Particularly in large dog breeds, under certain circumstances a so-called gastric torsion can occur, in which the animal’s stomach twists to such an extent that both the stomach entrance and the stomach exit are closed. This creates serious and life-threatening dangers for the dog and therefore the dog owner should consult a veterinarian immediately in such a case.
Arthritis is an inflammation of the dog’s joints that can be traced back to two basic causes. On the one hand, an infection caused by certain pathogens often triggers arthritis in animals, but the painful joint inflammation can also result from a malfunction of the immune system. In both cases, the affected dog usually suffers severe pain in the affected joints, which of course severely limits the animal’s agility.
The number of dogs suffering from Lyme disease is increasing drastically from year to year and experts are therefore increasingly recommending immune-strengthening measures for dogs in areas at risk. A strong immune system can prevent the outbreak of Lyme disease in many cases because the healthy immune system effectively fights off the Borrelia bacteria transmitted by the tick. But what can the dog owner do to strengthen their animal’s immune system?
A hastily given treat can turn into a real health hazard for a dog if a uniformed dog owner feeds his animal chocolate! Chocolate contains a certain substance called theobromine, which is toxic to dogs at a certain dose. In addition, considering the high number of calories, chocolate is not an ideal treat for dogs!
Dog training is an extremely broad field and very quickly numerous mistakes creep in when training dogs that are difficult to correct. It is important to say that these training errors are of course to be found in the dog owner and not in the animal, and punishing a dog for misbehavior is undoubtedly the worst solution in the context of dog training. Below are some simple tips for dog training.
More and more so-called “fashion dogs” are showing serious signs of long-term overbreeding and, in general, these phenomena have an extremely negative impact on the animals’ health. The best-known example of long-term overbreeding is undoubtedly the German Shepherd, in which the signs of overbreeding appear after a certain age in the form of hip dysplasia. But other dog breeds, such as the Pug and the French Bulldog, not only have joint problems, they also show other signs of overbreeding.
Like us humans, dogs can develop painful osteoarthritis at a very young age, which significantly limits the animals’ quality of life. The causes of osteoarthritis in dogs are very complex and can range from genetic factors due to overbreeding to permanent malnutrition. Osteoarthritis in dogs usually goes unnoticed in the early stages; only when the animal shows abnormal movements does the dog owner notice that there is a problem with the dog’s joints.
How to accompany your dog safely through the cold season
When temperatures drop and rain, snow, or wetness become part of everyday life, dogs are also subject to greater stress. Especially in winter, pathogens such as bacteria and viruses often have an easy time spreading. Frequent sniffing and contact with other dogs on walks, in the park, or at the dog park can increase the risk of infection. But how can you best support your dog during the cold season and support its natural defenses?
Canine immune system – why is it so important?
Your dog’s immune system is active around the clock. It protects the body from a variety of germs that are ingested through the air, water, or direct contact. The immune system is particularly challenged during the cold and wet season to respond to new pathogens. A strong defense system helps keep your dog healthy and resilient – not just in winter, but all year round.
Micronutrients: Their Role in the Immune System
Vitamins, minerals, and trace elements form the basis for an intact immune system. Vitamin C, vitamin E, various B vitamins, zinc, and selenium are particularly important. They help ensure that defense cells function normally and that the organism is prepared for challenges. A balanced and species-appropriate diet that meets the need for these micronutrients is therefore crucial, especially in winter.
Make sure your dog receives high-quality, fresh food – ideally with natural, minimally processed ingredients. Excessive amounts of grain, sugar, or artificial additives place additional strain on the immune system and should be avoided. Or let’s put it this way: These things don’t belong in any bowl – nor do dry food or other industrial products. Do you eat ready-made pizza or canned food every day? Certainly not, and for good reasons. But your dog should?
Fresh Air, Exercise, and a Comfortable Environment
In addition to nutrition, sufficient exercise and fresh air are essential for your dog’s immune system. Walks not only strengthen the muscles but also stimulate the circulation and help activate the immune system. Make sure your dog doesn’t freeze – smaller, older, or very short-haired dogs especially appreciate a warm coat during the cold season. After a walk, the dog’s fur and paws should be gently dried.
Rest periods are also important: A warm, draft-free place to lie helps the dog recover well and remain resilient.
The Role of Intestinal Flora and Probiotics
A large part of the immune system is located in the intestines. If the intestinal flora is unbalanced, the immune system can also be weakened. Feeding prebiotics and probiotics supports the balance of the intestinal flora and can help support the natural defenses – especially after special challenges such as a change in diet, taking medication, or in older dogs.
Special Needs of Older Dogs
With increasing age, the resistance of the immune system decreases. Older dogs therefore benefit from a particularly needs-based supply of nutrients and targeted support in everyday life. Regular veterinary checkups, gentle exercise, and plenty of attention support quality of life and well-being, even during the cold season.
Dogs experience every season in all its facets – they romp through leaves, sniff in the snow, and look forward to shared adventures. With a little attention and loving care, you can create the best conditions for your dog to stay healthy, happy, and active – not just in winter, but all year round.
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Depending on the breed, dogs differ significantly in terms of temperament and requirements. Therefore, every dog lover who plans to buy an animal should ask themselves in advance which dog breed is actually right for them. Very specific aspects of the family circumstances and also your own living conditions must be examined and taken into account when deciding on the ideal breed. Often the right decision is not that easy.
The activities at a dog sports ground serve to promote social bonding between owner and dog, contact with other dogs, and to exercise the animals through their movements. Basically, dog sports should of course bring joy to both the animal and its owner and not turn into stress. It is also important to ensure that the dog’s joints are not overstressed by dog sports, as repeated and constant overloading of the dog’s joints can quickly lead to pain and other joint problems.
Dog training is an extremely broad field and very quickly numerous mistakes creep in when training dogs that are difficult to correct. It is important to say that these training errors are of course to be found in the dog owner and not in the animal, and punishing a dog for misbehavior is undoubtedly the worst solution in the context of dog training. Below are some simple tips for dog training.
More and more so-called “fashion dogs” are showing serious signs of long-term overbreeding and, in general, these phenomena have an extremely negative impact on the animals’ health. The best-known example of long-term overbreeding is undoubtedly the German Shepherd, in which the signs of overbreeding appear after a certain age in the form of hip dysplasia. But other dog breeds, such as the Pug and the French Bulldog, not only have joint problems, they also show other signs of overbreeding.
