Blogs

While most puppies can learn simple commands as early as 7 weeks, most experts agree that you start formally training your dog around 6 months of age. Training your dog includes everything from house training to socializing and walking on a leash. When you start leash training, you’ll have a choice between a retractable or fixed leash. Retractable leashes have a bad reputation but incidents with this type of leash are largely the result of […]

The world is filled with sights, sounds, smells, and myriad other environmental factors that can be overwhelming for puppies. It’s important to socialize your dog early so that she feels comfortable outside of the safety of your home when she meets other people and animals. Without proper socialization, your best buddy could become anxious, depressed, or even aggressive.  When should socialization start? The ideal socialization age for puppies is between three and twelve weeks old, […]

Keeping your dog’s ears clean is important for maintaining their overall health.  While some dogs’ ears are naturally clean and require little maintenance, others need extra care. Dogs with long or really furry ears, like cocker spaniels, that accumulate dirt and debris more easily are often more prone to ear infections and other problems.  The physical makeup of your dog’s ears isn’t the only factor that increases their risk for ear conditions. Yeast and bacteria […]

We all dream of it – cuddling up with your pooch in bed on a cool night, reading by your nightlight and snuggling down for the evening. So, is it good or bad to co-sleeping with your dog? We weigh in on the pros and cons of sleeping with Fido in your bed.  First, let’s start with the pros of sleeping with your dog He’s soft and snuggly, and you just adore that light snoring […]

One of the most frequently asked questions that many veterinarians get is whether heartworm and flea prevention should be used year-round. The resounding answer is, “Yes.” Regular flea and heartworm prevention are essential for keeping your dog healthy and happy. Read on to learn more. Fleas Pose a Year-Round Threat Contrary to popular belief, fleas aren’t a seasonal pest. While freezing temperatures can kill fleas, it often isn’t enough to eliminate the problem altogether. These […]

Are you concerned that your dog is licking or chewing her paws a little too much?  Although licking is associated with normal grooming behavior for dogs, when it becomes excessive and includes constant chewing, this could indicate an underlying problem. One of these conditions could be the culprit behind your dog’s incessant grooming.   Allergy: Whether it’s the result of seasonal allergies or a flea infestation, dogs lick their paws to relieve the itch. Keep in […]