In the realm of playful distractions, few tools have captivated both pets and their owners quite like the laser pointer. With a simple flick of the wrist, it projects a tantalizing light beam, igniting a frenzy of pursuit in our furry companions. However, beneath the surface of this seemingly harmless game lies a potential concern known as “Laser Pointer Syndrome.”
While often overlooked, this phenomenon can have significant implications for your dog. I’ll get into the details below, but you must immediately stop if you use a laser pointer to play with your dog.
I’m not trying to scare you, but this is important. In some situations, lasers make fun toys for cats but should never be used for dogs.
What is Laser Pointer Syndrome in Dogs?
Laser Pointer Syndrome in dogs refers to the behavioral and psychological consequences of using laser pointers as a form of play.
When a dog chases the elusive red dot produced by a laser pointer, it triggers their predatory instincts, leading to heightened arousal and frustration.
Unlike traditional toys or objects, the laser dot cannot be caught or consumed, leaving the dog unsatisfied and potentially obsessed with chasing it.
This continuous stimulation without resolution can lead to anxiety, compulsive behaviors, and even frustration-aggression in some cases. Furthermore, the abrupt cessation of play without a tangible reward can leave dogs feeling unfulfilled, contributing to stress and behavioral issues over time.
The symptoms of Laser Pointer Syndrome in dogs can vary in severity and may manifest differently depending on the individual dog. While playing with a laser may seem harmless, it often is not.
Here are some common signs to watch for:
Obsessive Behavior: Dogs may become fixated on any light source, constantly scanning their environment for the elusive red dot even when the laser pointer is not in use. They may become obsessed with shadows or will sit and anxiously wait near where the laser is stored.
Anxiety and Frustration: Continuous exposure to the unattainable target can lead to heightened levels of anxiety and frustration in daily life.
Compulsive Behavior: Dogs may exhibit repetitive behaviors such as pacing, spinning, or excessive barking due to the frustration caused by the unfulfilled chase.
Aggression: In some cases, dogs may redirect their frustration into aggressive behavior, either towards the light’s source or other animals or people in the vicinity.
Withdrawal: Dogs may become disinterested in other forms of play or interaction, preferring the stimulation provided by the laser pointer over other activities.
Increased Stress: The inability to capture the laser dot or receive a reward can lead to chronic stress and overall dissatisfaction in the dog’s daily life.
How to Reverse Laser Pointer Syndrome
Reversing Laser Pointer Syndrome in dogs involves implementing behavioral modification techniques and providing alternative forms of enrichment to redirect their focus and fulfill their instincts.
Here are some steps to help reverse Laser Pointer Syndrome:
Cease Use of Laser Pointer: The first and most crucial step is discontinuing the laser pointer immediately. Continued exposure will only perpetuate the syndrome and exacerbate the associated behavioral issues.
Provide Physical and Mental Stimulation: Engage your dog in interactive play sessions using toys that allow them to engage their natural hunting and chasing instincts, such as flirt poles, interactive treat-dispensing toys, or puzzle toys. Regular backyard play time, walks, running, or playtime can also provide physical exercise and mental stimulation.
Training and Positive Reinforcement: Implement training sessions to redirect your dog’s focus and reinforce desired behaviors. Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats, praise, and rewards, to encourage alternative behaviors and discourage fixation on lights or shadows.
Structured Routine: Establish a structured daily routine for feeding, exercise, play, and rest to give your dog a sense of predictability and security. Consistency in their daily activities can help reduce stress and anxiety, which are common contributors to compulsive behaviors.
Environmental Enrichment: Enrich your dog’s environment with various stimulating activities, such as scent games, hide-and-seek with treats, or interactive toys that dispense food. Rotate toys regularly to keep their interest piqued and prevent boredom.
Seek Professional Help: If your dog’s symptoms persist or worsen despite your efforts, consider seeking guidance from a certified animal behaviorist or veterinarian. They can assess your dog’s specific needs and develop a tailored behavior modification plan to address Laser Pointer Syndrome effectively.
Dog Safe Flirt Pole
Replace your laser pointer with a flirt pole. These are fun for your dog, make a great training tool, and tap into the same fun you’ve both come to know and love.
What Happens If I Play With My Dog With a Laser Anyway?
When confronted with this information, many people will defend their choice to use a laser with their pet anyway.
After all, it’s fun to watch them chase and prey on the little red dot.
To each their own, I suppose, but I firmly believe you’re playing with fire. There are safer and more fun ways to tire a dog than a laser toy that won’t result in psychological damage.
You’re out on a nice stroll through the park when you discover that your dog ate goose poop. Discovering that your canine companion has indulged in a rather unconventional culinary choice—goose poop, of all things—might elicit a crinkled nose and a skeptical head shake.
Geese droppings seem to hold an inexplicable allure for some dogs, leading them on a gastronomic adventure into the world of waterfowl waste.
Grab your sense of humor and a strong stomach as we explore the aftermath of Fido’s feathered feast!
Is Goose Poop Toxic to Dogs?
Goose poop itself isn’t inherently toxic to dogs, but it can pose health risks depending on various factors:
Bacteria and Parasites: Goose feces can contain bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Campylobacter, as well as parasites like Giardia and roundworms. Ingesting contaminated feces can lead to gastrointestinal upset and potential infections in dogs.
Leptospirosis: Geese and other wildlife can carry leptospirosis bacteria, which can be present in their feces. Leptospirosis can cause serious illness in dogs and can be transmitted through contact with contaminated water or soil.
Dietary Concerns: Geese may consume a variety of foods, including grass, insects, and human food scraps, which can influence the composition of their droppings. Depending on what the geese have eaten, their feces may contain substances that could be harmful to dogs if ingested in large quantities.
Environmental Contaminants: In areas where geese frequent, their droppings can accumulate and may contain environmental contaminants such as pesticides or pollutants from runoff, which could pose additional risks if ingested by dogs.
While a small amount of goose poop ingestion may not cause significant harm to all dogs, it’s best to discourage this behavior to minimize the risk of illness.
If your dog has consumed goose poop or is showing any signs of illness after ingestion, it’s advisable to consult your veterinarian for guidance tailored to your dog’s specific situation. Additionally, keeping your dog up to date on vaccinations and practicing good hygiene can help reduce the risk of illness from exposure to goose feces.
Does Goose Poop Cause Giardia?
While goose poop itself may not directly cause Giardia, it can potentially contribute to the transmission of Giardia parasites. Giardia is a protozoan parasite that can infect the intestines of mammals, including dogs, and cause gastrointestinal illness.
Giardia is typically spread through the ingestion of contaminated water or food that contains the cysts of the parasite. Geese, like many other animals, can carry Giardia in their feces if they are infected.
If a dog ingests water or food contaminated with Giardia cysts from goose poop, they can become infected with the parasite.
Therefore, while goose poop may not be the sole cause of Giardia infections in dogs, it can serve as a potential source of contamination if the feces are carrying Giardia cysts. Preventing dogs from ingesting goose poop and practicing good hygiene, such as proper disposal of feces and regular handwashing, can help reduce the risk of Giardia transmission.
If your dog shows signs of Giardia infection, such as diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.
Can Dogs Get Leptospirosis from Eating Goose Poop?
While it’s less common for dogs to directly contract leptospirosis from eating goose poop, they can still be at risk of leptospirosis if they come into contact with contaminated water or soil where infected goose feces are present.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira bacteria, which can be shed in the urine of infected animals, including geese.
If a dog ingests water or soil contaminated with Leptospira bacteria from infected goose feces, they can become infected with leptospirosis. Dogs are more likely to contract leptospirosis through exposure to contaminated water sources, such as ponds, puddles, or wet grass, rather than directly from eating goose poop.
Therefore, while the risk of dogs getting leptospirosis from eating goose poop is relatively low, it’s still essential to take precautions to prevent exposure to contaminated environments where the bacteria may be present.
If you suspect your dog may have been exposed to leptospirosis or if they show symptoms such as fever, lethargy, vomiting, or jaundice, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian promptly for evaluation and treatment.
My Dog Ate Goose Poop & Is Throwing Up
If your dog is throwing up after eating goose poop, it’s essential to take action to ensure their well-being. Here’s what you should do:
Monitor your dog: Keep a close eye on your dog’s condition. Note any other symptoms they may be experiencing, such as diarrhea, lethargy, or abdominal pain.
Limit access to food and water: Temporarily withhold food and water to give your dog’s stomach a chance to settle. This can help prevent further vomiting and may reduce irritation to the stomach.
Contact your veterinarian: Call your vet immediately to inform them of the situation. Describe your dog’s symptoms and follow any instructions they provide. They may recommend bringing your dog in for an examination or advise you on home care.
Provide supportive care: Follow your vet’s recommendations for supportive care at home, which may include giving small amounts of water or electrolyte solution to prevent dehydration once vomiting has subsided.
Avoid further ingestion: Prevent your dog from eating more goose poop or anything else potentially harmful. Keep them under close supervision and consider using a leash during walks to control their access to outdoor areas.
Follow-up with your vet: If your dog’s vomiting persists or if they develop other concerning symptoms, follow up with your veterinarian promptly for further evaluation and treatment.
While occasional vomiting may occur in dogs for various reasons, including dietary indiscretion such as eating goose poop, persistent or severe vomiting can indicate a more serious underlying issue that requires veterinary attention. Err on the side of caution and seek prompt veterinary care to ensure the best outcome for your dog’s health.
How Do I Stop My Dog From Eating Goose Poop?
Stopping your dog from eating goose poop can be challenging but is certainly possible with consistent training and management strategies.
Here are some tips to help prevent this behavior:
Supervise and redirect: When walking your dog in areas where geese frequent, keep a close eye on them and intervene immediately if they show interest in goose poop. Use verbal cues or a gentle tug on the leash to redirect their attention away from the feces.
Teach a strong “leave it” cue: Train your dog to respond reliably to a “leave it” command, which instructs them to ignore or move away from whatever they’re focused on, including goose poop. Practice this command in various environments and reward your dog for compliance.
Use positive reinforcement: Reward your dog with treats, praise, or toys when they ignore goose poop or respond to your cues to leave it alone. Positive reinforcement helps reinforce desired behaviors and encourages your dog to listen to you.
Keep your dog on a leash: In areas where goose poop is prevalent, such as parks or waterfronts, keep your dog on a leash to prevent them from wandering off and indulging in scavenging behavior.
Provide mental and physical stimulation: Ensure your dog receives enough exercise, playtime, and mental stimulation to keep them mentally and physically satisfied. A well-exercised and mentally stimulated dog is less likely to engage in undesirable behaviors like eating goose poop out of boredom.
Avoid areas with high goose activity: If possible, avoid walking your dog in areas where geese congregate, especially during nesting or molting seasons when goose activity may be higher.
Consider deterrents: Some pet owners have had success using commercial deterrent sprays or natural deterrents like bitter apple spray on goose poop to make it less appealing to dogs. However, always consult with your veterinarian before using any products on or around your dog.
Regularly clean up your yard: If you have geese frequenting your yard, regularly clean up goose poop to minimize the temptation for your dog to eat it.
Consistency and patience are key when training your dog to avoid eating goose poop. With time and effort, you can help your dog overcome this behavior and enjoy worry-free walks together. If the behavior persists despite your efforts, consider consulting a professional dog trainer or behaviorist for additional guidance and support.
Acid reflux, a common gastrointestinal issue in dogs, can cause discomfort and disrupt their daily routines. Just like humans, dogs can experience this condition, leading to symptoms like regurgitation, vomiting, and reluctance to eat. While managing acid reflux in dogs requires a comprehensive approach involving veterinary care, dietary adjustments play a crucial role in alleviating symptoms and promoting digestive health. When you feed a dog with acid reflux, it’s important to understand why some foods trigger this condition more than others. In this post I will cover:
How to feed a dog with acid reflux
The symptoms of reflux in dogs
Reasons why some dogs get reflux
Natural Reflux Remedies
If Tums can be given to dogs
Acid Reflux in Dogs Symptoms
A dog with acid reflux or “GERD” may be uncomfortable. If you’ve ever had heartburn, you know the feeling! Uncomfortable dogs may be fearful, snappy, short-tempered, or even aggressive. Always see your veterinarian if new behaviors or health issues pop up.
Here are some signs that your dog might have acid reflux:
Regurgitation: Your dog may bring up food or liquid, often soon after eating, without any effort or warning.
Vomiting: While similar to regurgitation, vomiting involves active abdominal contractions, and it may include partially digested food or bile.
Burping or excessive belching: Your dog may make unusual burping sounds more frequently than usual.
Difficulty swallowing: You may notice your dog hesitating before swallowing or showing signs of discomfort while eating.
Excessive salivation: Dogs with acid reflux may drool more than usual, especially during or after meals.
Heartburn: Dogs may exhibit signs of discomfort or pain in the chest or abdomen, which could be associated with heartburn.
Loss of appetite: If your dog experiences discomfort when eating due to acid reflux, they may lose interest in food.
Weight loss: Persistent acid reflux can lead to weight loss over time, as the dog may avoid eating to avoid discomfort.
Coughing or gagging: Acid reflux can irritate the throat, leading to coughing or gagging, especially after eating or drinking.
Bad breath: Stomach acid backing up into the esophagus can contribute to foul-smelling breath in dogs with acid reflux.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can also indicate other health issues, so if you suspect your dog has acid reflux, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
What Causes Acid Reflux in Dogs?
Acid reflux in dogs, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), can have various causes. It’s important to talk to your veterinarian if you are concerned about your dog having reflux or any kind of digestive problem.
Here are some common factors that contribute to acid reflux in dogs:
Dietary Factors: Certain foods can trigger acid reflux in dogs, especially high-fat foods. Dogs that get into the trash or that are fed a lot of fatty, spicy, or salty human foods may have reflux too.
Fast Eating & Big Meals: Dogs that eat large meals, or that eat lots of food quickly, are more likely to suffer from reflux.
Anatomy: Dogs with certain anatomical features, such as short noses (brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs) or a hiatal hernia (a condition where part of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm), may be more prone to acid reflux.
Obesity: Overweight dogs are at a higher risk of developing acid reflux due to increased pressure on the stomach, which can cause stomach contents to flow back into the esophagus.
Underlying Health Conditions: Acid reflux can be a symptom of underlying health issues such as gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., gastritis, inflammatory bowel disease), esophageal abnormalities, or certain infections.
Medications: Some medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or certain antibiotics, can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of acid reflux.
Stress and Anxiety: Dogs experiencing stress or anxiety may have altered digestive function, leading to increased acid production and reflux.
Positioning: Sleeping or resting in certain positions, particularly with the head lower than the stomach, can promote acid reflux in dogs.
Exercise After Meals: Intense physical activity immediately after eating can contribute to acid reflux by putting pressure on the stomach and causing its contents to back up into the esophagus.
What To Feed a Dog With Acid Reflux
When feeding a dog with acid reflux, it’s crucial to focus on easily digestible and nutritious foods that won’t exacerbate their condition.
When choosing a pet food from a pet store that doesn’t require a veterinary authorization, prioritize brands such as Purina, Hill’s Science Diet, and Royal Canin that meet WSAVA recommendations.
Author’s Note – I speak from personal experience when I say that switching from boutique foods to Purina Pro Plan completely resolved my dog’s acid reflux!
There is a lot of science behind the major brands. The truth is, that many “boutique” and “holistic” foods have too many unnecessary nutrients and not enough balance. They can be very rich, leading to digestive upset and yes, reflux!
Avoid adding fatty toppers and foods that can upset their digestive system. Raw food, for example, tends to be high in fat and can contain pathogens and bacteria that irritate your dog’s stomach. Goat’s milk is also high in fat.
By focusing on easily digestible, well-formulated foods, you can help manage your dog’s acid reflux and promote better digestive health.
Dog Acid Reflux Natural Remedies
Natural remedies may, in some situations, help manage acid reflux in dogs, but it’s important to note that they may not be sufficient for severe cases or underlying medical conditions.
Here are some natural remedies you can try:
Dietary Modifications: Adjust your dog’s diet to include well-balanced, scientifically formulated foods. Consider feeding smaller, more frequent meals to prevent overloading the stomach. Avoid known trigger foods like fatty or spicy items.
Probiotics: Probiotic supplements can promote gut health and balance the digestive system, potentially reducing episodes of acid reflux. Choose a high-quality probiotic specifically formulated for dogs. I like Purina FortiFlora or Nutramax Labs Proviable.
Weight Management: If your dog is overweight, helping them achieve and maintain a healthy weight can reduce the risk of acid reflux episodes. Ensure they get regular exercise and a balanced diet.
Stress Reduction: Stress and anxiety can exacerbate acid reflux symptoms. Provide a calm environment for your dog and consider activities like regular walks, interactive play, or training to help alleviate stress.
Before trying any natural remedies, it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your dog’s specific situation. They can provide guidance on the proper dosages and help rule out any underlying medical conditions contributing to acid reflux.
Can Dogs Have Tums for Reflux?
While Tums (calcium carbonate) are generally safe for occasional use in dogs to alleviate mild stomach upset, they are not typically recommended for treating acid reflux in dogs without consulting a veterinarian first.
While calcium carbonate can help neutralize stomach acid, it’s important to use caution as excessive calcium intake can lead to issues like constipation or even kidney stones in some cases.
Additionally, Tums may not address the underlying cause of the acid reflux, and other treatment options may be more appropriate depending on the severity and cause of the reflux.
Always consult with your veterinarian before giving any medication, including over-the-counter remedies like Tums, to your dog, to ensure it is safe and appropriate for their specific situation.
Experiencing your beloved canine companion throwing up after eating can be distressing and concerning for any pet owner. Concerns about toxins, mold, and disease come to mind. Some may panic about heavy metals in their pet’s food.
While an occasional episode of vomiting may not always be a cause for alarm, frequent occurrences can indicate underlying health issues that require attention.
Similar to humans, dogs can experience digestive issues that lead to vomiting after meals. In this blog post, we will examine the potential causes behind this unsettling behavior and offer guidance on the necessary steps to take next.
Why Is My Dog Throwing Up After Eating?
There are several reasons why a dog might vomit after eating, ranging from mild to serious issues. If your vet is appearing lethargic, disoriented, or weak, see a veterinarian immediately!
Here are some potential reasons for why a dog might throw up after eating:
Dietary indiscretion: Dogs are notorious for eating things they shouldn’t, such as table scraps, garbage, or spoiled food. This can lead to upset stomach and vomiting. Even if you believe your pet hasn’t ingested anything they shouldn’t have, it’s essential to recognize that this is a very real and common occurrence.
Food intolerance or allergy: Some dogs may have sensitivities or allergies to certain ingredients in their food, leading to vomiting as a reaction. This occurrence would be rare and requires a veterinary diet elimination trial to rule out.
Overeating: Eating too much food too quickly can overwhelm a dog’s digestive system, causing vomiting.
Gastrointestinal issues: Dogs can suffer from various gastrointestinal problems like gastritis, inflammatory bowel disease, or gastrointestinal obstructions, all of which can cause vomiting.
Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can lead to vomiting, especially after eating fatty foods.
Infections: Viral or bacterial infections, such as parvovirus or gastroenteritis, can cause vomiting as a symptom.
Toxic ingestion: Ingestion of toxic substances like plants, household chemicals, or certain human foods (e.g., chocolate, xylitol) can result in vomiting.
Motion sickness: Some dogs may vomit in response to car rides or other forms of motion.
Dog Ate Something They Shouldn’t and is Vomiting
If your dog has consumed something they shouldn’t have and is now vomiting, act swiftly!
Do your best to identify what your dog ingested and any potential signs of toxicity. Then immediately contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal clinic to seek guidance.
If your pet ingested something they shouldn’t have but appears stable, you can contact the Pet Poison Poison hotline for advice. This is a paid service, but if you have pet insurance, it may be covered.
Provide them with detailed information about the ingested substance, the time it occurred, and any accompanying symptoms your dog is displaying.
While monitoring your dog closely, refrain from attempting to induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by a veterinary professional, as some substances can exacerbate the situation if brought back up.
Pay close attention to any changes in your dog’s condition, such as increased lethargy or distress, and follow any advice provided by your vet, which may include seeking immediate veterinary care or administering first aid at home.
Do not give your dog hydrogen peroxide without veterinary guidance.
Toxic Ingestion in Dogs
Toxic ingestion in dogs occurs when they consume substances that are harmful to their health.
The following things are toxic to pets and may require immediate attention:
Grapes
Chocolate
Onions
Certain plants (indoors and out)
Many wild mushrooms
Many essential oils
Rat poison
Household chemicals and cleaning agents
Automobile fluids such as gas and oil
Coolant (for your car, which is often sweet to the taste and thus appealing)
Xylitol (found in candy and gum)
Medications (including pet medications on which they may overdose)
Weed and other recreational drugs
In many cases, if your dog is throwing up because they ate something toxic, it’s an emergency. Go to the veterinarian immediately.
Symptoms of toxic ingestion vary depending on the substance ingested but may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, tremors, seizures, difficulty breathing, and collapse.
Unless a veterinarian or the pet poison hotline tells you to, refrain from using hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting in your dog. This outdated practice is associated with many complications and may alter the way a veterinarian can treat your pet.
Dog Illnesses that Cause Digestive Problems
Several illnesses and conditions can cause dogs and puppies to vomit. All of these require immediate veterinary care (I’m sensing a theme here!).
Gastroenteritis: Inflammation of the stomach and intestines, often caused by infections (bacterial, viral, or parasitic) or dietary factors.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss.
Foreign Body Ingestion: Swallowing objects like toys, bones, or pieces of clothing can cause blockages in the digestive tract, leading to vomiting among other symptoms.
Parasitic Infections: Infestations with parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, or giardia can cause gastrointestinal symptoms including vomiting.
Liver or Kidney Disease: These conditions can lead to vomiting as well as other symptoms like jaundice, increased thirst, and changes in urination.
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), or bloat: A serious condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists, often seen in large, deep-chested breeds. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate veterinary attention. Dogs with bloat will often attempt to vomit but may be unable to produce anything.
Parvo: this serious and deadly condition is preventable with vaccination. It is most often seen in puppies (who aren’t fully vaccinated), however, all dogs are at risk.
My Dog Eats Too Fast and Throws Up
It’s common for dogs to eat too quickly, leading to vomiting. Contrary to popular belief, a dog shouldn’t wolf down their meal and lick the bowl clean.
Rapid eating can cause your dog to swallow air along with their food, leading to gastrointestinal discomfort and sometimes regurgitation.
Here are some steps you can take to help your dog slow down while eating and reduce the chances of vomiting:
Slow-Feeding Bowls: Use specially designed slow-feeding bowls or puzzle feeders that have obstacles or compartments, making it more difficult for your dog to gulp down food quickly. I like the Kong Wobbler and this viral bone bowl.
Small, Frequent Meals: Instead of feeding your dog one or two large meals per day, consider splitting their daily food portion into smaller, more frequent meals. This can help prevent your dog from feeling overly hungry and devouring their food too quickly.
Hand Feeding: If your dog’s eating habits are severe, consider hand-feeding them small amounts of food at a time. This allows you to control the pace at which your dog eats and can help prevent vomiting. You can keep the food in a treat pouch and use it for training rewards, too!
Food Moistening: Adding water or low-sodium broth to your dog’s kibble can help slow down eating and also provide additional hydration. Stuff the rehydrated food in a West Paw Toppl and use this as enrichment.
Medical Evaluation: If your dog continues to vomit frequently despite your efforts to slow down their eating, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian. Persistent vomiting could indicate an underlying medical condition that requires attention.
Pancreatitis Symptoms in Dogs & Puking
Pancreatitis in dogs presents with various symptoms, with vomiting being one of the hallmark signs.
Alongside vomiting, dogs with pancreatitis may exhibit abdominal discomfort, decreased appetite, lethargy, and in some cases, fever and diarrhea.
The vomiting may occur repeatedly and can sometimes contain bile or blood. Pancreatitis requires medical treatment, including fluid therapy, pain management, and dietary adjustments.
Untreated pancreatitis can lead to severe complications. Go to the vet!
Your veterinarian can perform diagnostic tests to confirm the diagnosis and create a tailored treatment plan to address your dog’s specific needs.
Treatment of pancreatitis commonly involves administering intravenous fluids to address dehydration and restore electrolyte balance. Pain management medications may be prescribed to alleviate discomfort, while antiemetics can help control vomiting.
Depending on the severity of the condition, nutritional support may involve withholding food temporarily to allow the pancreas to rest before gradually reintroducing a bland, easily digestible diet such as Hill’s Science Diet Low Fat i/d Digestive Care (only available through your veterinarian).
Is Purina Making Dogs Throw Up and Have Seizures?
In 2023, a post on social media went viral, suggesting that Purina dog food contained toxic levels of heavy metal and was causing dogs to throw up, have seizures, and die.
The original post was debunked and has since been removed. Despite this, a group of fringe “holistic” veterinarians and one of the plaintiffs in the Hill’s Science Diet Vitamin D recall lawsuit used the social panic over Purina Food to build engagement with their content.
They led and fostered the creation of a fringe extremist community whose beliefs ride on the idea that all kibble is toxic and that veterinarians are intentionally harming pets with food, vaccines, and medications.
This has led to a flood of misinformation circulating on social media platforms concerning veterinarians, Purina, and other kibble brands. If you’ve heard chatter about Purina food being toxic, or veterinarians harming pets for profit, it’s likely coming from this group.
Tread cautiously with social misinformation and double-check the sources of where you hear things.
If your pet is throwing up after eating kibble, and you are concerned that the food itself is the cause, keep the food (in the original bag) and see a veterinarian.
Blood and stool samples can help your veterinarian determine if your pet has ingested something toxic. If the food might be a possible suspect based on the evidence at hand, your veterinarian can facilitate the next steps.
Salmonella and Bacteria Making Dogs Sick
Salmonella and certain types of bacteria can indeed cause dogs to vomit. Despite a common myth suggesting dogs are immune due to their stomach acidity, they’re still susceptible. Contrary to popular belief, dogs’ stomachs are less acidic than those of humans.
While a dog is less likely to show severe symptoms than a human, the bacteria load can make them feel icky and can be damaging to their internal gut health.
Salmonella: Dogs can become infected with Salmonella bacteria through consuming contaminated food, such as raw meat or eggs, kibble that has been recalled, or through contact with feces (including their own) from infected animals. Salmonella infection, known as salmonellosis, can lead to symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea (often bloody), fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite. It can be particularly dangerous for young puppies, elderly dogs, or those with weakened immune systems.
Other Bacterial Infections: Various other bacteria, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), Campylobacter, or Clostridium perfringens, can also cause gastrointestinal infections in dogs. These bacteria are commonly found in contaminated water, soil, or raw food. Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and dehydration.
Dogs with bacterial infections can shed the bacteria in their stool and saliva, putting humans at risk, too.
Preventing bacterial infections in dogs involves practicing good hygiene and food safety measures. Here are some tips:
Proper Food Handling: Ensure that your dog’s food is handled and stored safely, especially raw meat and eggs, to prevent contamination with harmful bacteria like Salmonella.
Cooking: Cook meat thoroughly before feeding it to your dog to kill any potential bacteria. Avoid feeding raw meat diets unless properly prepared and handled to minimize the risk of bacterial contamination. Note that raw meat diets are associated with a much higher risk of medication-resistant bacteria such as E. coli.
Hand Washing: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling raw meat or coming into contact with feces, and encourage family members to do the same.
Clean Environment: Keep your dog’s living environment clean, including their food and water bowls, bedding, pooping, and living areas, to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination.
Regular Veterinary Care: Ensure your dog receives regular check-ups and vaccinations to help maintain their overall health and immune function, which can reduce the risk of bacterial infections.
If you suspect your dog has ingested something contaminated with bacteria or if they show symptoms of vomiting or diarrhea, consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment. In severe cases, bacterial infections may require antibiotics or other medications to resolve.
If your dog experiences a seizure, it can be a frightening and distressing situation. However, it’s crucial to stay calm and take appropriate steps to ensure your dog’s safety. Here’s some information on what seizures look like in dogs, what causes them, and what you should do if your dog has a seizure.
What Does a Seizure Look Like in a Dog?
Seizures in dogs can manifest in various ways, depending on the type and severity of the seizure. If you have seen your dog exhibit any of the following symptoms, they may have experienced one and need to see a veterinarian.
Here are some common characteristics of seizures in dogs:
Convulsions: This is the most recognizable sign of a seizure. It involves uncontrolled muscle contractions, often causing the dog’s body to stiffen and jerk. The legs may paddle, and the head may tilt or shake.
Loss of Consciousness: During a seizure, a dog may lose consciousness or appear disoriented. They may not respond to their name or familiar stimuli.
Excessive Drooling: Dogs may drool excessively during a seizure, sometimes accompanied by foaming at the mouth.
Involuntary Urination or Defecation: Seizures can cause loss of bladder or bowel control due to muscle spasms.
Altered Behavior: Some dogs may exhibit unusual behaviors before, during, or after a seizure, such as pacing, whining, or hiding.
Aura: In some cases, dogs may experience an “aura” or pre-seizure phase characterized by restlessness, anxiety, or unusual behavior shortly before the seizure occurs.
Post-Ictal Phase: After the seizure ends, dogs may enter a post-ictal phase characterized by confusion, disorientation, weakness, or temporary blindness. This phase can last from minutes to hours.
Vocalization: Some dogs may vocalize during a seizure, such as barking, whimpering, or howling.
It’s important to note that not all seizures look the same, and the severity and duration can vary. Additionally, some seizures may be focal, affecting only one part of the body, while others may be generalized, involving the entire body.
If you suspect your dog is having a seizure, it’s essential to stay calm, ensure their safety, and seek veterinary care promptly. Your veterinarian can help diagnose the underlying cause of the seizures and recommend appropriate treatment and management options.
What To Do If Your Dog Has a Seizure
If your dog experiences a seizure, or if you think they may have, it can be a frightening and distressing situation. However, it’s crucial to stay calm and take appropriate steps to ensure your dog’s safety.
Here’s what you should do if your dog has a seizure:
Stay Calm: Your dog can sense your emotions, so it’s important to remain as calm as possible. Panicking may agitate your dog further.
Ensure Safety: Move any objects or furniture that could harm your dog during the seizure. Create a safe space by cushioning the area around them. Make sure your pet cannot fall off of a couch or bed during the seizure.
Time the Seizure: Note the time when the seizure begins and ends. This information will be valuable for your veterinarian. Write it down ASAP, as your memory of the event may be clouded by the stress you experienced when it happened.
Do Not Restrain: Avoid restraining your dog during a seizure. This could lead to accidental injury to you or your pet. Instead, gently guide them away from potential hazards.
Protect Their Head: If your dog is thrashing, gently place a soft cloth or towel under their head to prevent injury.
Observe and Record: Note the duration and characteristics of the seizure. Pay attention to any unusual behaviors or symptoms your dog exhibits before, during, and after the event. As above, writing this information down as soon as you can will help you better remember it.
Keep Quiet: Reduce noise and disturbances around your dog to minimize stress.
Stay Nearby: Keep a close watch on your dog until the seizure subsides. Reassure them with a soothing voice once the seizure ends.
Consult a Veterinarian: After the seizure, contact your veterinarian for guidance. They may recommend bringing your dog in for an examination to determine the underlying cause and discuss potential treatment options.
Follow-up: Follow any instructions provided by your veterinarian and continue to monitor your dog for any recurring seizures or changes in behavior.
How are Seizures in Dogs Treated?
Treating seizures in dogs involves addressing the underlying cause, managing the frequency and severity of seizures, and providing supportive care. Never attempt to treat seizures at home. Always consult with a veterinarian.
Here are common treatment approaches for seizures in dogs:
Medication: Anticonvulsant medications are often prescribed to control seizures. These medications, such as phenobarbital, potassium bromide, or levetiracetam, work to stabilize brain activity and reduce the frequency and severity of seizures. The dosage and type of medication may vary depending on the individual dog’s needs and response.
Monitoring and Adjustments: Regular monitoring of your dog’s seizure activity and response to medication is essential. Your veterinarian may need to adjust the medication dosage or try different medications to achieve optimal seizure control while minimizing side effects.
Addressing Underlying Conditions: If seizures are caused by an underlying medical condition, such as liver disease, kidney disease, or a brain tumor, treating the underlying cause is crucial. This may involve additional diagnostic tests, surgery, or other medical interventions.
Avoiding Triggers: Identify and minimize potential triggers that can provoke seizures in your dog. This may include managing stress, maintaining a consistent routine, and providing a safe and comfortable environment.
Emergency Care: In cases of prolonged or severe seizures (status epilepticus), emergency veterinary care may be necessary to stabilize the dog and prevent complications. Intravenous medications may be administered to stop ongoing seizures and prevent further brain damage.
Lifestyle Modifications: Certain lifestyle modifications, such as regular exercise, adequate rest, and stress management techniques, may help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in some dogs.
Overall, managing seizures in dogs often requires a multi-faceted approach tailored to the individual dog’s needs and circumstances. Close collaboration between you and your veterinarian is essential to develop an effective treatment plan and optimize your dog’s quality of life.
What Causes Seizures in Dogs?
Seizures in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors and some may be out of your control.
Common causes of seizures in dogs include:
Epilepsy: This is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures without an identifiable underlying cause. It can be genetic and may develop later in life.
Toxins: Ingestion of certain toxins, such as pesticides, rodenticides, plants (like certain mushrooms or toxic plants), or household chemicals, can lead to seizures (more on this below).
Metabolic Disorders: Conditions such as hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), liver disease, kidney disease, or electrolyte imbalances can trigger seizures.
Infections: Infectious diseases like distemper, encephalitis, or meningitis can affect the brain and cause seizures.
Trauma: Head injuries or trauma to the brain can result in seizures.
Brain Tumors: Tumors or masses in the brain can cause seizures as they put pressure on surrounding brain tissue.
Idiopathic Vestibular Disease: This condition affects the inner ear and can sometimes lead to episodes resembling seizures, although they are not true seizures. Read more HERE.
Stroke: Just like in humans, strokes can occur in dogs and may result in seizures.
Heat Stroke: Exposure to high temperatures can cause heat stroke, which can lead to seizures among other symptoms.
Genetic Disorders: Certain breeds may be predisposed to genetic conditions that increase the risk of seizures, such as idiopathic epilepsy in breeds like Beagles, Dachshunds, and Golden Retrievers.
Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like autoimmune encephalitis can cause inflammation of the brain, leading to seizures.
Do Flea and Tick Medications Cause Seizures?
While rare, there have been reports of adverse reactions, including seizures, associated with certain flea and tick medications in dogs (including “natural” options made with essential oils).
These reactions are typically uncommon and often occur in dogs with pre-existing health conditions or sensitivities.
The active ingredients in flea and tick medications, such as essential oils, fipronil, permethrin, or pyrethroids, can sometimes cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals. These reactions may include neurological symptoms like tremors, seizures, or other abnormal behaviors.
However, it’s a myth that these products are regularly causing neurological symptoms in pets.
It’s worth noting that using the wrong product, purchasing a knockoff, or applying incorrect doses can increase the risk of adverse reactions, including seizures.
To minimize the risk of adverse reactions to flea and tick medications in your dog:
Consult with your veterinarian before starting any flea and tick prevention program. Your veterinarian can recommend the most appropriate product based on your dog’s age, size, health status, and lifestyle.
Monitor your dog for any signs of adverse reactions after administering flea and tick medications. If you notice any unusual symptoms, including seizures, contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance.
Be cautious when using flea and tick products in households with multiple pets, as some medications formulated for dogs may be toxic to cats and other animals.
Understand that these risks are not isolated to veterinary flea and tick prevention: in many cases, “natural” alternatives may carry more risk, not less.
Abstaining from veterinary flea and tick prevention can leave your pet susceptible to infestations, potentially leading to discomfort, skin irritation, and the transmission of diseases carried by these parasites.
Does Kibble Cause Seizures?
There’s no direct evidence to suggest that kibble, as a general category of dog food, causes seizures in dogs.
There is a lot of misinformation on this topic, which is often fueled by profit-driven influencers who use sensational headlines to generate engagement.
There’s no direct evidence to suggest that kibble, as a general category of dog food, causes seizures in dogs. However, certain ingredients or additives in some commercial dog foods may potentially trigger seizures in dogs with specific sensitivities or underlying health conditions.
Seizures in dogs can be caused by various factors, including genetic predisposition, epilepsy, metabolic disorders, toxins, infections, and neurological conditions. While diet plays a crucial role in overall health, including brain function, there is limited scientific evidence linking kibble specifically to seizures in otherwise healthy dogs.
A well-crafted kibble produced by a manufacturer with stringent quality standards is highly unlikely to contain ingredients detrimental to a pet’s well-being. When researching pet nutrition, prioritize credible sources and avoid succumbing to fear-mongering tactics.
If you’ve noticed your Great Dane’s paws suddenly sporting a concerning shade of red and appearing inflamed, it’s completely understandable that you may be concerned! A Great Dane with red paws requires treatment ASAP.
Below we’re including some information to help you sort out your pup’s irritated paws, including:
Causes of red paws on dogs
How serious or concerning inflamed, swollen, and red paws might be
Tips for preventing paw irritation and redness
Home remedies for treating red paws
Veterinary information and evidence for treatment and prevention
Great Dane with Red Paws Causes
Because there are many reasons why your Great Dane may have red, irritated paws you must sort out the root cause before applying any treatments. While people online have good intentions, they may lead you down a path of frustration with their recommendations on treating this at home.
Step one is to address the cause, and yes, that may mean a veterinary visit! We recommend documenting all possible factors so that when you see your vet you can bring them as much information as you can.
Here are common causes of red paws on dogs:
Food or Environmental Allergies
Great Danes, like other breeds, can develop allergies to various environmental factors, such as pollen, grass, detergents, or certain foods. Allergic reactions may manifest as redness, swelling, and irritation on the paws.
Do not jump immediately to “chicken allergy”. It’s much more likely to be environmental.
Contact Dermatitis
Exposure to irritants like harsh cleaning chemicals or certain surfaces can lead to contact dermatitis. If your Great Dane frequently walks on surfaces treated with chemicals, it may contribute to red paws.
This is especially true for dogs that are walked in the winter where they may encounter chemicals and salts used to melt ice and provide traction! We recommend utilizing dog boots, like these Hipaw Waterproof dog boots, to prevent the paws from contacting snow and ice salts.
A paw wax such as Musher’s Secret can also help protect paws against snow, ice, and chemicals on the ground!
Bacterial and Fungal Infections of the Paws
Bacterial or fungal infections can cause redness, swelling, and discomfort. It’s essential to examine the paws for any signs of infection, such as unusual odors, pus-filled bumps, or discharge.
Grass seeds and fox tails are common reasons for irritation and swelling in the paws! These seeds get in between the toes and burrow into the skin. It’s very likely that they are deep and must be removed by a veterinarian.
Bacterial and fungal infections (including yeast) can be caused by several factors (including mites, yikes!) and require veterinary treatment.
Do not attempt to treat this at home with “natural home remedies” as in avoiding your veterinarian, you may only prolong the process of healing.
Dry or Cracked Toe Pads
The pads of a Great Dane’s paws can become dry and cracked, especially in extreme weather conditions and in dry climates. This can lead to redness and discomfort. Providing proper paw care, including moisturizing, is crucial.
Musher’s Secret is a fantastic product that will build up over time and continue to protect the paws from snow, ice, chemicals, and allergens.
Mites are a common and often overlooked cause of irritation, redness, and hair loss on dogs and their paws!
They are preventable with veterinary flea & tick prevention, such as Bravecto. Talk to your veterinarian! Internet claims about these products being unsafe are unfounded.
Choosing a veterinary flea, parasite, and tick preventative is a key step towards itch-free skin and robust health in dogs.
How To Treat Red Paws on Dogs
In many cases, the treatment is determined by the cause.
Step One: Consult a Veterinarian. A professional diagnosis will help determine the underlying cause and the most suitable course of action.
Your veterinarian can do testing such as biopsies and skin scrapes which can prove without a doubt what is causing your pup’s discomfort. This step is especially important if your pup’s red paws are oozing, swollen, or smell.
Allergen Management: Identify and manage potential allergens in your Great Dane’s environment. This may involve changes in diet, avoiding specific outdoor areas, or using hypoallergenic grooming products.
Paw Hygiene: Regularly clean your Great Dane’s paws to remove any potential irritants. Use a mild, pet-friendly cleanser and ensure thorough drying after walks or outdoor activities.
We love the Mud Buster for cleaning paws of mud and allergens after playing outside!
In some cases, a nightly soak in a veterinary chlorhexidine wash or Epsom salt is recommended. Talk to your veterinarian.
Prevent Parasites: Use veterinary flea and tick medications to prevent mites that can irritate your Great Danes’ paws and skin. Tread cautiously with online misinformation about these products being “toxic”!
Mites are disgusting and wreak havoc on your dog’s health. Veterinary flea and tick medications, however, are safe and effective. Your pet will thank you for it!
Moisturizethe paws with a veterinarian-recommended paw balm or moisturizer, such as Musher’s Secret. This helps maintain paw health and reduces the risk of irritation. While this won’t necessarily treat an active infection, it can help soothe the skin and prevent future occurrence.
Medications: In cases of infections, your veterinarian may prescribe medications such as mite prevention, antibiotics, or antifungals. Follow the prescribed treatment plan diligently for the best results.
Support your dog’s healthy immune system with a WSAVA-compliant diet, while they undergo treatment.
Prevent Licking: Do not allow your dog to lick their red paws for any reason! Use a crew sock secured properly (not too tight) with a stretchy ACE-type bandage, and supervise your dog. Think of it this way: every time your dog licks their inflamed paw, you have to start all over again with treatment. Do not allow any licking.
Is There a Home Remedy for Treating Red Paws?
Yes, of course!
However, in many cases, home remedies may cause you to chase rainbows. If your pet has a serious underlying infection caused by bacteria, mites, or yeast home remedies may only make it harder for your pet to heal.
There are times when a solid veterinary treatment is needed (including surgery to clean out the infection, as well as antibiotics, antifungals, and mite prevention). Do not let your pup suffer so you can avoid the veterinarian.
However, home remedies can help prevent problems and provide soothing relief for dogs while you wait for more robust treatment (if needed). Here are a few home remedies for red paws:
Prevent licking with breathable boots and socks
Keep the paws clean by wiping or washing them after exposure to the outdoors
Use an Epsom salt soak to reduce irritation
Keep the nails short to prevent discomfort associated with joint pain that can make your dog chew and bite their feet
Feed a quality, WSAVA-compliant diet that is well-balanced and bioavailable for their nutritional health, so their body can focus on healing
Soothing treatments such as coconut oil may be helpful for some pets
If your pet doesn’t improve within 24 hours, it’s time to ditch the home remedies and see your veterinarian!
Leave a comment below! Has your pet had red, irritated paws?
Many pet owners share a growing concern about the prevalence of cancer in dogs, with frequent reports of osteosarcoma, hemangiosarcoma, and skin cancer. The question on many minds is: what is causing this surge in canine cancer cases? If there are so many dogs getting cancer, why are veterinarians still prescribing treatments that could cause it? Could it be linked to factors such as vaccines, flea and tick medications, or dietary choices?
The quest for answers intensifies as we strive to understand and, if possible, prevent cancer in our beloved canine companions. If there is a proactive approach to mitigate the risk of cancer in dogs, you’re going to find it in this article.
I’m covering those topics plus:
Things that are proven to increase cancer risk
How certain health decisions affect cancer rates
Whether or not dog food causes cancer
If flea & tick medications and vaccines cause cancer
The role of pesticides in cancer rates
This is a big topic and as always, I’m looking at this from a purely scientific perspective.
Why are So Many Dogs Getting Cancer?
The truth to this lies in a combination of complex factors including genetics, environment, and sheer bad luck.
One major and often overlooked fact rides above all others:
Dogs lifespans have doubled in the last 40 years, thanks to health sciences, nutrition research, and modern veterinary medicine.
In other words, the most basic and legitimate explanation for the dramatic increase in cancer rates in dogs is this: dogs are now living long enough to get cancer, and better diagnostics mean we are catching it, too.
40 years ago many dogs suffered from nutritional deficiencies, health problems, disease, parasites, or a lack of management (keeping them safely leashed or at home).
The truth is that these dogs were not living longer than their modern-day counterparts. It does not matter how people wish to glamorize the ‘old days’ of dogs running the neighborhood and eating table scraps; those dogs were at a major disadvantage. They lived their lives and in many cases, when they turned up sick or lame they were euthanized.
No diagnosis was made because the concept of treating a pet for cancer was foreign. People didn’t believe in ‘pets as family’ the way they do now, either.
Better Cancer Diagnostics for Pets
Just as the human cancer industry has grown, the pet cancer industry has grown too!
As more and more people are treating their pets like family, more and more people are seeking (and paying big money) for veterinary care to solve their health problems. This means that more types of cancer are understood, including the mechanism behind why they happen and how to treat them.
Millions of dollars have been spend on pet cancer research and as a result, veterinarians now have additional tools and treatments at their fingertips.
This means that more dogs are being diagnosed and treated, rather than euthanized. We would be remiss to ignore this simple fact when feeling panic and alarm about cancer rates in dogs.
How Genetics Play a Role in Cancer Risk in Dogs
Genetics play a role in cancer risk in dogs, just as they do in humans.
For example, some humans are more prone to getting breast cancer, because of their genetics.
Dogs are no exception. Certain breeds are very prone to specific types of cancer, too. For example, greyhounds are often destined to get osteosarcoma (bone cancer), and Golden Retrievers are highly prone to hemangiosarcoma.
This begs the importance of heavily screening breeders and choosing ones that do not breed dogs in pedigrees that seem especially prone to cancer, structural problems, and common diseases.
Many people believe that this is a purebred problem and not a mixed breed problem, but mutts are also prone to cancer. Mixing breeds doesn’t automatically cancel cancer risk (that’s not how genetics work).
Just last week I found out that my brothers mixed-breed dog has Osteosarcoma. Being a mixed breed does not make a dog immune to this.
However, some studies do show that in general, purebred dogs are 1.9x more likely to get cancer than mixed breed dogs. While the answer to this one can be somewhat complex, it generally lies in faults related to breeding selections. When humans make breeding decisions, natural selection isn’t allowed to do it’s job.
Are Cancer Rates Higher in Purebred Dogs?
Regarding purebred dogs, this is largely a human error problem, because humans are the ones making breeding decisions. In packs of wild dogs, those that are not robust typically don’t live long enough to breed, either. We humans, however, control breeding in purebreds…and that often means people are intentionally pairing dogs together that shouldn’t be bred in the first place.
In the interest of profits, many breeders of purebred and doodle dogs disregard health and structural issues in their breed.
This is a problem that is only minimized when pet owners educate themselves on how to choose only ethical, highly dedicated breeders (or go through a rescue instead).
That is not to say that well-bred dogs don’t get cancer, they do. All dogs are at risk. But we can help minimize this problem by having a better understanding of genetics and holding breeders to a much higher standard as a whole.
Unfortunately for Great Danes, not only does the breed suffer from cancer, but they are most likely to report cancer at a young age. This is a combination of several factors, including the shorter-than-average lifespan seen in giant breed dogs.
Things that are Shown to Increase Cancer Risk in Dogs
Before we can understand how to prevent cancer in dogs, we have to understand first what things have been shown to increase cancer risk.
I’ll touch more on the nutrition piece below because it’s a complicated one. But here are 5 things that we know (outside of genetics) to increase a dog’s risk of getting cancer:
Early Spay and Neuter
This one is super controversial because there are legitimate reasons to spay and neuter pets at a young age (preventing pregnancy and hormone based aggression being two major factors).
Like all studies, there are notable flaws, however, some research does point to early spay and neutering having a strong correlation to dogs being more likely to get cancers such as mast cell tumors, osteosarcoma, and otherwise.
The discussion about when to spay or neuter your pet (especially when it comes to giant breed dogs) requires critical thinking, risk assessment, and an open dialogue with your veterinarian.
Obesity
Studies regarding obesity and cancer rates in dogs have largely failed to be conclusive, however, it’s well understood that obese dogs may suffer from many secondary health problems which can make successfully treating them for cancer less likely.
In other words, dousing your lawn with a lot of herbicides and chemical treatments may be harmful to your dog’s health. As a general practice, if you do choose to treat your lawn, keep pets off of it for 48 hours and discourage them from licking their paws after being in the grass.
One place people get hung up here is on the use of flea and tick medications; a key difference here is that lawn chemicals were not formulated to be ingested and veterinary medications were. We cover this more below.
Second-Hand Smoke & Environmental Toxins
There is no way around this one; second hand smoke is toxic to dogs. If you are a smoker, it is important that you refrain from smoking anywhere near your pet, or inside of the home where you live together.
Environmental toxins such as pollution and asbestos can also be damaging to your pet; depending on your location and your habits, it may be best to keep your pup home (vs. coming with you to the construction site, for example).
Avoid sunscreens and products that use zinc oxide, as that is toxic to dogs.
Predatory Influencers & Dog Cancer
The ‘false hope’ spread by profit-driven influencers and dog food companies leads to some of the absolute worst heartbreak. It’s a real social problem in the world of dogs and it’s time we all start talking about it!
Here is how it happens.
Many people with a cancer diagnosis find themselves scouring social media groups and the internet for a ‘magic pill’. They are often led down a path by influencers who want them to believe that this diet, that expensive supplement, their book, or this protocol (which you can buy for just $19.99!) will save their dog’s life.
Some influencers use social groups to tell owners how to “prevent and cure cancer” a holistic way. These groups often disparage veterinarians and may even tell members to avoid recommended treatments instead of untested and unproven “natural” treatments.
Dog owners are torn down and led to believe that the choices they had made regarding food, vaccines, and veterinary care to that point are what caused their dogs to get cancer. Guilt, shame, and fear abound.
Then their heartbreak is solved with promises of health and longevity…at a price, of course.
Testimonials and stories of dogs living 5 years or more are presented to desperate owners who then take the bait. Oftentimes, this bait does little to heal the dog, and may actually be harmful. It’s a brand of false hope that is misleading and predatory.
If you find yourself here and your beloved pet by your side, suffering from cancer, don’t blame yourself. Watch out for the snake oil salesmen, they are out to get you and your dog.
Do Vaccines Cause Cancer in Dogs?
It is often speculated that vaccines and over-vaccination cause cancer in dogs, however, these claims are largely unsubstantiated.
Like all veterinary treatments, there are risks associated both with choosing vaccines and not choosing vaccines.
One known type of vaccine-related cancers is related to the injection site. In some very rare cases, especially with the rabies vaccine, sensitive dogs can develop sarcoma at the injection site.
There is not, however, any other published research I can find that shows definitively that vaccines as a whole “cause cancer” (even though many people swear that they do).
All of the anti-vaccine content I’ve seen is from influencers that have made themselves a profitable niche by spreading fear-based messaging with very little if any legitimate research to back up their claims.
Over-vaccination can be problematic for some dogs, however, so keep track of your pet’s medical records and only get the rabies vaccine when it is required by law (every 3 years in adulthood).
This is primarily true for dogs that seem to be predisposed to vaccine reactions where the risk/benefit analysis is different. As with any discussion regarding your dog’s health, a frank discussion with an honest and caring veterinarian is helpful!
Some pet owners choose to look at titers (immunity) via blood draw; while this information is helpful, it is not a replacement for vaccination. Immunity wears off and the titer results may indicate that it’s time to dose up again, so talk to your vet and keep up to date on the latest research.
As with many things related to wellness and health, there are plenty of people out there spreading the idea that flea and tick medications cause cancer.
Like vaccines, this is one of those ‘the dose makes the poison‘ type situations where for most dogs, the benefits far outweigh the risks.
While the active ingredients in veterinary flea, tick, and worming medications are meant to kill parasites, the dose given to your pet (which is determined by their weight) is not large enough to affect the solid majority of dogs in any way.
Chewable products were made to be ingested and have been shown to safely bypass crucial internal systems.
The same logic that people use to conclude that veterinary medications are damaging (because the active ingredient kills bugs) should be applied to holistic treatments as well, though it often isn’t. All too often we give things a pass because they are ‘natural’.
For the tiny percentage of dogs that have had neurological or allergic reactions to veterinary flea and tick medications, it’s often determined that they had underlying health conditions or were given knockoff versions of the product (which absolutely can be dangerous and toxic). It’s important to keep in mind that ‘natural’ treatments have had documented negative reactions as well.
A quick google search turns up many blog posts with fearful headlines about kibble, dog food, and processed food causing cancer. A lot of these headlines are written by companies trying to sell ‘fresh’ dog food, of course.
As with many other claims, there is some truth in the small details (for example, char from barbecue is a known carcinogen) but it doesn’t necessarily indicate or even prove a widespread problem.
This is the difference between pseudoscience (which involves a lot of cherry picking and fear) and actual science.
People equate charred BBQ to kibble. Both kibble and BBQ are processed at high heat (hence the assumption), but kibble is not subjected to open flames like BBQ is. The action of fat and juices dripping into the flame and then rising to the meat again is a major contributor to the development of toxic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
This is not to say that heterocyclic aromatic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) (the result of charring meat) couldn’t be a problematic side effect of the high-heat kibble extrusion process, however. To be perfectly honest, there are many more questions to ask before we can determine how widespread of a problem this is.
This is especially true if we understand how much science and research goes into making sure that dry kibble diets are safe, healthy, and nutritious for a dog to eat. Many dogs that have been fed fresh and raw for most or all of their lives are also turning up with cancer too, and that alone should encourage all of us to dig deeper.
Pet Food Toxicity & Cancer
As a general rule, it’s pretty widely accepted that a poor diet overall can increase the risk of cancer. Making sure our dogs receive balanced nutrition is so important.
A lot of people, after becoming fearful of kibble, will switch to poorly formulated (but well-marketed brands that use a lot of buzz words) or start making their dog’s food. This is a loving and noble thing to do, however, studies show that most home-cooked diets are deficient in (or in excess of) certain nutrients.
As mentioned above, many raw and fresh fed dogs still get cancer and other diseases despite their supposedly “healthy diet”. There is a place for raw and fresh feeding, of course! But is it a cure-all and a catch all? Perhaps not.
Here are some questions we should all be asking of dry food manufacturers:
Is the dog food manufacturer continually testing their ingredients and finished products for the presence of heterocyclic aromatic amines (HCAs) polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and other toxins (including mold and pesticides)?
Do they study and research how kibble extrusion affects nutrients, and continually innovate to make it safer and better?
Does the dog food manufacturer perform feeding trials?
Is the food made by owned facilities, or does the company pay a mass manufacturer to co-pack it alongside many other brands and products?
Has the manufacturer proven that their food is bioavailable, not just “nutrient dense”?
Does the dog food company do any research to improve the health of our pets in other ways (such as cancer research, puppy growth, allergies, or otherwise?)
This information sent me down a rabbit hole of veterinary studies which brought me to the next point.
There is an increasing body of data that may implicate the role of nutrition in puppyhood and how that might increase or decrease osteosarcoma risk factors. We know that excess calcium intake and fast growth in puppyhood lead to a host of bone growth disorders (including osteochondrosis, for example).
Many researchers have noted that trauma to the bone (earlier in life) often correlates with osteosarcoma later in life. Over-nutrition and excess calcium intake in large and giant breed puppies cause forms of bone trauma that should be looked at with much more focus. Many researchers agree.
“Environmental factors that increase risk for osteosarcoma include rapid growth (therefore “large breed” puppy food has reduced levels of available energy to increase the time needed for these dogs to achieve their full size and mass potential), gender (the risk for males is 20 – 50% greater), and metallic implants to fix fractures.”
In the effort to put a stop too fast growth, many breeders and owners of large and giant breed dogs have chosen to feed adult foods. However, these are not balanced correctly to support puppies and often contain calcium levels that are well in excess of published recommendations.
This excessive calcium and lack of correct nutrition leads to brittle bones and incorrect bone modeling. Even if there is no proven or verifiable link between incorrect bone growth and osteosarcoma, these issues are devastating for dogs as it is. It’s so important that puppies are given every chance to grow strong, healthy bones. Hopefully, doing so could also decrease their risk of osteosarcoma.
As a science-focused blogger and advocate for giant breed dogs, I’ve never been MORE convinced that large and giant breed puppies under the age of 2 should only be fed well-researched and properly formulated puppy growth diets.(See our list here).
The Giant Dog Food Project is a great resource for finding appropriately balanced foods that are backed by research and science. At minimum, choosing to stick with science on this one is least likely to do harm of any kind to the bones and joints, and that’s important to keep in mind.
What to Feed a Dog with Cancer
Unfortunately, some dogs are going to get cancer no matter what we do. We can feed a fresh diet or kibble, see the vet or avoid the vet, vaccinate or not, even choose the most incredible breeders, and in some cases, it won’t make a difference.
Once you have your diagnosis, depending on the severity it may be necessary to meet with a veterinary oncologist and discuss treatment options. They see cancer patients, treat them, study them, and know what works.
Their opinion on how to feed your dog with cancer has more merit behind it than anything you might read from a blogger, dog food company, celebrity veterinarian, and yes, even us!
“There is no magic cancer diet. Not only is there no evidence that any specific type of diet is related to the development of cancer in dogs, there is also no clear evidence at this point that any diet can slow the progression or increase the survival of a dog with cancer.”
Cailin Heinze, VMD, DACVN
Many owners switch sick dogs to homemade foods, hoping that the ‘fresh’ nutrients will help them heal. Unfortunately, because many home cooked diets are unbalanced, all this may do is starve their dog of the nutrition they need to thrive and survive.
If you want to cook for your dog (especially one struggling with cancer), speak with a veterinary nutritionist and make sure that you are providing optimal nutrition for healing and wellness.
Many people theorize that carbohydrates cause inflammation (and thus, cancer) and should be reduced in dogs that have cancer.
This often results in people choosing grain-free foods for their pets, not realizing that the ingredients used to replace grains are also high in starch and carbohydrates. Grain-free does not mean carb-free, in other words!
Other people will choose KETO-type dog foods which typically (if not always) have no qualified nutritionists behind their formulation and were created to tap into a human diet trend. KETO is not an appropriate diet for most humans, let alone a dog with cancer.
When a dog gets cancer, the safest and healthiest choice is going to be to choose a diet that has been proven time and time again. Look for feeding trials, qualified nutritionists, and exceptional quality control; not catchy marketing phrases.
Do Vegetables Prevent Cancer?
Influencers have repeatedly put out into the world that feeding a dog vegetables could prevent or even cure cancer.
This concept was based on a small owner-survey study where Scottish Terriers were less likely to get a specific type of bladder cancer if they were supposedly fed vegetables.
Owner surveys are subject to a lot of variables and these results are only a starting point, not a formal scientific conclusion.
Regardless, people ran with the idea and concluded that the results were fact across all facets of cancer and nutrition for dogs, even going on to say that it further proves that kibble is “causing cancer”.
This belief has people feeding their dogs expensive supplements and choosing dog foods with vegetables in them (which, in a dry food, will be nothing more than fairy dust). This is just another example of predatory pseudoscience profiting from fear.
All of this to say, none of this means that the study is debunked or incorrect either. As a matter of fact, a fair amount of research has shown potential benefits of feeding fresh foods, including a possible reduction in bloat risk for Great Danes.
There is absolutely some merit to adding fresh foods to your dogs bowl.
Keep unbalanced fresh foods to 10% or less of the diet, and tread cautiously when offering too many extras to giant breed dogs under the age of 2 (as it may affect bone growth).
Here are some ideas:
Frozen veggies (you can buy large bags at Costco or Sam’s
Large raw meaty bones (supervised, in moderation) to scrape teeth on
Bone broth
Apples or blueberries
Coat whole carrots in canned food and freeze them! Dogs love this treat, especially in the summer.
For digestibility and bioavailability of nutrients, fresh vegetables are generally best served cut into tiny pieces or pureed (with the exception of the fun carrot chew mentioned above).
As always, talk to your veterinarian and make sure you are not replacing too much actual balanced nutrition with foods like this. If your dog is too full to eat their regular food, they can be missing. important nutrients and that is going to mitigate any potential benefits.
How to Prevent Cancer in Dogs
The unfortunate and heartbreaking truth here is that cancer sucks and it’s not necessarily preventable.
Like any health condition, there are many factors that play into overall risk.
Here is our list of the best ways to minimize the risk of cancer in your dog:
Trust your veterinarian, ask questions, keep an open dialogue and allow their experience and expertise to guide you
Choose a highly-researched and well-formulated proven diet and provide supplemental fresh foods
Reduce exposure to environmental toxins such as lawn chemicals and smoke
Protect your dog from excessive sun exposure
See your vet anytime you are concerned about a lump, bump, or growth
Support ethical breeding practices
Above all, the most important thing we can do for our pets is to love them. Their time with us is short, make it the best years possible!
It’s May, and that means that the fleas, ticks, mites, and other creepy crawlies are lurking. Dogs living in most areas of the United States benefit from year-round flea and tick protection. Today we’re talking about the best flea and tick medicine for Great Danes.
In addition, I will cover the following topics:
Is flea and tick medicine safe for dogs?
Are there natural alternatives to flea and tick medicine?
Does flea and tick medication cause seizures?
How much does flea and tick medication cost?
Are pills, topicals, or collars more effective at preventing parasites?
What happens if I don’t protect my dog from fleas and ticks?
This is a huge topic and hopefully a great resource for you! Let’s dig in.
The Best Flea and Tick Medication for Great Danes
There are many flea and tick preventatives to choose from, and everybody will have a different opinion on this (especially because there is a lot of scary stories and misinformation out there!)
Different medications may be more or less effective, depending on where you live, too!
In some areas, fleas and ticks have become resistant to certain medications (especially in bug-infested areas where many pet owners decline flea and tick prevention for their pet). Local veterinarians know what the statistics are and what brands are working to prevent parasites.
We’re going to share some of the most commonly used flea and tick preventatives for Great Danes, including information about Bravecto, Sentinal,Nexguard, and natural solutions.
What Happens if I Don’t Use Flea & Tick Prevention?
Outside of the obvious answer here (keeping fleas and ticks away from your dog), many people are unaware that the proper use of veterinary parasite prevention can also prevent and treat:
Hookworms
Roundworms
Heartworms (spread by mosquitoes)
Tapeworms
Whipworms
Mites (a common cause of chronic ‘allergies’ and itching!)
Not all medicines or natural solutions treat all of those things; it is important to discuss this with your vet and make sure that your pet is fully covered against everything, including fleas and ticks.
Mites bite and cause itching and skin and ear irritation. They are a common and often overlooked source of allergy symptoms in Great Danes.
Of course, the above parasitic infections are pretty gross, but fleas and ticks kind of take the cake here.
Fleas cause itching and “allergy” symptoms. Left untreated, they can also cause welts and intense itching that leads to scabs and skin infections. Many people think their dog is allergic to something in their food, when really, their dog has fleas! Fleas are highly contagious and once they enter your home (via your dog), they are hard to eradicate. Not only that, they will bite humans too! Yuck!
Ticks are a common parasite that carry disease. They are often found in grass, wood, and shade and will attach themselves to the host (your dog), often undetected. They bury their head into the skin, suck the blood out, spread disease, and then use the blood to reproduce.
A tick bite can result in loss of coordination, bacterial infection, Lyme disease, or even death among a laundry list of nasty side effects ticks bring with them to your pet.
To be perfectly honest, you do not want to mess around with Ehrlichiosis, a flea-infested couch, or worse…heart worms either, right?
The treatment for existing parasitic infections, especially heart worms, can be pretty nasty.
A very small percentage of dogs have had a notable reaction to flea and tick medications. In many of those cases those dogs had underlying health conditions, had unknowingly been given dangerous and toxic fake knockoff products, or may actually have been poisoned by something else (and the application timing of flea/tick products was purely coincidental).
These cases are well documented not only by the veterinary community but by the manufacturer of the flea/tick medication as well. Seresto Collars and Bravecto chews are commonly faked and sold as authentic!
Side effects are a risk with any medication or treatment you give your dog (and this includes common procedures such as teeth cleaning or vaccination against rabies).
The small risk of side effects, especially when looking at dogs with no known pre-existing seizure activity or health condition is greatly eclipsed by the sheer volume of dogs who suffer (or even die) needlessly from preventable parasitic infections.
The vast majority of dogs experience no side effects at all with veterinary-backed preventatives, and unlike their unprotected counterparts, they are MUCH less likely to suffer from parasitic illnesses, heart worm, itching, and skin infections.
Fake dupes of flea & tick preventatives can be dangerous and are responsible for many cases where serious side effects have been seen.
I’m going to share more information about knockoff Seresto Collars and more below, so you can learn how to avoid fakes and keep your pet safe.
Safest Oral Flea & Tick Medications for Great Danes
We always recommend talking to your vet about flea and tick prevention, as most of these medications require both a blood test and a prescription.
Don’t let that scare you off. The blood test looks for existing heart worm infections. This is important because oral prevention only targets heart worm larvae, NOT adult worms (which will have filled your dogs heart chambers with large worms that look like spaghetti).
A dog with an existing heart worm infection needs treatment first before taking preventatives.
Once your dog is cleared to take preventatives, your veterinarian will write you a prescription for one or more of the following products (depending on your pet, their weight, and what tends to work best for the pets that are seen in their location). We recommend ONLY purchasing directly from your Veterinarian or Chewy.com, never from other sources (where fakes and dupes may be sold).
Bravecto – Flea & Tick
Bravecto is a dog chew that must be given at a specific dose (based on weight) every three months to prevent fleas, ticks, and mites. It must be used in tandem with another medication to prevent worms (including heart worm), so it is commonly prescribed alongside Sentinal. You can view Bravecto Chews HERE.
Sentinal Spectrum – Parasites
Sentinal Spectrum is a monthly dog chew (based on weight) that prevents heart worms, tapeworms, hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms. When used among a large population of pets, medications like this also help control the flea population (by stopping eggs from hatching)! You can view Sentinal Spectrum HERE.
NexGard – Flea & Tick
Like Bravecto, Nexgard provides protection against fleas, ticks, and mites. It uses a different active ingredient than Bravecto, and must be given monthly (vs. every 3 months). It must be paired with another medication that target parasites such as heart worm and round worm. Nexgaurd is often paired with Heartgard. You can view Nexgard HERE.
Heartgard – Parasites
Heartgard is monthly oral preventative that targets heart worm, roundworm and hookworm. It does not work on whipworm or tape worm, so it’s not as comprehensive as Sentinal. Heartgard is often paired with Nexguard. You can view Heartgard HERE.
Simparica Trio – Flea, Tick, & Some Parasites
Simparica Trio is a great solution for Great Dane owners who want comprehensive oral protection against fleas, ticks, and some parasitic worms (including heart worm, hookworm, and round worms) in one dose. This oral medication requires a prescription and must be given monthly. You can view Simparica Trio HERE.
Trifexis – Flea, Heartworm & Some Parasites
Like Simparica, Trifexis is a once-monthly prescription preventative that targets not only fleas and heart worms but several parastic worms as well (hookworm, roundworm and whipworm). Trifexis does not target ticks and will need to be used in tandem with another product. You can view Trifexis HERE.
Do Flea & Tick Collars Work?
Many people prefer topical treatments or flea and tick collars to chewables. There are some pros and cons to this route.
Unlike chewables, topicals and collars don’t typically always require a prescription. However, their effectiveness can be reduced by bathing or for dogs that like to swim a lot. Additionally, collars can get lost and they can be dangerous for dogs to wear unsupervised.
It’s important to note that some dogs and some people are sensitive to the chemicals on topical versions (including collars) and care should be used around children or sensitive individuals.
Unlike oral medications, topical medications and collars can be dangerous for all pets and humans to ingest. Thus, topical flea and tick prevention is not always ideal for homes with cats (who are especially sensitive to certain ingredients).
Many flea and tick collars and topicals do NOT prevent internal parasites such as whip worm, round worm and heart worm; you’ll likely still need a chewable or secondary product for that.
Seresto Collar – Fleas & Ticks
The Seresto collar is a popular option for those looking to keep fleas and ticks at bay. It’s easy to wear and lasts nearly 7 months. Unlike oral preventatives, the Seresto collar does not require a prescription. You can view the Seresto Collar HERE.
Advantage Multi Topical – Parasites & Worms
Advantage Multi requires a prescription and is a topical medication that prevents multiple worms & parasites, including fleas. It does not prevent ticks, so like most topicals, comprehensive protection using multiple products is needed. You can view Advantage Multi HERE.
Frontline Plus Topical – Fleas & Ticks
Frontline Plus is a popular topical that must be applied every month. This formula kills fleas, ticks, and some mites and is easily found at local grocery stores or online without a prescription. You can find Frontline Plus HERE.
Does Natural Flea & Tick Prevention Work?
Unlike veterinary prevention, most “natural” and “holistic” options have not been widely subjected to rigorous and thorough clinical trials and testing for longevity, safety and efficacy.
While some research and limited private testing has been done (usually showing that directly spraying live bugs with the essential oils in the product tends to kills them), it doesn’t often address any potential health (or olfactory/scent) concerns related to prolonged exposure of these same ‘natural’ chemicals on dogs and cats.
That doesn’t mean that natural solutions aren’t helpful, but it’s important to understand that even ‘natural’ prevention utilizes chemicals. Commonly used essential oils such as peppermint, citrus, rosemary, lemongrass and cedarwood are in fact chemicals. They aren’t well regulated though, and there is a wide range of quality and concentrations from brand to brand.
Some of those oils (peppermint for example), are toxic to dogs and cats.
Not only that, but essential oils have a very strong scent; dogs may not show signs of discomfort but make no mistake, their incredibly sensitive noses may very well be annoyed (or even harmed) by it. Remember, there isn’t a lot of clinical research.
Plant Based Flea & Tick Products Safety & Efficacy
Sprays and collars that utilize essential oils are often marketed as being safe because they are ‘plant powered’. This feel good marketing disregards the fact that many “plant powered” things are in fact toxic.
In “natural” oral (chewable) preventatives, garlic is commonly used. In small amounts that is ok, but in amounts large enough to actually be effective against fleas and ticks, the dose would likely be toxic to your pet. We don’t recommend oral ‘natural’ oral flea & tick prevention chews for any reason.
Natural prevention has its merits, but in many cases, it’s nothing more than snake oil. Most veterinarians (save for a few fringe types who are often trying to sell a product) will tell you that they see more dogs in their office for parasites who had been on ‘natural’ preventatives than any other.
Evidence shows us that that ‘natural’ products are simply not as effective, as much as we want it to be. The false assumption of protection complicates things even further, as pet owners are led to believe that ‘holistic’ options are just as effective (they aren’t).
More research is definitely needed, and I encourage caution around the kind of ‘holistic’ pet care marketing which implies that ‘natural’ is always good and veterinarian-recommended & science-backed products are always bad.
Essential Oil Based Anti-Parasite Solutions
If you are still interested in ‘natural’ solutions, there are some options. The Wondercide brand has done *some* studies which is also helpful, although their research is not nearly as comprehensive as it needs to be to compete against proven veterinary products. They do not test their products for safety and long term use on animals, so your pet is the test subject.
However, among the many options Wondercide is one of the more thoughtfully formulated natural insect repellent products. If you would like to check them out to use as part of a more comprehensive parasite protection plan, we’ve provided some links below!
I like to spray the edge of our deck with Flea & Tick yard spray to reduce bugs on summer evenings, and I occasionally lightly treat my cloths and my pets fur if we are going into dense or wooded areas.
Wondercide Flea & Tick Yard Spray
This solution of essential oils can be sprayed around your yard to reduce the chance of fleas and ticks on or around your property. It does need to be applied liberally and often (especially after rain or sprinkler use), but may be helpful if you live in an area plagued with pests. You can view Wondercide Flea & Tick yard spray here.
Wondercide Pet & Home Spray
Heading out of your house and want to give your dog a little extra boost in protection? Wondercide pet spray may help ward of pests, especially when used in tandem with veterinary preventatives. You can use this to spray down your dogs coat (make sure to reapply often, especially if your dog goes for a swim). As with any preventative, talk to your veterinarian and monitor your dog for negative reactions (including eye irritation, itching, hives, or drooling). You can view Wondercide Pet & Home Spray here.
Wondercide Flea & Tick Collar
The Wondercide Flea and Tick collar targets fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes with essential oils. Reviews on the efficacy in real life applications of this are mixed, and it’s important to keep in mind that the collar will be in close proximity to your dogs nose (potentially bothering their olfactory sense with ongoing exposure). You can view Wondercide Flea & Tick Collar here.
Itching, Allergies, Mites & More
I touched on this above, but many chronically itchy dogs are misdiagnosed with food allergies.
This is a huge problem. Desperate pet owners are switching food brands again and again, often landing on poorly formulated foods that are loaded with lentils and potatoes instead of meat, just to get rid of the itching.
Many times, those chronically itchy dogs are actually suffering from mites or fleas.
Fleas and mites often go undetected; if your dog is not protected, they are at risk. Dogs that are on research-backed parasite prevention are less likely to suffer from chronic itching and other bug-based ailments.
It is very important to talk to a veterinarian and even a veterinary dermatologist if your dog is suffering from itching, scratching, ear infections, scabs, and ongoing skin problems.
How Much Does Flea & Tick Prevention for a Great Dane Cost?
This is where Great Dane owners tend to experience the biggest sticker shock.
Big dogs = big expenses, and because most oral flea and tick medications are dosed based on weight, expect to pay significantly more than you would if your dog was a chihuahua.
I recently renewed our prescription for Bravecto & Sentinal. For two Danes and a small dog it was several hundred dollars out of pocket, but it’s worth it for the peace of mind.
Ultimately, prevention is a whole lot cheaper, and definitely a lot safer, than having to treat my dogs for preventable diseases (especially heart worm and Lyme’s Disease, yikes!).
If cost is an issue, talk to your veterinarian about the most effective and economical option. For those times when oral prevention is out of reach financially, a flea + tick collar is your best bet!
Counterfeit Flea & Tick Products
Fake counterfeit flea & tick meds are a huge problem, and dangerous too. Many documented severe reactions to flea and tick products were the result of a product that only looked like the real thing.
Seresto Collars are one of the most commonly duped products.
As mentioned previously, we only recommend getting your flea/tick meds through your veterinarian or a quality online veterinary pharmacy that your veterinarian approves of.
Never purchase Seresto collars or other flea/tick preventatives from private sellers or unknown websites.
We recommend steering clear of Amazon for the same reason.
As always, talk to your veterinarian. They have a PhD and several years of clinical practice under their belt; we promise, they (like us here at Hello Danes) want your pet happy and healthy!
We’ve already written a few posts about dog food & DCM in Great Danes, but haven’t yet compiled a list of helpful topics, links, and science on it. This dog food DCM article will be ongoing and updated often. If you are concerned about nutritional DCM, or if your Great Dane was diagnosed with DCM (dilated cardiomyopathy) or heart disease, this blog should serve as a resource for you.
If you would like to click open some of our most popular nutritional DCM resources, start here (they will open in a new tab for you). Many other links are posted in the blog text below as well.
Nutritional DCM, or “dog food DCM” is when a dog develops dilated cardiomyopathy (heart problems) because of unbalanced or poorly formulated nutrition. While some people believe this is a hoax, the relationship between bad nutrition and health problems in animals is well documented.
In other words, this is a well-known and studied phenomenon. For example, in the not-so-distant past, cats were turning up with dilated cardiomyopathy. Pet food manufacturers responded to this by researching the problem and learning that for cats, it was related to nutritional deficiencies.
For cats, who have a limited ability to make their own taurine, it was a simple solution. Adding taurine to the diet solved the problem. For dogs (who are much more able to synthesize their own taurine from other amino acids), it’s a lot more complicated.
Below I’m sharing some nutritional DCM facts, as well as scientific research and links. In the interest of keeping this article clean and free of bias, we will not be using any affiliate links in the text of the post.
Nutritional DCM Facts
Here are some facts about nutritional DCM Dilated Cardiomyopathy that you may not know.
Nutritional Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs is a serious heart condition that has been associated with certain dietary factors. Here are some key facts about nutritional DCM:
Definition: Nutritional DCM is a heart disease that affects the heart muscle, leading to its enlargement and weakened contractions.
Link to Diet: Research has suggested a potential link between certain grain-free and boutique diets and an increased risk of DCM in dogs. Diets high in peas, lentils, and potatoes are specifically under scrutiny. Adding grains to the diet does NOT solve this problem!
Taurine Deficiency: Taurine is an amino acid essential for heart health in dogs. Some cases of DCM have been associated with taurine deficiency, though not all affected dogs are deficient, and not all taurine-deficient dogs develop DCM. Adding taurine to the diet does not necessarily solve this problem.
Affected Breeds: While initially observed more in breeds predisposed to DCM, such as Doberman Pinschers and Boxers, nutritional DCM has been reported across various breeds, including those not historically prone to the disease.
FDA Investigation: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) began investigating the potential link between certain diets and DCM in dogs in 2018. The investigation is ongoing, and updates are periodically released.
Importance of Balanced Nutrition: While the investigation continues, it is crucial for dog owners to provide a well-balanced and nutritionally complete diet. Consultation with a veterinarian is advisable to determine the most appropriate diet for an individual dog based on its breed, age, and health status.
Diagnostics and Monitoring: Diagnosis of DCM involves a thorough veterinary examination, including imaging techniques like echocardiography. Regular veterinary check-ups and monitoring are essential for early detection and management.
Treatment: Treatment may involve dietary adjustments, taurine supplementation, and medications to manage heart function. However, outcomes vary, and some cases may be challenging to manage.
Prevention: Until more is known about the specific dietary factors contributing to DCM, prevention involves choosing dog foods with complete and balanced nutrition, and consulting with a veterinarian to tailor the diet to the individual needs of the dog.
Ongoing Research: The understanding of nutritional DCM in dogs is evolving, and ongoing research is essential to uncover the precise factors contributing to this condition. Veterinarians play a crucial role in staying informed and guiding dog owners in making informed dietary choices.
DCM & Dog Food Research
It’s important to keep in mind that many sources of information on nutritional DCM are extremely biased. “Holistic” veterinarians don’t like this discussion because it directly implicates dog food diets that they promote as healthier (for example, grain-free diets from small dog food companies).
We recommend looking at scientific sources and links, and listening to professionals who have obtained board certifications in their speciality (cardiology, nutrition, internal medicine) when it comes to forming beliefs about nutritional DCM.
Contrary to popular belief, the FDA has not ‘debunked’ anything, and dedicated research into the mechanisms behind dilated cardiomyopathy is ongoing.
Like many blogs, Hello Danes is a profit-driven resource. However, we make it a point to share information and form opinions based on boarded professionals, veterinary research, and legitimate science; not anecdotes. We encourage you to click on the research articles we share and form your own opinion, too!
Dog Food & DCM Science & Links
All Trades DVM DCM Timeline – this is incredibly comprehensive and loaded with direct links to scientific studies on the topic:
The Diet-Associated Dilated Cardiomyopathy DCM in Dogs group on Facebook is eye-opening. They document confirmed cases of nutritional DCM, including the dog’s age, breed, and foods that the dog had been eating at the time of their diagnosis.
This UC DAVIS Study is seeking participants. If your dog has been eating a commercial diet (grain-free or grain-inclusive) for the last 6 months and does not have congenital heart disease, they may be eligible to participate:
The Great Dane Club of America posted a 2002 research update into genetic (congenital) DCM in Great Danes. This is unrelated to nutritional DCM, however, has important information for Dane owners on what to look for:
I did a quick search in the Diet-Associated Dilated Cardiomyopathy group for ‘Great Dane’ and the results were heart-wrenching.
Within minutes I found story after story of Great Danes that had been fed boutique foods and grain-free diets who suffered from an enlarged heart.
These cases were all well documented and had been diagnosed and confirmed by veterinary cardiologists.
Many of them were reversed by switching to Purina Pro Plan Large Breed. For some, it was too late. In a quick search, the food I saw repeated most often as a culprit was Taste of the Wild.
That’s just one brand of many formulas that are popular among Great Dane owners.
If you want my personal opinion, you could not pay me to feed Taste of the Wild or any other label manufactured by its co-packing company, Diamond Pet Foods. This includes Diamond Naturals, Nutra Nuggets, Costco/Kirkland, and Solid Gold.
Even if many dogs seem fine on the grain-inclusive versions of these foods, this company is perfectly willing to ignore DCM research and keep foods, such as Taste of the Wild (TOTW) grain-free on the shelves.
Honestly? The Great Dane community should be much more alarmed about this than they currently are.
It’s not just about grain-free foods. It’s about formulation. At minimum, dog food companies should be employing people who are qualified to design pet foods. Unfortunately, many do not. They can make plenty of money by investing instead in fancy packaging and marketing claims.
I searched two brands at the Pet Nutrition Alliance. One of them was Purina (the company with the largest market share by miles, and no verified nutritional DCM cases), and one of them was Diamond Pet Foods (the makers of Taste of the Wild, who has a very small market share and many verified DCM cases).
Can you guess which is which on the infographic below?
Note: An “ACVN Diplomate” is a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. They have received the highest credentials available when it comes to pet nutrition.
Here are other popular brands in the Great Dane community that do not have qualified staff to formulate the diets:
Fromm Family Foods – Formulated by a chemical engineer. In 2023 they promoted a PhD in Animal Nutrition on their staff, and we hope to see positive changes.
Holistic Select, Wellness Core, Eagle Pack – Information is not available from any source, indicating that they do not have qualified people formulating the diets that they sell under different brand names, and do not wish that information to be public
Diamond: Diamond Naturals, Taste of the Wild, 4Health, Nutra-Nuggets, Costco/Kirkland, Solid Gold – “Consults with an M.S. in Animal Nutrition”. This means that across multiple labels, nobody is on staff to formulate the diets, and their off-site consultant is only marginally qualified
Study after study shows that when it comes to giant breed dogs, and in particular giant breed puppies, choosing a well-balanced and professionally formulated, highly-researched food that has been subjected to feeding trials is incredibly important.
Nutritional DCM & Our Recommendations for Great Dane Owners
We’ve dug into the links, science, and research so that you don’t have to.
We’re making every effort to present factual, science-backed information that the solid majority of veterinarians and veterinary specialists would support, and we are open to being challenged by reputable sources.
Knowing this, here are the recommendations that we unapologetically make:
Choose a dry food from a well-known brand that is committed to research and that has at least one AVCN Diplomate (Board Certified Veterinary Nutritionist) on staff
Feed a grain-inclusive diet
Avoid kibbles that have a lot of peas, potatoes, lentils, or legumes in the first 10 ingredients
Consider getting an echocardiogram for your dog if you’ve been feeding a grain-free or boutique food brand (some dogs will be just fine, but if they aren’t? Catching it early and switching diets is key)
If your dog is suffering from chronic loose stools, skin conditions, muscle wasting, low energy, or allergies, see your veterinarian, take their advice, and don’t be afraid to consider a therapeutic (“prescription” diet) or a consultation with a specialist (dermatology, cardiology, internal medicine, etc.)
Recommended Dog Food Brands That Don’t Cause DCM
The following food brands are NOT associated with cases of preventable nutritional DCM, and are highly recommended by this blog, veterinary professionals, veterinary nutritionists, and top breeders. This is the only paragraph in this post containing Chewy affiliate links – which we could pull for ANY number of brands and formulas.
These are the only ones we are comfortable recommending to Great Dane owners. We will not recommend brands that we feel are unsafe to feed, and for that reason, this is all you will find on our list:
Unfortunately, Great Danes, like many larger dog breeds, have shorter lifespans compared to smaller breeds. In this blog, we’re going to explore the key factors that can contribute to helping your Great Dane live longer and have a healthier and more fulfilling life.
From nutrition and exercise to healthcare and lifestyle choices, we’ll delve into the strategies and insights that can make a meaningful difference in prolonging your Great Dane’s life and ensuring you have many more years of joy and companionship together.
How to Make a Great Dane Live Longer
Why Do Great Danes Have Short Life Spans?
Before we can understand how to help our Great Dane dogs live longer, healthier lives we have to understand why Great Danes have short life spans in the first place.
There are 6 main reasons that Danes lives tend to be cut short:
Orthopedic issues, including hip dysplasia
Being overweight
Bloat
Heart Disease (DCM)
Cancer
Genetics
I placed genetics last on the list, because every single reason in the list before it can also be caused by genetics. That’s a big one, and speaks to the reasons why choosing an ethical breeder is so important.
The good news here is that there are many things you can do to extend your Great Danes lifespan!
Observations about Great Danes that Live a Long Time
A quick glance around social media and at dog shows, there are a few key things seen among Great Danes who live long, healthy lives.
When we see an older (8 years +) Great Dane that is still going strong, we most often see some combination of the following:
A dog with good genetics, from proven pedigrees
Excellent body condition score; not overweight (this is really important)
Sound, stable temperament, free of fear, stress, and aggression
Excellent structure, feet, and angulation (which is genetic but also can be related to early puppy nutrition)
Trimmed nails & clean teeth
Well tempered dogs that received training and enrichment throughout life
Pet parents who trust their veterinarian, keep their dog active, and feed an appropriate diet
Genetics play a huge role in temperament, overall structure, cancer risk, bloat risk, and heart disease. Of course, not all Great Danes are given exceptional genetics. Knowing that, there are still things that can be done to help your Great Dane live longer!
Great Dane puppies should be fed a well-researched large or giant breed puppy food from a company who employs veterinary nutritionists, until age 2. This is the most current, science-backed recommendation available, which promotes proper bone growth, joint development, and structure.
If you aren’t sure what brands or formulas to choose, our popular Great Dane Puppy Food post will get you started.
For adult dogs over the age of 2, continue onto a grain-inclusive adult formula that contains a meat meal, and add balanced canned or fresh toppers. The addition of carefully selected wet foods can decrease the risk of bloat! If the toppers are unbalanced, do not allow them to exceed more than 10% of the daily intake of food.
Here is our list of Great Dane foods that promote health, wellness, and longevity. These brands are commonly fed by veterinarians and to the top show and sport dogs, for a reason:
Check out THE GIANT DOG FOOD PROJECT to compare brands and values.
Heart Disease in Great Danes
DCM (Dilated Cardiomyopathy), AKA Heart Disease or congestive heart failure is one of the top reasons why Great Danes don’t live long. Many Danes with DCM will show very little signs and may suddenly collapse one day, or die while undergoing surgery.
This horrible disease is primarily genetic. It is passed down through the pedigree.
When purchasing a puppy from a breeder, verify that both parents received OFA heart echocardiograms. The results of those tests will be available at www.ofa.org and if it isn’t? Run. Your breeder is unethical and may be passing heart disease onto the puppies.
DCM can also be caused by unbalanced dog food. This is commonly a problem with kibbles that contain a lot of peas, lentils, potatoes, chickpeas, and garbanzo beans, as well as any diet that is not correctly formulated in some way.
Because Great Danes are already genetically prone to DCM, feeding a low-quality (commonly grain-free) diet effectively increases their risk of dying suddenly from heart disease.
Great Danes should have a defined waist and may even show a few ribs. They should be graceful, powerful, and athletic. Not stocky, droopy, slow, or heavy.
Excess weight on your Great Dane increases their risk of joint disorders and pain, heart disease, diabetes, and complications during anesthesia and surgery. An overweight dog that experiences a health emergency (such as bloat) is less likely to survive, too.
Talk to your veterinarian about helping your dog lose weight and gain muscle!
Bloat (also known as GDV or Gastric dilatation and volvulus, aka ‘bloat and torsion’) is an emergency that will affect 1-in-4 Great Danes on average. When bloat occurs, the stomach fills up with gas, fluid, or air and then may twist over itself (torsion). Torsion is both painful and deadly.
Fixing this requires expensive emergency surgical treatment and many dogs (especially those with heart disease, obesity, blood clotting disorders, or other serious health issues) do not make it out alive.
Don’t let these statistics scare you, however! There are things you can do to reduce the risk of bloat and torsion so that your Great Dane can live longer.
FACT: Studies have shown that moderate exercise after meals might decrease the risk of bloat by as much as 50%! This goes against everything we’ve been taught. Read more HERE.
Bloat is, as most things, primarily genetic. When choosing a breeder, verify that there is no history of bloat, poor gut health, or bad temperaments in the last several generations.
Consider a gastropexy; this life-saving and simple procedure results in better outcomes for Danes that bloat.
Feed a quality kibble that contains meat meal, and offer 2-3 small meals each day topped with some kind of balanced canned, fresh, or raw food. Encourage slow, stress free eating.
Orthopedic Disorders in Great Danes
Another reason why Great Danes have short lifespans is because they suffer, unfortunately, from orthopedic disorders.
Nutrition, especially in puppies, plays a huge role here but so do genetics and exercise.
Great Danes nails should be trimmed at least twice each month. We recommend a Dremel tool. Overgrown nails lead to pain and joint damage.
Wobblers disease is an unfortunately common disorder in Great Danes that leads to painful and debilitating mobility issues. Read more about wobblers HERE.
IMGD, hip dysplasia, flat feet, and poor overall conformation also have genetic roots that must be addressed by thoughtful, careful breeding practices as well as appropriate movement and strength building.
For dogs with structural and orthopedic issues, working with a canine physical therapist and a veterinarian is a must.
Do not purchase puppies from breeders who are breeding dogs that don’t meet the written structural standard for Great Danes. These breeders are genetically perpetuating structural problems that debilitate Great Danes and shorten their life span.
Cancer in Great Danes
Unfortunately, Great Danes are susceptible to certain types of cancer, including osteosarcoma.
Osteosarcoma is a bone cancer that often appears suddenly and often requires amputation and treatment or euthanasia.
There are many theories about what causes cancer in dogs (such as dog food or vaccines), however, these theories have never been proven or founded.
It is understood, however, that cancer is primarily a genetic disorder.
Some dogs are at higher risk than others; for example, early spay and neutering has been correlated in studies with an increased risk of osteosarcoma, hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma, and mast cell tumors.
Some researchers have also theorized, but not yet fully studied, that there may be a link between excess calcium intake and overfeeding in puppyhood to dogs that develop brittle bones and bone cancers later in life.
We recommend keeping Great Danes intact until 18-24 months, if possible, and feeding an appropriate large or giant breed puppy food with well-controlled calcium levels to dogs under the age of 2. Never feed any food with more than 1.2% calcium.
Excess calcium is damaging to bones during growth, and damaged bones are more prone to disorders such as arthritis, bone cancer, and wobblers disease.
Cost of Great Dane Ear Crop
Help Your Great Dane Live Longer by Reducing Stress
Stress and anxiety are not healthy for humans or dogs.
Studies show that increased levels of cortisol and adrenaline can contribute to a shorter life span by weakening the immune system and causing problems with the heart, gastrointestinal, and endocrine systems.
Dogs that are chronically stressed are going to be more susceptible to health problems of all kinds.
Here are some signs that your dog is stressed or anxious:
Pacing, whining, crying
Destructive behavior
Drooling, panting
Ears pinned, hunched body language
Timid or fearful behaviors
Growling, nipping, and aggression
Depression
Reduce your dogs stress by making sure you offer plenty of exercise and enrichment. This may mean changing your routine and habits to alleviate boredom and get your dog doing more.
Our E-Collar training guide is a popular resource for helping anxious Great Danes get safely off-leash and exploring the world.
You can also reduce stress by using enrichment toys such as the West Paw Toppl Toy. Stuff it with soaked kibble or canned food and freeze before serving.
Talk to your veterinarian about supplements and calming care for dogs that are stressed by fireworks and loud noises, too. This calming probiotic may be an excellent choice for your dog.
Work with a modern, positive balanced dog trainer on confidence building and socialization. A scent work class may be just the ticket!
Avoid outdated training techniques (alpha/dominance, Cesar Milan, ‘police dog training’, etc.) which use a lot of intimidation and stress to shut behaviors down.
Final Tips to Extend a Great Danes Lifespan
Here are a few final tips.
See your veterinarian, regularly. Complete a full blood panel every year so that developing health problems (such as thyroid disease, liver and kidney problems, or diabetes) can be addressed early.
Before surgery, pay the extra money for a full exam, blood work, and health screening.
Keep your dog up to date on flea and tick prevention. Reactions to preventatives are typically minor and happen much less often than the rate at which dogs catch nasty diseases from parasites; you do not want to put a Dane through heartworm treatment!
