Dog Wound Up After Long Walk? The 98 Correct Answer

How often should you walk your dog? Determining how often you should walk a dog depends on several factors, including your dog’s breed, age, and energy level. And of course it also depends on how much time you have to walk your dog. Here’s how each of these factors play a role in determining how often you walk a dog.

dog breed

First, let’s take a look at the breed of dog you have. Sporting or working breeds like pointers, collies, and sheepdogs may have higher exercise requirements than dogs bred to be lap dogs, like Yorkshire terriers and papillons.

Some dogs are natural athletes, while other dogs are mostly couch potatoes. Of course, this can be down to a dog’s breed or simply down to the dog’s individual preferences. Most people wouldn’t think of the Bassett Hound as the perfect jogging companion, but I’ve met several Bassett Hounds that lead very active lives with their owners.

Age

Younger dogs have more energy and generally need more exercise than middle-aged dogs (5-8 years) and older dogs (9 years and older). Younger dogs also spend more time playing than older dogs.

But there are always exceptions to this rule. Keep in mind that middle-aged to older dogs can suffer from arthritis, muscle atrophy, or other conditions like hypothyroidism or diabetes that affect their endurance. Mentally they may be eager to go, but physically they may not be able to keep up.

Your dog’s exercise tolerance

How much exercise does your dog need? Most dogs can walk the dog for 20 to 30 minutes a day if they are in relatively good physical condition. Some dogs in good physical condition can tolerate walks of up to 2 hours or hike for hours. But it can be difficult for overweight or obese dogs to run 10 minutes without taking multiple breaks or panting heavily from the exertion.

To determine the appropriate time to walk your dog based on your dog’s current health condition, walk your dog and monitor their energy levels. If your dog starts out at an energetic pace and is taking you for walks, invest in a good dog harness, like the Halti Dog Harness, and a heavy-duty dog ​​leash, like the Halti Training Dog Leash. If she slows down after about 25-30 minutes, she might get tired. Instead of striding forward eagerly, he may start panting more and become more interested in his surroundings, e.g. B. Looking and snooping around more.

Make your way home and watch her pace on the way back. Will it slow down further or can she keep up the slower pace? If she slows down even further, it means she’s gone too far. Next time your walk needs to be shorter because you need to take into account the time it takes to get home.

In addition to observing how long it takes your dog to slow down, you should also observe his post-walk behavior once you get home. If your dog drinks water and immediately falls onto one of their dog beds and doesn’t move for hours, they may have overexerted themselves. If your dog starts limping during the walk or after a break from a long walk, he has been getting too much exercise. Next time you will have to take a shorter walk or hike.

A dog’s exercise tolerance can be increased as long as it is healthy. Just as you wouldn’t run a marathon if you haven’t run in years, don’t expect your dog to spend hours walking, running, or hiking if he’s been sedentary for months or years. Take it easy and gradually increase the amount of exercise you give your dog each week. By slowly building up their endurance and appropriately conditioning your dog’s body, you can prevent injury and pain.

If your older dog needs more support, you can invest in a dog sling that will allow you to support some of his weight when he gets too tired – like the GingerLead dog sling. You have to be careful not to apply too much pressure or you’ll end up hurting her back or stomach.

your schedule

If you find your dog can walk 30 minutes without pain, how often should you walk him?

According to the CDC, the recommendation for people is at least 150 minutes of exercise per week. If you make an effort to exercise your pet as much weekly, that would be great. But we live busy lives and sometimes have really long work days. For those who can afford to hire dog walkers, their dog exercise needs can be easily met. If you can’t afford to hire a dog walker, aim for a 10-15 minute walk a day or at least 2-3 times a week. You can also complement dog exercise by playing in a yard if you have one.

If you don’t have enough time to walk a dog on a leash, don’t have a yard, or your dog is in poor physical condition, focus on lower-impact activities through the use of dog puzzle toys. Your dog may spend time rolling a Kong Wobbler all over the house and walking more slowly.

Try to exercise your dog around your house continuously for at least 10-15 minutes. Providing your dog with both physical and mental opportunities will make them a healthier and mentally more balanced dog overall.

Featured image: Halfpoint/Shutterstock.com

dr Zac Pilossoph, a consulting veterinarian at Healthy Paws Pet Insurance, says that dog “zoomies” are the “best expression of happiness” for dogs.

What is causing the zoomies?: The vet will weigh what is causing your pet to run around the house

Zoomies might sound like a ridiculous word to some, but it can be commonplace for pet owners.

dr Zac Pilossoph, a consulting veterinarian at Healthy Paws Pet Insurance, defines the zoomies as “the way a dog declares that he’s excited and happy enough to want to show it.”

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“It’s her best expression of being happy. The term ‘zoomies’ is colloquial and describes behaviors that many pet parents have experienced. Still, your dog can get the zoomies in some situations, e.g. B. when an owner comes home or uses a favorite toy. The Zoomies can best be defined as a dog’s most excited expression of happiness,” he tells PEOPLE.

To learn a little more about what makes pets run around the house, and how pet owners can help turn a destructive fall from “zoomies” — known to knock down fragile objects and people — into a fun one Transforming moment for everyone, PEOPLE spoke to Dr. Philosopher about this behavior.

Read on to learn more about what can make a dog or cat gallop around the house and what it all means.

Are Zoomies “Bad” Behavior or a Sign of a Physical/Mental Health Problem?

No, zoomies are a good sign and it means your dog is happy! If you’re trying to help a dog become more obedient, you should limit the “zoom time” and make sure you have a training time. Give the dog time to run around, but make sure time is allotted for exercise. In general, zoomies mean your dog is happy and wants to be interactive, and there’s nothing wrong with that.

What Causes the Zoomies in Dogs?

We see zoomies in young puppies or dogs with higher agility, but it can also depend on a dog’s personality. My grandfather’s older dog still gets the zoomies. Zoomies have to do with a dog’s personality, some are more enthusiastic and some are docile. In general, age, breed type, and personality all play a role in your dog getting the zoomies.

Is it important for your dog to have his “Zoomies”?

Yes, the zoomies are a sign of joy. It’s not a bad thing, and it’s a sign your dog is enjoying life. They want them to be able to express their happiness.

What are some ways pet owners can make the Zoomies easier for their dogs?

Try to understand your dog’s path. Dogs tend to have a routine when getting the zoomies and clearing clutter and any debris from the area. If the dog has joint pain or back problems, you should limit access to stairs and chairs that he jumps on so he doesn’t injure himself.

What options are there to make the zoomies less destructive?

During the day, give your dog time to have fun, but also their obedient time. I would rather have a dog be happy and exerting energy than be lazy and sad in his bed. Giving them a place that is theirs that is clutter-free can help keep the Zoomies safe. Zoomies let your dog get his energy out after being trapped indoors all day.

Do you think the zoomies are a behavior in cats too? Why or why not?

Need to calm down your dog after training? My sisters and I train a lot with mom. We run and/or walk early in the morning, we practice tracking and nose work homework, we go for walks later in the afternoon, we all love it. Lately we’ve heard pet parents question training their dogs because the dogs get overstimulated and crazy. We have no such problem and find that training exhausts us.

I’m not sure what the problem could be for this overstimulation, I did what any sane dog would do, I asked my mom about it. Here’s what she had to say:

Well Emma, ​​you know, most of the time when I get up in the morning I’m still tired and wondering how I’m going to get through the day with all the things I have to do. I go for a long run or walk with you girls and suddenly I’m very upset. My spirit is super charged! I have so many ideas for things to do after our workout that I barely have time to eat my breakfast, but then I settle down at my desk and slowly relax. I think I would consider myself overstimulated from a good workout, but my routine is bringing me back down. Actually, all of you girls have post-workout routines that get you down too, you just didn’t realize it.

I found Mom’s take on this topic quite interesting, and she’s right. We all have an after-workout routine that drags us down. Below are my 3 tips to calm your dog down after training.

1. Give your dog something to do

Bailie has stayed home alone for an hour after a long run with no problems because she gets a kong after the run which gives her something to do and helps her relax. When Mom started leaving Bailie home alone after she ran to take Katie and I for a walk, things at home were a disaster as Bailie had too much energy, but the Kong was no longer a problem. She finishes it and takes a nap.

If you’re home with your dog, try a chew like a hoof, antler, or a bully stick. Chewing really gives us focus and calms us down. Be sure to always supervise your dog with these items in case they break or get stuck in his throat.

2. Work through the stimulation

Most of the time, after running or walking, we go straight to the yard when we get home. If you are lucky enough to have a garden, this is an option. We run around, sniff for wabbits, play chase for a bit, and after about ten minutes we head up the stairs to be let in. Somehow it’s a lot better than just walking in the house and not knowing what to do. We find a place, lie down and often fall asleep.

3. Establish a routine and stick to it

We’ve had a routine since we were little, especially in the mornings when we’re doing the biggest workouts. We get up, train, eat and take a nap. Napping for a good hour or more after eating is so important to prevent bloating. This routine of ours teaches us that we must exercise to earn our food. Even though we may be hyper, when we eat we calm down and then the habit sets in and we find our favorite spots to nap and nap.

I realize that no two dogs are the same and that some dogs are more agitated than others, but it has worked for all of Mom’s dogs so far and it has always worked for our friends when they come and stay with us. Maybe these tips can help you calm down your dog after a good workout too! With us, a tired dog is really a good dog!

I co-host the FitDog Friday Blog Hop with SlimDoggy and To Dog With Love! Please join us on Fridays to share your fitness stories, find new ways to have fun, and new fitness ideas too! Tell your friends to stop by too – fit dogs are healthier, happier dogs!

Walk the dog every day. Is it a good idea? Photo: TimesNow Digital

HIGHLIGHTS The trainer added that dogs with behavioral problems can become more reactive or agitated when their owners try to arouse them with too much exercise.

Instead, owners should try to replace daily walks with practice games at home.

Dog walk is the act of a person walking a dog. It is considered an important activity as it can improve your pet’s overall health and lead to strong bones and muscles.

Walking exercises protect your dog from fractures from falls and other accidents.

The activity is not only good for dogs, but also for their owners. A Michigan State University study showed that people who walk their dogs are 34% more likely to get the expected level of exercise.

But how much walking is too much walking? And should you walk your dog every day?

For most dog owners, walking their pets is a ritual they follow every day while keeping the health benefits in mind. But now an experienced trainer has explained why you shouldn’t walk your pets every day.

Niki French, the best-selling author of STOP Walking Your Dog, has said that everyday walks can have negative effects on dogs and that dog owners should replace their 30-minute walks with an alternative activity.

“It may come as a surprise, but traditional walks are a human invention and unhelpful for many of our dogs. Replacing walking time with training games at home can give dogs the skills they lack to live calm and happy lives,” French told The Mirror.

The trainer added that dogs with behavior problems can become more reactive or agitated when their owners try to arouse them with too much exercise. Instead, owners should try to replace daily walks with practice games at home.

French said her rescue dog, 2, has become calmer after drafting home games and reducing the number of walks she takes.

“Skipping out some walks can help both dogs and owners relieve stress. If more than half of the walks are stressful (for the dog or you), it’s time to do something else,” she added.

How should I walk my reactive dog?

If your dog is aggressive towards other dogs, it’s best to avoid other dogs as much as possible while you work on their behavior with an accredited canine behavior consultant. Take them for walks at times and places you know others won’t meet, or consider renting an enclosed dog run paddock. If you meet another dog, walk away calmly and quickly while distracting your dog with something he really likes, such as a toy. B. a treat or a toy. It can help to try to get a physical barrier between the two dogs, such as a gate, fence, or car. For more information on dog aggression, see our advice.

Have you ever wondered why your dog sometimes seems to go a little crazy and race around the house or garden with a big smile on his snout? If you’ve been worried about this behavior, don’t be. This is normal for dogs.

It is popularly known as “the Zoomies”. In technical jargon, they are Frenetic Random Activity Periods, or FRAP for short. It’s more common in puppies and young dogs, but even our old friends can catch a case of zoomies when the mood hits.

Experts aren’t sure why dogs do this, but they do know the triggers. Dogs often get the zoomies when they are very happy and bursting with energy. In humans, it would be comparable to winning the lottery and dancing with joy. You just can’t stop these happy feet.

Dogs can also act out in moments of extreme stress. They run around trying to relieve some of that fear.

Many dogs seem to get the zoomies right after a bath. Apparently they’re very happy to be clean – or more likely, they’re happy the bath is over.

There’s nothing wrong with letting your dog zoom to their heart’s content, although zooms usually only last a minute or until the dog is exhausted. But you want to make sure your dog zooms safely. Zooming in public without a leash or the safety of a closed fence can lead to tragedy. Be sure to keep your dog on a leash in these circumstances, whether he’s zooming or not.

If the Zoomies hit the house, try directing them to a carpeted area to avoid your pup slipping and getting into other objects or people, such as a door. B. a small child or an elderly person who can be knocked over.

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If your dog tends to zoom after a bath, carry the dog or use a leash to lead them outside where they can safely zoom, although this might defeat the purpose of the bath.

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Why is my cat ignoring bush jay bombings? Pets and Animals | Why does my dog ​​bark and howl when I play the clarinet? If your dog gets the zoomies outside of your yard and is heading for trouble e.g. B. On a busy street, don’t try to chase it. Instead, run in the opposite direction of the anger while happily shouting at your dog to follow you. You might want to take some treats with you as an added incentive.

Do you have a question about your pet’s strange behavior? Email your questions to [email protected].

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By Paula Fitzsimmons

Exercise offers your dog a variety of physical and mental benefits. “It keeps joints supple and promotes good range of motion, maintains muscle mass, which can help prevent injury, and helps maintain cardiovascular health, reduce obesity or maintain a reasonable weight,” says Dr. Wanda Gordon-Evans, Associate Professor at the College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul.

If that’s not enough to lure your canine companion off the sofa, then this is something to consider. Daily exercise can strengthen your relationship and increase your dog’s need for routine, says Dr. Robin Downing, Hospital Director of the Downing Center for Animal Pain Management in Windsor, Colorado. “One of the reasons dogs and humans get along so well is that we both appreciate the structure in our respective worlds. Regular exercise provides a daily predictability that dogs really appreciate, simply because it’s their nature.”

However, this is not an invitation to overwork your dog. “One misconception I sometimes encounter is that if a dog is overweight or obese, the owner must suddenly burst into a rigorous exercise regimen for the dog,” says Downing. “Should that happen, there is a real risk of joint injuries, back injuries, shortness of breath or cardiovascular problems. Heatstroke is a big problem (and often fatal) for obese dogs that are over-exercised.”

Moderation is the key. “Most of the time it’s not the amount of time it takes to complete the task, it’s the intensity and impact of the activity,” explains Gordon-Evans. “Walking causes much less stress in a dog with heart disease than running, jumping, or playing hard.”

If you’re starting your dog on an exercise program or just want to make sure your current one is sensible, read on to learn about some signs of overexertion. Experts emphasize the importance of working with your dog’s veterinarian to create a customized exercise plan—particularly if your dog has medical conditions, is old or young, or is a breed that doesn’t tolerate intense exercise very well.

Wear on paw pads

For some dogs, play is more important than aching feet, says Dr. Susan Jeffrey, veterinarian at Truesdell Animal Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin. “Some dogs will run until the pads of their paws snap, then run some more.”

Pad injuries can be extremely painful, says Downing, who is licensed in veterinary sports medicine and rehabilitation and pain management. It’s “like walking on a burst blister on the sole of your foot.” Dogs can’t get off their feet as easily as we can, “which makes walking an ordeal.”

Look at the underside of your dog’s paws. Reworked pads may have cracks with skin flaps visible, may appear red, worn, or thinner than normal. If infected, you may see swelling or pus. “Think of concrete like sandpaper. It can damage the heels of a running, spinning, jumping dog,” says Jeffrey, whose professional interests include preventative care.

Sudden stops can also cause paw pad injuries “if the sliding stop is performed often enough to wear down the hard outer layer of the pad,” says Gordon-Evans, who is board certified in veterinary surgery and veterinary sports medicine and rehabilitation.

Muscle cramp

Muscle pain and stiffness are another sign your dog may be getting too much exercise, Downing says. “This usually shows up after the dog rests from excessive exercise. When the dog is ready to get up, the owner may notice a struggle. The dog may refuse to go up or down stairs, may refuse the next meal because it hurts to reach for the food bowl on the floor. She can even scream when she moves for the first time.”

At worst, Downing says, a dog can develop exertional rhabdomyolysis, a condition in which muscle tissue breaks down. “When the muscle dies, it causes excruciating and generalized pain. The breakdown products, in turn, can lead to kidney damage or failure.”

You can help reduce pain and stiffness (and other injuries) by checking out Weekend Warrior Syndrome, says Jen Pascucci, a rehabilitation therapist at Haven Lake Animal Hospital in Milford, Delaware. “Many owners work all week and try to squeeze a week of exercise into two days off. This is not good for the dog as they are not normally properly conditioned but for playtime and owner time warning muscle and joint pain and fatigue will set in.”

Some dogs have such a strong urge to work and play that they endure severe fatigue and possible injury, says Pascucci, who is also a licensed veterinary technician. “That is the real danger. It is up to the owner to set boundaries and limit the impulsive dog to avoid injury and exhaustion from overexertion.”

heat sickness

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are a concern, especially during the warmer months when dogs can overheat, says Jeffrey. “If the body temperature rises above 106 degrees, it can be life-threatening. In addition to causing potentially life-threatening hyperthermia, dogs can become dehydrated or have difficulty breathing.”

Brachycephalic breeds — which include short-nosed dogs like bulldogs, pugs, Pekingese, boxers and shih tzus — are at even greater risk because they can’t cool down as efficiently as others, says Dr. David Wohlstadter, veterinarian at BluePearl Veterinary Partners in Queens, New York. “I would never take a French bulldog or a bulldog on a run, I think that’s a terrible idea.” But he saw it. “Just because your dog really, really wants it doesn’t mean it’s safe for him,” he adds.

Your dog’s age also plays a role, Jeffrey says. “Very young and old dogs have trouble regulating their body temperature, so too much exercise can also lead to overheating.”

joint injury

The effects associated with extreme exercise can lead to strains and sprains in various joints in the dog. Toe joints are particularly vulnerable, but the wrist and elbow are also at risk, Downing says. “Dogs carry about 60 percent of their weight on their front legs, which puts quite a strain on those joints. In dogs with very straight hind legs, excessive exercise can lead to problems in the knee joints, including strains, sprains, torn meniscus and cranial cruciate ligament tears.”

Some dogs are at a higher risk of developing joint injuries. Breeds that are long and low to the ground — like Basset Hounds, Dachshunds, and Pekingese — have unusually shaped joints, she adds, “which puts their limbs at risk for minor injuries from excessive movement.” Back problems are also common in these breeds.

When an older dog suffers from osteoarthritis, overexertion can cause immediate pain and even accelerate the progressive degeneration of the joint tissue.

Young puppies (especially large and giant breeds) need some exercise, “but not too much as that can lead to joint problems later in life,” says Jeffrey.

A dog that has sustained a leg injury may limp or prefer one leg over the other, says Wohlstadter, who is certified in canine rehabilitation. “Dogs sometimes lower their heads when walking on the good leg and raise their heads when walking on the bad leg.”

behavior changes

Also watch out for changes in behavior. For example, “If your dog normally enjoys running with you but flops down on the sidewalk and refuses to go any further, you might want to check this out with your GP,” says Wohlstadter.

Inconsistent conditioning can contribute to this and injury, Pascucci says. “An hour of off-leash play doesn’t mean an hour of exercise. Most dogs have bursts of activity and then rest when off the leash and left to their own devices. Being free to roam and play in the yard five days a week and then be expected to one day jog 10 miles with your owner is a recipe for injury.”

She says a good conditioning plan for active pet parents and their dogs is to alternate days of cardio (consistent exercise for 20 minutes or more) and strengthening with a full day of rest, which is a day off with no planned activities.

Dogs need exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being, but the kind they should get depends on their condition, health history, breed, and age. “Some dogs are built for heavy exercise, some aren’t,” says Jeffrey. “Hunting and working dogs have more endurance than the brachycephalic breeds. The hunting and working dogs can train much longer before showing signs of fatigue.”

It’s good to know the signs that your dog is overworking, but it’s even better to prevent problems – and the best way to do that is to work with your veterinarian to put together a sensible training schedule for your best friend.

Read more: 6 signs your dog isn’t getting enough exercise

Why is your dog limping and what can you do about it?

Fall always seems to be a perfect time of year for outdoor walks – the weather is clear, there’s still some sunshine and there are plenty of leaves for your dog to roam around in.

So, you lace up, grab the leash and then… wait, what? Why is the dog limping?

The reasons a dog might limp are numerous and vary in severity. Some cases resolve with a few days of rest, while others require veterinary intervention to improve.

Here we discuss some of the root causes, diagnostic steps, and treatments vets use to get you and your partner back on track.

Possible causes of dogs limping

overexertion

Dogs can experience muscle and joint pain just like their human counterparts, especially after a session of more than usual exercise. Usually, dogs with this type of limp are only mild and they will recover from their pain within a few days.

trauma

Trauma in this case can include anything from an insect bite or sting to a soft tissue injury to a broken bone.

A common soft tissue injury in dogs is a cruciate ligament tear. This injury is common in large breed dogs and typically occurs suddenly, often after a slip or a “weird landing,” and the patient is frequently unwilling to put weight on the affected hind leg. A physical exam and X-ray findings can help diagnose this problem, and surgery is usually required to achieve the best possible recovery of function.

Paw foreign body or laceration

Walking around on their bare feet all day, it’s no wonder dogs can get thorns, burrs, glass or stones in their paws. Certain plant matter, such as sods or foxtails, can pierce the skin and fester, causing swelling or an abscess. This may require poking and exploring a way to remove. Lameness in this case can occur in either leg and can appear as a mild to severe limp in the dog, depending on the foreign object.

toenail injury

It’s important to trim your dog’s nails well to prevent toenail injuries. Cracked or broken toenails are common and can be very painful. Some may require veterinary care, bandages, and pain control, while others will heal over time. A dog’s limp due to a toenail injury can occur in any leg and can range from mild to severe.

Flammable

Panosteitis (wandering lameness or growing pains)

This condition typically affects adolescent large breed puppies aged 5-12 months. Pain and lameness are variable in panosteitis and tend to move from one limb to the other over several weeks or months. The symptoms of this condition usually disappear by the age of 20 months.

arthrosis

Arthritis can affect dogs of any age but is most common as an age-related change in older dogs. As dogs age, their musculoskeletal system naturally weakens and joints begin to break down or develop irregular surfaces. Canine limping due to arthritis is usually slowly progressive or intermittent and can be mild or severe.

Congenital or developmental

These conditions are more likely to occur in younger patients and may be related to defects in the way bones and joints form. One of these problems is dysplasia, an inherited condition that causes the joint to loosen and slip. Hips and elbows are most commonly affected by dysplasia.

Another condition called osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) occurs when diseased cartilage at the end of the bone separates from the underlying bone. It most commonly affects the shoulder, elbow, hip, or knee (knee) joints. This is a developmental disease that occurs in fast-growing medium to large breed dogs, typically between 6 and 9 months of age. It can also be more common in male dogs.

The affected joint may be swollen and warm to the touch, and the dog may cry out if the joint is manipulated. A dog with OCD limping may be slight and intermittent, or it may result in constant severe pain where the dog avoids putting weight on the affected leg. Limiting the dietary intake of calcium reduces the occurrence of this condition and other orthopedic developmental conditions.

Luxating patella (dislocated knee)

A luxating patella occurs when a dog’s kneecap moves out of its natural position. Lameness can be constant or occasional, mild to moderate, or severe with the dog being completely unwilling to bear any weight. Many small dogs live with this condition, which never leads to arthritis, pain, or interferes with the dog’s life. In other cases, however, surgical treatment is required. The condition is hereditary and breeds such as Yorkshire Terriers and many toy breeds are predisposed. A dislocated knee can also be caused by external trauma.

infection

Infections that cause the dog to limp can be superficial, as in the case of wounds. They can also be in the bones or joints themselves, or even systemic, as in the case of Lyme disease, which occurs after tick bites. When infected, the severity of a dog’s limping will vary, but early detection and treatment offers the best chance of improvement and prevention of complications.

neurogenic

Some spinal cord problems, such as B. those that occur after a bulging or ruptured disc can cause the dog to limp and/or lose feeling in one or more legs. In addition, conditions such as diabetes can lead to peripheral neuropathies or pain and numbness in the extremities. Finally, degenerative myelopathy is a progressive disease of the spinal cord that occurs in older dogs. Initial symptoms include weakness and limping in the dog, but the disease can eventually lead to paralysis.

neoplastic

Soft tissue tumors in the limbs or glands can cause the dog to limp to varying degrees. Bone cancer, which is particularly common in larger breeds, can grow quickly and cause moderate to severe pain and limping.

Diagnosing your dog’s limp

To determine the most appropriate diagnostic steps, veterinarians take a thorough medical history, considering age, breed, activity level, and time frame for the onset of the limp. Your veterinarian may ask when you noticed the dog was lame. Was it sudden? Did the limp start slowly and stay the same, or has it gotten worse over time?

Certain diseases are also more common in older animals, while others are more common in young, growing animals. Certain races, body types, and activities are also correlated with certain types of lameness.

A physical exam follows, during which the patient’s gait is assessed and the joints are subjected to a series of flexions and extensions, noting any limitation or restriction of movement, abnormal consistency or “crunch” in the joint, and any pain response. The vet may put weight on a joint and then ask the owner to jog the dog to try to locate the dog’s limp. If necessary, x-rays can be taken to assess the skeleton.

For certain problems, especially those for which a cause is not readily apparent, your regular veterinarian may recommend that you have your pet checked out by a specialist such as an orthopedist or neurologist.

Treatments for Lameness

Many dog ​​hobble issues can be addressed with adequate rest, pain control, and anti-inflammatory therapies, while other situations require surgical correction. Whether medical or surgical therapies are used, many pets also benefit from acupuncture, physical therapy, or oral joint supplementation (glucosamine).

Another potential treatment is injectable polysulfated glycosaminoglycans, which have been shown in the laboratory to inhibit the enzymes that break down cartilage and bone, suppress inflammation, and stimulate the synthesis of replacement cartilage.

Rest

The importance of adequate rest for a limping dog cannot be overstated. “Reasonable rest” includes crate or very small space constraint. Putting up an enclosure or baby gate can also work to limit space.

The pet should be housed on a non-slip floor with sufficiently soft bedding and should only be let out of the room on a leash for toilet breaks. Accordingly, the pet should not be allowed to run, jump, frolic, or make sudden movements.

The recommended rest period varies from a few weeks to a few months depending on the injury and is at the discretion of your veterinarian. If you are having trouble keeping your pet calm or calm in these instances, tranquilizers may be prescribed. You can also try DAP (Dog Appeasing Pheromone), which can be bought online without a prescription.

Get help from a mobile vet

As with most physical illnesses experienced by a dog, it is best to contact your veterinarian if you notice your dog limping. Vet’s Here mobile veterinary clinic can perform examinations, necessary X-rays or diagnoses and advise you on the appropriate course of treatment, all from the comfort of your own home. If your dog is limping, contact Vet’s Here today so we can help get your furry friend back on four legs.

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There are already a lot of things to consider if you want to stay healthy and happy in the woods, from staying hydrated properly to treating blisters or other foot problems to responding to unexpected emergencies, big or small.

The Ultimate Adventure Companion Everything you need to know to go wild with man’s best friend.

And while those of us who own dogs love to take them with us — a boisterous dog adds an element of joy to any hike, ski, or other outdoor adventure — an energetic companion also means you’re taking care of one along the way other beings have to take care of.

Dogs love to run, frolic, and play, and they’re not known for their ability to predict consequences. If your dog spots another animal — a squirrel, skunk porcupine, or even a moose — he’ll likely try to engage unless you have him on a leash or under excellent voice control.

If you take your dog out into the woods often enough, they will eventually injure themselves. Dogs can’t take care of themselves other than quickly lick a wound, so you need to be prepared to handle injuries and emergencies in the field.

“Prevention and preparedness should be your driving principles,” says Vermont-based veterinarian Rachel Brodlie. “Before you go, make sure your dog is ready for the adventure. If he’s older, arthritic, or just out of shape, embark on smaller adventures. And do you know what’s ‘normal’ for your dog”—his bumps, bumps and quirks. Brodlie says you should always be sure your dog has the correct identification – a sturdy collar with tags and/or a microchip. A current rabies vaccine is essential for your dog’s safety, your safety and your vet’s safety (rabies is deadly), as well as for routine flea, tick and heartworm prevention.

“If you think something is wrong with your dog but aren’t sure what it is, do a quick snout-to-tail examination. You can diagnose most problems if you take the time to look closely,” says Randy Acker, author of Field Guide to Dog First Aid: Emergency Care for the Hunting, Working, and Outdoor Dog. “And whatever you do, don’t panic. It won’t help you or your dog.”

Here we’ve rounded up 10 of the most common dog injuries and how to treat them on the spot. (Note: If your dog is in severe pain or your treatment is going to hurt, bring your snout out. Even the most loving of companions can bite when injured.)

PORCUPINE BRISTLES

Using pliers, grasp the spring as close to your dog’s skin as possible and pull. Don’t wiggle or rock a feather or other foreign object you want to remove from your dog. Wrap your fingers around the base of the spring and hold the skin taut to create leverage. Look for spines on your dog’s palate, under the tongue, and around the teeth. Tighten your dog’s mouth so that it cannot bite. If your dog doesn’t have spikes in its mouth, muzzle it with a piece of webbing or a leash. Dogs in pain will often bite, even someone they know well and even if you try to help. Clean the places where you removed spines with alcohol or iodine. If the dog is in excessive discomfort, administer a pain reliever prescribed by or discussed with your vet beforehand.

CUT PAD OR FOREIGN OBJECT IN FOOT

Quickly and firmly remove a thorn, broken glass, or other foreign object in the foot. Clean the wound with an antiseptic and apply antibiotic ointment, then bandage and dress the foot. Because dogs don’t have thumbs, it can be difficult to get a bandage to stay on. Press down on the bottom of the foot and wrap a gauzy bandage from the ankle above the ankle to the pad and then back the leg. If you wrap too tightly, you cut off blood flow and your dog’s foot will swell. Place white tape over the bandages for extra durability.

BLEEDING OR SERIOUSLY BROKEN NAIL

Apply a styptic stick to the wound to stop the bleeding. Use Leatherman or other pliers to pry off a hanging nail. Grab the end of the nail, being careful not to grab the soft string that is the inside of a dog’s nail, and pull straight, fast, and tight.

WATER-TRANSMITTED DISEASE

Despite drinking from puddles all the time, it can cause diarrhea and/or vomiting in dogs if they carry the same nausea that makes humans sick, such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium. Keep your pet as hydrated as possible. Add an electrolyte solution with no natural or synthetic sugars like Elete or Pedialyte to your dog’s water, and add white rice to your dog’s food if you have it with you. Collect a fecal sample and take it with your dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible. blue-green algae, which often look like foam; Scum; or mats of red, green, or brown algae that smell musty or putrid can cause a rash. Wash your dog if he swims in it, and if he or she shows any signs of illness, seek medical attention immediately. Algae can be toxic to the kidneys, liver, intestines and nervous system of dogs.

FOREIGN BODY IN THE EYE OR EAR

If your dog is blinking excessively or rubbing his eyes or ears with his paws, he may have something stuck that needs to be removed. If the object is superficial — on the surface of the eye but not in the cornea or the outer ear where you can see it — remove the intruder with forceps or tweezers, being careful not to cause additional damage. Flush the eye with saline solution. If you don’t see anything in your dog’s ear, don’t dig around. It may have an infection and need antibiotics. Do not remove foreign objects buried deep in your pet’s eye – take your dog to a veterinarian.

BARBED WIRE OR OTHER HEAVY CUT

Try to stop the bleeding with pressure, clean the wound with an antiseptic and antibiotic ointment, and wrap the wound with a bandage or tape or staple it shut. If your dog is at risk of excessive blood loss, use a torn portion of a t-shirt, bandage, or whatever else you have handy to tie a tourniquet an inch above the wound. Insert a small stick, pen, or other straight, narrow object into the fabric loop and twist tight. Wrap the stick around the leg with tape or an ace bandage. Loosen the tourniquet for a minute or two every 15 minutes to allow blood flow to the limb and get your dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible.

PULLING INJURY

Remove an object you are sure is near the surface by pulling it out the way it went. But never pull out a stick that’s protruding deep from your dog’s chest, abdomen, or anywhere else – removing it can do more harm than penetrating it. If a stick is buried in your dog, grasp the stick, saw it off to prevent further damage, keep your dog as calm and composed as possible, and consult a veterinarian.

FALL TRAUMA (FRACTURES, TREATMENTS)

Tie sprains with an ace bandage in the figure-eight pattern described above with an ace bandage, but not so tight that your dog’s paw gets cold or swollen. Stabilize any obvious fractures with a splint or stick and take your dog to the vet while keeping him as calm and composed as possible. Broken limbs swell. Sprains don’t, and they generally don’t feel tender.

HEAT EXHAUSTION/OVERVOLTAGE

Treat like an overworked human, with rest, fluids, shade, and energy foods like dog treats or molasses, which are safe for dogs and often used for hounds.

ALLERGIC REACTIONS (RASH, SWELLING, HOT SPOTS)

Administer Benadryl orally, about 2 mg per pound every eight hours for allergic swelling. For localized reactions such as a rash, wash the affected area and apply calamine lotion or steroid cream.

The July 15, 2012 issue of the Journal of American Veterinary Medical Association provided new guidelines for canine CPR. If your dog has stopped breathing and you can’t find a pulse, perform mouth-to-beak resuscitation, maintaining a ratio of 30 compressions to two breaths every two minutes. Note that CPR on pets doesn’t work as well as CPR on humans. In a hospital scenario, about 20 percent of human patients respond to CPR, and about six percent of pets respond.

Today is National Walk Your Dog Day, but instead of focusing on the benefits of walking your dog, I want to focus, perhaps controversially, on why I believe in rest days. We all understand the positive effects of regular dog walks: the health benefits for you and your dog (both physical and mental); an opportunity to bond with your dog through new experiences and training; and of course the social interactions that walks can provide.

For most dogs, even the most sociable and laid-back dogs, getting out into the world can be an exhilarating experience. This may be due to the excitement of playing with other dogs, the overwhelming sniffing opportunities, new experiences, or the physical exercise involved. But for some dogs, this level of arousal can be harmful. Perhaps your dog has had negative experiences in the past? It might have been attacked by another dog, frightened by a loud noise, or previously walked on an aversive piece of equipment such as a choke chain or spiked collar. Perhaps you have a young pup who finds the world a little overwhelming in terms of the new experiences he has to process on a daily basis. All of these situations can mean that your dog is exposed to unhealthy stress while being walked.

Known as the “fight-or-flight” hormone, adrenaline is the main hormone responsible for the immediate response we feel when we’re stressed. After adrenaline, cortisol, known as the “stress hormone,” is produced a little later and likely stays in your dog’s body much longer. While adrenaline gives you the energy and focused attention to deal with the stressful situation, cortisol controls bodily functions like blood pressure to ensure you are up to the task. While a natural amount of cortisol is needed by the body, producing too much cortisol on a regular basis can have negative effects on your dog. Too much can lead to digestive problems, a weakened immune system, skin problems and pancreatitis, among other things. The more cortisol there is in the dog’s system, the more likely he is to be jittery and reactive. It becomes a vicious circle. So how do we ensure our dogs don’t have an excess of cortisol in their system?

rest days!

A rest day is free of walks – no interaction with the outside world. It allows our dogs to relax and have a peaceful experience for a day. This in turn means that no more cortisol is produced and the levels already present are depleted. Think of it as a stress detox for your dog’s emotional well-being, if you will.

When I suggest rest days (and often a “rest week”) to clients, I’m met with “but I can’t walk my dog.” This is usually because the dog’s only source of interaction, aside from cuddling, is going for a walk during the day. I’m not suggesting your dog do nothing for a whole day. Most puppies and adult dogs need at least some form of physical or mental stimulation to ensure we don’t end up with boredom and the problems that can come with it. But what we can do is replace their walks in the world with exercise, sniffing, chewing, or indoor playtime. A rest day is often beneficial to the human-canine bond as you are more likely to focus on your time together rather than doing the “duty” of a dog walk.

Some ideas of what to do with your dog on rest days are:

Scent games in the garden – toss their meals in the grass for them to forage, or hide high-value treats for them to forage

feed meals out of Kongs, puzzle toys, or make a sniff box out of some cardboard and crumpled paper (hide their food between layers)

teach your puppy or dog a new trick

Practice callbacks around the house, build up the difficulty by hiding behind the sofa or in a closet

Give your dog a bone, root chew, or stuffed frozen kong for a nice comforting chew treat

Play with your dog – get out a tug toy and have some energetic play while practicing some ‘drops’ at the same time

sleep! most dogs can’t get enough of it (think 18-20 hours/day for a puppy, 12-16 hours for adult dogs)

We know our dogs need exercise to stay healthy.

We also know that the rewarding sniffing opportunities dogs experience while walking cannot simply be replicated in the garden.

But if we don’t want to force our dogs to experience negative stress and this excessive production of cortisol, we need to understand the importance of rest days.

So consider building a rest day into your dog’s week and enjoy a calmer dog.

Walks are an important part of a dog’s life. They provide mental stimulation, movement and social contact. Most dogs love them and they can be a wonderful part of our day.

That being said, it’s not necessary to go for a walk every day.

Many groomers feel like they are letting their dogs down if they skip a daily walk. In fact, it’s usually nothing to worry about, and sometimes it’s just what your dog needs!

Sometimes a dog cannot go for a walk due to health reasons. Whether it’s an injury or an upset stomach, a day or more of rest is often required.

Why Do Dogs Go Crazy After a Bath?

Does Your Dog Go Crazy After a Bath? Then you are certainly not alone.

I haven’t found a dog owner who hasn’t seen their dog frantically running and rolling around right after bath time. What constitutes those post-bath moments that drive our dogs crazy? Why Do Dogs Go Crazy and Get the Zoomies After a Bath?

Why Do Dogs Go Crazy After a Bath?

Why exactly do dogs go crazy after a bath in the first place? You know what I mean when I say crazy, right? That post-bath craziness that has your dog running all over the house—that excitement our dogs get when they finally get out of the bath. They seem to experience some sort of temporary insanity once released. It’s usually quite endearing; it always puts a smile on my face when I see my dog ​​experience boundless joy.

Some call it the zoomies, some call it the cracks, and some pros way smarter than me call it by the scientific term FRAPS (frantic random activity periods).

Most dogs don’t like the bath, and one of the main reasons dogs go crazy after the bath is because they’re relieved that it’s finally over. Flicking around with the Zoomies is a quick way to release all that pent-up energy and shows how relieved they are that bath time is finally over.

Post Bath Zoomies are more than just relief

But relief isn’t the only reason dogs go mad after a bath. The most common reasons dogs go crazy after a bath are:

Relief that bath time is over

You get your own scent back

They try to dry off

They release pent-up energy

They are trying to get rid of water in their ears

Dogs show relief that the bath is over

Even if you have a water-loving Lab, chances are he’s not particularly fond of bath time. There’s something about bath time that makes most dogs pout. My dog ​​Laika loves lakes, rivers, streams, mud and the sprinkler – she loves the water except when it comes to taking a bath. I make it as easy and reassuring as possible for her and yet she still gives me the sad doggie look.

Many dogs feel self-conscious and stressed when bathing. They may tolerate it, but it’s not something they would like to do. When they can finally jump out of that tub, it’s like experiencing pure freedom. No longer held back by you (their evil shampoo-wielding owner), they are free, and with that feeling comes excitement.

Imagine you’ve just done something you were afraid of – whether it’s skydiving or riding that scary elevator at work that always breaks – when you’re done you often feel a rush of adrenaline. It’s a rush of excitement – if you can overcome that, you can do anything.

Many people speculate that dogs experience a similar level of excitement and high once they are released from the tub. It could be the pent up nervous energy or it could just be a sense of freedom. Whatever it is, the end result is usually the same; Zoomies without limits.

Dogs try to regain their own scent after a bath

You might love the smell of your dog’s shampoo, but Fido probably isn’t that keen on it. Dogs’ sense of smell is much better than ours – at least 10,000 times sharper than a human’s.

After your dog has been bathed, he’ll be surrounded by a whole new scent – one he may not be happy with. Dogs love to roll in all kinds of gross stuff, and dogs certainly don’t mind smelling like dogs.

Dogs covering their scent with dirt, carcasses and feces is natural and helped their ancestors to sneak up on prey for thousands of years. It is called scent rolls and is also used by wolves to pass information back to the pack. It’s an easy way to say to everyone, “Hey look where I’ve been” or “Hey look at this awesome gnarly thing I found and rolled around in it.”

Rolling around and rubbing on anything in the house is a quick way for dogs to get some of their distinctive smell back after a bath. After all, it took them a while to come up with such a unique fragrance and they just undid their hard work. I mean, I know I love the smell of oatmeal shampoo more than dirt, but my dog ​​disagrees.

All that zooming after a bath helps dry them off

Unless you use a professional dryer, chances are your dog will still be damp after a bath, even after using six or seven towels. And yes, I’m sure you, like me, have been victims of dog shakes many times. I see this as her own form of justice, and I’m sure it’s often well deserved.

If your dog is let loose after a bath, you can watch him roll over on the floor. It’s just another way for dogs to dry off. After my dog ​​bathes, she runs around the house and starts rubbing her body on the furniture. She also does it when she comes out of the rain and it’s just a way for her to help dry off.

Although dogs might try to dry themselves off after a swim, I’ve never seen my dog ​​get the zoomies after an outdoor swim.

Dogs release pent-up energy after a bath

Many dogs can tolerate baths, although they probably don’t love them. They trust us quite well and sit still throughout the ordeal, although bath time is stressful for many dogs.

When you find yourself in a stressful situation, your thoughts don’t stop – you just wait for it to be over. Your body may want to flee and yet you have to tell your brain to stay; this can lead to a lot of pent-up energy. Well, our dogs do the same thing, and that helps explain why they go crazy after a bath.

Dogs also have nervous energy that builds up, and bath time is a common trigger. And once that stressful bath is over, you’ll see it released. Once they are finally free from the tub, they often exhibit the “zoomies” or “FRAPS” ​​(frantic random activity periods). My dog ​​starts rushing around as soon as she comes out of the bath and it’s quite fun to see her get all that energy out of herself by running around in circles.

Dogs love a good massage or snuggle – but most don’t like bathing, even if they love the water. They love your attention but hate the tub – so what do they do?

Not only does my dog ​​Laika get a crazy case of zoomies after every bath, she gets all dizzy and agitated. She gives me the toy bow and brings me her favorite toy. All this overly playful and hyperactive behavior has me wondering if post-bath time is the perfect time to release all that pent-up energy.

Dogs can get water in their ears after a bath

Another reason dogs go crazy after a bath is that they may be trying to get rid of water in their ears. If your dog buries his head in towels or on the carpet after his bath, he may be trying to get rid of some of that water.

When my dog ​​Laika comes out of the rain, she often rubs her head on furniture or anything dry she can find. Because their ears are erect, they tend to get a lot of water in. If she’s obviously bothered by it, I take a dry towel and gently pat her on the inside of her ears.

Does Your Dog Go Crazy After a Bath?

Laika gets mad after every bath, no matter how short and sweet we make it, those post-bath zoomies remain constant. It’s so pleasant to see her whipping around the house like a madman afterwards. Seeing this amount of pure joy and excitement always puts a smile on my face.

How about your dog? Does Your Dog Go Crazy After a Bath? Does Your Dog Go Crazy After Getting Wet? Does your dog get the zoomies and run around the house like a maniac after bathing?

How long should I walk my dog? This is a common question, especially from new dog owners. The answer to this is not a one-response-fits-all solution as it depends on many factors. For example, the dog’s size and age, and even its fitness level will help you determine how long you should walk your dog.

There are some vet recommended guidelines for how long you should walk your dog that you can use as a basic guide. However, it is usually best to adapt this advice to your dog’s individual needs. Some dogs just have more energy to burn than others. As a basic guideline, a minimum of 30 minutes per day is usually recommended for a medium-sized adult dog. Smaller and older dogs often need less exercise, and larger or more energetic dogs can often go for much longer walks. While 45 minutes or more is ideal, a 30-minute walk is usually an achievable goal for most dog owners and will help keep your dog fit and balanced.

A 15-minute walk is recommended for puppies until they are fully grown so they don’t damage their joints from long walks. For older dogs or dogs with health issues, it’s best to check with your veterinarian to make sure your dog doesn’t have arthritis or other conditions that can make walking painful. In this case, reduce the walks to a time that your dog can enjoy without pain.

It’s best to gauge how your dog is feeling over the length of the walk by observing their reaction. If he’s energetic, you’ll notice he enjoys the walk and can easily keep up with you. A less active dog may walk more slowly and need frequent rest periods.

Walking is an important part of every dog’s life. Dogs that are walked regularly are given the opportunity to interact with new environments, sights, smells and sounds. Regular walks also provide dogs with an opportunity to socialize with other dogs, making them calmer, happier, and healthier than dogs with limited access to exercise. Also, don’t forget to take water with you if you’re walking long distances to ensure your dog stays well hydrated.

The Move Your Doggie staff are your partner in animal education. We offer our clients dog walking services in Whitby and Oshawa in 15, 30, 45 and 60 minute durations. Book your walks with us today so your dog gets the socialization, interaction and exercise they deserve.

Please don’t hesitate to post any questions or comments about walking your dog below. You can also leave us a message on our contact page to book your free meet and greet.