Dog Clothing and Climate Concerns

Now that the temperature is changing and fall is upon us, I am seeing more and more “cute” clothing for your dog to help keep them warm.
            My first thought is always:  is it safe for your dog?  Will they get tangled? 
            Will they ingest all or part of the items?

It is important to consider your dog’s needs especially with the cold temperatures that we are receiving now.   Very young or older dogs are more susceptible to environmental temperatures.  An arthritic dog needs a comfortable place to lie down and care must be taken going up and down stairs.  A short-coated or hairless dog needs some coverage in colder climates.

Things to consider when choosing dog clothes
Safety and comfort are the most important things to consider.  Making sure that the coat fits properly, snug enough so a foot or mouth won’t get caught where it doesn’t belong, and loose enough so it isn’t constricting.  Also consider how easy or difficult the item is to put on and take off.  If your dog is caught or injured, will the coat be easy to remove quickly?  The material should be rugged and weatherproof.  Loosely woven items can easily catch a toe or claw, creating a problem.

Caution is also advised when leaving your dog unattended with clothes on.  I know this sounds a bit humorous but, if your dog is bored or doesn’t like the clothing, chewing and destruction may be the result.  It is easy to think of your dog sitting there, comfortable by you, but what happens if your dog escapes and is running loose?  Or gets the clothing caught on the fence or some solid object that could cause injury.

Bottom line: dog jackets and outerwear do have a purpose, depending on the climate but much consideration must be made on appropriate clothing, fit and supervision.

Harmful Foods

I get asked all the time on what foods can I feed my dog besides dog food?  Basically the answer should be none only dog food.  There are some food items that you should be aware of that can be very harmful to your dog, if you decide you need to feed your dog something else besides their food.  Be sure to store the following foods in places that your dog cannot get to them.  Under NO circumstances should you allow your dog to eat any of the following foods.

• Avocados                                                   
• Chocolate
• Coffee (all forms)
• Onions & Onion Powder
• Garlic
• Grapes
• Raisins
• Macadamia Nuts
• Alcoholic Beverages
• Moldy/Spoiled Foods
• Salt
• Fatty Foods
• Xylitol (gum, candies or other foods sweetened with)
• Tea Leaves
• Raw Yeast Dough

Keeping your dog safe can be challenging, we spend a huge amount of time training so ultimately we can control our dogs and keep them safe, but keep in mind it is also what we allow our dogs to ingest that can be just as fatal as running across the road.

Animal Poison Control Center:  1-888-426-4435 or visit www.aspca.org

Keep your dog safe this Halloween

Halloween is just around the corner.
Have you considered dressing up your dog in a costume?
This can be some great fun and it is teaching your dog to wear and tolerate other things around the body besides its collar.   Make sure your dog is able to walk freely and safely in their costume.   See October Tail Tip 1 for other concerns regarding dressing up your dog, or putting on clothing.

Trick and Treat must include doggie cookies for your canine friend and not chocolate and candy.  All forms of chocolate can be harmful to your dog potentially resulting in poisoning or even pancreatic inflammation from the high fat content.

See October Tail Tip 2 on other Harmful Foods.

Enjoy Halloween and include your canine friend but keep them safe!

How much exercise does your dog get?

Lack of exercise is the cause of many behavioral problems.
All dogs need plenty of exercise and some more than others.
Look at the breed you have and match up activities that exercise your dog both physically and mentally.  When your dog has had plenty of exercise their mind and body are relaxed and the mind is in the right state for learning.

Try this for one month make sure your dog has the opportunity to exercise for at least 15 minutes prior to you working with them twice a day.   You are to lead with your dog walking along side or behind you when on a leash.  With your dog on the leash and you in control, you are the leader even though it is only you and your dog.  You will be amazed on how much better your canine friend behaves!

Enjoy the fall colors and the cooler temperatures with brisk walks this month.

How much exercise does your dog get?

Lack of exercise is the cause of many behavioral problems.
All dogs need plenty of exercise and some more than others.
Look at the breed you have and match up activities that exercise your dog both physically and mentally.  When your dog has had plenty of exercise their mind and body are relaxed and the mind is in the right state for learning.

Try this for one month make sure your dog has the opportunity to exercise for at least 15 minutes prior to you working with them twice a day.   You are to lead with your dog walking along side or behind you when on a leash.  With your dog on the leash and you in control, you are the leader even though it is only you and your dog.  You will be amazed on how much better your canine friend behaves!

Enjoy the fall colors and the cooler temperatures with brisk walks this month.