is an intelligent, loyal, and powerful breed requiring special attention during pregnancy. This guide offers detailed information on recognizing pregnancy stages, ensuring your dog’s health, understanding labor … Read more

If you’ve noticed blood coming from your dog’s nipple, it’s important to schedule a vet visit right away. Nipple bleeding is never normal and requires investigation to determine the cause and find the right treatment. Understanding Your Dog’s Mammary Glands Dogs have multiple pairs of mammary glands along their bellies. Both males and females have … Read more

Many dog breeds can have adorable pink noses, but it’s not just about looks! A dog’s pink nose tells a story about its genetics and sometimes its breed history. Let’s explore some popular and lesser-known breeds that sport pink noses, why this happens, and some care considerations. Popular Pink-Nosed Pups 1. Boxers: Their playful personalities and … Read more

Like humans, many dogs exhibit a preference for using one paw over the other. However, there’s a surprising twist: unlike the strong right-handed bias in people, dogs show a more even distribution between right-pawed, left-pawed, and ambidextrous companions. Let’s delve into the science and what this unique quirk reveals about your furry friend. Brain Power: … Read more

While dogs don’t feel shame in the same way humans do, they can experience similar emotions and understand our disapproval. They might not grasp the moral or social implications of their actions, but they are incredibly adept at reading our tone and body language. What Science Says About Dog Emotions Most animal behavior experts agree … Read more

The vibrant allure of hibiscus flowers can be irresistible to curious canines, raising the question of safety. Determining the risk level depends on identifying the specific hibiscus variety in question. While some types are considered non-toxic, others possess the potential to cause distress. Distinguishing Between Hibiscus Species Generally Safe: Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus), a widespread … Read more

Poodles, while beloved for their intelligence and characteristic appearance, possess the capability to bite like any other breed. The strength of a poodle’s bite is primarily determined by its size variation. The Influence of Size: Bite Force Across Poodle Types Contextualizing Bite Force: Poodles in Comparison To better understand the potential impact of a poodle’s … Read more

“Building trust with a scared dog is a journey of patience and understanding,” says a certified dog behavior consultant” The cornerstone of helping your scared dog trust you lies in creating a secure environment, respecting their boundaries, and fostering positive associations. This process requires unwavering patience and a deep understanding of anxiety in dogs. Decoding … Read more

Many well-meaning owners consider shaving their Australian Shepherd to help them cope with warmer temperatures. However, the answer to the question, “Can you shave an Australian Shepherd?” is a resounding no. Shaving drastically compromises a double-coated dog’s ability to manage their body temperature, creating health risks rather than solving the problem. This article will explain … Read more

Dogs often lick their owners before bed due to a combination of deeply-rooted instincts, a desire to self-soothe, and their profound emotional bond with you. Let’s explore the reasons behind this endearing canine behavior. Rooted in Instinct: Echoes of Early Life A mother dog instinctively licks her newborn pups, a vital act of grooming, bonding, … Read more

Puppies bite – it’s a fact of life. To stop this behavior, you must consistently teach your puppy that biting hurts and offer them acceptable chewing alternatives. With patience and understanding, you can curb this normal puppy behavior. Understanding the Reasons Behind Puppy Biting Before implementing training strategies, it’s helpful to grasp the motivations behind … Read more

Ear cropping surgically reshapes a dog’s ears, usually for a pointed, erect look. Costs range widely, starting around $150 and potentially exceeding $600. Several factors determine the final price: Factors Influencing Ear Cropping Costs Veterinarian’s Experience and Location: Veterinarians with extensive ear cropping expertise often charge more, especially those in major cities where practice costs are … Read more

A delightful blend of the English Springer Spaniel’s joyful energy and the Poodle’s renowned intelligence, the Springerdoodle is a hybrid breed with many endearing qualities. They are recognized for their loving personalities, athletic abilities, and often low-shedding coats. If you seek a lively and affectionate dog, the Springerdoodle could be a wonderful addition to your … Read more

Commercial dog food recipes contain a blend of ingredients, such as proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. The quality and balance of these ingredients profoundly impact your dog’s overall health and vitality. Let’s delve into the components commonly found in dog food. By understanding what’s in the bag or can, you’ll be empowered to make … Read more

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi, a beloved breed with a rich history, was originally developed as a skilled cattle herder in Wales. Their intelligence, work ethic, and spirited personalities have since captured hearts worldwide. Historical Origins and Purpose The Pembroke Welsh Corgi’s roots lie in Pembrokeshire, Wales, where they served as indispensable farm dogs for centuries. … Read more

Toy poodles are celebrated for their combination of charm, brains, and petite size. When contemplating bringing one of these delightful companions into your life, it’s vital to grasp their typical size and weight ranges. Height: Toy poodles are remarkably compact. According to breed standards, they should not stand taller than 10 inches at the shoulder.Weight: Toy Poodles … Read more

Discovering a soft lump on your dog’s abdomen can be alarming. While many of these lumps are benign, it’s crucial to seek veterinary evaluation for diagnosis and appropriate treatment recommendations. This article explores potential causes, diagnostic procedures, and management strategies for soft lumps in dogs. Potential Causes of Soft Abdominal Lumps Lipomas: The most prevalent type … Read more

When a new puppy joins the family, it brings joy and boundless energy. However, seeing your furry friend cough or gag can be worrisome. Puppy coughs and gags indicate potential irritation or infection within their developing respiratory systems. While causes are often minor, understanding the underlying issue is crucial for ensuring your puppy’s well-being and … Read more

The Pomapoo, a delightful cross between the fluffy Pomeranian and the intelligent Toy Poodle, has garnered significant attention for its endearing personality and adaptability. If you are seeking a small, affectionate, and playful companion, then the Pomapoo might be the perfect addition to your life! Journey into Pomapoo History & Genetics The Pomapoo Personality: What … Read more

Your dog is part of your family; seeing them in distress is deeply concerning. One symptom that can cause significant worry is when your dog starts coughing up white foam. This article will delve into the primary causes of this symptom, commonly known as kennel cough, and explore secondary causes such as heart disease, pneumonia, … Read more

Lab blue heeler mix puppies originate from the crossbreeding of a Labrador Retriever and an Australian Cattle Dog, commonly known as a Blue Heeler. They are vibrant, devoted, and clever companions, ideally suited for active and seasoned dog owners. Interested in acquiring a Lab Blue Heeler mix puppy? Here’s a comprehensive guide to this intriguing … Read more

Lemongrass oil is generally safe for dogs, but it should be used with caution and under the guidance of a veterinarian. Lemongrass oil has some benefits and risks for dogs, depending on the dosage, method of application, and individual sensitivity of the dog. Lemongrass oil is a type of essential oil that is extracted from … Read more

To get emotional support animal certification, you need to obtain a valid ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional who can attest to your need for an ESA. An ESA letter is a document that states that you have a mental or emotional disability that requires the companionship of an emotional support animal. An ESA … Read more

The cost of deworming a dog depends on several factors, such as the type of worm, the severity of the infestation, the size and weight of the dog, the type of medication, and the frequency of treatment. However, on average, you can expect to pay between $10 and $30 per dose of dewormer, plus the … Read more

The best way to prevent a puppy from nipping involves several effective techniques. Encouraging bite inhibition, steering their biting toward suitable toys, and positively reinforcing gentle mouth behavior are key strategies. While nipping is inherent to a puppy’s nature, it often proves discomforting and bothersome to humans. This discourse will delve into the reasons behind … Read more

Toys can be a great way to motivate, reward, and bond with your dog during training sessions. However, not all toys are created equal, and not all dogs respond to them the same way. In this article, you will learn how to use toys as rewards in dog training, how to choose the best dog … Read more

Dog crate training benefits are numerous and can improve your dog’s health, happiness, and behavior. Crate training is a method of teaching your dog to associate a crate or a kennel with comfort and security. It can help your dog feel more relaxed and calm in various situations, such as traveling, staying at the vet, … Read more

A Doberman Weimaraner mix is a cross between a Doberman Pinscher and a Weimaraner, two breeds that are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and athleticism. This hybrid dog can inherit traits from either parent, resulting in a variety of appearances and personalities. However, some general characteristics and temperament of the Doberman Weimaraner mix can be … Read more

Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd are two breeds of dogs that share some similarities, but also have many differences in their appearance, personality, health, and history. Both breeds are intelligent, loyal, and hard-working, but they also have distinct traits that make them suitable for different purposes and lifestyles. In this article, we will compare and … Read more

Begonias are toxic to dogs and can cause serious health problems if ingested. Begonias are popular houseplants and garden flowers that come in a variety of colors and shapes. They are easy to grow and care for, but they also contain substances that are harmful to dogs and other animals. In this article, we will … Read more

If you are looking for a dog that is smart, elegant, and friendly, you might want to consider a brown standard poodle. These dogs are not only beautiful, but also have a lot of personality and charm. In this article, we will explore the history, characteristics, and care of brown standard poodles, and why they … Read more

If you are looking for a large, loyal, and intelligent dog that can turn heads with its wolf-like appearance, you might want to consider the Alaskan malamute mix German shepherd. This crossbreed, also known as the Alaskan Shepherd, is the result of combining the German Shepherd’s courage and trainability with the Alaskan Malamute’s strength and … Read more