Take Notice Of Your Dog’s Skin Problems

It is beneath their beautiful fur coats that a world of uncomfortable and even painful skin conditions are often lurking. Dogs skin problems can be an indication of a more serious and even life threatening condition.

Some of the most common dog skin problems are dry skin, usually indicated by the appearance of “dandruff” or excessive shedding, various fungus infections, mite irritations, mange, and rashes that may be the result of seasonal, environmental or food allergies. Other dog skin problems include tumors, seborrhea skin diseases, melanomas and infected sores.

The fact is that many of these conditions are completely treatable and often preventable. Identifying the cause and preventing unnecessary dog skin problems is a responsibility that comes with the role of owning a dog. However, as a loving pet guardian, adequate care and treatment of an animal is a legal requirement.

Food And Seasonal Dog Allergies

Some of the most preventable dog skin problems are caused by dog allergies. Dog allergies may be the result of seasonal conditions, environmental factors or symptoms of food allergies. Many dog owners are surprised to learn that food allergies are not always related to a new food or diet. A dog may develop intolerance to foods that they have been eating for years.

It is not an unusual occurrence for a dog to develop a food allergy when their immunity system may be compromised. Adding a digestive enzyme to a dog’s daily diet of a premium all natural food is many times all that is needed to heal the skin. Dog food allergies are often an intolerance to unnatural additives and preservatives.

Seasonal dog allergies can include parasite allergies. Fleas for example are uncomfortable enough for a dog, but some dogs are particularly sensitive to flea bites. Although, fleas may be present at any time of year, it’s the hot dry conditions of summer when they are the worst. Other possible seasonal allergy irritants are spring pollens and dust mites. Rural dogs are at risk of developing further seasonal allergies where crop dusting occurs, or when other such chemicals are used around the farm or surrounding properties.

If your dog is uncomfortable and excessively chewing and biting his legs or rear end, scratching himself sore, or shows any signs or symptoms at all of a bothersome skin condition, please seek the advice of a veterinarian right away.

Prevention is better than cure; the best premium all natural diet is the first weapon against dog skin problems and dog allergies. Dog owners should routinely check their dog’s skin and feel for any lumps, bumps or other skin conditions.

With over 25 years of dog care experience, Janie is an avid dog lover bringing awareness to others on the importance of canine nutrition, skin and proper dog care.

For further information on dog skin issues, visit:
http://www.old-dog-treats-and-rawhide.com/dog-skin-problems.html

Click here to read more on the relationship between your dog’s diet and his skin:
http://www.old-dog-treats-and-rawhide.com/dog-food-comparison.html

Question: Is fat important to my dog’s health and, if so, what is the best kind?

Answer: Dietary fat is the most concentrated source of energy for the dog. It also provides essential fatty acids and aids in nutrient utilization and transportation. Fat is involved in cell integrity and metabolic regulation. So, yes, fat is important to your dog’s overall health!

Saturated fat is found primarily in animal sources while polyunsaturated fat is found mostly in plant sources. Saturated fat provides greater energy for the dog than carbohydrates. In fact, as long as the diet provides sufficient glucose precursors (amino acids, fats, etc.), dietary carbohydrates are not needed for growth and maintenance.

Fats (and oils) are composed of fatty acids, sometimes referred to as vitamin F. Fatty acids are found in both animal and plant sources. The two types of essential fatty acids (EFAs) most recognized as important to canine health are omega-3 and omega-6. Omega-3s include alpha-linolenic (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Omega-6s include linoleic acid (LA) and gamma-linolenic acids (GLA). Trans-fatty acids, dangerous free radicals, are formed when unsaturated oils are exposed to heat, light, or oxygen. Omega-3s are the most sensitive and are often deficient in cooked or processed pet food products. Thus, some dog guardians choose to add supplemental Omega-3 oils to their dog’s diet to replace those that have been destroyed during heat processing.

There are many types of oils available, but most dogs do best on one from an animal source such as fish oil. There are plant sources of omega-3s, but some dogs do not make the conversion within their bodies that is needed to make the plant form usable. If you choose to add EFAs to your dog’s food, please remember to choose the highest quality available. The oil label should state that it’s been tested free of heavy metals, PCBs, and other contaminants. Even though fats and EFAs are important to good health, too much can put a strain on organs such as your dog’s liver and pancreas. Avoid cooked fats (grease) or poor quality products. And remember that a little goes a long way!

Kymythy Schultze has been a trailblazer in animal nutrition for over two decades. She is also a human nutritionist and has helped thousands of people and their pets live happier, healthier lives. To learn more about animal and human nutrition, check out her best-selling books: Natural Nutrition for Dog and Cats: The Ultimate Diet and The Natural Nutrition No-Cook Book: Delicious Food for You and Your Pets! Find her website at www.kymythy.com

Have you always wanted to own a dog, but you or someone close to you is allergic to them? A great solution is getting a hypoallergenic pet. There are several dog breeds that do not produce nearly the same amount of dander when they are compared to most dog breeds. Though people tend to make fun of poodles’ feminine and hoity-toity characteristics, they truly are fun dogs to have around.

The standard poodle is also known by the names of Caniche, Barbone, and Chien Canne. Most scholars agree that the poodle originated in France, though some believe poodles came from Denmark or Germany. These dogs have been known since the beginning of the 1600’s, and are depicted particularly in French Renaissance paintings and artwork. It is believed that the name “poodle” derives from the German word “pudel” which means, “one who plays in the water.” Poodles have been known for helping their owners in the retrieval of various animals and fish found in lakes, rivers and streams.

Poodles are generally labeled into 3 different sizes: standard, toy, and miniature. The standard poodle is generally around 15 inches tall, and weighs around 45 to 70 lbs. Their coat is thick and curly, and does not shed; this is why they are excellent for people who are allergic to most dogs. Sometimes the owners clip or shave the hair short, and some allow it to grow long and poofy. They can be clipped in any kind of manner; it simply depends on the owner or the groomer’s preference on appearance. The standard poodle’s coloring varies, as with most breeds; however, poodles are generally white, black, grey, amber, or tan.

Standard poodles are active, alert, and highly intelligent dogs. Because of their intelligence, they were known for helping their owners in performing many different kinds of jobs, such as pointing and hunting. Poodles have even been known to perform in circuses because of their exceptional trainability and intelligence. Poodles also make superb watchdogs, but because of their temperament, they need to be around people constantly and they greatly enjoy playing and being active. Because of poodles’ friendly and outgoing personality, they are perfect for a family with children. These dogs love to play and are affectionate and sensitive to their owner’s feelings.

Health issues that often arise with this breed are hip dysplacia, ear infections, and cataracts. Though they do experience health problems like most breeds, they tend to have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. Keeping their eyes and ears clean will help them tremendously in the long run. Also, they have a tendency to bloat, so it is better to feed them several small meals a day instead of one or two large ones.

As you begin looking to a family dog that is low on allergens, consider a poodle. They are energetic, intelligent, friendly, and fun loving. They are excellent family dogs and they love to play with children of all ages. Consider a poodle as the next addition to your family; you won’t regret it!

Article provided by Pet Super Store a site featuring:bark control collars, electric dog fences and dog training collars.