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The Best Dog Food for Senior Dogs

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At what age are dogs considered geriatric or elderly?

Because every dog’s personality, needs and circumstances are unique, we are not able to provide a one-size-fits-all answer to this question. A dog’s anticipated lifespan can vary depending on size and breed. 

Generally, small dogs can be expected to live between 15 and 20 years, while larger dogs age faster and are considered “older” by the time they turn six years old. 

Does my senior dog have specific nutritional requirements?

We recommend keeping two main criteria in mind when seeking the best dog food for senior dogs. 

First, check that it’s low in calories. Similar to people, a dog’s metabolism will slow as they age, which is why it’s important to prevent our canine companions from eating too much or too quickly to prevent obesity. 

Second, integrate high-fiber options into their diet. Constipation is a fairly common issue for senior dogs and may lead to more serious gastrointestinal issues if it becomes severe enough. It can also be painful. 

Maintaining the health of your older dog’s gastrointestinal system should be a high priority, so the best dog food for older dogs will contain a significant amount of fiber to keep them regular. 

What should I do if my senior dog won’t eat?

We sometimes see older dogs that have lost at least some of their appetite. Causes for a sudden reduction in or loss of appetite vary widely in both severity and scope; your dog may be experiencing simple nausea due to gastrointestinal issues, or they may be suffering from symptoms of cancer. 

If your senior dog has suddenly begun to exhibit an unexplained loss of appetite, speak with your vet to have them rule out any potentially serious causes, including diabetes, dental disease, cancer or kidney disease. 

Once serious medical issues have been ruled out as the cause for your pooch’s appetite loss, another food avenue for consideration is the simplest one – your dog may simply be tired of their regular food. 

Adding some water, chicken broth, or a small amount of canned food to your dog’s dry kibble may help make it more enticing. You could also try preparing a simple meal of cooked chicken and barley or cooked lamb and rice. These home-cooked meals are both bland enough to sit well with them if there is another dog and bland enough to sit well with them if your dog is an older sibling or is experiencing new nausea. 

Which health issues does the best dog food for senior dogs help prevent?

If your senior dog suffers from health conditions such as diabetes, liver disease or kidney failure, he or she will likely need a special diet prescribed by your vet to help manage the condition. If your dog is sick and you are worried about any potential effects of their diet, it’s possible to consult your vet. 

Best Dog Food for Older Dogs

Our team at  Washington Dog and Cat Hospital has compiled this list of some of the best types of dog foods for senior dogs. Ask your vet which senior dog food is best for your pet. 

Prescription Dog Food

Depending on your dog’s specific health condition and circumstances. In some cases, a medical prescription dog food may be the best option for your senior pup. In other circumstances, your vet may simply recommend you switch to a healthier alternative. 

Low-Calorie Dog Food 

Dogs that are at higher risk for heart disease (or who have already been diagnosed with it). That’s why your vet may recommend a low-calorie dog food – it will help keep your pup’s weight down. Low-sodium recipes are preferred. 

High-Fiber, Low-Fat Dog Food

Our veterinarians in Los Angeles recommend owners of pre-diabetic or diabetic dogs place a high priority on the slow absorption of food. Blood sugar tends to rise more slowly with special diabetic diets, reducing the risk for health complications. These diets are also exceptionally high in fiber and low in fat.

As mentioned previously since older dogs commonly struggle with constipation, the higher amount of fiber, the better. This will help to prevent constipation and keep their bowels working regularly. 

Dog Food High in Protein

Many senior dog foods will also contain higher quality protein sources than standard dog food, which can help senior dogs maintain a healthy body weight without putting unnecessary strain on their aging kidneys. 

Limited Ingredient Dog Foods

If your senior dog has allergies, your vet might recommend limited ingredient dog foods, which include just a single protein source (such as chicken, beef or lamb), often combined with one carbohydrate source. 

This can be used to eliminate allergens that might be causing allergic reactions or symptoms. When looking for limited ingredient dog foods, it’s important to check for the Association of American Feed Control’s (AAFCO) seal of approval, in addition to a “complete and balanced” claim from the manufacturer.   

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Dog

Common Dental Problems in Dogs

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Your Dog’s Oral Health

Your dog’s dental health is closely linked to their general health. Your pup uses their teeth, mouth, and gums to both eat and communicate, so when the oral structures become damaged or diseased, they may not function properly anymore and a dog may suffer from pain that interferes with their ability to effectively eat and vocalize. 

Infections and. bacteria can cause many oral health issues, then spread beyond your dog’s mouth into other areas of their body. Left untreated, these bacteria and infections can damage vital organs including the heart, kidneys, and liver. This may lead to even more serious negative consequences for your canine companion’s health and longevity. 

This is one of the reasons regular pet dental care is such a critical aspect of your dog’s routine preventive healthcare – regularly scheduled dental cleanings can prevent health issues, or help your vet identify and treat developing issues early. 

How to Spot Dental Problems in Dogs 

Particular symptoms will vary based on the issue your dog is experiencing. However, there are some signs to watch for that indicate your dog may be suffering from a dental disease. These symptoms can include:

  • Visible tartar
  • Bad breath (halitosis)
  • Difficulty or slow eating
  • Pawing at the teeth or mouth 
  • Loose or missing teeth 
  • Excessive drooling 
  • Weight loss 
  • Swollen, bleeding or noticeably red gums

Have you noticed any signs of dental disease in your dog that are listed above? If so, make an appointment for a dental examination with your Los Angeles vet as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to positive prognoses for dental diseases in dogs, and better outcomes for their long-term health. 

Common Dog Dental Problems 

Several potential health issues can affect your dog’s teeth, gums, and oral structures. Here are a few conditions we commonly diagnose in dogs. 

Plaque & Tartar Buildup 

Plaque is primarily made of bacteria. This whitish biofilm develops on the teeth and is accompanied by a bad odor that grows worse the longer it stays in the mouth. Plaque buildup can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. 

If teeth are not brushed and plaque removed within about 24 to 48 hours, plaque then hardens and forms into tartar, a yellow or brown-colored substance your veterinarian may refer to as calculus. Tartar sticks to the surfaces of the teeth and cannot be removed without being scraped with a dental scaler or other hard object. 

Tartar causes tooth decay and gum irritation to grow worse. Plaque and tartar leave your dog at high risk for tooth loss and gum disease. Common signs include discolored deposits on teeth, a red, swollen gum line (referred to as gingivitis) and bad breath. Owners may notice more frequent bleeding gums and worsening breath as dental disease progresses. 

Periodontal Disease

When plaque and tartar remain in the mouth, bacteria gets under the gum line, eroding tissue and bone that hold your dog’s teeth in place. Periodontal disease starts with gingivitis. Loss of soft tissue and bone surrounding the teeth occurs as the disease becomes more advanced. The teeth’s support structures degrade and pockets develop around the tooth roots. 

This allows bacteria, debris and food to accumulate here and dangerous infections to develop. Over time, the teeth loosen and start to fall out.

Oral Infections

If periodontal disease develops, bacteria can make its way into the open space around tooth roots, leading to infection, which may manifest as a tooth root abscess. 

Pus then develops in the bacteria-laden pocket around the tooth to fight the infection. Left untreated, the abscess may become so large that it leads to swelling in the face and anatomical deformity. 

While oral infections are often caused by periodontal disease, they often happen secondary to trauma in the mouth. Trauma may be due to injury from chewing on hard or sharp objects. 

Tooth Fractures

Dogs that are powerful chewers can fracture their teeth chewing on very hard plastic, antlers or bones. Most vets will recommend against allowing your dog to chew on anything harder than what you would want to bang hard on your knee. 

Size of chews can also factor into the occurrence of tooth fractures – a chew that’s too large for a dog’s mouth may make the tooth and chew line up that breaks the outside of a tooth (known as a slab fracture). 

Your veterinarian may recommend pick chews, which are small enough to hold in the mouth without swallowing by accident. However, these are not so large that your dog will need to have a fully open mouth to safely chew on them. 

Preventing Dental Issues in Dogs

The most reliable way to help prevent the development of dental problems with your dog’s teeth is routine brushing and cleaning of your cat’s mouth. You’ll give your dog a much better chance of having healthier teeth and gums if plaque is brushed away before it can cause damage or infection. 

To keep your pup’s teeth in great condition and their breath fresh, schedule your pet for a professional dental examination and cleaning once a year. Pet dental appointments at Washington Dog and Cat Hospital are similar to taking your animal for an appointment at the veterinary dog or cat dentist. We can also treat any emerging dental health issues your dog may be experiencing. 

While there is technically no such thing as a “veterinary dentist”, our veterinarians do provide dental care for pets in and near Los Angeles.  

To prevent oral health issues from developing in the first place, you should start cleaning your dog’s teeth and gums when they are still a puppy and will be able to quickly adapt to the process. You may also consider adding dog dental chews to their routine. 

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet’s condition, please make an appointment with your vet.

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Dog

How to Stop & Prevent Periodontal Disease in Dogs

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Periodontal Disease in Dogs

Periodontitis is also referred to as gum disease or periodontal disease, is a kind of bacteria that can infect your dog’s mouth and cause a range of oral health problems. Dogs with early-stage periodontal disease don’t typically show any symptoms. 

When the periodontal disease advances to later stages, most dogs begin to experience painful and problematic symptoms, including tooth loss, gum erosion, chronic pain, or even bone loss as the teeth’s supporting structures weaken or are lost. 

Signs of Periodontal Disease in Dogs 

Most dogs display minor or even no signs of periodontal disease when this condition is in its early stages. However, if your dog is suffering from advanced stage periodontal disease, you may notice one or more of the following symptoms:

  • Discolored teeth (yellow or brown)
  • Bad breath (halitosis)
  • Excessive drooling 
  • Irritability 
  • Reduced appetite 
  • Problems keeping food in the mouth 
  • Blood on chew toys or in the water bowl 
  • Loose or missing teeth 
  • Bloody or “ropey” saliva
  • Weight loss 
  • Inflamed or bleeding gums 
  • Favoring one side of the mouth when chewing 

Periodontal disease is a serious health concern for all dogs. Once the disease reaches the advanced stages your canine companion could be experiencing significant chronic pain, but that’s not all.

The bacteria associated with periodontal disease can also travel throughout your pet’s body, potentially causing problems with major organs and leading to serious medical issues such as heart disease.

Treatment for Dogs With Periodontal Disease

If your pup is suffering from periodontal disease symptoms your vet might suggest a professional cleaning or other treatments depending on the severity of your dog’s oral health condition.

The cost of your dog’s dental care will vary depending on the treatment needed and the individual vet.

For your vet to conduct a comprehensive examination of your dog’s teeth and gums, as well as any treatments necessary, they will need to use anesthesia. (Pre-anesthesia blood work is also an important step to determine whether your pet is healthy enough for anesthesia medications).

Dental procedures for dogs typically include:

  • Pre-anesthesia blood work
  • Dental radiographs (X-rays)
  • Endotracheal intubation, inhaled anesthetic, and oxygen
  • Anesthesia monitoring
  • IV catheter and IV fluids
  • Circulating warm air to ensure the patient remains warm while under anesthesia
  • Scaling, polishing, and lavage of gingival areas
  • Pain medication during and post-procedure
  • Extractions as required

Preventing Periodontal Disease In Dogs

Many pet parents want to know how they can prevent periodontal disease in dogs. Prevention is relatively easy, simply by caring for your dog’s oral health, similar to how you would care for your own, you may be able to prevent your dog from developing periodontal disease.

Right from when your pup is young, be sure to pay close attention to your dog’s oral health. Like people, dogs need regular dental appointments to keep their oral hygiene in check and to identify any trouble spots before more serious issues develop.

Your dog should see the vet at least once a year for an oral health examination and cleaning. Regular dental appointments for your dog provide you with an opportunity to speak to your vet about any concerns you may have about your pup’s teeth or overall health.

To prevent problems from taking hold between appointments brush your dog’s teeth daily to remove plaque and prevent bacteria from forming. You may also want to offer your dog specially formulated dental chews and dog food, as well as specially designed toys to help address dental disease and reduce the buildup of tartar.

If your canine friend displays symptoms of periodontal disease such as swollen or inflamed gums, appetite changes, or missing teeth, book an appointment with your vet as soon as possible.

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Dog

Dogs Eating Grass: Why Do They Do It and Is It Safe?

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Why do dogs eat grass?

Whether you find your dog consumes grass once in a while or every time you leave the house, a grass-eating habit is something that many dog owners are familiar with. But why do dogs eat grass? There are, in fact, some dogs who will eat grass, vomit it up, then get right back to eating grass. 

Should you be worried that your dog might have gastrointestinal issues? Perhaps you’re wondering if they’ve consumed a poisonous substance, or if this is a sign that they have an underlying health condition that requires diagnosis. 

While a dog may vomit after they eat grass, this is relatively uncommon. Most dogs eat grass without showing any signs or symptoms of tummy issues. So, it seems unlikely that dogs eat grass to induce vomiting. Then why do they do it?

Physical Reasons My Dog Eats Grass 

Type ‘why my dog eats grass’ into your favorite search engine and you’ll likely find that you are among many pet parents who deal with this issue. Reasons for this habit may vary. A nutritional deficiency may be one of the simplest explanations for why a dog eats grass. A dog that eats grass might be attempting to add more fiber to their diet to help them digest their food. 

After all, since dogs are omnivores, they need to dine on high-quality plants and meat to maintain their health. Eating grass may be an easy way for your dog to add roughage to their diet, helping to keep things moving through their digestive tract. 

There is also a chance that a gastrointestinal issue is causing your pup to eat grass. Dogs can suffer from a variety of stomach and gastrointestinal issues, including conditions like gastroenteritis and pancreatitis. If your dog is eating grass and displays other symptoms such as constipation, decreased energy, lack of appetite, or diarrhea, it’s a good time to take your canine companion to the vet for an examination. 

Psychological Reasons My Dog Eats Grass 

Just as people can have feelings of anxiety or boredom, so can dogs. If your dog doesn’t exhibit any signs of digestive issues but devours grass, psychological reasons may be the culprit. 

For example, your dog may simply be suffering from boredom. If this is the case, increasing the intensity or distance of their walks may help to cut back on their grass eating habit. 

Separation anxiety could also be the reason that your dog is eating grass. Try leaving an old blanket or t-shirt with your scent on it with your dog when you leave the house. Your dog may find the familiar scent reassuring, which can help reduce their grass eating. 

Some dogs show obsessive behaviors. If your dog is obsessively eating grass, your vet will be able to advise you on how to help your pooch reduce obsessive behaviors.

Pros and Cons of Dogs Eating Grass

Pros
  • Grass Eating May Be Enjoyable
  • Adds Fiber to Your Dog’s Diet
  • Aids in Digestion
Cons
  • May Lead to Vomiting / Diarrhea
  • Grass May be Covered in Pesticides
  • Parasites Live in Grass

Is it safe for dogs to eat grass?

If your dog has no health concerns and is up to date on preventive care then feel free to let them gnaw away on clean patches of grass.

To help keep your grass-nibbling pooch healthy, make sure that there are no herbicides, pesticides, or fertilizers on the grass your dog enjoys. 

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet’s condition, please make an appointment with your vet.

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Dog

Don’t be an April Fool: 13 Myths About Dogs

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Dogs have two color receptors in their eyes, allowing them to see in color. However, they cannot distinguish between shades of green and red like humans can. Instead, blue and yellow tones are more easily distinguishable for dogs. This means that dogs are not entirely colorblind but only partially so. They can see blue, yellow, and grey but only have a little ability to see color beyond these three hues.

How dogs perceive the world is quite different from how humans do. While dog owners may be able to appreciate the beauty of a rainbow or a sunset, mostly, dogs will only be able to make out the primary colors of blue, yellow, and grey. This does not mean they cannot enjoy the world around them; it just means that their experience is slightly different from ours. Dogs still have a fantastic sense of smell and hearing, which helps them explore their environment in ways that people who love dogs cannot even imagine!

2. Your Dog Isn’t Healthy if He Has a Dry, Warm Nose

The myth that a dry, warm nose means your dog is sick is false and should not be taken as an accurate sign of illness. A dry, warm nose can indicate a dog’s activity level, the amount of water they drink, or their environment. Your pup’s nose may be warm to the touch and dry if exposed to different temperatures, humidity levels, eating patterns or if they have been under physical or psychological stress.

It is important to note that a warm and dry nose on a dog is typical and not necessarily a sign of illness. However, if your pet’s nose is constantly dry, cracking, or running, it may indicate sickness and should be checked by a veterinarian. Therefore, it is essential to monitor your pet’s health closely and seek medical attention if you notice any changes in their behavior or physical condition.

3. It’s Impossible to Teach an Old Dog New Tricks

It is a common misconception that old dogs cannot learn new tricks; in reality, dogs of any age can discover new behaviors and commands with proper training. Training sessions should be fun and upbeat, as this will help keep the dog engaged and motivated. Rewards should also be given for progress made to encourage the dog’s continued success.

Trish McMillan, a certified animal behaviorist, was able to train a 9-year-old Doberman to earn its Canine Good Citizen title within a few months. This proves that even older dogs can learn new tricks if given the proper guidance and support. Even if your dog has physical impairments, it is still possible to teach the dog new behaviors and commands with patience and consistency.

If you have a friend with a new pup, consider getting them gifts to help them in their training journey, such as treats or toys designed to teach obedience skills. This helps them prevent aggressive behavior, especially when in public. Aggressive dogs tend to have

4. Seven Dog Years are Equal to One Human Year

The idea that one human year equals seven dog years is a myth, and this ratio has been around for a long time, but data do not support it. Instead, the age comparison between humans and dogs depends on breed, size, and genetic makeup. For example, smaller dogs can act like puppies at 16 years old, while larger species may be considered over 130 in human years.

A group of researchers at Purdue University looked into developing a formula for dog age based on the size of the dog and its chronological age. However, they found that no single formula accurately reflects the aging process of all dogs. Instead, they concluded that each breed ages differently and should be evaluated individually to determine their age in human years. Therefore, the seven-to-one ratio of dog years to human years needs to be more accurate and should not be used as a reliable measure of a dog’s age.

5. Saliva From Dogs Has Been Shown to Heal Cuts and Wounds

The idea that dog saliva can heal wounds is a myth. Dog saliva cannot heal wounds, and in fact, it can make them worse. Dog bites can cause significant injury and should be taken seriously. It is essential to seek medical attention if a dog has bitten you.

Dog saliva does have some antibacterial properties due to its slightly more alkaline pH than human saliva, which can discourage some bacteria from reproducing. However, this is not enough to make it antibacterial, and it can still cause illness in humans. In addition, a 2012 study identified 353 different types of bacteria living in dogs’ mouths, making it even more dangerous to use their saliva as a wound-healing agent.

6. Dogs Who Wag Their Tails are Happy

Tail wagging in dogs is often thought to signify happiness, but this is not always the case. In reality, tail wagging can mean many different things, and it’s essential to look at the type of wag and the ears, eyes, and body posture of your dog to determine its genuine emotion. For example, a 2013 study in Current Biology found that a vigorous tail wag to the right usually means happiness at seeing its owner, while slow wags of a tail held halfway down can mean fear or insecurity.

It’s important to remember that tail wagging is just one way your dog communicates with you – there are other secrets your dog wishes it could tell you. Paying attention to subtle changes in behavior and body language can help you better understand what your pup is trying to say to you. If you’re ever unsure about how your dog is feeling, take some time to observe them and attempt to decipher their message.

7. Dogs Can’t Digest Grains

Contrary to popular belief, dogs can digest grains and need them in their diet. However, a grain-free diet can lead to a severe heart disease called Canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), so owners need to ensure their pet’s diet includes grains. Dogs on a grain-inclusive diet are less likely to develop DCM than those on a grain-free diet.

It is also essential for owners to be aware of certain types of human food that are bad for dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, and garlic. Human nutrition in moderation is adequate for dogs but should not make up more than 10% of a dog’s diet. Home-cooked meals can be deficient in essential nutrients for dogs and should be avoided unless they are balanced with supplements or commercial dog food. It is best to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet’s diet.

8. Dogs Can Swim Well

Contrary to popular belief, not all dogs are good swimmers. Breeds like pit bulls, bulldogs, mastiffs, dachshunds, and boxers, and many dogs have powerful chests and heavy skulls that make them less buoyant in the water. Smaller breeds should also be handled with care when swimming, as they are more prone to hyperthermia.

To determine if your pup is a capable swimmer, you can observe if he enjoys getting wet and being in the water. Generally speaking, even if a dog is suited for swimming, it doesn’t mean that every individual can swim with confidence and agility.

Often it takes patience to introduce a new pup to the pool or beach and give him some time to build up confidence in his ability to how far he can go within the water. That’s why always ensure that you supervise your pup while they’re near or in the water – just as you would with children – since there are no guarantees that they will be an expert swimmer right away!

Dog lovers need to understand their dogs’ swimming abilities and provide them with the necessary safety precautions when in the water. Life jackets, pool ramps, and other safety devices can help keep your pup safe while they enjoy a day in the pool or lake.

9. Only Sick Dogs Eat Grass

Dogs eating grass is a natural behavior that a variety of reasons can cause, and it may be due to an upset stomach, boredom, or even an attempt to supplement their diet with nutrients they lack. Eating grass may help ease sickness, but it should not be relied upon as a cure-all for any ailment.

It is important to remember that certain types of human food, such as chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, and garlic, are bad for dogs and should never be given to them. Human nutrition in moderation is adequate for dogs but should not make up more than 10% of a dog’s diet. Home-cooked meals can also be deficient in nutrients critical for a dog’s health, so it is essential to consult your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet’s diet.

10. A Well-Trained Dog Will Never Bite

A well-trained dog is less likely to attack than an untrained one, but it is impossible to guarantee that a dog will never bite. Dogs may bite for various reasons, such as fear, frustration, defense, or intimidation. Proper dog training and socialization can help reduce the risk of a dog biting by teaching them how to respond appropriately in different situations. This includes teaching them basic commands such as sit and stay and providing positive reinforcement when they obey orders.

It is important to remember that even if you train dogs properly, there is still a chance that the dog will bite. A dog’s mouth is not any cleaner than a human’s, and they explore the world with their mouths and noses, so you never know what they have been eating. While some pathogens can be passed on to humans in dog saliva, severe infections are rare. Therefore, it is essential to always be cautious around dogs and supervise children when interacting with them.

11. Because of Their Fur, Several Dog Breeds are Hypoallergenic

The idea that certain dog breeds are hypoallergenic because of their skin is a myth. All dogs produce allergens, but some may pay less than others. Dogs that don’t shed, like poodles, or smaller dogs that shed less, are less likely to have a large amount of allergen. The amount of allergens produced by a dog is not related to the breed of the dog.

Allergic reactions are caused by the proteins found in a dog’s saliva and dander, not its fur. Even without a coat, all dogs produce saliva and dander (tiny skin particles). So as much as people may believe that dogs with less hair have fewer allergens, that isn’t true!

It’s important to note that no matter what breed you get, all dogs must be groomed and washed to reduce shedding as much as possible. Regular brushing helps remove stray hairs from your home before they become airborne allergens. Vacuuming frequently can also help minimize allergic reactions from dander particles left behind by dogs in the house.

12. Spaying or Neutering Your Pets When They are Puppies or Kittens Will Prevent Them from Having Future Behavioral Problems

Spaying and neutering dogs at a young age were once thought to be the best way to prevent future behavioral issues, but recent studies have shown that this is not necessarily true. Allowing dogs to keep their reproductive organs intact into adulthood has been found to have additional health benefits. This has led more veterinarians and owners to hold off on spaying or neutering until six months to a year after the dog’s birth.

Spaying or neutering too early can lead to problems like aggression or resource guarding. Beyond that, it may also be unhealthy for puppies to be put under anesthesia due to their immature organs and developing urinary and reproductive systems.

The bottom line is that while spaying or neutering is essential for keeping pet populations low, you should always wait until your pup is old enough to cope with any associated stress and health risks properly!

13. A Dog’s Mouth is Cleaner Than a Human’s

A dog’s mouth is often considered cleaner than a human’s, but this is not necessarily true. Dog saliva has a slightly more alkaline pH than human saliva, which can discourage some bacteria from reproducing. However, dog saliva is not truly antibacterial and can still cause human illness. A 2012 study identified 353 different types of bacteria living in dogs’ mouths, showing that their mouths are no cleaner than ours.

Dogs explore the world with their mouths and noses, so you never know what they have been eating or licking. While some pathogens can be passed on to humans in dog saliva, severe infections are rare. It is important to remember that while a dog’s mouth may not be any cleaner than a human’s, it is still essential to practice good hygiene when handling dogs and their toys or food dishes. Regularly washing hands after contact with dogs and cleaning toys and food dishes regularly will help keep everyone healthy.

You need to speak with your vet about the best time for surgical intervention for your pet. An adequately educated decision should consider both benefits and risks associated with spaying or neutering at various stages of development.

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