Recognizing the Emotions of Dogs

Few who have lived with dogs would deny that dogs have feelings. Taking a cue from his great friend Darwin, who spoke of conscience in the dog, George Romanes wrote that "the emotional life of the dog is highly developed--more highly, indeed, than that of any other animal." (He did not include the human animal, though perhaps he should have done so.) Of course dogs have feelings, and we have no trouble acknowledging most of them. Joy, for example. Can anything be as joyous as a dog? Bounding ahead, crashing into the bushes while out on a walk, happy, happy, happy. Conversely, can anything be as disappointed as a dog when you say, "No, we are not going for a walk"? Down he flops onto the floor, his ears fall, he looks up, showing the whites of his eyes, with a look of utter dejection. Pure joy, pure disappointment.

But are this joy and disappointment identical to what humans mean when we use these words? What dogs do, the way they behave, even the sounds they make, seem instantaneously translatable into human emotional terms. When a dog is rolling in fresh-cut grass, the pleasure on her face is unmistakable. No one could be wrong in saying that what she is feeling is akin to what any of us (though less often, perhaps) may feel. The words used to describe the emotion may be wrong, our vocabulary imprecise, the analogy imperfect, but there is also some deep similarity that escapes nobody. My dog may appear to feel joy and sorrow much the way I do, and the appearance here is critical: We often have no more to go on when it comes to our fellow humans.

classic Photos of Dogs Manipulated to Look Like People

Swiss commercial photographer and graphic designer Sebastian Magnani came up with the idea for his hilarious Underdogs series back in 2009 because he wanted to have a photo of his girlfriend and his beloved dog. But instead of shooting a portrait of them hanging out together or placing pictures of them side-by-side in a frame, he decided to manipulate photos of both, taken in the basement of his mother’s home, into a single, merged image. The results are just as weird as you might imagine (we’re kind of curious what she thinks of the concept!), but they’re also incredibly clever and guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Click through to check out the initial photo manipulation, as well as some more recent additions to the on-going series, and brace yourselves: apparently he plans to try this with cats and other animals next.

Wolf Hybrid

As of about 1990 the correct term for a mix of a wolf and a domestic dog is a wolfdog. The dog was reclassified as a sub-species of wolf (canis lupus familiaris) and as such, it is impossible to have a hybrid as they are two of the same species. Although technically incorrect, the term "hybrid" is still used by many, particularly when it comes to mixing two purebred domestic dogs.

It was brought to our attention by some wolfdog fanciers that there are many animals out there which are claimed to bewolfdogs but are actually nordic type dog mixes. Apparently some are pictured inside this section. We made the decision to keep this wolf hybrid section as a comparison with the dogs who have been proven to be true wolfdogs. You can see some examples at Non-Wolfdogs: Mistaken Identity.

The Dog Breed Info Center(R) is not claiming the dogs in this section are not true wolfdogs. We would like you to do your own comparison between the two, this wolf hybrid section and our proven wolfdog section. There are many dogs in shelters that are killed because they look like a wolf when they are actually an nortic type dog, such as a husky or malamute mix. Animals that are falsely labelled as wolfdogs in shelters can be detrimental. Nortic dogs are being killed and wolfdogs are not going to the proper rescues where there are people who know how to deal with them.

Can Wolves Be Trained Like Dogs?

Can wolves be trained like dogs?

A: Yes to some degree and no. I have always considered wolves very cat like in how they move, and even act in some ways, training is one of those ways. Cats are highly independent and do not like to take direction very easily, the same can be said about wolves. However give a wolf incentive to work and they will do it, some even happily so, as it gives them something to do, and works their minds to problem solve. They are capable of learning commands, however one has to use positive reinforcement such as a clicker and food rewards.

Young wolves in the wild and in human captive raised situations, look to the leaders in their canine and human pack members, for direction as they mature, however evolution has designed them, to break out of their dependence on others, and express their independence. I have found that wolves are of the most independent creatures around. You can train and teach wolves to do *some* things, however I would not consider wolves bomb proof when it comes to commands and reliability in training no matter how much time is spent on it.

Has Your Dog Been Displaying Wolf Like Behavior

I have been wondering since my dog passed away a month ago about some of the things she use to do, and why she did them. So I began to do some research to find out something about the different things she has done throughout her life. Because I have never seen any of my other dogs display that type of behavior before. And I was amazed that many of the things my dog was doing were common wolf behavior in the wild. But it is nothing to be a scared about if your dog is doing the same, because it is not vicious behavior. I tried to find out why all dogs do not display wolf like behavior seeing that they are all descendents of wolves, but could not find much to explain it other than some feel it has to do with the breed of the dog and if the dog breed is kept pure, but could not find much more than that to explain in more detail.

I will tell you what behavior my dog use to do and then tell you why the wolf does it in the wild. And see if your dog has done any of this type of behavior to.

Who Rules? Dogs and Cats: Learning to Get Along

Are your dogs and cats fighting like...well...cats and dogs? Cats and dogs are two very different species, each evolved for different purposes and each with a unique place in their relationship with humankind.

Dogs, from Wolf to Woof

Canis familiaris. The name says it all - familiaris - Man's Best Friend. Archaeological evidence points to the fact that dogs evolved in the company of man as a social species. They shared the same habitat and hunted the same prey. Whether man adopted orphaned wolf cubs or wild dogs chose to stay close to human settlements to take advantage of the "leftovers," modern dogs are the result of their ancestors' ability to accept food and eat in the presence of humans. The consequent close ties between people and their pups are the result of the commonalities between them.

Cats, from Myeo to Meow

Felis catus. Egyptologists suggest Egyptians were domesticating African wildcats as early as 3,500 BC. These tamed cats were called myeo ormau. However, some archaeologists place the date at ~6,000 BC. Whenever it happened, it seems to be a result of the cat following the rodents, snakes and other pests that gathered around civilization where man was stockpiling food supplies. Initially cats were tolerated by humans because they killed these pests, and although full domestication and companionship status followed, domestic cats have an entirely different outlook on their relationship with people than dogs.

What is the Meaning of the Idiom WORK LIKE A DOG?

to work very hard
Examples:

1. He has two jobs and he goes to university. He is working like a dog to give his children a better future.

2. I wish my sister had a better job. The pay at her job is terrible, and her boss works her like a dog.

3. We are going to have to work like dogs to get our house clean this weekend. Relatives are coming to visit on Monday, and we have been painting. Our place is a mess!

How to Work Like a Dog

Whether you’re the “alpha dog” in your office or a lone wolf slaving away at your terminal, there are a few lessons that you can learn from your dog that might help you get through the day without running away with your tail between your legs. No animals were hurt in the making of this post, but be warned – many, many plays on this idiom to follow.

Keep yourself clean and presentable
Don’t spend your whole day grooming, but take a bit of time to make sure you look presentable. Have some pride in your appearance and others will too. How you dress can really impact your career path. Even if you are working from home, try to make the effort to at least shower and get dressed before you head to the desk. You’ll feel better, and this will show in your work.
Don’t show fear to those that try to intimidate you

Example about "work like a dog "

A: How is school going? Are you still studying Engineering?
B: Yeah, but it’s so hard! I study for hours every day!
A: Well, just keep working like a dog. If you keep working hard, you’ll be successful one day!

The young football player is going to work like a dog by practicing every day, so he can play professionally one day.

A: You look great! How did you lose so much weight?
B: Well, I worked like a dog and exercised every day.
A: Fantastic!

7 Ways Dogs Can Help Your Health

Dogs may be good at more than fetching sticks and greeting you after a long day at work. As it turns out, simply having them around may lessen your kids' chances of getting the common cold.

Owning a dog may improve the health of children in that household, according to new research from the University of California, San Francisco. In a study of mice, researchers found that the house dust from homes with dogs worked to protect against a common cold strain, the respiratory syncytial virus.

"Mice aren't identical to humans. There are obvious differences," explains Dr. Susan Lynch, co-investigator of the study and a professor at UCSF. "But we can do things in the animals that we could not possibly do in humans, and we can get samples to examine disease that would be very difficult to assess in humans."

Animals fed house dust from dog-owning homes did not exhibit the usual symptoms of RSV, including mucus production and lung inflammation. In fact, their symptoms were comparable to animals that weren't exposed to the virus in the first place.

The Advantages of Owning a Dog

Fitter, happier, more productive... If you want to be all that and more, get a dog.

A friend indeed

There's a reason dogs have long been called a man's best friend. Their loyalty, intelligence, devotion and affection are incredibly rewarding. From taking a long walk together on a beautiful spring morning, being greeted by a happily wagging tail at the end of a long day to relaxing at home in each other's company, owning a dog can raise spirits and engender a sense of wellbeing like almost nothing else.

And of course for all the love you put in, a dog will give you it back tenfold.

Do Animals Have Souls?

Question: Do Animals Have Souls?

Will We See Our Pets in Heaven?One of life’s greatest joys is having a pet. They bring so much happiness, companionship and enjoyment that we can’t imagine life without them. Many Christians wonder, "Do animals have souls? Will I see my pet in heaven?"

Answer:

In the past few decades, scientists have proven beyond any doubt that some species of animals possess intelligence. Porpoises and whales can communicate with other members of their species through audible language. Dogs can be trained to do relatively complex tasks. Gorillas have even been taught to form simple sentences using sign language.

Dog's Belly Buttons

Ask dog owners whether or not their pet has a belly button and most will probably say no. That is because most canine belly buttons are not readily visible.

However, the answer to the question is that dogs definitely do have belly buttons. The main reason for many people thinking that dogs do not have a belly button is that canine belly buttons are very different from those of humans. While human navels are easily visible, canine belly buttons are often nothing more than a faint scar. They do not resemble a hole in the stomach. They are usually flat (unless there is a medical problem such as a hernia) and hairless.

Consider a dog’s navel, which is also known as the umbilicus. This is where the blood vessels from the placenta attach to the puppy before it is born. These blood vessels are vital to life because they provide nutrition and help with oxygen and waste product removal.

Once a puppy is born, it no longer relies on the blood vessel or umbilical cord. The mother will often eat the umbilical cord. It does not take a long time for the spot where the umbilical cord was attached to heal. In a day or so, the area scabs over and it soon becomes difficult to tell where the blood vessel was attached.

tonsillitisin dogs

Dogs have two tonsils located in the back of the throat, where they act much like lymph nodes to combat throat infections. When the tonsils become inflamed, the condition is called tonsillitis. It is most common in small breeds of dogs. 

Tonsillitis can be caused by any infection or irritation of the mouth that allows bacteria to multiply and enter the throat. The most common cause is probably build up of bacterial tartar on the teeth and associated inflammation of the gums. Most cases of tonsillitis are caused by overgrowth of bacteria that are normally found in the mouth, which means that it is not usually contagious to other pets or people. 

Dogs with tonsillitis tend to gag, as if something is in the throat, or to make exaggerated swallowing motions. Some dogs lick their lips repeatedly. Most dogs with tonsillitis are reluctant to eat because swallowing is painful. They may be hungry and go to their food bowl but then eat nothing or very little. Activity level may be decreased, although tonsillitis does not usually cause a fever. 

CANINE SEIZURES - AN OVERVIEW, CAUSES AND TREATMENTS

AN OVERVIEW

What is Canine Epilepsy?

Canine Epilepsy is a chronic condition characterized by recurrent seizures. Although seizures are always abnormal events, not all seizures in dogs are caused by canine epilepsy.

Canine Epilepsy is a disorder of the brain where abnormal electrical activity triggers further uncoordinated nerve transmission. This uncoordinated and haphazard nerve tissue activity scrambles messages to the muscles of your dog's body and the coordinated use of the muscles is then inhibited.

Because there are many causes of chronic recurrent seizures in dogs, canine epilepsy is not a specific disease or even a single syndrome, but rather a diverse category of disorders. Canine Epilepsy is broadly divided into idiopathic and symptomatic disorders. Idiopathic Epilepsy, also called primary epilepsy, means that there is no identifiable brain abnormality other than seizures. Symptomatic epilepsy (also called secondary epilepsy) is seizures that are the consequence of an identifiable lesion or other specific cause.

Why Does My Dog Have Seizures

A dog may seizure for any number of reasons. Just because a dog has a seizure does not mean that the dog has epilepsy. Just because I have a running nose does not mean that I have a cold. I could have a reaction to someone's perfume, I could have a sinus infection, I could have allergies, I could have ... . There are many tests to determine what exactly I have that is causing my running nose. However, there is no test in the medical industry for the existence of epilepsy (primary, inherited or idiopathic). To determine whether a dog has epilepsy or something else, a veterinarian or neurologist arrives at their diagnosis by a process of elimination. They determine what is not and then, hopefully, come to a logical conclusion as to what it is. The following is a list of conditions which can cause seizures in dogs. Each condition is discussed in the following sections: 

1. Brain tumor, Head injury 

2. Lyme Disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever 

3. Distemper 

4. Environment - toxins 

5. Epilepsy 

6. hyper' and 'hypo' Conditions

• Hyperglycemia
• Hypoglycemia
• Hypoxia or Hypoxemia
• Hepatic Encephalopathy or Liver Disease
• Renal (kidney) disease
• Hyperkalemia
• Hyperlipoproteinemia
• "garbage" poisoning)
• Tick Bites
• Toxoplamosis (Toxo)

 7. Lissencephay 

The above list is not all-encompassing, but close, these items are the major causes for seizures in dogs.

1. Brain Tumor, Head Injury. 

A brain tumor is an abnormal growth in the brain. There are two types of tumors: primary and metastases. Primary tumors grow from tissues in the brain and their cause is unknown. Metastases are spread via the bloodstream from tumors in other places in the body. A tumor may be malignant. A tumor in the brain may also put pressure on the brain as it grows. Pressure on the brain tissue in the area of the tumor may cause: 

loss of vision 

motor coordination 

Care of Mother Dogs and Puppies

This information leaflet is provided as a method of communication between veterinarians and clients whose dogs are about to give birth. It is designed to explain the signs of labor, normal birth process and follow-up care of the mother and her puppies. Your role in preparing for and assisting in the birth is discussed along with problems which require special and/or emergency veterinary care. If you have any questions, be sure to ask your veterinarian to answer them for you.

Preparing for Birth

A couple of weeks before your dog gives birth (whelping), supply the expectant mother with a box for her to have her pups in. The box must be large enough for the mother to stretch out in and allow enough room for a brood of new puppies. The mother dog should be able to enter and leave the box easily. Make sure the sides of the box are several inches high in order to keep the puppies in, box dry, and chilly drafts out. Place the whelping box in a warm area which is free from distractions but familiar to the mother dog. She needs a quiet and secure place to rest.

Mange in Dogs

Demodicosis in Dogs

Mange (demodicosis) is an inflammatory disease in dogs caused by various types of the Demodex mite. When the number of mites inhabiting the hair follicles and skin of the dog become exorbitant, it can lead to skin lesions, genetic disorders, problems with the immune system and hair loss (alopecia). The severity of symptoms depends upon the type of mite inhabiting the dog.

The condition or disease described in this medical article can affect both dogs and cats. If you would like to learn more about how this disease affects cats, please visit this page in the petMD health library. You can also learn more about the other common type of mange: sarcoptic mange in dogs.

Symptoms and Types

Demodectic mange may either be localized and affect specific areas of the body, or generalized, where it affects the entire body. If localized, symptoms are usually mild, with lesions occurring in patches, especially on the face, trunk, or legs. If generalized, symptoms will be more widespread and appear across the body. These symptoms include alopecia, a redness of the skin (erythema), and the appearance of scales and lesions.

How Long Does A Dog Stay In Heat?

So, you’ve got yourself the cute puppy that you and your family have been yearning for. The kids love her … and they are actually helping out!

She’s a beautiful female, the most adorable thing in the world.

Then, last night, you recall that the neighbor down the road had one of those “nightmare” problems — her pet had an unwanted pregnancy. And you wonder, “how long does a dog stay in heat?”.

Well, the short answer is: about two and a half weeks.

Basics of the Estrous Cycle

How to Stop a Heat Cycle in Dogs?

Several people have asked me recently, if it is possible to stop a heat in dog. They were unpleasant with the whole situation when the dog must not be let alone in the yard, had to be guarded, and were restless most of the time.

To answer short, Yes, there is a method to stop a heat cycle in dogs.

However, owners who seek a relief for their misery may be left disappointed, because you will still need to protect your dog. Protective period will be shorter, but it will not disappear at all. If someone wants to escape from caring for a dog in heat, using medications is not the best option. But it’s your choice.

How the heat cycle postponement work in dogs?

Heat cycle in dogs can be halted by using megestrol acetate (commercial name: Ovaban).

Asked about Dogs in Heat

1. What is heat?

Heat is more properly called the estrous cycle. During this cycle, female dogs may get pregnant. It's equivalent to human menstruation.

2. What are the symptoms?

Females bleed from the vagina sometimes with swelling of the vulva and increased urination. Don't expect bleeding comparable to a human female.

For small dogs, it's usually not much and you may need to pay close attention to your puppy to identify her first cycle. Other than the bleeding, the most noticeable symptom may be 

male dogs hanging around your house.

Estrus Cycles in Dogs

When does a female dog have her first estrus cycle?

Dogs will have their first estrus cycle when they reach puberty. Estrus is the stage of the reproductive cycle in which the dog can become pregnant; sometimes a dog that is in estrus is said to be "in heat" or "in season". On average, puberty or sexual maturity is reached at about 6 months of age, but this can vary by breed. The smaller breeds of dogs tend to have their first estrus cycle at an earlier age, while the large and giant breeds of dogs may not come into heat for the first time until they reach eighteen months to two years of age.

Estrus is the stage of the reproductive cycle in which the dog can become pregnant.

How often does a female dog come into heat?

Most dogs come into heat twice per year, or about every six months, although the interval can vary between breeds, and from dog to dog. Small breed dogs may cycle three times per year, while giant breed dogs may only cycle once every 12-18 months. When young dogs first begin to cycle, it is normal for their cycles to be somewhat irregular. It can take up to 2 years for a female dog to develop regular cycles. There is no season of the year which corresponds to a breeding season for domesticated dogs.

How long does estrus last?

Pic dog with short hair

Pic dog with short hair

Random a pic of dogs

dog with cute hat

dog wool scarf photo so cute

In winter, my dog still so cute

How Does a Dog Become Pregnant?

Heat Cycles

Dogs cannot become pregnant at any time. Female dogs come into season, or into their heat cycle, anywhere between two and three times a year, depending on the breed. Larger dogs might go into season more often, but for the most part, female dogs come into season twice a year. Male dogs are always ready to reproduce, but a female dog will not let a male dog mount her until she is ready to conceive.

A female's heat cycle is anywhere from seven to fourteen days. The first part of the cycle consists of a reddish discharge from the female and of increased attention paid to her reproductive area. During the first seven or eight days, male dogs will show an increase in the attention that they pay to her. As she approaches the time in which she will be able to conceive, she will begin to reciprocate the attention. When the female is ready, she will let the male know.

Mounting Process

At what age can a dog get pregnant?

Once you have decided to bring a puppy home you have lot of things to consider is to ensure that your dog has a happy and comfortable life. One such thing that you need to ponder upon is whether you would want your dog to have puppies of her own.

Ideally speaking, dogs should be spayed as early as possible to reduce the risk of certain cancers and uterine infections later in life. So, the decision of whether you would want your dog to be allowed to breed or not should be taken as early as possible.

Some basics while thinking of breeding

Uncontrolled breeding can lead to birth of puppies that you may not be able to find homes to accommodate. This can lead to them ending up as strays increasing the population of such dogs on the streets or you will have humanely euthanize the puppies. Which really is not a pleasent feeling. Would you want the litter from your dogs to end up like that? Make certain that all the puppies have good homes to go to before breeding takes place.

People Food for Puppies

We love our puppies so much, it’s fun to indulge them with puppy treats but is people food for puppies a good idea? This year as the scent of roast turkey, baked ham, chocolate brownies and all manner of goodies fill the air, beware of “treating” them with dangerous tidbits. Take steps to prevent them from treating themselves!

Some midnight marauders countertop surf to reach forbidden goodies, or figure out how to pry open the refrigerator when the temptation becomes too much to ignore. Take steps now to puppy proof the kitchen paying special attention to garbage containers and access to counters.

Why Puppies Love Treats

For dogs, eating can be a communal event. And hand feeding your puppy helps reinforce the bond of love you share. Puppies often beg for attention and get rewarded with treats, so the two become inseparable. There’s nothing wrong with treating puppies in a healthy way, but it’s easy to go too far. A fat puppy may be cute but isn’t healthy, and can lead to obese adults that live shorter lives. Keeping your puppy lean as he grows into an adult dog can actually add up to two years of longer life!

Basic Feeding Guide: Puppies and Adult Dogs

The first ingredient in your dog's food should be a specified meat. Not a meat by-product, but the real thing. Puppies and adult dogs were not meant to eat corn and wheat. If the first ingredient in your dog food is a corn, wheat, meat by-product, bone meal or anything but a real specified type of meat, steer clear. By-products are the leftovers, such as the eyes, hooves, skin, feathers and feet, that are not good for human consumption (unless the dog food specifically states otherwise.) Beware of ingredients that do not list exactly what it is, such as words like "animal" and "meat" as opposed to "chicken," "beef," "duck," etc. See 

The first ingredient on the label should represent what the dog food is most made out of, but beware, as this is not always the case...

Using chicken as an example, when a dog food lists a meat in the ingredients such as "chicken" it is going by the weight in the meat’s raw state, before it was cooked.

Feeding Puppies: What, When, How

Puppyhood is a time of rapid growth and development. Puppies require different levels of nutrients than do older dogs. Because of their special nutritional needs, your puppy should only receive puppy food for the first year (giant breeds, several months longer). Many dog food manufacturers offer a special formula for puppies and sometimes, large breed puppies, for whom the protein, calcium, and phosphorus levels may be more critical.

Feeding the first few days

For the first few days you have your new puppy home, it is a good idea to continue feeding the same type and brand of puppy food and use the same feeding schedule the puppy was on before he came to you. Then you can slowly start using the food you have chosen based on information you received from the breeder and veterinarian. A pet needs to be switched to a new food slowly to prevent intestinal upset. By 'slowly' we mean over the course of 7-10 days go from feeding 100% of the previous food to 100% of the new food. For example, make a mixture that contains 25% of the new food and 75% of the old food and feed that for several days. Then make it 50-50 for several days, then 75% new food to 25% old food for several days. Then you can start feeding 100% new food. If at any time your puppy starts vomiting, or has loose stools or appears constipated, slow the rate at which you are switching him over.

Puppy Feeding Top Tips

Puppy Diet

Puppies grow 20 times faster than adult dogs and so require a special diet to aid their physical development. A specially formulated growth food is recommended which needs to be fed at evenly spaced intervals to avoid over stretching their small stomachs. A responsible breeder will have given you advice about your puppy’s diet.

Feed your puppy four meals a day up until the age of four months, and then reduce its feed to three meals a day until it is six months old, when you can change to two meals a day, and keep it on this regime for the rest of its life.

It is better not to leave food down (so throw away any uneaten food after 20 minutes) and not to give your puppy any variety, which could cause havoc with its digestion and toilet training regime. However, make sure that water is always available to your puppy, so never take its water bowl away.

What should I feed my puppy

Puppies are largely carnivores that eat some omnivorous foods. Puppies naturally wean off their mother's milk at around 8-12 weeks of age. Wild dogs feed their young with prey animal carcases. In the wild, when young dogs are old enough (around 7-8 weeks old) they start to eat on their own whilst simultaneously decreasing the amount of milk they suckle from their mother.

Puppy feeding guide:

• Talk to your veterinarian for advice
• Feed high quality balanced premium commercial puppy food that is appropriate for the life stage and health status of your puppy. Check that it complies with the Australian Standard: Manufacturing and Marketing Pet Food AS5812:2011

Dog Breeds That Don't Bark

Most people don't think of dogs as being a non-barking animal, however there are actually several different breeds of dogs that don't produce a regular dog bark. This is not to say that these dog breeds don't make a noise, some are very loud and vocal, but they really don't bark, at least not the ordinary sense. 

Non-barking breeds can be found from around the world. Not all are common dogs and many are not recognized by all Kennel Clubs, although they may be recognized by other groups and organizations. Some of the common northern breeds as well as the hounds all have their own unique types of sounds, however these dogs also have the ability to bark as well as make the alternate sound. 

Perhaps one of the best known "barkless" dogs is the Basenji. This is one breed that is not rare although it is also not extremely common. It is recognized by the American Kennel Club, Canadian Kennel Club and the Kennel Club of the United Kingdom. It is actually from Africa and is one of the oldest domesticated breeds of dogs, highly recognizable because of its very specific coat coloration and physical appearance. They are typically a copper, red, brindle or black with significant white markings on the chest, face and bottoms of the legs and feet. They have a very alert appearance with large, pricked triangular ears and wrinkles across the forehead. Most Basenji's are described as having a fox-like face and very athletic body appearance. The tail makes a tight curl over the hips and is a requirement of the breed standard.

Reasons Why Your Dog Can't Bark

Some dogs bark too much, whereas other dogs don't bark.

If your dog can't bark it may be the result of several factors. Some dog breeds don't bark in the typical sense. Some medical conditions can cause a lack of barking. Some owners intentionally de-bark their dogs.

Post-Surgery

If your dog has undergone surgery, she may not bark for a while, or her bark and voice may sound different. This is the result of the tube placed in the dog's windpipe during surgery. This generally resolves itself in a few days.

Hoarseness and Laryngeal Paralysis

Sometimes a dog will stop barking because he is hoarse from constantly barking. Dogs can suffer from a condition called laryngeal paralysis, which occurs when the larynx doesn't open correctly. Labradors are commonly afflicted with this condition.

A tumor on or near the larynx can cause a dog to stop barking.

Dogs who can't bark

Imagine walking into a room filled with caged dogs. One would expect to be greeted by a chorus of barking erupting from the caged canines. However, in some test laboratories the dogs devocalized.

Devocalization is a surgical procedure whose only purpose is to prevent the patient from barking. The Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association (HSVMA) classifies the devocalization of any dog in the same category as other non-therapeutic surgeries such as "declawing, ear cropping and tail docking."

Devocalization is unlike the other non-therapeutic procedures in that it is an invasive surgery and as such carries risk of complications and pain. The HSVMA states devocalization is an "invasive procedure with the inherent risks of anesthesia, infection, blood loss, and other serious complications."

Given the complexity, the obvious cost, and the potential complications that devocalization can create, one would think it is only performed on lab animals when a major benefit is perceived to occur.Why else would this procedure be performed on lab dogs?

Make Sweet Potato Dog Chew Treats

After making and sharing two variations of natural dog treats for Basil (apple treat recipe here and carrot & banana treat recipe here), we had a few requests for some gluten and grain free natural variations. We've pined here on the blog before over our love for Sam's Yams natural sweet potato dog treat chews, and this past weekend we tried our hand at making our own version.

We've LOVED dehydrated sweet potatoes as a treat option for Basil for many reasons. They are completely natural and made from a healthy whole food for starters. Other benefits include the fact that they actually take him a while to eat (he has to work at them) and they can "regulate" his system in times of need, if you catch our drift... Sam's Yams brand sweet potato chews have been our choice so far since they are the straight up sweet potatoes — no added fillers or supplement claims. They also come in large packages with the giant thick chews. All of this being said, these packaged sweet potato treats are pretty expensive — enough so that we get them in limited quantities and every single time we do buy them we ask ourselves why we couldn't make them ourselves.

Pet Talk: Is your pet suffering?

Our pets do not live as long as we do and it is hard to say goodbye

People ask me ‘How do I know if my pet is suffering? And what can I do for him? Is he arthritic? Is he in pain? Is he trying to tell me something?'

Unfortunately, our pets do not live as long as we do and it is hard to say goodbye. Likewise, pets do not communicate like humans do either, therefore we need to try and understand their condition to determine what is best for them.

As your senior pets age, they exhibit various symptoms of old age, like trouble getting up. If he has heart problems, then he may be coughing a lot or have breathing issues. If his kidney's are failing, he may feel nauseated or dehydrated, etc. Pain in a dog can be hard to detect, but here are a few symptoms that you can look for. First of all, when some dogs are in pain, they will not want to eat or move around. But some of our animals will eat no matter what so we need to look for other signs. Another common sign is shaking or shivering. If your dog stands there and shakes or is lying down and shaking without a reason, then he may be in pain. Panting is another common sign of pain. Make sure that your dog isn't panting for other reasons; older dogs tend to have some lung issues (thickening of the bronchii) that will cause excessive panting.

Once you have treated these possible problems associated with pain and your dog is still not improving or is still in pain, then there is the inevitable question “When is it time to put my dog to sleep?”

This is not an easy question, but I try to help people make the right decision for their animals. No veterinarian can tell you what to do. You are the owner, the person who has spent the dog's life loving him and caring for him. Your veterinarian can tell you if your pet is suffering, if his problem is treatable and what the outcome of treatment might be. The most important things to ask yourself at this point is “What is my pet's quality of life right now?” and “Am I keeping him alive because I can't say goodbye?”

If your pet can't get up to go urinate or defecate and starts to do this right where he is laying down; if he doesn't get up to eat his meals; If he doesn't seem happy to see you and can't get up to greet you; If he is losing weight and strength; or if treatment fails to help him anymore, then it might be time to say goodbye.

I have had to put many animals to sleep and it is the hardest thing to do, but remember that you are also ending your loved one's suffering.

Some people wonder if they should get a new puppy while their older pet is still alive. If your senior dog is still able to get around, and a new puppy won't make the last few weeks or months of your senior pet miserable, then by all means, get a puppy. Sometimes it even gives some renewed life to your older pet. Make sure that your older pet is strong enough to fend off the puppy. Also, consider if your older pet would accept a new pet or if it would upset him before bringing a new animal home.

Lyme Disease: When Your Dog is Suddenly Limping or Won't Get Up

Last night your dog was his playful normal self before you went to bed . This morning he won't get up. He appears lethargic and tired. When you coax him to try and get up, he makes a minimal attempt and it appears that he is in some pain. He might not try to get up all together. You panic, this valued member of the family is laying there helpless and he can;t explain to you how he feels. The vet doesn't open for a few more hours, which seems like an eternity when this helpless little guy is obviously in need of medical attention.

You do have to get your dog medical attention as soon as possible, but calm down while you are waiting for your vet to open. It is most likely Lyme Disease that has rendered your dog suddenly weak in the legs. Lime Disease is more prevalent with each year that goes by. It is found almost anywhere in North America. It is caused by a tic bite. A tic is a parasite that will attach itself to your dog. While attached it transfers a bacteria called , Borrelia Burgdorferi , through your dogs blood stream and Lyme Disease results.

Dog question for you

When should I withhold food the night of surgery? If your dog or cat is under four months of age, you do not need to withhold food. If your pet is over four months of age, they should not eat any food after 8pm.

Should I apply flea control prior to my pet's surgery?
Fleas are present in Southern California all year round. It is important to use flea control once monthly on all of your pets. We carry both Advantage and Frontline in our clinics (sold by the single dose or with discounts available when purchasing four and six doses). Your pet is exposed to areas with fleas every time it leaves your house. If your pet comes in close contact with animals that have fleas, as it may during its surgery appointment, we recommend that you visit our clinic and purchase flea control. We are happy to apply the flea control at time of purchase in one of our clinics.

Should I take my dog for a walk prior to surgery?
Yes! If you are able to get your dog to urinate and defecate prior to surgery it is very helpful. This will help prevent them from getting dirty because many dogs will go to the bathroom in their kennels, when they get nervous.

Should my cat come in a carrier?
Yes! All cats MUST come in a separate carrier. Even if you have a great, manageable cat, it must be in a secure carrier. Our lobby will be filled with dogs and people that can frighten your cat and could potentially even attack your cat - bringing your cat in a carrier in the safest thing for you, your cat, and our clients. Do not carry your cat in your arms into our clinic, as it could potentially jump out of your grasp when frightened and run away. We cannot release more than one cat in the same carrier. After anesthesia, cats can be dysphoric and can fight with other cats - especially in confined areas; therefore, you must bring a separate carrier for each cat you bring into the clinic.

Prevent a Dog From Licking a Wound

If a dog licks, chews or bites a wound or incision after surgery, this can lead to infection or further injury. Some dogs have even removed stitches from an incision!

Caring for a dog after surgery or following an injury can be nerve-wracking for the concerned pet owner, and many dog owners get concerned if a dog starts licking or chewing at an incision or wound site.

Why is My Dog Licking the Wound/Incision?

Dogs are naturally inclined to lick their wounds; wound licking is rooted in instinct.

According to Dr. Michael Levine, laboratory testing performed by numerous scientists has uncovered evidence to suggest that components of dog saliva possess some mild antiseptic abilities. The act of licking the wounds on a more occasional basis can remove dead skin cells, thereby promoting healing. Based on these findings, it's likely that wild dogs evolved an instinctual drive for wound licking; a drive that still exists in domestic dogs.

The "Cone of Shame": A Necessary Evil

The figure of speech "going off to lick your wounds" is okay in the metaphorical sense, but not when we're talking about dogs and cats after surgery.

Veterinarians cringe when well-meaning owners proudly announce that Fido has been licking a surgical wound in order to heal it. Dog saliva may indeed contain compounds that numb the wound and neutralize some microorganisms. However, doggie drool and kitty spit also has potentially harmful bacteria in it, and the act of licking itself can ruin a good surgical closure.

Dogs and cats routinely create serious infection in their skin from over-licking an area due to allergies, injury or post-surgical discomfort. That's why veterinarians regularly dispense an Elizabethan collar (e.g., e-collar) following spays, neuters and other surgeries. The "cone of shame" prevents the dog or cat from licking the incision, allowing the wound to heal faster and without complication.

Sometimes, however, the e-collar is an inadequate deterrent. I have met Houdini-like dogs who escape from their e-collars no matter how they are fastened. Some dogs figure out a way to chew through the plastic rendering the cone useless, while others ram it into things until it cracks, bends or (especially in Wisconsin winters) shatters. Many dogs act so demoralized initially that sympathetic owners can't bear to keep the cone on them at all. Most recently, I had a canine patient whose long nose poked over the edge of her cone just far enough that she managed to lick her spay wound to the point of infection and dehiscence.

Dehiscence is a fancy medical word for the splitting open of a wound. A dehiscence may be minor, involving a tiny part of the skin incision and requiring no special treatment. Or maybe a few skin staples will be placed to hold the wound edges closer together for faster healing. The worst kind of dehiscence, the kind that keeps veterinary students up all night and biting their nails following their first spay, is an opening completely downthrough the abdominal wall so that the animal's abdominal fat or even intestines protrude through the wound. Dogs have been known to chew on their own insides when this happens! Yikes! Thankfully, this is exceedingly uncommon.

Maddie's abdominal skin dehiscence looked a lot like this

Even Maddie, the long-snouted Springer Spaniel who managed to ferociously lick outside the cone, presented with just a partial dehiscence. While I could peer down through her subcutaneous tissue and fat to the sutures holding her abdominal wall together, thankfully the abdominal closure remained intact and her guts stayed in. Maddie's dehiscence was so severe, however, that she required general anesthesia so the dead, infected wound edges could be trimmed away, or debrided. I resutured the wound, placed Maddie on a course of oral antibiotics and gave her a larger e-collar. I expect the wound to heal normally after this, but I won't be surprised if she develops a seroma, or pocket of fluid under the skin, from bouncing around too much before the area completely heals.

Don't assume if your pet isn't licking their incision immediately after surgery that they won't. Some animals leave their surgery site alone during the early phase of healing, but attack it just as the skin finally starts to mend. If you have ever experienced insanely itchy skin as a surgical incision or even a minor cut begins healing you'll understand why dogs and cats suddenly notice their surgical wound a week after the fact!

The "cone of shame" is obnoxious, humiliating and completely necessary in most cases. Even with the cone on, however, pets can develop complications in their surgical wounds that require follow-up care by their veterinarian. Please follow your veterinarian's post-op instructions closely regarding exercise restrictions, wound care and medications. And most of all, don't let Fido lick!

Comfortable Dog Cone Alternatives

Alternatives to classic “Elizabethan” collars are more comfortable and just as effective for your dog.

My mother once phoned me to tell me that one of our family dogs, an oversized German Shepherd, had required surgery for an embedded foxtail in one of his back paws. She told me that the vet sent her home with a gigantic plastic disc that she understood was to be put on the dog, to prevent him from licking or chewing his bandage or paw. Giggling, my mother told me, “Your father put it together . . . but how do I put it on the dog? I mean, is he supposed to look like a tulip or a prince?”

The classic veterinarian-supplied Elizabethan collar: Effective, but heavy, stiff, opaque (your dog can’t see through it), wide, unwieldy, and uncomfortable.

I could understand her confusion. The dog was so leggy that he actually could wear the Elizabethan collar either way; wearing a conventional “cone” like a “prince” would render dogs with shorter legs immobile. In contrast, most dogs have to wear these protective cones the way in which they were designed to be worn – like a dejected, bumbling tulip. Most dogs are miserable while wearing a classic, veterinary-supplied cone. Lacking peripheral visibility, they crash into furniture and doorways. With the wide, flaring cone, they get stuck in tight spots in the house.

Can dogs see ghosts?

A howling dog on a rainy moonless night is a common scene in horror and mystery movies. A dog that stares at nothing and then barks, whines and cowers would certainly make your hair stand on ends and for chill to run up your spine especially if you are alone. Dogs are commonly believed to have the ability to see the unseen. Can dogs really see ghosts? Many dog owning individuals have their own stories about unexplainable paranormal situations that involved the pet. Although it is hard to believe something that is never seen, most people believe that dogs can see ghosts.

What are ghosts and why are dogs believed to have the ability to see these “something” that go bump in the night? A ghost, as depicted by people who profess to have seen one, is an unspecific semi transparent form that resembles the form of the person it once was. Paranormal researchers believe that a ghost or an apparition is the spirit/energy of a person that has died usually from a traumatic or a highly unusual circumstance. Oftentimes, the spirits are not aware that they have died as they are stuck between the level of existence and passing over. These apparitions are perceived by humans commonly through peripheral vision. Most of the times, the presence can be sensed. The odor attributed to the departed and the voices are noticed as well. It is believed that only people with 6th sense or people with an “open” eye can see, smell, hear and feel the presence of ghosts.

Can dogs see the paranormal?

I believe that animals are able to sense energy patterns and some of these energy patterns are such that they have a visible form to them that is not visible to some human sight. Some of the ghosts have an odor that gives them away.

Animals are truly One with Nature. They know how to hunt and take care of themselves. When we domesticate them, they do not lose the ability to sense and read energy around them. Since people often do not sense these things our animal friends try to warn us of dangers and changes in the energy patterns around us. Animals can see and sense spirit more easily because they dont have what we call mind clutter to over shadow their senses.

They rely very heavily on using all their senses.

They also have no human doubt which is one of the main reasons they can see them. I hope this answers your questions.. Serious research of Animal Communications began over 100 years ago when people began taking notice of animals' reactions to ghostly apparitions. Animals are very sensitive to the presence of spirit life in our environments and will often react in very powerful ways, especially to any negative forces present...

Does My Dog Recognize Himself in a Mirror?

Many people are puzzled by the fact that dogs seem to ignore images of themselves reflected in a mirror. Young puppies encountering mirrors for the first time may treat the image as if it is another dog. They may bark at it, or give a little bow and an invitation to play as if they are encountering a real dog and engaging in a social interaction. However, after a short while they lose interest. Afterwards then often seem to treat their reflections as if they were of no consequence at all. 

When we humans look into a mirror we immediately recognize that the image that we are gazing at is our own. It seems so natural that we tend not to think about it is something special, however psychologists treat this as a major mental feat because it requires self-awareness, which is one of the most sophisticated aspects of consciousness. In effect we must be able to mentally step outside of ourselves and consider ourselves as separate entities from the rest of the world.

Can Dogs see Colors?

The question if dogs are colorblind, specifically red-green colorblind or if dogs only see shades of gray is raised among dog owners quite often. Even on the internet the question concerning dog vision is discussed controversial. But there is a simple answer to that question which I would like to share with you supported by some scientific resources.

Actually there are two distinct questions which I would like to ask, answer and set in relation hereafter: 

• Can dogs see colors? — Answer: Yes 
• Are dogs colorblind? — Answer: Yes 

Let me explain this two answers to you a bit more in detail.

Dogs can see colors

Dogs not only see in shades of gray but also can see distinct colors contrary to what most people belief. About one hundred years ago some scientific tests were made to find out more about the color vision of dogs. But these tests weren’t that scientific as they thought and the researchers concluded only that color vision doesn’t play a part in the daily life of a dog.

Can Dogs See Color? And How Do We Know?

Thursdays are always the worst day for little dogs to play fetch at my local park. That’s because mowing is Fridays and on Thursdays the grass is often over one-tennis ball tall. It was on one such Thursday after having to search for my dog’s ball for the third time, that I exclaimed, “It sure would be useful if, instead of being green, this tennis ball were blue and yellow. Then, Jonesy could more easily find it himself.” Well, a passing pet owner quickly corrected me. “That wouldn’t help. Dogs are color blind.”

For a second I thought, Duh, that’s right. Dogs don’t see color the way we do. But then I remembered that they can distinguish blue from yellow. That’s because while dogs can’t see all of the colors we can, they can perceive some differences.

While humans have three types of photoreceptors in their eyes that transmit signals about color to the brain, dogs have two types of photoreceptors. We know that these photoreceptors work to transmit information allowing dogs to perceive differences in color because dogs have told us so. Well, sort of.

Can Dogs See Colors?

Probably one of the most frequently asked questions about dog's vision is whether dogs see colors. The simple answer-namely that dogs are colorblind-has been misinterpreted by people as meaning that dogs see no color, but only shades of gray. This is wrong. Dogs do see colors, but the colors that they see are neither as rich nor as many as those seen by humans.

The eyes of both people and dogs contain special light catching cells called cones that respond to color. Dogs have fewer cones than humans which suggests that their color vision won't be as rich or intense as ours. However, the trick to seeing color is not just having cones, but having several different types of cones, each tuned to different wavelengths of light. Human beings have three different kinds of cones and the combined activity of these gives humans their full range of color vision.

Dog Separation Anxiety From Leaving Dog Alone

Dogs are very social animals, and they would like nothing more than to be by your side 24/7. But we know (even if they don’t) that dog food doesn’t buy itself, and that may entail you having to leave them home alone while you go off to bring home the bacon (and the dog treats).

We might imagine our dogs gleefully doing the Tom Cruise Risky Business slide when we shut the door behind us in the morning, but the more likely scenario is that the dog is experiencing some level of separation anxiety. This separation anxiety might manifest itself as anything from nuisance barking or whining (unpleasant for the neighbors) to stinky surprises left for you when you return home (unpleasant for you). If your dog is one to chew his feelings, you may also find some prized possessions or furniture vandalized during your absence.

Tips for Leaving Your Dog Home Alone

Once upon a time, in the perhaps somewhat legendary past, dogs spent their days outdoors, working at their masters’ sides. Cue the theme from “Lassie.”

Tips for Leaving Your Dog Home Alone

These days, most of our dogs spend their people’s workdays at home alone. Often they’re bored and lonely. Fortunately, we can help that time pass easily -- without spending a lot of money.

Make ’Em Tired

The best thing you can do for your home-alone dog is supply some good, hard, first-thing-in-the-morning exercise. You saw that coming, right? How much exercise -- and what kind -- depends on your dog’s age, fitness, body type, and state of health, and also on the weather. Is your dog old, arthritic, and short-nosed, or is she an adolescent Border Collie mix? Is it 90 degrees out, 15, or 55? Check with your vet if you have questions about your dog’s exercise tolerance. The result you’re looking for is that your dog gets home and flops down on his bed to snooze. For most dogs, off-leash running, trotting, and sniffing are ideal, because they supply not only varied physical exercise, but mental stimulation as well.