Featured Stories | Blog the Dogs

Basenji Health Information

Filed under Breed Spotlight, Dogs Health and Care, Featured Stories by admin on May 1, 2011 at 4:58 AM {no comments}

Basenjis are a natural breed and are relatively healthy. Like all breeds, there are disorders that may occur more often in this breed than in dogs in general, or that are uncommon but known or suspected to be inherited. When evaluating health information, it is important to distinguish between the need for concern in planning breeding and evaluating its consequences for breed health, versus the likelihood of encountering the disorder in a pet. Health testing is important for the gene pool, not just for individual dogs that will be bred, to insure we have a good handle on overall gene pool health. General Health Issues covers questions regarding eyes, hips, hernias, thyroid and cardiac testing in a PDF.

Other links of note are in regards to Fanconi Syndrome, a late-onset kidney problem. A DNA linkage test was discovered and made available a few years ago with the help of the Basenji Health Endowment. Since the test became available the incidence appears to be dropping rapidly.

While breeders are now able to test for Fanconi before a breeding takes place, there are still Basenjis who were born before the test became available who may develop the syndrome. The Fanconi Protocol, a way to maintain afflicted dogs, is for those dogs and owners.

Breeders and those thinking of breeding Basenji should study the Fanconi syndrome test information at the OFA website.

Dog Illnesses: A Guide To The Most Common Problems Your Dog May Face

Filed under Dogs Health and Care, Featured Stories by admin on April 26, 2011 at 5:44 AM {no comments}

Understanding dog illnesses isn't something you should leave to the veterinarian: if you know the basics then you'll recognize the signs when your dog starts to get ill. Here is a quick guide to some of the most common illnesses that affect dogs.

1) Arthritis

A number of dogs will develop this degenerative disease within their lifetime - it's especially common in older dogs, and dogs who don't get enough exercise. Symptoms include stiffness in the joints and muscles, and very strong pain in some cases. Unfortunately the condition can't be cured, so you'll need to help manage the symptoms using pain medication, exercise, and natural treatments. We highly recommend this-Arthro-Ionx™ All-Natural Dog Arthritis Formula

2) Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a disorder that causes seizures, as a result of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. If your dog suffers from a seizure then there's not much you can do. Try to watch over him to make sure that he doesn't hurt himself.

3) Obesity

It isn't just humans who suffer from obesity - it's becoming an increasingly common problem in our pets too. Out of all dog illnesses, this might be one that requires you to take the most action. You should think carefully about how much food you're feeding your dog, what you're feeding him, and giving him enough exercise. You'll know that your dog is overweight if you run your hand over his ribs but can't feel any ribs through the skin.

4) Diarrhea

There are a number of different causes of diarrhea, but it's on this list of dog illnesses due to just how common it is. In many cases, changes in your dog's stool could simply be down to changing his diet or even simple stress. However, there may also be a more serious cause.

Parvovirus can cause diarrhea that's usually yellow or yellow/ gray in color, and gets tinged with blood very quickly. This is a viral illness, and around 80% of affected puppies will die if left untreated. However, most dogs will survive if given proper treatment.

5) Canine Flu

The flu is a common illness in dogs just as it is in humans. It shares many of the same symptoms, such as a mild fever, runny nose, sneezing and a cough. It is contagious though your dog will usually recover on his own without any medical treatment.

These are just a selection of the most common dog illnesses. The more you know about your dog's health, the better position you'll be in to determine whether he needs extra medical care.

House Training Your New Puppy

Filed under Dogs Health and Care, Dogs Training, Featured Stories by admin on November 5, 2010 at 5:45 AM {no comments}

When a new puppy arrives in the house, it’s an exciting time for everyone. In order for the homecoming to proceed as smoothly as possible, it’s a good idea to spend a little bit of time in preparation.

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The Dreaded Skunk!

Filed under Dogs Health and Care, Featured Stories by admin on October 25, 2010 at 7:36 PM {no comments}

photo credit: boviate

I knew it would happen sooner or later, the dreaded skunk spray! Fall is the time of year when skunks are really on the move and you only have to drive a short distance from my house to see them both dead and alive. So last evening one of our dogs went outside for the last trip before bedtime and came in smelling like roses!

If you want to completely get rid of skunk odor, you have to take action... Your skunk odor problem is not going to solve itself anytime soon.

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Organic Pet Food: Is There Such a Thing?

Filed under Dogs Health and Care, Featured Stories by admin on October 11, 2010 at 6:07 PM {no comments}

As a pet owner you are likely to take steps to ensure that your pet is happy and healthy. Unfortunately, many pet owners find it difficult to do so, especially where food is concerned. In April of 2007, a large pet food recall left many pet owners wondering what they should feed their pets. Although time has passed since that recall, many pet owners still second guess their decision to feed their pets “traditional,” pet foods. If you are one of those pet owners, consider feeding your pet organic pet food.