General Dog Health

Open wide and say woof! Our General Dog Health section covers a variety of concerns, questions, products, and topics that help you stay informed when it comes to your pooch’s well-being. Learn more about how you can make your four-legged family member feel their best, both mentally and physically.

Dog’s physical condition is not the only indicator of their health. What makes a dog healthy and happy is a complex topic that includes many aspects of their lifestyle, and in Petguide.com’s General Dog Health blog, we try to give you the complete overview of all those important facets.

Worried about your dog’s health issue? Read our articles on dog illnesses and medical conditions such as cherry eyes, allergies, gingivitis, and more. Wondering what goes on in that cute head of theirs? Take a look at eye-opening articles on empathy in dogs or emotions dogs can experience. We also cover how dogs influence our health, so make sure to check out our articles on how dogs make us happier and improve our lives.

For those of you who love reading interesting facts, quirks, and curiosities about dog’s health, you’re in the right place. Discover the real truth about doggie pheromones and canine plastic surgery, find out what is hybrid vigor and double merle dog, and if vaping and second-hand smoke really have an impact on your pooch’s health. Always wanted to know where healthiest dogs live or if tail docking has any benefits? Stay up to date with latest findings and studies that concern dog health!

A wholesome lifestyle helps your pup have optimal health. Our guides and articles help you learn all the essentials needed for a dog’s well-being and provide your dog with the best care possible. And don’t be shy – if you have a question about General Dog Health, please feel free to ask us.

Tips to Handle a Poison Emergency

You've got an emergency on your hands - you need to think fast. What do you do? Keep these tips around in case you have a poison emergency.

All You Need to Know About Vet Telehealth

Veterinary telehealth, also known as pet telehealth, veterinary telemedicine, or virtual vet is a form of a remote veterinary practice – in other words, veterinarian-provided medical advice and services through any available communication technologies, just as call centers, smartphone apps, chats, etc.

More And More Pets Are Having Allergies, Trupanion Reports

Dogs, in particular, are very susceptible to spring allergies and are increasingly treated for their symptoms, such as itchy skin.

California Vets Want to Prescribe Medical Marijuana to Pets

For many pets, non-psychoactive cannabis oil successfully treats health issues, and if the new bill passes, your veterinarian can be the one prescribing it.

Canine PTSD: What You Need To Know About PTSD In Rescue Dogs

You’re likely familiar with what Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is and what it may look like in humans. But did you know that up to nearly a fifth of res…

Experts Say Pet Obesity On the Rise- 8th Year in a Row

Nationwide statistics revealed a worrying trend: the number of overweight pets has been on a constant rise for the last 8 years.

Is Rock Salt Toxic to Dogs?

Sadly, the answer is yes – rock salt, commonly used for de-icing roads and sidewalks in winter, can be toxic to dogs if ingested in large quantities.

Tips On Making Your Home Comfortable For Your Senior Dog

Your dog deserves a comfortable retirement – here’s how to make it golden He’s been by your side for a long time. Even though he’s no…

Tick SR Makes Dog Tick Removal Quick and Painless

If your dog as ever had ticks, you never forget that experience. But there's a solution for quick and painless dog tick removal and it's called Tick-SR.

Researchers Find Shared OCD Genes in Dogs, Humans, and Mice

Newest findings indicate that OCD, one of the shared conditions that can affect both us and our pets, can be identified through four genomes.

How to Treat a Dog’s Dry Nose

We all know that a wet dog nose means a healthy pooch. But how do you treat a snout that's gone dry? Here are a few things you can try.

Spicy Topic: Can Dogs Eat Cinnamon?

Pooches love the taste of cinnamon... but is it safe? Can dogs eat cinnamon or not? Find out if you should be including it in your dog's diet.

Common Myths About Spaying And Neutering Your Dog

As a responsible pet parent, you'll be faced with whether or not you will spay or neuter your dog. Let's look at common myths about spaying and neutering.

New Study Fuels Anti Tail Docking and Ear Cropping Standards

New study on tail docking and ear cropping sheds new light into the necessity of these practices and questions their validity.

Study: Exposure to Cats Can Reduce Childhood Asthma Rates

Another reason to get a cat! New research suggests that a cat in the house around newborns can help prevent children from developing asthma.

What is a Double Merle Dog?

You've probably heard of a merle coat... but what about a double merle dog? This unusual coat coloring can bring with it a potential list of health problems.

Dogs and Chocolate: Why The Two Don’t Mix

Death by Chocolate isn't the name of a dessert - it's a reality for canines. Here's why dogs and chocolate don't mix and what to do if your pup eats it.

Know Your Enemy: Most Common Types of Dog Fleas

‘Tis the season for those nasty little pests to come out of hiding and irritate you and your pet. Be on the lookout for these common types of dog fleas.

How Long Can You Leave a Dog Alone?

Whether you've got errands to run or you've got to go to work, there are some places your dog can't go. But how long can you leave a dog alone at home for?

Which Spring Flowers Are Toxic to Dogs?

One of those unexpected things that become a downside of spring when you’re a dog is flowers. Yup. Those gorgeous, lush-smelling blooms that appear in the spring can pose a threat to your dog, as many spring flowers are toxic to our canine friends.

10 Signs Your Dog is From a Puppy Mill

Puppies from puppy mills often come with a host of health problems. By knowing what to look for in puppy mill puppies, you can help stop their sale.

My Dog Has A Tooth Fracture – What Should I Do?

Ouch! Did your dog bite off more than he could chew and fractured a tooth? Here’s what you need to know about this common dental issue. Dogs are just a…

The ABCs On How To Extend Your Senior Dog’s Lifespan

There’s no reason why senior dogs can’t shine in their golden years – we’ve got some tips to extend and improve your pooch’s li…

What The Heck Are Dog Eye Boogers?

They're gross and you've probably had to clean them from your dog's peepers at some point. But what exactly are dog eye boogers and should you be concerned?

Do Dogs Feel Empathy?

At times, there are moments when you think that your dog knows exactly how you feel. But are dogs really capable of feeling empathy?

Can Dogs Detect Cancer?

A dog's nose is a powerful tool used for many different purposes. But can dogs detect cancer? Read on to find out more.

6 Signs of Frostbite in Dogs

Extreme exposure to the elements can have severe effects on your pet: these are the most common signs of frostbite in dogs that require an urgent vet visit.

Study Shows These Dog Breeds Most Likely To Have an Extra Row of Teeth

Is your pooch more likely to sport a second row of teeth? The so-called “Shark Teeth” is a little-known dental condition that can affect up to 7% of doggos around the world.

Why Do Your Dog’s Paws Smell Like Corn Chips?

Have you noticed a certain smell in the air after your dog licks his paws? We looked into why a dog's paws emit a corn chip scent - here's what we found.

I Can’t Afford My Dog’s Vet Bill! What Do I Do?

You're thankful that your dog was able to recover from a life-threatening illness... but the vet bill is huge. How are you going to fix this problem?

Plug It In, Chill Out: Do Pet Pheromone Plugs-Ins Really Work?

If you've got a stressed out or anxious pet, you're willing to try anything to help calm him down. But do pet pheromone plug-ins actually work or help?

Why Do Dogs Circle Before They Lie Down?

Watching your dog try to find a place to relax can make you dizzy! Have you ever wondered why do dogs circle before they lie down?

Dogs Panting: Why Does Your Pooch Do It?

Tongue hanging out; drool hitting the floor - they're the telltale signs of dogs panting. Your pooch does it when he's hot, as well as other reasons.

Dog Scooting: The Sad, Scratchy Story Of Oscar’s Ichy Butt

Sure, it's the butt of many jokes, but dog scooting can be a pain in the ass... just ask Oscar! I've discovered a few common and itchy reasons why dogs scoot:

Can Stress Cause Health Issues in Dogs?

It is important to differentiate a small potentially stressful situation from severe and repeated major stress. Neither is good, but the latter can be a major health hazard.

Pawp’s 24/7 Online Vet Clinic Saves You Money On Vet Bills – Here�

This innovative online vet platform is a great alternative to classic pet insurance – with 24/7 access to licensed veterinarians, access to $3,000 for…

Top 10 Daily Toxins That Can Harm Your Dog

Your pet is a living being that can succumb to toxins in the environment we don't even think about. Here's what they are and how to get rid of them.

Take The Itch Out Of These Common Dog Allergies

Let's go over the most common dog allergies you'll come across, what kind of symptoms you can expect to see and what you can do about them.

Be Part of the 10,000 Dog Aging Project To Study Why Smaller Dogs Live

Have you ever wondered why small dogs live longer than large dogs? That's the catalyst behind the 10,000 Dog Aging Project.

How to Perform a DIY Physical Exam on Your Dog

You know your dog better than anyone. Employ a hands-on approach when it comes to your dog's health in between regular veterinarian appointments.

The Deadly Consequences of Compassion Fatigue for Animal Care Workers

Have you ever heard of the term "Compassion Fatigue"? This emotional exhaustion threatens the mental health of many who work with animals.

Owner Behavior to Blame for Pet Obesity, Researchers Reveal

According to new research, it seems that we should start with changing our behavior if we want our pets to stay healthy and in top shape.

What to Expect With a Veterinary Teeth Cleaning

Dogs need to have their teeth cleaned. If you don't take care of doggie dental needs at home, your pooch will need to go in for a veterinary teeth cleaning.

5 Ways Probiotics Can Help Your Dog

You take probiotics to help your digestion - but did you know that your pooch could take them, too? Here are a few reasons to give your dog probiotics.

All About Cavities in Dogs: Symptoms and Treatment

Just like us, dogs can develop common tooth decay problems. Let's talk about cavities in dogs and how to prevent your dog from getting them.

4 Smile-Worthy Common Doggy Dental Myths

Do any of these myths about a dog’s dental health sound familiar to you? Many dog parents don’t realize the importance of providing basic dental…

My Dog Has Skin Tags – Is He Alright?

The truth is, skin tags are normal for dogs and they'll get any number of them throughout the course of their life.

5 Benefits of Playing With Your Dog

Did you need a reason to play with your dog? We have 5 great benefits why you should play fetch with Fido.

Chronic Ear Infections in Dogs: They’re Smelly and Tough to Resolve

For those of us with floppy-eared dogs, we know the signs of a pending ear infection all too well. The constant ear scratching, head shaking and that tell-tale…

Dog Lice: Everything You Need To Know To Protect Your Dog

You might start scratching reading the word ‘lice,’ and shiver at the thought of your dog having lice. Here’s what you need to know to prev…

Why is My Dog Lethargic?

Is your dog lethargic? You may be inclined to dismiss it as being the heat, him being tired, or boredom, it may be something entirely different.

What Causes Dog Snoring?

Catching Z's, sawing logs - it's known by many names, but dog snoring can keep you up at night. Does your dog snore and should you be worried about it?

Can Dogs Have Insomnia?

If you notice your pooch having trouble snoozing and staying up all the time, it could be a sign that they have some form of sleep disorder. And it could very well be canine insomnia.

How to Read Your Dog’s Vital Signs

When your dog is in medical distress, you need to know how to read his vital signs. We explain what to check and how to do it. Regardless of age, breed or he…

Why Does My Dog’s Breath Stink?

Holy cow - what's that smell coming out of your dog's mouth?! If you're wondering why your dog's breath stinks, take a look at what we have to say.

Making a Case For Dietary Zinc in Your Dog’s Diet

You need to put the right amount of vitamins and minerals into your dog's diet. That's why knowing how much dietary zinc your dog is getting important.

The Hideous Truth About Dog Plastic Surgery

On the list of things you can do for your pooch, plastic surgery isn’t one of them. Things have come a long way since tail docking – many of thes…

Can Shock Collars Damage a Dog’s Vocal Cords?

With so many pet owners now working from home and trying to focus on reading reports, creating presentations and conducting professional-quality meetings via Zo…

Is Smoking Weed Around Dogs Dangerous?

As more states (and countries) legalize the use of marijuana, smoking this substance is less taboo. But will lighting up a joint affect your dog's health?

How To Stop Stinky Dog Farts

Urgh! What's that smell? We've been blaming rotten smells on the dog for many years, but what can you do if you've got a legitimate problem with dog farts?