4 Common Causes of Misbehavior in Dogs and What to Do About It!

4 Common Causes of Misbehavior in Dogs and What to Do About It!

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Most of us dog owners have come home to a chewed-up slipper or couch cushion. It is so hard to understand how your dog who loves you unconditionally could do something so destructive! What about the times your dog keeps you up in the night, barking at the tiny flies outside the front door?! Hello frustration! There are so many forms of destructive behavior that can present itself in our furry best friends such as:

  • Chewing shoes, or other items
  • Barking
  • Anxious or restless behaviour
  • Digging in the garbage, or garden
  • Jumping up on you, or worse – on your guests!

Reasons

While yes, lack of proper training is a definite cause to some of these behaviors, there are often other reasons leading to this type of behavior. Starting with ensuring your dog has received proper training (and often ongoing training) for proper behaviour is important. Remember, your dog doesn’t speak your English and will need to be trained to understand your expectations.

Pent up Energy/Lack of Stimulation

Another cause for destructive behaviours is simply due to pent up energy. Remember, dogs don’t have the same busy lives we do. They don’t go to jobs or have to prepare meals or take care of a busy household. While some breeds need more exercise than others, all dogs need to get at minimum 30-60 minutes of exercise a day! Sending them to the backyard on their own may not be enough.

Solution:
  • Take them for a hike, or a long walk around the neighborhood.
  • Go to a local dog friendly field where you can throw the ball for them!
  • Your local dog park is also a great place for them to run around with other dogs (also providing them with social interaction that is stimulating)
  • Lack of time? Hire a Dog Walker to come and walk your dog a few days a week when you don’t have the time to squeeze it in. Your fancy shoes will thank you!

Lack of Stimulation

Not enough mental stimulation will also lead to boredom in your dog, and then destructive behavior. Basically, your dog is just trying to find something to do with their time! If your dog is left alone for long hours of the day, they are likely not being stimulated enough. Stimulation is a stress reliever for dogs and helps shape their personality.

Solution:
  • Provide opportunities to be exposed to interesting places and things. Have to run an errand? Throw them in the car and take them for a drive – it’s a small fix, but that 40 minutes of watching the cars and people pass is more stimulating than staring at your door waiting for your return!
  • Invest in interactive toys for them to play with, such as hiding treats in a toy.
  • Leave on the television. Yes, there is even such thing as DOG TV designed to keep your dog happier and more relaxed!
  • Doggy Day Care. If you work long hours, sending your dog to doggy daycare a few days a week will help wear them out and keep them stimulated so they are ready to snuggle up on the couch with you at the end of the day.

Adolescence

Keep in mind that dogs do go through an adolescent phase between 5 to 18 months of age. Similar to teenage behavior, at this age your dog may test his limits and see what they can get away with.

Solution:
  • Ensure you are addressing their need for stimulation and exercise
  • Stay on top of your training. Keep reinforcing the good behaviours.
  • Be aware of how you respond to the unwanted behaviours that are coming out. Remember, your dog may not differentiate between good and bad attention as long as it’s attention.

Medical Concern

There is always the possibility that sudden onset of misbehavior in your dog is due to a medical condition. If you are at all concerned there is something more going on, ensure you get your dog checked out by your local veterinarian as soon as possible.

 

At Pet City Canada, we are here to support you! Contact us today!

 

Happy Puppy

How to Choose a Happy and Healthy Puppy

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With so many breeds of dogs how do you know if the puppy you choose is healthy and happy? New PuppyIt would be upsetting for you and your family to bring home a new puppy and find out that it is unwell. Even though some health concerns are not distinguishable early on, some tell tale signs shouldn’t be ignored. Here are a few characteristics you should consider when choosing a new puppy.

Appearance:

  • Pay particular attention to the puppy’s eyes, ears, mouth, and nose. There shouldn’t be any discharge, sores, redness, or odor from any of these areas.
  • The puppy’s eyes should be bright, clear, and moist. His/her mouth and nose should smell clean, be absent of sores, and gums should be pink.
  • His/her coat should be healthy, full, shiny, and clean. Note if there are any balding areas, or sores, lumps, and scabs on the skin.
  • A healthy puppy should be lean and active. Puppies burn off a lot of calories and should not be overweight. A healthy puppy should be excited and full of energy.

Is the puppy house trained?

  • Most puppies have urinary or bowel accidents dependent on their age and time spent in a kennel or shelter.
  • Changes in routine or location also cause distress and may cause a puppy to have accidents.
  • Speak with a Veterinarian if you have concerns on frequent accidents or difficulty with house training.

What are the puppy’s usual urinary and bowel patterns?

Healthy Puppy

Ask questions in regards to the usual elimination pattern of the puppy. There should be no difficulty voiding, no diarrhea or constipation, or vomiting. You want to make sure your new puppy is not bringing home any viruses, parasites, or bacteria; especially if you have small children at home.

Temperament:

Puppies

  • Most puppies should be 8 – 10 weeks old before you adopt one, it should be weaned from the mother completely.
  • The puppy shouldn’t snarl or snap at you when picked up, but be playful and interactive.
  • Watch how the puppy behaves with other animals in the shelter. Is it playful, gentle, happy, and full of energy?

What about past examinations and vaccinations?

  • Always ask for copies of past examinations and vaccinations that the puppy has had.
  • Check with a humane society, SPCA, or animal rescue society as the animals they have for adoption are well looked after and are monitored by a Veterinarian.
  • If you are buying from a breeder, check carefully into the facility, and how the animals are handled and raised. Ask about all prior vaccinations and infections.

cute puppy

 

Consult a Veterinarian when you have chosen your new pet and schedule an examination. Set up grooming appointments and have your dog regularly washed and groomed to monitor for any current concerns or health changes. Contact PetCity Canada to set up a monthly schedule to maintain your pet’s health and well being.

Dogs Safe for Halloween

Excellent Tips for Keeping Your Dog Safe During Halloween

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Holidays and special occasions can be stressful and dangerous for your pet! There are a few precautions you should follow to keep your dog safe and healthy as Halloween approaches. As more homes display Halloween decorations on cords and wires you may want to consider leaving your canine companion at home during trick-or-treating. If you choose to bring them with you, ensure you keep them safely beside you on a leash.

One Chocolate Won’t Hurt or Will It?

Dog Chocolate

  • All chocolate is a danger to your pet. The toxicity level is dependent on the amount consumed and the sweetener used. The artificial sweetener, Xylitol, is poisonous to dogs.
  • Have a safe place to store Halloween candy and chocolate well away from where your pet can reach them.
  • It’s not just chocolate you should be worried about. Sucker sticks, wrappers, fats, nuts, nut butters, and foil are all dangerous!
  • If you suspect your dog has eaten too many Halloween candies, contact the Pet Poison Control Center or your Veterinarian immediately.

My Dog Loves Going for Walks, but Is Halloween a Safe Time?

  • Most lit Jack-O-Lanterns are either on a low support or on ground level. Keep your pet’s wagging tail away from candle flames!
  • Children will be running from house to house, so if you have a dog that loves to chase or spooks easily keep him/her on a leash.
  • The best time to walk your dog is well before dinner; long before the ghosts and ghouls are gliding your streets.
  • Fireworks startle dogs and they run for safety. If you have your dog with you, the best idea is to walk your dog on a leash and keep it close to you.
  • Don’t leave your pets outside in the yard on Halloween! Unfortunately, there are documented cases of animal cruelty on or around October 31st.

I Love Halloween Costumes, so Does My Dog!Halloween Pets

  • You may think your pets love costumes, but do they? Flowing costumes, bright flashy costumes, and goodie bags may overwhelm your pet. The sights, sounds, and movements of Halloween can cause stress and anxiety for an already nervous dog.
  • If your dog does indeed love costumes then find one that doesn’t restrict movement, breathing, sight, or hearing. Have your pet wear the costume before Halloween for short periods at a time to become used to it. Never leave your pet unattended in a costume!

I Decorate My House like a Haunted House!

  • Decorations look fantastic any time of year, but they also bring along hazards! All decorations with cords, candles, cables, and cobwebs should be well out of reach of your pet.
  • If your dog runs for cover every time a motion decoration squeals and shakes, put it out in the yard.
  • Place a battery operated light in the Jack-O-Lantern instead of a candle.
  • Keep in mind that pumpkins and gourds will cause gastric upset if your dog ingests them.

My Dog Loves to Run to the Door at Every Knock!

  • With every knock or ring of the doorbell by an excited trick-or-treater, you will be fighting over foot-space with your canine as you both bolt for the door. It is advisable to have a safe room or crate to keep your pet in while kids are coming to your door. Leave a tasty dog bone or safe toy with your dog while he/she is alone.
  • Set up a baby or pet gate to keep your pet safely out of range of the door. Small children may be frightened by your dog rushing to greet them.
  • If your dog loves to bark every time a trick-or-treater arrives, you might get cranky with them. Keeping them in a closed room benefits you both!

If you feel your pet has lost out on all the fun Halloween brings, have a stash of Pet-friendly treats on hand.

Make an appointment with one of our certified Pet City Canada groomers and have your dog washed and groomed before the festivities start. Have a safe and happy Halloween!Dog Halloween

 

Homemade Pet Food

Top 3 Benefits of Making your Own Pet Food

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Deciding what to feed your fur baby can be a hot topic for discussion. As long as you have your pet’s best interests in mind, how you choose to feed your pet is a personal decision. From kibble, to raw meat only, to cooked homemade meals, or chunky meat in a can, there are many options out there.  There are certainly benefits to making your own pet food and here we will talk about what they are so you can make your own, informed decision.

  1. Nutrition

Because we all love our fur babies so much, providing the best nutrition possible to them is one reason to choose to make your own pet food. This is very similar to why many parents choose to make their own baby food. You know EXACTLY what is going into the food. Some pet foods are full of additives like chemicals to extend shelf life, while others have actual saw dust added for filler, commonly called Powder Cellulose. With homemade food, you typically make enough for a few days or freeze a big batch, with no concerns of adding additional chemicals to keep it fresh.

  1. Save Money

    Pet food

Does cooked ground turkey mixed with fresh vegetables and eggs sound more extravagant than a bag of dried kibble? You would think this would cost significantly more; however homemade pet food can actually save your pocket books! You don’t pay for the marketing or packaging of the commercial products, you save yourself a trip to the pet store and you likely already have all the ingredients on hand!

 

  1. Peace of Mind

In Canada, the pet food industry is not regulated. Therefore, unlike the Government warning us humans about food recalls, with pet food it is up to the manufacturer to issue such recalls.  Many choose to make their own pet food to always be aware of when there are concerns with the food their pet is ingesting. Many pet foods will include meat by-products, which is a term for anything humans don’t eat like undeveloped eggs, head, teeth, and even cancerous tissue!

Where to even start? If you are interested in giving it a try to see how your pet responds, there are many recipes out there to try, such as this Puppy Stew Recipes for dogs or Boiled Chicken Cat Food.

Cat food

If you choose that homemade pet food is right for your family, ensure you touch base with your vet to ensure you are aware of all the essential nutrients your pet requires, so you can have a plan on how to add these supplements to your meals. It’s important to know things like dogs can’t digest corn and grains aren’t a natural part of their diet. It is also crucial to be aware of what food to avoid for your pet, for example did you know that grapes are toxic for dogs? This knowledge will help you make the best decision for your pet(s)! Remember: this is a personal choice and if you decide not to create homemade meals for your pet, there are still a lot of good quality commercial options out there!

5 Health Issues affecting your Aging Dog

5 Health Issues that Affect Your Aging Dog

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The greatest, unconditional love of our life is our loyal canine companion! No one wants to imagine the day when our pet ages and is no longer a part of our family life.

By recognizing the signs of aging of your pet, you can promote a healthy transition for his/her aging process. Regardless of the breed and size of your dog the aging cycle is usually the same.

Aging Dog

Some common issues that affect your dog will be changes in: sight, hearing, mobility, activity, health, diet, and mood. Here are 5 of the more common signs and symptoms that your pet is aging:

  1. Health Concerns:

  • ‘Accidents’ may become more frequent as your pet isn’t able to control his/her bowel or bladder functions.
  • Breathing becomes slower and may increase quickly on exertion.
  • Dehydration which causes your pet’s skin and mouth to become dry.
  • Gums, teeth, and breath need to be monitored for overall health and treatment of infections.

  1. Changes in hearing and sight:

  • It is normal with aging for hearing and sight to decline slowly.
  • Don’t approach an aging dog quickly and startle them. They may snap to protect themselves thinking they will be harmed.
  • Always approach from the front of your pet as they may only see shadows.

  1. Withdraws from activity:

  • Slowly decrease level of activity, doesn’t want to go outdoors.
  • Loses playfulness and excitement.
  • Doesn’t coming running when you arrive home.
  • Lethargic and tends to sleep much more during the day, or day and night sleeping patterns reverse.

  1. Difficulty with mobility:

  • Takes longer to walk up and down stairs.
  • Difficulty jumping into and out of a vehicle.
  • Climbing up onto the bed or couch (if you let them)!
  • Slower and unsteady when standing up from lying down.
  • Joint pain and stiffness.

Mobility Issues in a dog

  1. Loss of appetite:

  • Your dog may become disinterested in food, and eat very little.
  • Their favorite treats may simply go unwanted.
  • They tend to drink much less.
  • They don’t beg for scraps.

A visit to your Veterinarian at the onset of health and behavioural changes is highly recommended. Your Veterinarian will give you advice and support on how to care for your aging pet.

Dog GroomerA groomer who regularly sees your pet will also notice subtle changes and alert you as they happen. Pet grooming is important for any dog; especially an aging one that needs closer monitoring for cleanliness and any health changes.

Contact PetCity Canada to book an appointment with one of our qualified pet groomers.

Pet City Canada

What You Should Know About Canine Vaccinations to Control Disease, Infection and Transmission!

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Knowing about some of the diseases and infections your dog is susceptible to will decrease the risk of illness and transmission. Many of the diseases and infections dogs can contract and spread can be avoided through keeping your pet’s vaccinations up to date.

Unfortunately, some of the diseases that can affect your dog can be transferred to you! Germs and diseases are transferred to people through dog bites, scratches, or contact with animal excrement, and are known as zoonotic diseases. Illnesses such as, rabies, toxocarilasis, brucellosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ringworm and round worm can cause concern for humans.

Pet Care

Not all canine diseases infect human beings but can be fatal to your pet. Some dog specific viruses, bacteria, and fungal infections are the parvovirus, distemper, heartworm, demodectic mange, kennel cough, dog tapeworm, leptospirosis, coccidioidomycosis, and canine herpesvirus.

Pet City CanadaThe types of symptoms your dog experiences are dependent on the illness they have contracted. A wide range of symptoms are gastrointestinal upset, lethargy, weight loss, decreased appetite, vomiting, fever, cough, bloody diarrhea, dehydration, hair loss, pain, muscle weakness, and difficulty breathing, and possible death. Always seek the advice of a Veterinarian if your dog has any of these symptoms.

Viruses and bacterium are spread through infected airborne particles, direct contact of site infection, fecal oral transmission, or body excrement. To avoid transmission clean up urine, feces, or vomit immediately. Wash your hands after cleaning up after your pet! Keep your pet away from urine and feces left by other animals.

Many of the infectious diseases that affect dogs and humans can be minimized or avoided by keeping your pet’s vaccinations up to date. In fact, most doggy daycares require your pets vaccinations to be up to date prior to booking an appointment. Consult your Veterinarian for a recommended treatment and prevention plan.

Have your dog regularly groomed and clipped to monitor for skin, hair, and temperament changes. A professional groomer will also check your dog’s mouth, eyes and ears looking for any infections, inflammation, or abnormalities.Grooming

Please contact us at Pet City Canada to make an appointment to have your dog groomed. Our qualified groomers will be happy to assess and monitor your dog’s condition.

Stress Free Traveling with Pets

5 Stress Free Tips When Traveling with Pets

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Traveling with pets can be stressful if you are not prepared ahead of time. Doing some research before setting off for a vacation should elevate some of the worry. Whether you are traveling by air, land, or sea here are some tips to help make your journey safe and exciting!

Pack More Than You Think You’ll Need:

Stress Free Tips Traveling with Pet

Packing extra supplies may take more room in your suitcase or vehicle, but may save you time and money later! Bring extra food and water in case you have been delayed or have to make an unscheduled overnight stop.

Bring an extra collar and leash in case one is left behind at one of your stops! Pack all important documentation so it is accessible.

Pack toys and treats: even dogs get bored on long journeys!

Check with Your Veterinarian About Safe Travel Requirements:

Check government websites for appropriate travel documentation required for your destination then discuss these with your veterinarian. Consult your veterinarian on required vaccinations, blood tests, and parasite control treatments.

If your dog suffers from carsickness then you’ll require appropriate medications to help keep him/her relaxed. There are medications on the market designed to calm your pet. Always ask your veterinarian before giving your pet any medications.

Microchip implants are required in many destinations and are vital for your pet’s identification if lost or stolen. 

Book Accommodations in Advance That Are Pet Friendly:

There are many pet friendly hotels worldwide; make sure to book in advance.

Obey all rules and regulations set out by the accommodation where you are staying. These rules will be enforced to keep all guests happy.

Most hotels that welcome pets charge a fee which may or may not be refundable. Check the costs associated with pet policies before you book your accommodation!

Vehicle and Roadside Pet Safety:

Stress Free Tips Traveling with Pet

Pet carriers should be large enough to allow your pet to move freely without excess room. Make sure there is adequate ventilation around the carrier. Ask your veterinarian if you are unsure of the size of carrier your pet requires.

Always have your pet on a leash when stopping at rest areas and along roadsides. Dogs will run quickly after animals in surrounding trees and brush! Keep your dog safely away from drinking from puddles, ponds, and stagnant water.

Pre and Post Grooming:

Book an appointment with a certified pet groomer before and after your vacation. A professional groomer will assess the health and condition of your pet to keep them in optimal health. You will be aware of any health concerns before you travel with your pet and not once you have reached your destination!

Have your pet groomed again once you are home to make sure no medical issues have arisen during your travels.

 

A little advanced planning goes a long way in either making or breaking a vacation. Contact your airline or travel agent regarding travel information and specific requirements for traveling with pets in advance.

Please call Pet City Canada to book a pre and post grooming appointment for your dog. Let our skilled groomers assess your pet’s overall health and take the worry out of your travel plans.

5 Things You Should Know if Your Dog is Aggressive

5 Things You Should Know if Your Dog is Aggressive

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The main causes of aggression in dogs are when they are protecting themselves or their pups from a threat, defending their territory/food, or protecting their owners. In some cases, aggression is a sign that your dog needs more exercise. There are precautions, you as the dog owner, can take to prevent injury.

1.Identify the signs your dog shows when becoming aggressive:

  • Makes a low, guttural, longer sound as a warning.
  • Bares its teeth and curl up its cheeks.
  • Squats slightly lower to the ground.
  • Makes growling, snarling, and/or snapping sounds.
  • Lunges forward towards another animal or person.
  • Nips, bites, punctures skin causing injury.

2. Know what triggered the aggressive response:Dog Aggression

  • Did something hurt your dog?
  • Was your dog injured or in pain before the aggressive behaviour?
  • Were you, their pups, or themselves in any danger?
  • Where were you when the aggressive behaviour started?
  • Have they had enough exercise today?

3. Be aware of what influences dog aggression:

  • Some breeds have a common trait of aggression, but not all dogs of that breed will automatically be aggressive. Some dog breeds that have aggressive tendencies are: American Pit Bull Terrier, Bull Mastiff, Rottweiler, German Shepherd, Dobermann Pinscher, Cane Corso.
  • How a dog is treated will affect their personality and disposition.
  • If a dog has had good socialization with other animals and people beforehand.
  • Health concerns: if a dog is deaf or has poor eye sight they may startle and snap or bite, or if they are pain or discomfort.

 4. Know what you can do to protect other animals and people from getting hurt:

  • A good place to start is enrolling your dog in an obedience training program.
  • Talk with your Veterinarian about causes and management of aggressive behaviours. You need to rule out any medical causes that are a factor.
  • Use a muzzle when your dog is in contact with other people or animals if aggression is a concern.
  • Put your dog in a crate or separate room before company arrives.
  • Visit parks that aren’t popular with other dog walkers.
  • Be very aware when small children want to ‘play’ with your dog!

5. Know what you should do if your dog becomes aggressive:Dog Agressive

  •  Have a first aid kit with you either in your vehicle or backpack and an old towel or blanket, in case an animal is bleeding.
  • Superficial and Puncture wounds need to be cleansed, apply a topical antibiotic ointment, and bandage. Deeper wounds will bleed (which carry out germs), monitor amount of blood loss,
    and seek medical attention.
  • Offer to pay for any medical expenses that are due to the injury.
  • Being at the receiving end of a dog’s aggressive behaviour is frightening. If your dog ever displays unwanted behaviour seek advice from a qualified professional immediately before serious injury occurs.

If you are concerned your pup isn’t getting enough exercise and is spending long days home alone, please contact us to learn more about the services we have that can support you!

Keep Dog Healthy in Winter Months

5 Great Ways to Keep Your Dog Active and Healthy During the Winter Months

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If you’re like most people, leaving the comforts of your warm home to venture outside during the colder days of winter takes motivation! Dogs like most people feel good once they return from a long walk outdoors. Exercise during the winter months is just as important for your canine companion as it is during the spring and summer. Here are a few great ways to help keep your dog healthy and happy during the colder days of winter.

Schedule Outdoor WalksDog Healthy

Dogs as well as their owners are creatures of habit. Your dog will become conditioned to anticipating his/her outdoor walk if it happens around the same time each day. Set out a time that works best for your lifestyle. If your dog is home all day on its own, maybe schedule your walk as soon as you get home. Your pet will be ready to burn off energy, while you can unwind from your workday.

Take Part in Locally Sponsored Doggy Daycares and Activities

Check your area for dog walking parks, doggy daycares, dog walkers, and other animal activities. Canine agility classes are a great way to meet other dog owners and their dogs while gaining discipline and exercise for your dog! Many communities have hydrotherapy and swimming pools for dogs.

Dog Swimming Pools

Monitor Your Dogs Weight During Winter

If your dog becomes too inactive during the winter months it’s advisable to talk with your Veterinarian. You may have to modify the amount of food your dog eats or find indoor activities for your pet. Did you know there are treadmills on the market that are designed specifically for dogs?

Invest in a Pet Coat and Booties

Pet coats aren’t only used to keep short haired dogs warm on colder winter days; they are great for keeping long haired dogs much drier in the rain and snow. Once your dog is used to wearing booties, you’ll reap the benefits of protecting paws, cleaner floors, and limiting paw injury.

Clean Paws After Every Walk

Chemicals and toxic runoff will be on roadways, paths, and grasses; toxins are dependent on the season. During the winter months road salt and de-icing chemicals as well as anti-freeze will pose a threat to your dog. The soft pads of their paws will absorb these substances from outside surfaces.

Dog Healthy

Wash your dog’s paws with warm soapy water and pat dry after every outing to prevent your dog from ingesting any toxic residue. Make sure the household cleaners you use are pet safe products as well!

If you are unable to walk outside during the winter months, you may consider hiring a dog walker or doggy daycare. Call Pet City Canada to ask about our services and rates!