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.

Research Suggests Better Survival Rates for Dogs With Bloat

Gastric dilation and volvulus, or bloat, can be deadly to dogs, but recent research is showing that it's not as much the death sentence as it was once.

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.

Why Does My Dog Eat Grass?

Have you noticed your pooch sneakily snacking on grass? Here's why your lawn clippings suddenly seem as appetizing as kibble.

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.

What’s All the Controversy Around Hybrid Vigor in Dogs?

From breeders to pet parents, it seems like everyone has an opinion about hybrid vigor. But what is it and is it a good or bad thing?

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?

Tall Tails: Interesting Facts About Dog Tails

A dog's tail serves many purposes, and just one of those is to communicate how he's feeling. Let's talk about the importance of dog tails.

What Information Does Your Dog’s New Veterinarian Need?

If you want to make sure your first trip to a new vet goes smoothly, you'll need to update the doc on all your dog's vital stats and background.

What You Need To Know About Heat Stroke In Dogs

Don't risk your dog's well being and do everything you can to prevent this from happening by reading the facts and tips about heat stroke in dogs.

What Is Cherry Eye In Dogs?

I spy with my little eye something that looks red and swollen! Let's go over some important facts about cherry eye in dogs and how to fix it.

Tricks of the Trade: Fear-Free Veterinary Strategies

A trip to the vet? No thank you! If your dog hates going to see the veterinarian, there are things you can do to ensure a less stressful visit.

Canine Malocclusion: Dogs With Underbites

Dogs with underbites have a certain look - it gives them a stern yet adorable demeanor. Known as canine malocclusion, here's what you need to know.

Do I Have A Fat Dog? How To Tell If Your Dog Is Overweight

Does my butt look big in this collar? Here are a few tips to deal with a fat dog. Dogs are known for being voracious eaters – no matter how well you fe…

8 Tips To Improve Your Dog’s Dental Health

Dogs deserve pearly white teeth, so make sure they have a healthy smile You want to keep your dog smiling… and proper dental care is an important fact…

7 Ways To Keep Your Dog’s Teeth Clean

We love it when our doggos have that pearly white smile, don’t we? It means that their teeth and gums are in good shape and that’s a good indicat…

All About Dog Anal Glands

This is information you'll want to get behind. Here's what you should know about dog anal glands and how to keep them healthy.

Why Does My Dog Have a Runny Nose?

Does your dog have a runny nose? Although it's not usually a serious issue, you should know why this can happen.

Vaping and Dogs: Is It a Safe Alternative Around Your Pets?

Vaping, or e-cigarettes, are often touted as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes. But are pet still at risk for smoking-related illnesses?

Best Dog Cones

Your dog's recovery period doesn't have to be more stressful than it already is- take a look at our top 10 list of best dog cones to find the ideal model.

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…

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.

Study: America’s Healthiest Pets Live in Montana, Colorado, and Sout

Care.com's ThinkTank looked at pet care and health in the United States -- Montana, Colorado and Nebraska are the top three states with the healthiest pets.

Tick Guide: Common Types Of Ticks In North America

You've heard of bird watching... but tick watching? It's not an actually hobby, but if you're a dog owner, you should know the types of ticks in your area.

Cutting It Short: The Basics About Tail Docking in Dogs

Tail docking in dogs has been around for centuries, used for different purposes. In modern times, this practice is usually performed for cosmetic reasons.

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 Keep Licking His Paws?

Is he cleaning? Are they itchy? Why does your dog keep licking his paws? If you're looking to curtail this habit, get to the root of the issue.

How to Prepare for Unexpected Vet Bills

Accidents happen. And as pet parents, nobody knows that like we do. Here's how to prepare for unexpected vet bills.

Is There Such a Thing as Dog Detox?

Dogs can get stinky and full of toxins just like humans can. That's the time to consider dog detox. Find out two ways to keep your dog detoxified.

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.

How Dogs Can Help Prevent Suicide

The winter months often lead to increased depression and thoughts of suicide. Dogs offer a unique form of furry therapy that helps get you out of your head.

Does My Dog Have Seasonal Allergies?

People often suffer from seasonal allergies, but did you know that they can affect dogs as well? Here’s what to watch out for. Sneezing, itchy, watery…

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.

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.

Pets Are Getting Heavier With Each Year- And It’s Damaging Their Hea

Over half of all cats and dogs in the United States are overweight, and as a result, many preventable health issues are becoming more common for pets,

What’s The Difference Between Fleas and Ticks?

Sure, fleas and ticks are little pains in the butt, but did you know that there are differences between the two? Know what youre up against this spring.

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.

Expert Advice: Supplements and Diet For Senior Dogs

Older dogs have specialized dietary needs. Sabine Contreras, Canine Care and Nutrition Consultant, knows just what to serve up to your senior dog to ensure h…

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?

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?

The Dangers of Rat and Mouse Poison to Dogs

Some dogs will try anything that looks tasty from off the ground. Keep your dog away from rat and mouse poison.

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.

Top 10 Best Dogs For Allergy Sufferers

What dogs won't make you sneeze? Learn the basics about hypoallergenic dog breeds and our recommendations for the top 5 best dogs for allergy sufferers.

Why Bad Dog Breath Is A Big Problem

What have you been eating? If your dog's breath smells like a dump (garbage or otherwise), there may be some health issues causing it.

According to ASPCA, These Are The Top 10 Pet Toxins of 2023

Even though ASPCA was contacted for over 351,000 potentially hazardous substances, they managed to narrow down the most common culprits and compile the list of top 10 pet toxins in 2023, which will serve as a great reminder of what to look out for.

Is a Dog’s Mouth Really Cleaner Than a Human’s?

You've seen the things that have gone into your dog's mouth - that's why it's hard to believe that a dog's mouth is really cleaner than a human's mouth.

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.

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.

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?

The Buzz About How Mosquitoes Can Sabotage Your Dog’s Health

Mosquitoes are pests – not just to humans, but to dogs as well. But did your know that a bite from this insect can cause more than just an itchy annoya…

Head Pressing in Dogs: Should You Be Concerned?

It sounds like a harmless behavior, but head pressing in dogs can point to something more serious. Here's what to watch out for and how to treat it.

What Causes Hair Loss In Dogs?

Hair loss in dogs can't be covered up by a bad Trump-esque toupee. Those bald patches and spots could signal the start of something serious.

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.

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.

The Shocking Truth About Dogs and Garlic

There is a lot of controversy surrounding dogs and garlic on the Internet. Thanks to the research efforts of experts, many believe garlic is good for dogs.

99 Lives Project Uses Cat Genome Sequencing To Shed Light On Human Dis

University of Missouri researchers believe that the genetic makeup of cats may help identify new treatments for humans suffering from allergies, asthma, diab…

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.

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.

New Home DNA Tests for Dogs Can Reveal Inherited Diseases

Is your pooch at risk of hereditary diseases? With Orivet's new health screening kits, you'll won't have to wonder ever again.

What Pet Parents Need To Know About Reverse Sneezing In Dogs

Before you freak out, you should know that reverse sneezing is fairly common in dogs, and that flat-face breeds are more prone than others.

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.