http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/Diet.asp Articles about Diet en-us Wed, 23 Jan 2008 15:30:08 EST Wed, 23 Jan 2008 15:30:08 EST dogs@terrificpets.com Wed, 26 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10271765.asp Pancreatitis is a disorder of the pancreas wherein it fails to properly perform its roles as the producer of digestive enzymes. More specifically, the enzymes are still produced, but the pancreas loses its unique ability to handle them effectively and so they break down before they're delivered to the parts of the body where they're needed and instead of digesting food, they break down the tissue in and around the pancreas itself. Pancreatitis can have a number of causes, and is usually the result of several causes coalescing. Diets that are high in fat may lead to obesity, which is a major contributing factor to the development of the disease. In addition, certain medications used to treat other diseases may increase the risk that a dog will contract pancreatitis, including corticosteroids and azathioprine. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10271765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10271765.asp> Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10283865.asp Kidney stones in dogs, just like in humans, can be very painful and can lead to serious health issues if not treated. While some breeds may be predisposed to inherit the ability to create kidney stones, there are a certain number of factors that if combined could cause kidney stones to form in any dog. In this article, we'll look at what kidney stones are and how they form, what their symptoms are and how they can be treated. What are kidney stones? Dogs, just like humans, naturally have minerals in their bodies, such as calcium, magnesium, ammonia or phosphorus. Where there is too much of these mineral salts in the urine, they are filtered out through the kidneys. Because it can be difficult for these minerals to be soluble in the naturally acidic urine of dogs, these minerals can form stones. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10283865.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10283865.asp> Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10284565.asp There are a number of liver diseases that can affect the health of any number of breeds of dogs. Unfortunately, there are no cures for some of them, but much can be done to help the dog stay active and comfortable during its shortened life. The liver is one of the most important organs in the body, including detoxifying the blood supply, removing waste, producing bile and aiding in digestion. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the diseases the liver can develop and what kinds of treatments are available. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10284565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10284565.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10284965.asp Like any other do the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is always interested in food and will eat until he or she is sick if you will let them. Just like human beings dogs need a regular and healthy diet if they are to remain fit and agile. Overfeeding is a common problem with an increasing number of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and you will not be doing your dog any favors if you allow them to become overweight. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10284965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10284965.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10288065.asp Keeping your Chinese Shar Pei happy and healthy will give you much more quality time together and save you a lot of money on vet bills. Most pet owners just run out and get the first dry dog food they can find, but if you truly value your Shar Pei, you should spend more time and effort to prepare the right food for your pup. Maintaining the diet of your Chinese Shar Pei will reduce the likelihood of any food allergies or digestive problems that may occur as a result of an unhealthy diet. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10288065.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10288065.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10290465.asp Before you purchase your Coton de Tulear, make sure you have done some research on what kind of diet this breed requires. It's important to note that this breed of dog has very unique nutritional requirements, and any healthy diet for your Coton should include foods that are native to its ancestral environment, and important vitamins and nutrients that it relies on for a shiny coat and overall health. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10290465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10290465.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10294765.asp The English Toy Spaniel, also known as a Charlie, does not require large amounts of food. There are a few things that you should take note of though in order to ensure the health of your dog. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10294765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10294765.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10294965.asp Taking care of your Charlie or English Toy Spaniel, can save a lot of grief and promote happiness in the home. There are certain things that you can do regularly that will keep your Charlie in tip top shape! http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10294965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10294965.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10296165.asp The Fila Brasileiro is prone to gassiness, but it can be treated to lessen the incidence of it. You may love your dog, but you may not love the smell that accompanies it. A gassy dog can also be an embarrassment in social situations. So, learn how to recognize some causes of flatulence and help the dog eat well to maintain a diet that doesn't exacerbate gassiness. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10296165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/10296165.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102100765.asp Keeping your companion healthy and beautiful is an essential part of daily care. Taking the proper precautions to make sure your Gordon Setter keeps his beautiful shiny coat and healthy disposition for years to come, is the sole responsibility of you, the owner. But the good news is that with just a little bit of planning, you can give your pup gourmet style food everyday. The decision you have to make is whether that healthy gourmet food will be fresh or commercially produced dog food. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102100765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102100765.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102101865.asp The Gordon Setter has a beautiful coat and an easy-going nature, two ideal characteristics for any dog preparing for competition. You think your dog is beautiful and destined to be a star, but will the judges agree with you? There are several areas on which you should focus if you are seriously considering entering your Gordon Setter into competition; training, conditioning and grooming & nutrition. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102101865.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102101865.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102102665.asp Before you introduce your Gordon Setter to his new home, there are a few basic items that you should purchase. Having these items in advance will guarantee a smooth transition and eliminate any unnecessary problems in those first crucial weeks. Knowing what items your Gordon Setter will need to be comfortable, happy and healthy is essential to beginning the training and socialization processes quickly. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102102665.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102102665.asp> Mon, 1 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102106465.asp Skin rashes that occur throughout time and that are directly caused by contact with a particular type of irritant are often classed as chronic eczema in dogs. These conditions will occur throughout a dog's life but often become more obvious and chronic in nature as the dog matures or if it is ill or stressed. All breeds of dogs can have chronic eczema but breeds that are most known for the skin condition include the German Shepherd, Dalmatian and the hairless breeds of dogs such as the Chinese Crested and the Mexican Hairless. Some Basenji dogs that have very sensitive skin are also prone to eczema. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102106465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102106465.asp> Mon, 1 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102107065.asp Although any breed of dog can potentially develop congestive heart failure it is most commonly known to affect smaller breeds of dogs. To further add to the problem often these dogs exhibit few symptoms or signs to alert their owners to the ongoing, serious health condition that is slowly decreasing the heart's ability to function correctly. Since the signs of congestive heart failure are often very similar to what might be reasonable expected behaviors of an aging dog, often owners miss the first few subtle signs or assume they are just old age setting in. There are three common and clear signs that owners of small breeds should be carefully monitoring their dogs for. These include decreasing energy and stamina levels, increased problems in breathing and increases in coughing either when exercising or when resting. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102107065.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102107065.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102110765.asp The American Water Spaniel is one that loves to be on the go and it is likely that he or she will see most of their activity out in the field. Many do not realize just how demanding a sport like hunting can be, especially on the medium sized American Water Spaniel. Whether in the field or in the water, retrieving on just a half day trip of hunting can burn up a good amount of calories. A dog that has poor nutrition will not only tire easily but will most certainly fail to perform effectively out on the field. Owners must always be sure to give their Water Spaniel good calorie support before, during and after hunting trips. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102110765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102110765.asp> Mon, 1 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102114365.asp Although it sounds somewhat similar to hyperthyroidism, hyperparathyroidism affects the body much differently. The parathyroid glands are located right next to the thyroid glands and work to balance the levels of calcium and phosphorus in the blood by secreting parathyroid hormone or PTH. This hormone will cause the absorption or release of calcium from the bones in the skeletal system to regulate the blood calcium and phosphorus levels. The Keeshond is the breed most commonly associated with primary hyperparathyroidism. There are actually two different types of hyperparathyroidism caused by two very different sets of circumstances. The first type of hyperparathyroidism, called primary hyperparathyroidism is caused when the parathyroid glands become tumerous. Usually the tumor is benign and is known as an adenoma. This tumor causes the parathyroid to produce large amounts of PTH, resulting in highly elevated calcium levels in the blood. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102114365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102114365.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102114765.asp A Black and Tan Coonhound is by no means a delicate lapdog. This large breed dog can come in at 75 to 90 pounds and requires a certain amount of calories to maintain a healthy weight. This is especially true for the active Black and Tan Coonhound who hunts. Many often assume it is the quantity and not the quality of the food that matters most. However, the Black and Tan Coonhound is has a tendency to gain weight during inactive periods. When it comes to this loveable breed, owners must pay special attention to what their dog is eating. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102114765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102114765.asp> Mon, 1 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102115265.asp Hypertrophic osteodystrophy (HOD) is one of the many different bone growth problems that seem to strike the large and giant breeds of dogs far more frequently than the medium and small breeds. HOD has no known cause and is not believed to be genetic; rather it may be combination of several different factors. Some researchers believe it may be caused by a bacterial infection, others indicate a lack of Vitamin C and still others feel it is nutritional problem caused by feeding high fat and protein diets that cause too rapid growth. Since different puppies seem to react to different treatment modes and programs there is really no consensus on how to treat the condition or what is the root cause. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102115265.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102115265.asp> Wed, 1 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102115565.asp Just like people dogs need to have sugar in their blood to supply the body and brain with the fuel it needs to work properly and efficiently. In some breeds, particularly the toy dogs such as Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians and Maltese hypoglycemia can be a problem in adult dogs that simply don't have enough body fat to carry their blood sugar between meals. Most of these small breeds have a significant drop in blood sugar that can trigger hypoglycemia if fasting for more than eight hours. Another type of hypoglycemia is called juvenile hypoglycemia that occurs when puppies are weaned and switched to regular dog foods. Often these puppies do not eat properly or skip meals, leading to rapid drops in blood sugar and the resulting seizures, lethargy and poor growth and development. The smaller breed puppies, especially those that are bred to be teacup or toy are most prone to the problem, but any puppy that is not getting proper nutrition can develop the symptoms. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102115565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102115565.asp> Mon, 1 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102117765.asp One of the most devastating and potentially serious diseases to affect our dogs is that of obesity. Thankfully, it's also one of the most easily prevented and treatable diseases. Usually the result of neglect or misinformation, oftentimes all it takes to reverse the adverse affects of obesity is education and a willingness to help your dog improve his or her quality of life. Obesity is a condition in which your dog's percentage of body fat is significantly higher than it should be, resulting in their carrying around a lot of extra weight. This extra weight affects the entirety of your dog's health. It places them at a much greater risk during any surgeries that might be necessary for other diseases; weakens their joints and cartilage, leaving them prone to injuries; and creates an incredible amount of stress on organs and bones that are surrounded by thick walls of fat. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102117765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102117765.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102140165.asp The Lowchen is a little dog that is a ball of energy and probably one of the most fun dogs you will ever own. They are a very easy dog to take care of, having very low maintenance needs. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102140165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102140165.asp> Tue, 9 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102145465.asp Malamutes and Huskies are two very hardy breeds of dogs that have been developed to withstand horrifically cold temperatures and work in the most inhospitable climates and conditions. These wonderful dogs, though healthy and hardy, can have one major health problem and that is an inability to absorb and use the zinc in their diets. Some of the giant breeds such as the Great Dane may also have inherited problems in absorbing zinc, leading to long term zinc deficiencies that do not respond to typical feeding routines. Zinc deficiency can also occur in dogs that are not fed enough meat in their diet or are fed a mostly vegetarian diet. In some cheap types of foods the zinc may be bound in unusable forms to the dog and therefore is just the same as not having it in the diet at all. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102145465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102145465.asp> Tue, 9 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102146765.asp Tooth loss is much more serious in dogs that many owners understand. Loss of the ability to correctly masticate or chew food can result in digestive problems and even further tooth loss as food sticks or collects in the pockets left by the missing teeth, increasing tarter build-up and leading to increased problems with gingivitis and gum disease. As dog's mature and reach their senior years they are more prone to tooth loss. In some breeds such as the Chinese Crested, Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Shih Tzu and the Italian Greyhound tooth loss is a definite concern for owners. Tooth loss in small and miniature breeds, especially in those designated as teacup or toy is often one of the biggest factors that owners will have to deal with as the dog matures. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102146765.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102146765.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102158965.asp A balanced diet is an important part of the health of any breed, let alone Curly Coated Retrievers. But some Curlies can develop a disorder called Gastric Torsion that can be fatal if not treated, and many believe that this disorder can be prevented with careful diet restriction. In this article, we’ll take a look at this disorder, how it can be prevented through diet management, and what foods are recommended for the Curly Coated Retriever. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102158965.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102158965.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102162365.asp Like all large dogs, the Kuvasz is subject to bloat. Bloat is sometimes caused gastric dilation. Its most prominent symptom is the extension of the dog’s stomach. You may even see the stomach twisting and turning inside, but that’s not always the case. The dog may retch or salivate excessively. Bloat is fatal in a large number of dogs and immediate attention by a veterinarian is warranted if you think your dog is experiencing bloat. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102162365.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102162365.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102163865.asp The Lakeland terrier has a very dense coat that is weather resistant. In order to keep this coat in the same healthy condition, the dog should be fed a high quality dog food. Make sure the dog food you feed this dog is a type that is for his breed size (large breed, small breed, puppy food, etc.). http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102163865.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102163865.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102168865.asp What you feed your Otterhound, will directly affect his longevity and good health. Today there is much hype about canned dog food especially since the Purina pet care recall. Critics say that commercial pet foods are laced with chemicals and preservatives. A healthy diet will not only promote a longer life but will also curtail digestive problems. With a healthier diet you can expect to see good muscle tone, good eyesight and brighter eyes, high energy, strong bones, strong teeth and gums, good skin and coat, firmer and fewer bowel movements, offensive body odors, and of course less health problems and visits to the veterinarian. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102168865.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102168865.asp> Mon, 22 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102171665.asp Arthritis means joint inflammation, but the term is somewhat misleading because arthritis is much more than joint inflammation and cats do contract many forms of arthritis depending upon the breed and external factors. The particular forms of arthritis that cats suffer from are: Traumatic Arthritis (sprain) and Osteoarethritis, from there, there are several diseases that belong to one group or the other. Traumatic Arthritis as the name implies occurs when there is some sort of a trauma, (sprain) injury. In cats that could be the result of being hit by a moving vehicle, a cat fight, or bad fall. If the trauma is a result of a simple sprain chances are the pain will go away in no time and is really not that serious. However it the traumatic arthritis is more serious, resulting from being hit by a car or other serious accident, a fracture may occur in the joint and your cat may require surgery to repair the damage. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102171665.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102171665.asp> Mon, 22 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102173465.asp The number one problem in cats over the age of five are dental related. Many of these problems can be avoided with proper dental care. Like humans, cats have baby teeth first and then adult teeth afterward. They usually get their first set of teeth around two to four weeks of age. The mother cat will start to wean her kittens once they start biting which is roughly around four weeks of age. The adult set of teeth usually comes in around four to six months. A cat has thirty teeth in a full set of adult teeth, which include: pre-molars and molars, canines and incisors. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102173465.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102173465.asp> Thu, 1 Jan 1970 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102180165.asp Like any other breed, the Chinese Crested’s nutritional demands are embedded right into their genetic code. Several breeders have attempted introducing the Chinese Crested to varying dietary regimens with little to no success. As it may involve spending a little more, or driving to a grocery store a little further away, keeping the dog on a specific diet may seem like a pain, however, these inconveniences are certainly less expensive and time consuming than possibly dealing with digestion and other health problems and trips to the veterinarian’s office later in the dog’s life. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102180165.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102180165.asp> Fri, 15 Feb 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102211065.asp There are almost as many specialized diet dog food products on the market as there are typical dog food diets. Usually these specialized diets are only found in the dry kibble and canned foods, however there may be some found as frozen products as well as in the semi-moist formulations. These specialized foods are usually for dogs at different ages and stages of growth as well as for dogs with dietary restrictions or requirements due to health or allergic problems that the dog is experiencing. The specialized diets, like human diets, will work well with some dogs and not as well with others. Often a bit of shopping around and a lot of research is required to ensure that you find the right diet to match the issue you are wishing to address with your dog. Carefully read the label including the ingredients and guaranteed analysis to verify what the label is indicating is actually what is contained within the feed it the correct ratio for your pet. A vet or animal nutritionalists can often recommend a few different brands that may work for your dog, plus they can also advise on types or ingredients to avoid in specialized diets. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102211065.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102211065.asp> Thu, 20 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102214665.asp Caring for a dog's teeth is a routine that many breeders have used for years, but that is just now becoming common with dog owners. Just like people, different dogs and different breeds of dog will have stronger and healthier teeth than others. In addition some foods, especially soft foods such as canned and semi-moist foods may not provide the scraping action needed to remove tartar and plaque from the teeth, resulting in poor dental conditions that can result in early tooth loss, problems with infections in the mouth, gum disease and even digestive disorders. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102214665.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102214665.asp> Sat, 29 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102215565.asp Many dogs are in great shape, they are athletic, healthy and within the weight range recommended for the breed. There are many dogs, however, that are simply obese based on both their individual size as well as their ability to be athletic and active. Obesity in dogs is more common than most owners think, and is not usually due to how much the dog is eating at meals, but rather due to the amount of human food, table scraps and even treats that the dog is receiving between meals or on top of the dog food they are eating. A good rule of thumb is that treats and snacks, designed specifically for dogs, should only make up 5% of the total daily food intake for the dog. This five percent should also be subtracted from the total food amount for day, so the total food amount stays the same, it is just spread out more. Obese dogs are often fed 10-20% of their daily food intake amount in high caloric treats that contain sugar, lots of carbohydrates in various forms, and very low fiber. In addition these dogs then receive 100% of their food ration at meals, and often some table scraps added in for an extra treat. http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102215565.asp#comments http://www.terrificpets.com/articles/102215565.asp>