Dog Skin Yeast Infection – List of Best Treatments

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January 17, 2026

A dog skin yeast infection can easily be detected by simply looking at your pet’s behavior. Had he or she been scratching like mad for the past few days or had you noticed any black spots or markings in their belly or other parts of the skin which were not there previously? Had they been smelling a bit pungent and musty over the past few days?

If so, then chances are your pet is suffering from a yeast infection which can also be an indication that they are suffering from an underlying medical condition. It is important to address it early on so as to avoid any further complications.

Yeast infections are one of the most prevalent yet often neglected skin conditions that a dog can have especially during the early stages. They are often treated as mild skin infections that will just clear up after a matter of days. The problem though lies in the fact that yeast infections can spread very easily if not treated early on and when this happens, it can damage your dog’s skin and health in a way which cannot be reversed by future treatments.Curing this condition at the outset will help not only to stop the spread of the fungus but will also greatly improve your pet’s health as well.

What is skin yeast infection?

To better understand what this condition is, we first need to know what causes it. A skin yeast infection in dogs is often caused by a fungus known as Malassezia pachydermatis. Under normal conditions, this fungus does not present any problem for the dog and it remains in its yeast form as its growth is checked by the natural acidity of the dog’s skin.

When an underlying medical condition or when external conditions have changed the dog’s skin pH level making it more alkaline, it spreads by producing spores that penetrate the skin where it obtains its nutrition. At this stage, the yeast had become a pathogen which is capable of destroying the skin and producing toxins which can affect your dog’s health.

Another possible cause of a skin yeast infection is Candida Albicans which is a type of fungus normally found in the dog’s gut. When the internal balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut is thrown into disorder, it can reproduce and spread throughout the body by entering the bloodstream.

One of the ways in which this is manifested is through skin infections and it can be a very serious condition since this can only mean that the fungus may also have spread to the various organs in the body. Since an average person cannot easily tell which of the two is the cause of the infection it is always a good idea to bring your pet to a veterinarian.

How do you spot a yeast skin infection?

As a general rule, taking your pet to a vet is always the best way to determine if your dog has a yeast infection but there are also ways in which you, as the owner, can tell if they are having a bout of this infection or not.

Remember though that you always have to get professional advice before trying to treat your dog for this type of infection. Here are some of its common symptoms:

Redness and itching in the ears accompanied by a foul smell – One of the areas where Malassezia is commonly found in dogs is inside their ears so when you see your pet persistently scratching them, then it may be infected by yeast. You will also be able to see some sort of whitish to yellowish discharge which has a musty smell. This does not mean though that all skin itchiness is brought about by yeast. Foreign objects, insects, and insect bites can also trigger this type of reaction.
Oily skin and “dandruff” – If your dog does not naturally have oily skin and he presently has developed one, then chances are that they are already infected with yeast. When the skin becomes overpopulated with yeast, one of the skin’s immediate reactions is to produce oil in excessive amounts. The overproduction of sebaceous oils in turn, causes the yeast to thrive and produce some sort of “dandruff.”
Thick, dark and scaly skin – A dog that has been seriously infected with skin yeast will have a dark or pigmented patch of skin which can either be scaly or thick. This is due to the actions of the mycelial forms of the fungus which had spread and produced root-like spores on the skin. The skin will also give off an unpleasant smell which is yeast-like or pungent and musty.
Infection of skin folds – Since yeast thrives on humid areas, they can most likely be found on skin folds where moisture can gather and be retained. Some of these areas include the areas between the toes, the rectal area, the neck, the snout in some breeds, and the vagina. If you see your dog is often butt-scooting, chances are they are yeast infected in the rectal area. You may also see abnormal vaginal discharges if your dog is a female.
Changes in your pet’s behavior – If the yeast has gone into the bloodstream, your dog may also exhibit some behavioral symptoms. These include loss of appetite, aggression, anxiety, and depression.

What causes this type of infection?

As we have already learned, skin yeast infection is brought about by the uncontrolled growth of fungus in your dog’s skin. What we are going to discuss here are the circumstances which allows for this “uncontrolled growth” which is unhealthy for your dog.

There are different reasons why fungus can multiply without warning and sometimes, the owner can unwittingly trigger those actions. It is therefore important to learn how you can also contribute to your pet’s skin infection so you can avoid them.

Here are some reasons why Malassezia and Candida can easily spread and infect your pet’s skin:

Too much carbohydrate in the diet. Carbohydrates are a fungus’ source of nourishment and so, over-feeding your dog with them will help the yeast to thrive and grow. Not only that, a diet rich in carbohydrates can also alter your dog’s skin pH level by alkalinizing it and thus lessening their resistance to yeast.
Insufficient nutrition. Your dog’s immune system is what keeps yeast in check and in order to function normally they need specific nutrients to be present in your dog’s diet. This includes protein, vitamins, and minerals without which your dog would be unable to produce the antibodies that they need.
Frequent bathing and shampooing that lower their skin’s pH level. Although it is good to have your dog smelling fresh and clean, it is not a good idea to strip them of their natural pH levels by giving them a dog bath every day. Water is more alkaline than acidic and there are also dog shampoos which lower the natural acidity of a dog’s skin.
Antibiotics kill the good or beneficial bacteria in your dog’s gut which keeps yeast growth in check. Antibiotics also weaken or even totally eradicate the phagocytic actions of the white blood cells which guard the body against infections. More often than not, treating a dog bacterial skin infection with antibiotics will lead to a yeast infestation.
Steroids and hormonal changes. Steroids which are used to treat allergies shut down the immune system and this can give free-rein for the yeast to multiply. A study had also shown that yeasts actually thrive or get their nourishment from steroids. Changes in hormonal levels can also trigger yeast infections and this is why you can easily spot them on pregnant, lactating, or older female dogs.
Just like in humans, prolonged stress in dogs can lower their immunity as the body is sent into emergency mode and release hormones that turn off the immune system. Stress also releases a lot of blood sugar into the body which the yeast can then take up and help them spread.
Heavy metals and toxic chemicals. Heavy metals can be found in a variety of food and water sources and these can affect various metabolic processes in the body. For example, oxygen intake by the cells can be blocked by heavy metals and they in turn, can be metabolized by yeasts and release them as toxic compounds which interfere with the immune system. Toxic chemicals are known to affect various aspects of health which includes lowered immunity to diseases.

How is skin yeast infection treated?

A yeast infection on the surface of the skin can be treated by topical solutions, proper diet, and the use of medications. Remember that even though it seems to only affect the surface of the skin, the reality is that it may have progressed to affecting the internal organs as well. Thus, it is important to keep in mind that a holistic approach to treating this condition is often the best way to address it.

Not only will it help prevent the spread of the disease towards other areas on the surface of the skin but it will also strengthen your dog’s overall immunity against the growth of any type of yeast as well.

View your dog as a whole, as an organism which survives through different parts that work in harmony together. When one of these parts is not working properly, then the others will not as well.

External or topical treatments for skin yeast infection include the removal of the oily layer in the skin. This is done either by wipes containing acetic acids; by shampoos containing sulfur, salicylate, or benzoyl peroxide; or by giving your dog an astringent rinse made by combining a gallon of water, a cup of hydrogen peroxide, and a cup of apple cider vinegar.

After the oil has been removed, topical application of ointments containing anti-fungal medications such as Ketoconazole, miconazole, and Nizoral will be done.

If you prefer a more natural approach, you can try herbs that are known to have anti-fungal properties such as aloe vera, taheebo, tea, tea tree oil, garlic, coconut oil, olive leaf extract, calendula, chamomile, and oregano. Another good alternative is colloidal silver which starves the yeast of a specific enzyme and eventually kills the fungus.

A proper diet is also important when it comes to treating yeast infection. One of the best approaches to treating this condition is by starving the yeast of its source of nourishment which is sugar. As much as possible, avoid giving your pet any food which contains simple carbohydrates. These include processed foods, fruits, breads, dog biscuits, kibbles and sweet treats. Since the sugar is readily available, the yeast can easily feed on them and provide them with what they need to propagate.

The next step is to give your dog probiotics to promote the growth of good bacteria. These can come in yogurts or through food supplements. Studies have shown that Lactobacillus acidophilus is the best probiotic that can inhibit yeast growth. Biotin had also been shown to control the development of spores in yeast. Adding digestive enzymes and essential fatty acids to their diet will also aid to control yeast.

When all else fails, giving your dog an anti-fungal oral medication would be the best. The dosage and the type of medication to be used, however, can only be determined by your vet. Do not try to medicate your dog by yourself as an underlying condition can be aggravated by an improper dosage or type of drug used.

Some of the more commonly prescribed medications for yeast infections are Fluconazole, Itraconazole, and oral Ketoconazole. Giving oral medication should also be supplemented by a proper diet and hygiene in order to gain the best results.

How do you keep your dog from getting a yeast infection?

The best way to prevent your dog from acquiring a yeast infection is by removing all the factors that will contribute to its development. Take a look at their immediate environment: what areas in your house are prone to getting molds and mildew?

Check their diet. See if they are consuming large amounts of carbohydrates. By looking at the possible triggers of this condition we will be able to see what you can do to prevent yeast overgrowth from occurring:

Maintain a clean and dry environment inside your home or where your dog sleeps.
Restrict the type and amount of carbohydrates that they eat.
Provide a diet that is sufficient in protein, vitamins, and minerals to develop a strong immune system.
Avoid antibiotics as much as possible. Use natural methods of treating bacterial infections.
Lower the amount of stressors in their environments such as excessive noise, chemicals, and uncomfortable living quarters.
Provide a steady supply of fresh water to help flush out toxic chemicals and bacteria.
Avoid too frequent bathing. Bath your dog about once a month to help maintain their natural acidic skin pH level.

Your dog can develop skin yeast infections if they also come into contact with objects that are infected with the fungus. Avoid having them play in areas where there is a constant amount of moisture that will provide a good breeding ground for the yeast. Clean their feeding and drinking bowls to eliminate any chances of infestation and always keep your dog on good hygiene.

Clean their paws by soaking them in an astringent rinse and then dry them thoroughly afterward. Keeping your trash out of their reach is also very important since it is in these places where fungi are also known to grow predominantly due to decaying matter.

A yeast infection on your dog’s skin can occur in two ways: an overgrowth of either the skin yeast Malassezia or the spread of the Candida Albicans fungus from their gut to the skin. Either way, it means that your pet’s natural resistance which keeps these yeasts in check has already been compromised and is not functioning effectively.

What is needed then is to address the overgrowth of yeast by applying anti-fungal natural and synthetic medications and by building-up their immune system. This means involves a lot of steps which will include maintaining your dog’s cleanliness as well as providing him with the right type of diet and living environment.

One of the key ideas that you need to remember regarding yeast skin infections is a healthy immune system. Yeast is a normal part of your dog’s body and they do have some specific role in maintaining it as well. The problem begins when the immune system malfunctions and fails to regulate yeast growth inside and on the surface of your dog’s body.

To treat it therefore, you must get back to the root cause of the problem and help build up what was broken. Any other method which only tries to address the superficial symptoms will only be temporary and the infection can come back again and again.

Why Is My Dog Limping? – Causes and Treatments

By

Marija Jovanovic

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January 17, 2026

It is not unusual for pets to start limping all of a sudden, however, sometimes such sudden lameness can go away within a week, but sometimes it can be a sign that something is seriously wrong with your dog’s health.

That is why it is important to visit the vet as soon as possible and determine the cause of the lameness. If your dog starts avoiding putting his weight on a limb or you notice that he is not moving as much as before, that means that it is probably because of the limping.

The reason for such lameness can be because of a paw injury which is the most common cause; however, it could even be because of urinary incontinence or spinal cord injury. In any case, you should be prepared beforehand to notice the difference in the behavior because some dogs tend to endure pain which can result in even worse conditions later on.

You know your dog’s habits and behavior the best and it is up to you to see and prevent any pain caused to your beloved furry friend.

This article will provide you with some basic guidance to some of the most common causes and treatments for a dog’s limping and lameness.

Determine the Injured Limb

The first thing that you need to do when you notice your dog limping is to determine how bad it is. That means that you should determine which limb is injured and whether the cause for limping is the injury or it is more serious. Firstly, after noticing something suspicious, watch your dog walk or move around. In that case, a dog would put his weight on the healthy limb while avoiding standing on its injured limb.

You can also identify this by looking at your dog’s head – if his head and neck are more upward, it means that one of the front limbs is injured. But if it is one of the hind limbs, then his hips will drop when he moves and walks.

After you determine the injured limb(s), you must examine it. Check out the toes and the paw. This kind of examination will tell you how the dog responds when applying pressure. Hip injury can be debilitating, so read our article on how to help your pooch with joint impairment to ease his pain.

1. Toes

First you must check the dog’s toenails, because the reason for pain could be a cracking or splitting. Just like with humans, if a nail is split, the exposed sensitive tissue and blood vessels can be very painful.

These cracks or splits usually do not require a vet’s intervention, however, if a toe is broken or if the wound has got infected, then that means that you must go to the vet immediately. You should examine each toe individually and touch or squeeze it so you can see the dog’s reaction.

2. Webbing

Secondly, you must examine the soft skin which connects each toe. That space between toes can stretch and it comes in handy when it comes to swimming, for example.

But it can also get easily sliced up by various sharp objects on the surface such as rocks, thorns etc. A limp should resolve after removing these objects, however, if the cause for limping is some kind of mass, cyst or infection, then going to the vet is a must, because only the vet can inspect it properly.

3. Pads

Each dog has six protective pads on his front paws and five pads on his hind paws. They are usually thicker than the usual dog’s skin; however, they can be easily sliced up and injured, just like the webbing.

Even though these pads are hardened and they consist of keratin, they can easily become too dry; develop warts, get irritated or too hard etc. This means that you should not skip checking them because they can be also a cause for limping.

4. Joints

There are many joints in a dog’s body, however, there are three major joints in the front limb (the wrist, the elbow and the shoulder). The ankle, knee and hip are in the hind legs.

You can check each of these joints by applying a light pressure on them and watching for your dog’s reaction. Increase the pressure to make sure that the joint is okay. You can also examine the joint by lifting the limb and moving it slowly.

5. Bones

Your dog’s body consists of 321 bones. If your dog has got one of them bruised or fractures, that is enough for him to start limping. Look for any signs of swelling, bleeding or deformity. You can examine them in the same way as joints. If you notice anything suspicious, visiting the vet is a must!

If you have not found a cut, sprained ankle, injured paw or anything else that you can treat by yourself, then you are probably dealing with a more serious injury, disease or trauma. This is the point when taking your dog to the vet is a priority.

Other Possible Causes

If there is no sign of minor injuries such as the ones mentioned above, then the cause may be related to your dog’s age. It is not unusual for younger dogs (the ones of less than 18 months of age) to develop sudden lameness due to the congenital conditions. It is also important to make a distinction between an immediate and gradual lameness.

The immediate lameness happens suddenly, and it can range from very simple causes such as the ones mentioned above (cuts, splits, fractures, wounds, splinters etc) or they can happen due to dangerous conditions such as the decay of the discs in the spine. Other causes can be ticks, genetic diseases, allergies, etc.

If your dog develops lameness gradually, that means that the cause is a progressive disease, which is the most dangerous condition. That includes arthritis and cancer. That means that you should react the very first moment you notice something wrong with your pet.

Injury Causes

1. Sprains and strains:

These kinds of injuries are the most common, especially when it comes to active dogs that run and move a lot. As we mentioned before, you can notice the change in behavior when you examine the joints and bones and the way your dog movies his head or hip.

In that case you should apply a wild cloth to the injury, but carefully watch it, and if the dog keeps showing signs of pain, take him to the vet.

2. Paw injuries:

These injuries, also called lacerations, can be very painful and you will know that it is this kind of injury if your dog keeps licking the wound.

If it is not treated, it can become infected which will result in the wound becoming red, warm, and tender. In severe cases, you can notice even pus coming out from the wound. The pain in the paw and limb will worsen too.

3. Bone fractures:

Your doggie can badly hurt his limbs if he gets into an accident, so you should always take care of him and walk him on a leash in urban areas.

Bone fractures are also very common causes in dog limping cases. A bone fracture should be treated only by the vet.

4. Dislocations:

If your dog falls from somewhere or gets hit by a car, a dislocation can happen which results in severe pain that your pet will barely handle.

He probably won’t put any weight on the injured limb and you can even notice a slight deformity caused by the injury. Just like with broken bones, only a vet can treat it, so take you dog immediately to the vet.

5. Ruptured ligament:

A ruptured ligament in the stifle joint or a knee joint is also a common injury that results in a dog limping. This can often happen to young and very active and energetic dogs that jump and move a lot.

A ruptured ligament usually heals after a couple of days of rest; however, it can come back if not treated properly or if the dog starts moving a lot without a rest. Just like humans, it can cause trouble later, so it should not be taken lightly.

6. Spinal cord injuries:

Car accidents, falls or gunshot wounds are the most common causes for a dog limping. Your dog would probably suffer from a lot of pain in his neck and back, and he can even develop urinary problems.

Taking your pet to the vet is a must in this case, because the severity of the injury can turn into something even worse. And you would not want your dog to become paralyzed.

Non-injury Causes

When it comes to non-injury cases, the causes can be various diseases, and most of them are either genetic or too severe, so treatments are needed.

However, it is important to know that the sooner you find out the cause, it will be easier for your dog and you and there is always more hope.

1. Inherited bone and joint diseases:

Young and middle-aged dogs are usually the ones affected by these diseased. They are accompanied by the swelling on the legs and some of the examples of inherited bone and joint diseases are hip dysplasia (which is a common cause of front leg lameness), elbow dysplasia (a common cause of front-leg lameness), and panosteitis («pano» or commonly called wandering lameness because of the pain and lameness shift from one limb to another over the course of several weeks or months.)

2. Degenerative joint disease:

is also called arthritis or osteoarthritis, and this type of joint disease is common in older dogs.

Nowadays there are special medications and drugs that can help dogs and relieve them of pain, but the limping usually gets worse when the dog improves or walks around. Arthritic pain is burdensome, so read our article on this agonizing illness to find out more.

3. Bone tumors:

or osteosarcomas tend to occur more often in large-breed dogs. These tumors are accompanied by firm masses or swelling with or without signs of inflammation. If you press on them, they can cause varying degrees of pain.

Depending on the condition, surgery can save your dog’s life, but sometimes chemotherapy and other treatments are needed. Our complete information on canine bone cancer can add more insight to this condition.

4. Hypothyroidism:

This kind of condition can cause rather severe pain in joints. If your dog is limping, and is also showing some other symptoms typical in hypothyroidism (e.g. skin problems, hair loss, weight gain), ask your vet to check the dog’s thyroid hormone level.

5. Lyme disease:

is transmitted through the bite of a tick infected by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi and it can cause your dog to start limping. One or more joints can become swollen and become very painful to your touch. This kind of lameness may last for a few days.

However, sometimes the limping will become chronic and will last for months. Some of the other symptoms of Lyme disease include fever, appetite loss, weight loss and lethargy. Our guide on Lyme disease can be an eye-opener for you, so take time to read it.

Treatments

Depending on the severity of your dog’s injury or condition, you should first check for the cause, but if you are unsure or when you finally find out what is causing pain, take your pet immediately to the vet. If you are not sure what to do if your dog is limping even in mild cases, then you should know that you can apply a wet cloth to the joint to reduce the inflammation.

However, if the inflamed area does not go away, then you should switch to the warm cloth and take the dog to the vet. In other cases, if a dog is large, you should carry him to the car or cradle him while carrying him.

If the cause of the limping is an allergy or a bite by some animal or insect, you should also take your dog to the vet, because applying the medication on your own can worsen the symptoms. The same goes for ticks – you should not try to get them out by yourself, especially if you are not experienced. Flea control is key, so our article on tick and parasite prevention is a must read.

After you take the dog to the vet, he or she will then proceed with a diagnosis which can be determined by a simple physical examination, or in more complicated cases, by the use of X-rays, MRI or CT scans or surgery.

Other tests include: taking a history (asking questions about the history of the limping), doing a dermatologic (check for the presence of lesions on the dog’s skin), musculoskeletal (test the muscle mass), neurologic (to test whether the nervous system is functioning properly) and laboratory tests (blood and urine tests).

When you finally leave the pet hospital, your vet will prescribe the medication for you to give to your dog so he can get better.

That means that you need to pay more attention than before and make your dog stop chewing or scratching at the cast or bandages. This also includes monitoring your dog’s behavior – whether he eats, drinks, or whether there is anything suspicious in his behavior.

If you notice anything awkward, you should contact your vet immediately because that may be a sign that the medications do not work. You should also avoid stairs and slippery floors, and keep your pet on the leash when you take him out to relieve himself.

You should contact the vet immediately if you notice:

Any unusual swelling of the dog’s limb or surgical site;
Any skin rashes or sores caused by the pressure (blistered or raw areas);
Any unusual smells or leakages from the surgical site;

All of these are signs that something is really wrong so you should not ignore them.

Additionally, the vets usually recommend the so-called “cage rest”. This means that you should keep your dog in an appropriately sized box or cage to restrict his activity so he would not injure himself more.

This can be very difficult for both you and your pet; however, you should know that if the vet recommends it, then it is of utmost importance to do so. Otherwise, your dog can injure himself more and end up in a worse condition than before. Crate training your adult dog is possible by following some simple guidelines that we’ve listed in the previous article.

If you want to make this easier for him, then you should keep him occupied with the toys he likes and an occasional treat that he adores. You can also pamper your doggie by giving him daily grooming and cuddling and you should not forget to turn on the radio or TV when nobody is at home so he does not feel lonely.

Putting his cage or box in a high-traffic area of the house/apartment so he can be part of the household’s activities is another option. Choosing the right toy to keep your dog busy is one of our popular articles that you must read.

To sum up, it is never a good sign if your beloved furry friend is limping. However, you do not have to panic because the cause can be as simple as a cut or irritation, but you must always be careful and check your dog’s body carefully.

This article provided you with a simple guide to the most common causes and diseases that can result in dog lameness. Some of them are not serious, but some of them are very severe and can result in your dog losing his life. Keeping your pooch healthy is possible and you can do so by reading our past article on the subject.

That is why it is up to you, as your dog’s master and his closest friend, to always watch him and take care of him.

Habits of a Sleeping Puppy – How Much Should a Puppy Sleep

By

Marija Jovanovic

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January 17, 2026

Puppies are extremely cute. They are very active and eager to learn things each day. Bringing a new family member is always a moment of joy, but it also implies responsibility. Just like children, they need several hours of rest days for proper brain development. A sleeping puppy is always a nice view, but at the same time, you must be aware of the signs it transmits.

The first night with the little one can be stressful and hearing it cry can make you feel guilty. In this post, you can find valuable information that can help you look after your puppy and raise it in the best way possible.

The Need for Sleep

The first thing that you need to understand is that sleeping, or taking a nap is completely normal for dogs, regardless of their age. If you are wondering if puppies sleep a lot, the answer is yes.

While an adult requires about 14 hours of rest daily, puppies need 18 to 20 hours. This is part of the growing system and healthy evolution. They develop physically incredibly fast, and this requires an impressive amount of energy.

At the same time, there are many places they must get familiar with and countless things to learn, including commands. This means that they discover new rooms, people, or even other pets when they are awake. You must take advantage of this time to model the behavior in a constructive manner.

Just like children, puppies are extremely energetic when they are awake. Furthermore, they cannot perceive tiredness, and this makes them fall asleep in the most hilarious positions and places. Short naps are completely normal and can occur any time during the day.

It is advisable to schedule as much as you can its bedtime routine, so it will not keep you awake during night time when it becomes an adult. The best way to do it is to keep the puppy active during the evening.

It’s also important to know when to feed your puppy throughout the day so that he’s getting all the nutrients he needs. You can do that by utilizing this great article to learn how to set up a puppy eating schedule.

Play games and even try some training tricks. In order to prevent potty breaks, it is a good idea to give it food and water four hours before going to sleep. If you need to take it out, make sure it is quick, and you go straight to bed after.

It is also important to set the alarm and be the one who wakes up the puppy and not vice versa. This will teach it that it is not all right to wake you up in the morning, but to wait patiently until you get out of bed.

Sleeping Routine

The sleeping routine of dogs develops as they get older. Puppies are known to be extremely energetic until they shut down almost instantaneously. The breed plays a major role in the sleeping habit of your puppy.

It can be more or less active during the day, compared to others, but this is not something that needs to concern you. What you need to be aware of, is that the sleep is incredibly deep. This means that you can pick them up, cuddle them or move their paws, and they will not feel a thing.

However, it is not a good idea to wake them up on purpose, simply to play with them. Resting is extremely important for proper development, even if it falls asleep while eating.

If you are wondering how much a puppy should sleep, you need to know that they require a minimum of 17 hours per day. The rest of 7 hours can be used to set up a schedule. You can use it for walks and easy-to-learn commands, like their name, sit, and come here. It is also a good idea to teach your puppy to calm down after playing with it, as part of the future discipline.

At the same time, you must provide a safe environment for the little one. This means that you can allow it to sleep in the same room with you, but make sure you avoid cuddling it when it cries, as this can turn into a habit that you will most likely not appreciate when the dog becomes an adult.

In order to enjoy a well-structured sleeping routine, you need to teach your puppy to use its bed. Take it there when you feel that it falls asleep. This will teach it that there are places where it is allowed to rest and places that are not for it. In a brief time, it will go by itself to its bed as it will associate it with tiredness.

It is also important to know that the time it spends sleeping depends on the breed and on how active it is on a particular day. The only way you can monitor it is by taking notes. However, this is not a must. You must not be concerned if your dog spends more time sleeping than playing. Furthermore, all dogs (no matter the age) have a daily activity — sleeping routine, as can be seen in the table below.

Percentage	Activity
50%	Sleep
30%	Rest = awake, but not active
20%	Active = playing, running, chewing, etc.

Though you must not be concerned if your puppy sleeps a lot, you do need to worry when its habits change suddenly. There are certain things that can lead to a changed schedule:

a diet low in nutrients — it is important to avoid pet food that is based on ingredients that require too much time to digest because this will make it use its energy on digesting the food and less to play with you (you can learn more in this article about avoiding feeding puppies adult food);
aging — you will notice that once the puppy grows, it requires less sleep; however, the situations changes once it gets old, as senior dogs tend to sleep more during the day and move from a corner to another at night;
Health problems — your puppy can either be agitated during sleep or stay inactive for a longer period of time; if you notice crying, barking, lack of appetite or intense scratching, it is time to pay the veterinarian a visit.

The First Night With Your Puppy

Dogs, just like humans, feel the need to be as close as possible to the family members. They feel comfortable and safe when they are around, and feel disoriented when they are left alone. The feeling is more intense for puppies, as they are taken away from their siblings and mother. It is completely normal to feel it anxious and to hear it cry.

Once it gets used to your arms, it will feel abandoned when you put it in its bed to sleep. This vulnerability makes the puppy feel uncertain about its new house. It may take a while until it feels confident enough to sleep by itself with no worries. This means that it is up to you to ensure an environment that inspires confidence rather than fear.

The first night is crucial because this is when the puppy realizes that it is away from its canine family. Some people decide to take it as far as possible from the bedroom in order to avoid hearing it cry. Others put it in a cage to prevent it from scratching the furniture or the doors. The truth is that none of these solutions are recommended. They only manage to increase the insecurity of the puppy, and as a result, it will whine all night.

Furthermore, this can be trauma with long-term effects, and the dog can develop behavioral problems when it reaches adulthood. This means that you need to be prepared and set up a space for the new family member where he does not feel alone or isolated. A solution would be to purchase a doggy bed or a special blanket and to place it close to your bed. Though it is acceptable, not all people feel eager to bring the pet inside.

If you do not want your dog to be this close to you each night, it is advisable to avoid bringing it inside the bedroom. It can get accustomed to this cozy place pretty fast and you will find it impossible to teach it to sleep somewhere else when it grows up.

A great alternative for both of you would be to purchase a crate and to place it close to the bedroom door. It is advisable to leave the door open, so the little one can hear you move in bed. If you hear it cry, you can talk to it and comfort it.

Another thing that you need to teach your puppy is to go for a walk before going to sleep. This will get it so tired that it will sleep well during the night. It is not unusual for the puppy to feel alone in the crate. In order to make it feel more comfortable, you can give it a toy to make the space feel more familiar. Though it may be hard to ignore it, you need to stay strong and to avoid running towards it immediately.

If it whines continuously, you can take it up by the back of its neck and tell it in a calm voice that it is not allowed. This is a good opportunity to introduce it to the sleep command. In brief time you will see that it is enough to say the words without coming close to the puppy and it will obey you.

The night routine needs to end with a morning walk. Your puppy will be eager to see you get up and will do anything to receive attention. While you walk, you can give it treats to encourage the good things it does. Praises also do wonders, so remember to congratulate it verbally when it obeys the commands. By doing all these, you will make it feel comfortable and protected.

As a result, it will trust you, and it will not develop any sorts of anxieties that could lead to an aggressive behavior. This initial relationship also has a direct impact on how the dog responds and learns the commands, but also on how it shows its affection.

Pre-bedtime Rules

There are four rules that all puppy owners need to consider before taking their dog to bed:

Physical exercises can help the puppy relieve the stress and sleep better. You can opt for a long walk, or running around the house, depending on how cold it is outside. It is best to take it out, as it gets tired easier and puts all its muscles to work.
It is important to avoid a quick nap before the bedtime hour. The only way you can keep it awake is by encouraging the puppy to do the things it likes. This is also helpful to prevent it leave the crate.
It is not a good idea to deny access to water, as the puppy can get thirsty after playing with it, especially if it is hot outside. However, you need to limit its drink and only allow it a few sips to prevent midnight accidents.
You need to feed your puppy the dinner 4 hours before bedtime. It will keep it active, and you will not need to worry about taking it for a walk after you go to bed. At the same time, this is a great habit that is good for its health.

It can be concluded that sleeping plays a major role in the puppy’s life. It helps it grow beautifully and develop mentally. As a result, it is up to you to help it feel loved and a part of your family.

Though not all pet lovers are eager to share the bedroom with the puppy, having it as close as possible can prevent anxiety and the dog will feel confident and trust you.

If you’re still new to having a puppy, be sure to check out our wonderful article on how to take care of a puppy.

It is also advisable to follow a daily routine and to focus on a good night sleep rather than on naps. All puppies are active and curious, no matter the breed, so remember that the space designated for them must be clear of objects or substances that could harm the little ones.

Wolf Like Dog Breeds – Pursuing Your Canine’s Ancestral Heritage

By

Marija Jovanovic

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January 17, 2026

Why do we love wolves? There are many reasons that could explain our mysterious love for these feral beasts, from their looks to their temperament, from the way in which they walk to the way in which they hunt, from how they stand tall above most other animals to what they stand for. Indeed this is not a short list by any stretch of the imagination, and it just keeps on writing itself, and with each passing day our love for these animals grows.

The vast majority of dog owners and dog lovers have fantasized about owning a wolf, as well as the way in which it would impact their lives, and some of these people actually stepped up and acquired an actual wolf.

Wolf Alike Dog Breeds

Either as a young pup or a domesticated adult, there are wolves that are running around people’s yards playing, howling at the moon and terrorizing the neighbors, but we don’t all have the internal fortitude and the nerves to take this step, so we can easily settle for the next best thing: wolf like dog breeds.

These are the dog breeds that strongly resemble wolves, and can easily be mistaken for one while in the wilderness; however they have the temperament, skills, affection, and loyalty that only a dog can bring to the table.

They share some common characteristics with their wolf ancestors, like very sharp senses (even for dog standards), increased intellect, an aggressive temperament and above all else a strange love for mischief.

Picking the Right Dog

This one is slightly trickier than simply selecting a dog off of a list. Wolf looking dog breeds are a lot more special than regular dog breeds, and when it comes down to picking the dog you want to own, at the same time it also comes down to the dog himself picking the master that he or she wants.

It’s easy to select the breed and picture the ultimate individual of that breed and desire it, and even though this works perfectly well for normal dog breeds, the dogs that resemble their feral cousins are a lot more pretentious.

First thing’s first, you will have to pick your favorite wolf. This is actually the simplest step, simply log on to your computer, surf the net looking at wolves and reading a bit about them, and in a couple of hours you will have a general idea of and about the wolf that you are looking for.

Second thing you will have to do is look for the dog breeds that match the descriptions of that wolf, the ones that comes the closest at least. As an example, for the white arctic wolf you can choose the Samoyed dog, which is a little fluffier and sports a slightly rounder nose.

Or for a more traditional approach, and for the people that fancy the timber or black wolf, the Tamaskan dog is the perfect choice, in either timber or black.

Last thing you have to do is acquire the dog. This is where the fun part begins because chances are you will not find them in pet stores, you will have to go to breeders. Once there, forget the mental image that you have created for yourself, you have already accepted the dog, now it is the dog’s turn to accept you.

Simply walk half way towards the puppy and wait, or call the puppy towards you. If the puppy comes and sits down next to you, or makes himself or herself comfortable around you, then that is the dog for you.

The reason behind this is the fact that these breeds have a lot of loyalty and love to give, these dogs will literally take a bullet for you without hesitation, and they will watch over you constantly while at the same time giving you all the love and affection they can give.

However they are also very smart and stubborn. These are the kind of dogs that you will literally fight with in a battle of wits and will. If they accept you as the master, the leader of the pack, from a young age they will see you as the leader of the pack by default throughout their lives.

Yes they will challenge you every now and again and you will put him or her in his or her place easily, but overall it will be a lot better, smoother and more pleasant if you chose a dog that chooses you as well over choosing a dog regardless of his or her say in this matter.

The Official Wolf Looking Dog Breeds

There are quite a few breeds out there that resemble the dog’s ancestor, the wolf. Due to the popularity of the wolf and its dominant presence in a respectable number of cultures, it’s no wonder that people tried to cross breed dogs in order to make them look like wolves, however roughly 11 of these breeds are recognized as being official dog breeds.

1. Saarloos Wolfhound

This is the result of breeding German shepherd males with brown wolf females, and it does not fall short. Indeed this dog looks remarkably like the wolf that it is supposed to portray, however it carries a little too much of its feral heritage.

This wolf hound is recommended for experienced dog owners that love a challenge because it is strong willed, dominant, and will challenge the owner constantly.

2. The German Shepherd

The German Shepherd is by far the most recognizable dog breed in to world, however it bears a lot of resemblance to wolves. The coat colors don’t help the dog in this regard, however the shape of the head, the body, the bone structure, the muscular layout, the extremely sharp senses and the strong will all point towards one thing, the wolf.

This breed is known throughout Eastern Europe as being “The Wolf Dog” because of its wolf like attitude. Gain more insight by reading our piece on this magnificent German Shepherd and see if it is the right dog for you.

3. The Utonagan

This is a breed that is recognized as being a wolf look-alike, without any actual wolves being involved in the creation of the breed. These dogs were and are still being bred in England, and they are a mix between the Alaskan Malamute, the Siberian Husky and the German Shepherd.

Unlike the rest of the wolf lookalikes, the Utonogan are a more laid back, relaxed, gentle, friendly, sociable, and all around great dogs to have. The only thing that drives us to think of wolves when it comes to the Utonagan is the coloring of the coat and the nose of the dog.

4. The Northern Inuit Dog

These dogs are a wolf lookalike breed however just like the Utonagan, no wolves were involved in the making of the breed. They have been developed in the UK and are still being bred to this day, and they have often been mistaken for real wolves when left to run about.

Despite its feral appearance, this dog is completely pacified. He is friendly, non-aggressive, and loves to play with people, however, it has a massive drawback. These dogs must be trained from an early age and the training never stops with them. This is due to their incredibly stubborn nature and strong personalities. These are determined dogs and they will challenge you every step of the way.

With proper and continuous training, these dogs will obey you, respect you and desire to work with you. To help you, here are some dog training methods to make your pet obey you.

5. The Canadian Eskimo Dog

Also known as the Canadian Huskies, or Canadian Inuit Dogs, the Canadian Eskimo Dog is a bigger, stronger, and fluffier version of the wolf. Indeed it has been recognized as being a wolf lookalike breed, however, at the same time, it has been declared an endangered breed because of infection and canine diseases.

This breed is extremely rare, only 300 were counted in 2008 and the numbers have been struggling to maintain themselves over the last few years. Other than that, they are very energetic, full of life and stamina, very strong, friendly towards humans, and always willing to work with their masters.

This breed is, however very problematic and aggressive when it comes to other dogs, especially the ones that are not in their pack. These dogs will not welcome another pet in the pack or household easily, they will become increasingly aggressive towards other dogs and will not miss a chance to get into a fight with other dogs.

They are also notorious for chewing things, digging, and mischievous behavior, but these things are balanced out by the fact that they are loyal, upbeat, and loving dogs.

6. The Tamaskan

When it comes to wolf lookalike breeds, this breed is a clear cut above the rest.

First off, it looks incredibly like the wolves that it portrays. Yes, wolves, as in more than one. The Tamaskan comes in 2 pelt colors, all black like the wild and vicious black wolf, or white and charcoal gray like the timber wolf.

This breed was created in Finland, and sadly it is not recognized by kennel clubs around the world because of its very low numbers, just a few over 400. These dogs are large, they are taller than a German Shepherd, larger than a husky, and stronger than them as well.

They are friendly, obedient, and loyal to the entire family and all its members. They are great with kids and other pets, however, they must be trained from an early age.

7. The Samoyed

The Samoyed emulates a rarer and at the same time more prestigious wolf breed: the arctic white wolf. They were originally bred in Russia, in the Siberian Tundra to be more precise, and these fluffy dogs are indeed wolf lookalikes.

They are calm, devoted, eager to please and have fun with their masters, very pleasant, friendly, and loving. These dogs were initially bred to hunt, which is where their fixation of pleasing the master comes from.

One other thing that the Samoyed is notorious for, is sleeping on his master in order to keep him or her warm, and always wrapping himself around small kids in order to keep them warm as well. Here’s our comprehensive information on the Samoyed to help you get to know this wonderful animal.

8. Kugsha

The Kugsha is one of the wolf lookalike breeds that encompass all the traits that the wolf possesses and has everything down to a T. This is mostly due to the fact that the Kugsha is not exactly a dog but an actual wolf.

Indeed Kugshas has just recently been domesticated, earning the title of dog instead of a wolf, however, they managed to become loving, always willing to please their masters and intelligent dogs.

Unlike other wolf lookalikes and wolfhounds, the Kugsha tends to work with his master rather than against them. That being said, these are still highly intelligent and strong-willed dogs, and they will challenge their master if they find an opening for it.

These dogs currently exist only in the United States, and the only true drawbacks that they have is the fact that they shed heavily, and the fact that they cannot survive a warm climate.

9. Czechoslovakian Wolf Dog

Ironically, this was not initially designed to be a dog breed, but things have a weird way of turning out great for our 4 legged canine friends. These dogs were initially an experiment involving a German Shepherd and Carpathian wolves, and its aim was to try and obtain a dog breed that had the best of both worlds, the trainability, intelligence, temperament and mentality of the German Shepherd, while at the same time sporting the speed, strength, agility, stamina and relentlessness of the Carpathian wolf.

The experiment was declared successful, even though the results fell a little short of the target. Indeed this wolfhound has all the characteristics of a German Shepherd plus the positive characteristics of the Carpathian wolf, but at the same time, it possesses some of the basic negative instincts that the Carpathian wolf brought to the table.

Even though this dog will never bite without being provoked and without warning, it still has a tendency to growl like a wolf most of the time.

Another drawback is that, just like a wolf, this dog is very shy, especially towards new people. This shyness can lead to problems, especially if the person in question pursues the dog. The dog might feel cornered at one point, and it will start to growl and even bark at the person.

10. The Siberian Husky

We simply cannot have a list of wolf lookalike breeds without including the Husky.

This dog resembles a wolf in many different ways. It’s built like a wolf, it’s molded like a wolf, it’s as strong as a wolf, it’s as enduring as a wolf, but most importantly, it has the pack mentality of the wolf.

The Husky is a pack dog, born and bred to pull sleds along with other dogs across the Siberian tundra, and when the sled stops, the husky guards it from wolves. Huskies are beautiful and majestic dogs, and everything about them screams wolf, from their shape to their muscular build, to their strong backs and incredibly powerful legs.

There are a couple of drawbacks to owning a husky though. First off these dogs are smart but not in a funny pet way. No these dogs are intelligent dogs, and these dogs were bred for intense physical activity. Pulling sleds across the frozen wasteland is not exactly easy, which is why these dogs were bred and developed over the ages into the perfect pulling machines.

That being said, they are not the perfect dogs to keep around an apartment or a small house because they have a lot of energy and they tend to get bored really fast. When these dogs get bored they will do all that is in their power to have fun, at your expense.

Make no mistake about it, they will prank you and their mischievous nature will kick in strong, making them do the most hilarious things only to get their kicks from watching you get pranked time and time again.

11. The Alaskan Malamute

Every family has that one cousin, the one that does not quite fit in with everyone else but is generally a nice guy and laughs on occasions so he still gets invited to family dinners and events.

This is what the Alaskan Malamute is for this family of wolf lookalike breeds. The Alaskan Malamute is a distant cousin of the Husky. They both have the same temperament, they both are incredibly smart and very mischievous, they have the same pelt color and they were both bred to pull sleds across the frozen wastes, but this is where the similarities end because the malamute is a husky on steroids.

Indeed this dog is a lot taller, a lot larger, and a lot stronger than the husky, and wolves in general.

These dogs are loyal, loving, quiet, and eager to please their master, but the malamute is also strong willed, stubborn, has a strong personality, and requires a lot of training.

It is not recommended for people to have a malamute in an apartment because they require a lot of exercises and they are a lot more comfortable and a lot more at home in nature than in an apartment.

The malamute also sports a 2-inch thick coat that causes him or her to shed at an alarming rate when kept inside a warm apartment, so this dog is better suited in a colder environment, Alaska and Siberia being the 2 favorite locations of the Malamute.

Get to know this breed by reading our article on the amazing Alaskan Malamute.

Things to Look Out for When Dealing With These Breeds

There are some things that you should watch out for as the owner of wolf looking dog breeds. First off, there are a few health issues that might arise, especially in males, like sterility, dangerous stomach infections, and hip problems. Another thing to keep an eye on is the food that your dog ingests. Normal dog food usually does not cut it for these specimens, and special meals can be cooked with minimal effort, for a minimal cost, and in a very short time.

Exercise is a must for these dogs, their athletic bodies are there for a reason other than to be admired, and their muscular development is incredibly important. These dogs are extremely close to wolves and they must burn the fat and the energy as often as they can in order to prevent health problems later on and in order to keep them submissive and in a relatively calm state.

Human interaction is also crucial for these dogs because some of the breeds look incredibly similar to actual wolves, and as such people tend to be either frightened or aggressive towards them. With persistent social interaction, you will see not only the people begin to grow more relaxed around your dog, but more importantly, you will see your dog starting to grow more relaxed around other people and even come to expect weird reactions without acting out in self-defense.

Socializing your dog with other dogs is also important. These are pack dogs at their cores, and even though it will take a while for them to grow acceptance of other dogs, especially if they were not socialized while they were puppies, they will start to socialize with other dogs and they will grow less aggressive and less dangerous around other dogs. Check out our piece on how to teach your dog socialization skills to help you.

The wolf looking dog breeds are indeed a sight to behold. They are beautiful, athletic, devoted, loving, and hardworking dogs. Some of them have graced the silver screens, some of them are still being mistaken for wolves, and some are a bit more feral than usual.

We all love these breeds because they remind us of how beautiful they are as well as how smart, how loyal, and how devoted dogs can really be.

It does take a special kind of person to understand these breeds and help them reach their true potential, however, if you think you have what it takes, and you are both willing and able to change a few things around in order to accommodate such a dog, then, by all means, go for it.

Yorkshire Terrier – Small Sized Dog Breed

By

Vinko Woodman

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January 16, 2026

Although the Yorkshire Terrier is quite small in size, they make up for it with a large personality. They can be a feisty and very loving companion, and quickly became one of the most popular toy breeds in the United States.

He displays devotion to his owners and is very suitable for apartment living, so he can be taken just about anywhere.

Breed Characteristics:

Dog Breed Group:	Companion dogs
Height:	Eight to nine inches at the shoulder
Weight:	Four to six pounds
Life Span:	12 to 15 years

Also known as the Yorkie, the Yorkshire Terrier can seem quite standoffish and full of himself, and who wouldn’t blame him. He has a long silky coat and a perky hairstyle, and he knows how to carry all of it quite well.

He is considered one of the most glamorous dog breeds in the world, and definitely attracts attention wherever he goes. He does enjoy traveling in style, given his small size, so don’t be surprised when you see one being carried around in a purse.

They’re known for their long steel-blue and tan coats, and it is considered to be his crowning glory. However, it’s his personality that truly endears him to his family. He’s completely ignorant of his small size and is always on the lookout for adventure on the grandest of scales.

His mischievous nature can oftentimes get him into trouble if he isn’t being supervised. To put it more simply: the Yorkshire Terrier is a big dog trapped in a small dog body.

They are extremely affectionate towards anyone who shows them a modicum of attention. Although they are expected to be a companion dogs, they were bred to be a terrier, and that means being suspicious of strangers and barking at large sounds or intruders. Being mindful of their happiness requires that there be lessons on knowing when and when not to speak.

They can also be quite aggressive towards strange dogs and small animals; their terrier instinct will have them chasing squirrels and other small creatures that they find in your yard. Despite this sense of bravado, the Yorkshire Terrier also has a soft side that they display with their owners. They require a lot of attention. Being left alone for long periods of time is not best for their dispositions.

Being overprotective of your Yorkie is also not a good idea, as they can pick up on your emotions very quickly. If your actions tell them that the world is a dangerous place, then they’re going to pick up on that very quickly and may even become neurotic.

This is why it is best not to display nervousness when you are introducing your Yorkie to the other residents in your home, whether they are human or animals. In this regard, they can become quite possessive of their owners, and may even challenge them. On the off chance that a fight does break out, the Yorkshire Terrier’s tenacity will have him fighting to the death.

Yorkies are better suited for playing with older children, due to their size. Children should be taught to be careful and respectful of the dog, especially when he is eating. Otherwise, he can become snappish if they are startled or teased.

One wouldn’t think that a dog of this size would require much exercise, but they do need some every day. A good session of play indoors or going for a quick walk around the block is enough to satisfy him. Take care in not overworking him too much.

Main Highlights:

Yorkshire Terriers have earned the reputation of being a bit difficult to house train. Having a crate can help to make this process easier.
Yorkies do not like the cold and are quite prone to having the chills. If they get damp, dry and warm them up immediately.
Yorkshire Terriers are not fit for homes that have very young children, as they can become injured quite easily due to their small size and delicate structure.
They can be yappy at times, barking at any sound that they hear. Training from a young age can curtail this, and provide you with a more peaceful household.
Yorkshire Terriers can have very delicate digestive systems and can be a bit picky with their foods. Eating problems can become worse if they have problems with their teeth and/or gums. If your dog starts showing signs of discomfort, such as rubbing at their mouth or not eating, then you should take him to a vet immediately.
They will try to pick a fight with any dog, even those that are much bigger than them. Providing training and maintaining control over your dog can prevent confrontations from happening. Early socialization is key in order to help your dog understand what is expected of him.
Yorkies have a tendency to retain their puppy teeth, especially their canines. Checking his teeth on a regular basis can help you to prevent a problem from occurring. If you notice that an adult tooth is trying to grow while a baby tooth is still there, he should be taken to the vet in order to have the tooth removed. Retained baby teeth can cause the adult ones to grow improperly, and that can lead to tooth decay.

Breed History

During the Industrial Revolution in England, Scottish workers were going to Yorkshire to work in the coal mines, fabric mills, and factories. They would take dogs with them which were, at the time, known as Clydesdale Terriers or Paisley Terriers.

They were much larger than the Yorkshire Terriers and were primarily used for catching rats. These dogs were crossed with other kinds of terriers in order to develop the Yorkshire Terrier. Many believe that the Skye Terriers and English Black and Tan Toy Terriers played a role in creating the Yorkie that we know today.

In 1861, the Yorkie was brought to a dog show, and was referred to as a «broken-haired Scotch Terrier.» The breed was first registered in the British Kennel Club in 1874, two years after they were born in the United States. They began competing in shows as early as 1878, and slowly gained popularity. Yorkshire Terriers back then were divided by their weight: under five pounds and five pounds and over. Eventually, this was reduced to one class, where the average weight for the breed was three to seven pounds.

Size

Yorkshire Terriers are quite small and are usually no more than eight to nine inches at the shoulder. They can weigh as much as seven pounds, but somewhere between four to six pounds is preferable.

They can sometimes be quite inconsistent with size. It’s not unusual for a litter of puppies to grow up to be several different sizes. What should be looked out for, however, are breeders who advertise «teacup» variations of the Yorkshire Terrier. They’re bred to be even smaller, but they are prone to a wide variety of genetic disorders and have higher health risks than the standard breed.

Personality and Character

The Yorkshire Terrier is known for being quite smart and self-assured. He is a combination of small size and an adventurous spirit. The breed itself displays quite a range of personalities, from cuddly and perky, to mischievous and outgoing. The Yorkie wants nothing more than to follow his owner around and engage in anything that piques his interest.

However, limits must be set for your Yorkshire Terrier, or he may start to have a run of the household. Spoiling him is never a good idea. Training and socialization should be done early in order to round out his personality and ensures that he does not become fearful of people.

Health and Potential Problems

Yorkshire Terriers can be generally healthy, but there are certain physical conditions and diseases that they are prone to.

1. Patellar Luxation:

Also known as «slipped stifles,» this is a common problem in small dogs. It is caused when the patella, which consists of three parts: the femur, patella, and tibia. This condition occurs when these three bones are not properly lined up. This causes lameness in the leg or an abnormal gait in the dog. It is a disease that is present at birth although the actual misalignment or luxation does not always occur until much later.

The rubbing caused by patellar luxation can lead to arthritis, which is a degenerative joint disease. There are four grades of Patellar Luxation ranging from grade I, which is an occasional luxation causing temporary lameness in the joint, to grade IV, in which the turning of the tibia is severe and the patella cannot be realigned manually. This gives the dog a bowlegged appearance. Severe grades of patellar luxation may require surgical repair.

2. Progressive Retinal Atrophy:

A degenerative eye disorder. Blindness caused by PRA is a slow process resulting from the loss of photoreceptors at the back of the eye. P

RA is detectable years before the dog shows any signs of blindness. Reputable breeders have their dogs’ eyes certified annually by a veterinary ophthalmologist.

3. Portosystemic Shunt:

portosystemic shunt is an abnormal flow of blood between the liver and the body. That’s a problem because the liver is responsible for detoxifying the body, metabolizing nutrients, and eliminating drugs.

Signs can include but are not limited to neurobehavioral abnormalities, lack of appetite, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), intermittent gastrointestinal issues, urinary tract problems, drug intolerance, and stunted growth. Signs usually appear before two years of age. Corrective surgery can be helpful in long-term management, as can a special diet.

4. Hypoglycemia:

Like many toy and small breed dogs, Yorkies can suffer from hypoglycemia when stressed, especially when they are puppies.

Hypoglycemia is caused by low blood sugar. Some of the signs may include weakness, confusion, a wobbly gait, and seizure-like episodes. If your dog is susceptible to this, talk to your vet about prevention and treatment options.

5. Collapsed trachea:

The trachea, which carries air to the lungs, tends to collapse easily. The most common sign of a collapsed trachea is a chronic, dry, harsh cough that many describe as being similar to a «goose honk. The collapsed trachea can be treated medically or surgically.

6. Reverse sneezing:

This condition is sometimes confused with a collapsed trachea. This is a far less serious condition and lasts only a few minutes. Reverse sneezing primarily occurs when your dog is excited or tries to eat or drink too fast. It also can occur when there are pollens or other irritants in the air.

Secretions from the dog’s nose drop onto their soft palate, causing it to close over the windpipe in an automatic reaction. This can be very frightening to your Yorkie, but as soon as he calms down, the reverse sneezing stops. Gently stroke his throat to help him relax.

Eye infections, teeth, and gum problems also can occur.

Care Features

It does not take a lot of effort to keep a Yorkshire Terrier well exercised. If you have enough space in your apartment, some playtime throughout the day is enough to get any Yorkie tired. They’re extremely receptive to training, especially if it garners attention from other human beings. Teaching them to perform tricks and putting them through obedience trials can provide him with the mental stimulation that he needs.

Be prepared for your Yorkie to have small accidents in the home before he is fully house trained. Showing them where to go from the beginning and rewarding them when they do so is the best start to getting them to understand what they need to do. With patience, you can end up with a very well-trained Yorkie.

This paper training method is especially useful when it is hot outside, as such small dogs don’t do very well in the heat. They are definitely house dogs, and should not be left outside ot be exposed to extreme temperatures for extended periods of time.

Check your Yorkie’s toys on a regular basis to ensure that they have not been chewed open. Yorkies are drawn to squeaky toys in particular and may chew through it to get to the noisemaker inside. What he does love best, however, is playing fetch with any toys that you throw for him.

Feeding Schedule

Due to their small size, they don’t require a lot of calories to get them through the day. It is best to provide no more than 1/2 to 3/4 cup of food in a day. Feeding any more can lead your dog to become obese quite quickly.

This breed does not look good with a big belly, and he will quickly lose his charm. If you are worried that your Yorkshire Terrier is becoming a bit too chubby, cut back on his food and increase his exercise activities.

Coat, Color, and Grooming

The Yorkshire Terrier’s coat is quite long and silky, and very straight. As show dogs, their coats are allowed to grow to the floor so that it looks like they’re floating when they walk. They have a single coat that sheds very little, making them the perfect breed for those who are prone to allergies.

The puppies are usually born black, and the blue and tan coat develops gradually. After turning a year old, they start to lighten and turn grey rather than blue. These are due to hormonal changes that affect the color of their hair. Females, who are in heat, become lighter and then turn dark again after their season is over.

Grooming is not something an amateur should attempt. Their soft coat can tangle quite easily and should be brushed on a daily basis, even if his coat has been trimmed. A lack of care can ruin this breed’s reputation for good lucks, as his hair will quickly become matted and tangled, and ruin his appearance. His perky ears should also be checked on a regular basis to ensure that they’re free from any dirt or signs of infection.

Your Yorkie should be bathed on a weekly basis in order to keep his hair smooth and shiny. Simply apply the shampoo and run your fingers through his hair in order to remove any dirt. Rubbing is not necessary. Afterwards, spray your dog’s coat with a light conditioner and then brush. Brushing a dry coat can lead to breaking.

Small dogs are prone to dental and gum problems, so it’s important that you consider checking his mouth on a regular basis.

They tend to form a lot of tartar on their teeth and can lose them at a very young age if they’re not properly maintained. Brushing their teeth regularly and scheduling a trip to the vet for a dental procedure once a year will help to save their teeth.

Children And Other Pets Compatibility

Yorkies are not very suitable for families with very young children. This is because they can be injured quite easily.

Teach children how to handle and play with Yorkshire Terriers, and always supervise interactions. Being treated too roughly can lead to a Yorkie biting back, and can make both dog and child fearful of each other.

Conclusion

A Yorkshire Terrier can be quite cute to look at and soft to the touch, but that doesn’t mean that they’re not a lot of work. This breed is a little more active than people expect, but it isn’t too much that demands a lot of time to be set aside.

Keeping him physically and mentally active will bring out the best in your Yorkshire Terrier, and you’ll certainly have a fun time finding new ways to keep him entertained.

Why Is TPLO a Good Option for Dogs?

By

Verica Gavrillovic

-

January 16, 2026

TPLO, or Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy, is a surgical treatment for dogs to stabilize the stifle joint following cranial cruciate ligament ruptures. This is a common problem in dogs that can occur due to wear and tear over time.

While there are other surgical treatments that can be considered, TPLO is often a favored option because of its effectiveness and recovery times, which are often quicker than with some other treatments. As part of the TPLO recovery timeline, your dog might be fine to return to normal activities by week 12 following surgery.

This procedure is known for providing reliable results, particularly for large breeds and highly active dogs. The combination of faster recovery and long-term benefits makes TPLO an appealing choice for many pet owners.

Why TPLO Is Often Recommended

There are many reasons why vets recommend TPLO surgery, particularly for bigger and more active dogs. Some of these are:

Speed and Reliability

One of the top reasons this surgery is such a popular option for dogs is because of its speed and reliability.

The recovery process is faster and more reliable than some other methods, and dogs can often put weight on the joint faster than with other surgeries. With the right care and rehabilitation, many dogs are able to return to normal activities within several months.

Strength and Stability

This surgery enhances strength and stability in your dog’s knee by altering the slope of the tibia. When a dog has a torn CCL, the tibia starts sloping toward the femur, which can cause a lot of pain and instability.

This surgery is designed to prevent this motion by changing the tibial slope. Many dogs enjoy excellent knee function once they have recovered from the surgery, and this reduces the risk of another injury.

Long-Term Impact

Another key benefit of this surgery is the positive long-term impact it has. If CCL injuries are not treated properly, there is a higher risk of the dog developing chronic pain and arthritis. If the knee is not stabilized, your dog could suffer cartilage damage, which can then lead to arthritis.

By creating a more stable joint and ensuring effective treatment, this surgery helps to protect your dog’s knee joint and reduces the risk of these problems.

High Success Rate

It is also important to consider the high success rate of TPLO surgery, which is seen as one of the top options for dogs with this type of injury.

Data shows that many dogs regain full function of the leg, and their quality of life is improved through increased mobility and reduced pain. The high success rate of this surgery means greater peace of mind for pet owners, but most importantly, it means better life quality for dogs.

Recovery Process Overview

During the TPLO recovery period, careful management is essential to ensure your dog heals properly. Below are key recommendations for what should and should not be done during this time:

What Should Be Done:

Leash Walks Only: Keep your dog on a leash at all times when outside to control their movement and avoid sudden running or jumping.
Use of Crates or Small Spaces: Confine your dog to a crate or a small room to prevent excessive movement.
Follow Vet-Recommended Physical Therapy: Engage in controlled physical therapy exercises, as advised by your vet, to gradually rebuild muscle strength.
Provide Pain Management: Administer all prescribed medications (painkillers and anti-inflammatories) on schedule to keep your dog comfortable.
Cold Compress Application: Apply cold compresses on the surgical site during the first 48 hours to reduce swelling and inflammation.
Scheduled Checkups: Regular follow-up visits to the vet are crucial to monitor the healing process and adjust the recovery plan as needed.
Provide a Non-Slip Surface: Ensure your dog has a safe environment to move around, such as carpets or non-slip mats, to prevent falls.

What Should Not Be Done:

Avoid Letting Your Dog Run or Jump: Running, jumping, or any high-impact activities should be avoided, as they can stress the healing joint.
No Stairs or Climbing: Prevent your dog from climbing stairs or jumping onto furniture, as it can disrupt the healing process.
Don’t Skip Rehabilitation Exercises: Skipping vet-recommended exercises could prolong recovery or result in incomplete healing.
Avoid Overfeeding: It’s essential to maintain a healthy diet without overfeeding, as excess weight can put additional strain on the recovering leg.
No Free Roaming: Free-roaming inside or outside the house is not allowed during recovery; unsupervised movement increases the risk of injury.
Don’t Ignore Limping: If your dog starts limping or showing signs of discomfort, contact your vet immediately for advice.

These tips will help ensure a smooth and effective recovery for your dog after TPLO surgery.

Managing Pain Post-Surgery

Your vet will likely prescribe pain medication and anti-inflammatory drugs to ensure your dog remains comfortable during the initial recovery phase. What you can do:

Administer Prescribed Medications: Ensure that you give your dog the pain medication and anti-inflammatories as prescribed by the vet. Timely administration helps manage discomfort.
Apply Cold Compresses: Use cold compresses on the surgical site for the first 48 hours to reduce swelling and inflammation.
Limit Movement: Keep your dog in a calm, quiet environment to prevent unnecessary movement, which could increase pain or risk reinjury.
Monitor for Signs of Pain: Watch for signs of pain, such as whining, excessive licking of the wound, or limping, and contact your vet if the discomfort seems unmanageable.
Provide a Comfortable Space: Create a cozy resting area for your dog with soft bedding to ensure they remain calm and relaxed during the recovery phase.

Proper Rehabilitation is Key

Structured physical therapy exercises can help your dog regain strength in the affected leg and increase mobility. Simple activities under the supervision of a vet or physical therapist can make a significant difference in the recovery process.

As your dog gains strength, more advanced exercises may be introduced to improve range of motion and overall function.

Start with Controlled Leash Walks: Begin with short, controlled leash walks as recommended by your vet. Gradually increase the duration based on your dog’s progress.
Incorporate Gentle Exercises: Engage your dog in gentle, low-impact exercises like range-of-motion activities to improve flexibility, always under the vet or therapist’s supervision.
Follow a Vet-Approved Rehabilitation Plan: Stick to the rehabilitation plan provided by the vet or physical therapist to ensure gradual strengthening of the affected leg.
Avoid Strenuous Activity: Keep your dog from running, jumping, or any strenuous activities until they are cleared by the vet to return to normal physical routines.
Monitor Progress: Regularly assess your dog’s mobility and strength improvements, and adjust rehabilitation exercises accordingly under professional guidance.

These steps ensure that pain is well-managed and rehabilitation is conducted safely for a successful recovery.

A Wide Range of Benefits

As you can see, TPLO is a surgical procedure that offers a host of benefits for dogs. This is why it is often the recommended option for dogs who experience this type of injury. By speeding up recover, ensuring increased stability and strength, and reducing the risk of other problems further down the line, it can have a huge positive impact on the quality of life of affected dogs.

In addition to its high success rate and reliable outcomes, TPLO provides peace of mind for pet owners, knowing that their dog is on the path to a stronger, healthier future.

Kuvasz – All Dog Breed Profiles

By

Vinko Woodman

-

January 16, 2026

Popular for its cleverness, fearlessness, and sense of humor, the Kuvasz is the perfect addition to any household. This dog breed is not only the best playmate, but it can also provide extra security to your family as it is extremely doubtful to unfamiliar persons. Though it has been traditionally employed to secure livestock, it is now taking the center stage as a popular house pet in countries across the globe.

They aggressively protect properties, family, and other household pets. Aside from being a watchdog, they can also tolerate pain, making them ideal companions for kids who can be overwhelmingly active. If you are looking for a loyal pet companion that is more than willing to defend your loved ones the same way you protect them, the Kuvasz is the perfect breed for your household.

Breed Characteristics

Dog Breed Group:	Working Dogs
Height:	2 feet, 2 inches to 2 feet, 6 inches tall at the shoulder (Males: 28-30 inches; Females: 26-28 inches)
Weight:	70 to 115 pounds
Life Span:	10 to 12 years on an average

A puppy as cuddly and as huggable as a white furball, the Kuvasz grows into a bold, strong-willed dog who’s determined to protect those who are dear to him.

Characterized by its almond-shaped eyes, black nose, thick white fur, and large size, this dog breed can effortlessly make heads turn. But while they may look elegant and harmless on the outside, they are strong and muscular on the inside.

They possess high endurance, making them a unique breed. The Kuvasz bears great resemblance with wolves because of their undeniable power and strength. The only thing that sets them apart from their veracious counterparts is their graceful and endearing stride.

During the 15^th century, the Kuvasz is one of the oldest and most popular Hungarian dog breeds, with most of them serving aristocrats and people from the upper class. The modern Kuvasz plays its role as a watchdog earnestly, silently sizing up strangers before deciding whether they are a friend or an enemy.

If you are considering a Kuvasz, it is best to take this dog breed’s personality into great consideration. Since they are active in nature, they require a spacious home. They are pure country dogs that need a lot of room inside and out.

As a young puppy, the Kuvasz requires exercise that includes daily walks to maintain their overall health and wellness. However, owners must be cautious as they shouldn’t let the dog’s soft growing bones and joints get exhausted and over-stressed. As it grows up, the dog breed necessitates more exercise that can range from long walks to regular runs in an open area so it could be in its best shape.

When exercising, the Kuvasz needs supervision as it can be destructive once it gets bored. Also, bear in mind that this breed is prone to getting stressed due to excessive heat, especially during the summer season so it shouldn’t be over-exercised during hot and humid temperaments.

Training a Kuvasz can be tough. This breed is dominant and independent, which explains why it loves being in charge all the time. To raise an obedient Kuvasz, consistency is the key. Training should be firm, but it should be blended with tenderness so the dog breed won’t develop violent behavior. In addition to that, providing enough opportunity for socialization as they grow old is also important. This way, they would learn how to welcome unfamiliar guests without going over-suspicious.

Furthermore, the Kuvasz loves taking responsibilities for its human companions, so you can provide it simple duties like securing your livestock or watching over your children. They are gentle with kids, and they are extremely patient. Nonetheless, just like in other dogs, adult supervision is still required, especially when the dog breed plays with younger children.

Main Highlights

Kuvasz requires a certain, skilled owner, one who earns their respect and understands their independence naturally.
Kuvasz shed abundantly, especially during the season of spring and fall.You may want to brush them at least once a week and if possible every two to three days, is highly recommended.
Your Kuvasz tends to be violent and disturbed if tethered, or locked up. This kind of breed needs to run and feel free. It requires a huge yard enclosure with fence and a long daily walk or runs once he’s fully grown.
Kuvasz is smart and like many guarding dogs, they think for themselves. Training can be challenging because it needs a lot of time, long-temperedness, and consistency.

Breed History

The Kuvasz mainly originated from Hungary. It was a popular breed in thriving European kingdoms and empires eight hundred years ago. According to von Stephanits, a renowned German authority on Central European breeds, the Kuvasz is closely related to the Komondor. He hypothesized that the Kuvasz started to appear when the Kavasz was mixed with native Hungarian country dogs in the earlier years.

In the 14th and 15th centuries, only royalty and those favored in noble classes were allowed to own a Kuvasz. In the second half of the 15th century, the Kuvasz became more popular in different places as this dog breed was employed in protecting huge estates during that time. According to people in the earlier centuries, only the Kuvasz was the most trusted and reliable pet companion during the chaotic times in Hungary.

In the 1920s, the Kuvasz came to America and held its fame with western ranchers, where it is still prized as a patrol dog and livestock watchdog. In 1931, the first Kuvasz was entered in the American Kennel Club Stud Book. The Kuvasz Club of America, founded in 1966, was granted status as the breed’s official parent club in 1993.

Size

Just like other dog breeds, a male Kuvasz is typically larger than its female counterpart. A female’s height ranges from 26 to 28 inches, while the height of males is usually 2 inches higher.

Furthermore, females weigh between 70 and 90 pounds, whereas males can be as heavy as 115 pounds.

Personality and Character

The Kuvasz is a high-spirited dog widely recognized for its enthusiasm, bravery, determination, curiosity and sensitivity to praise and blame. It is dedicated to protecting its human companions, especially kids, which explains why it is highly suspicious in nature.

If a member of the family tends to be at risk, it strategizes a plan and acts upon it to put its human companions out of danger. While the adult Kuvasz is tender and patient with children, puppies can be too playful for young kids.

Most Kuvasz have a strong instinct to drive off animals that do not belong in their flock.

They can act intimidatingly towards unfamiliar dogs, and they do not really go along well with cats. If owners neglect the importance of early training and socialization, the dog breed can easily be involved in accidents due to improper behavior.

Moreover, the Kuvasz is characterized by its loud and deafening bark. As guard dogs, they can alert and warn their owners once they sense danger. They are most vigilant at night time, making them the perfect home companion not only for families but for solo homeowners as well. The only problem is, that they have the tendency to bark frequently. To avoid this, it is best to train the dog early and correct its barking tendencies.

Health and Potential Problems

In general, the Kuvasz is a healthy dog breed. However, it is also pre-exposed to different health disorders. Even though not all Kuvasz will suffer from these conditions, it is still necessary for owners to be more cautious so they can keep health problems at bay.

To familiarize you with their health issues, below are some of the health conditions common to their bloodline:

1. Canine hip dysplasia:

In this condition, the femur doesn’t fit tightly into the pelvic socket of the hip joint. Hip dysplasia can develop with or without clinical manifestations. Some dogs exhibit pain and lameness on one or both rear legs. As the dog grows, it can start to develop arthritis.

The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals or OFA usually conducts screening for hip dysplasia since those that are suffering from this condition shouldn’t be bred. Consult your vet if your dog shows symptoms of hip dysplasia since new treatments are available to battle this medical condition.

2. Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD):

In this case, there is a bone deterioration that lies under the cartilage layer of joints. This is often observed at breeds that grow too fast. Jumping off the furniture and being overweight can also contribute to a dog’s risk factors.

X-rays are often inefficient in guaranteeing that the dog is suffering from this condition. Commonly, OCD can affect the shoulder, elbow joint or ankle, and often occur during the growth stage of a young dog. As a result of painfulness, the dog often limps, so this is one thing owners should watch out for.

3. Von Willebrand’s Disease:

This is a common blood disorder that is often triggered by lack of clotting factor VIII antigen. The primary indication is bleeding too much after an injury or surgery. Other signs such as nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or bleeding in the stomach and intestines may also exist.

4. Gastric dilatation-volvulus:

Also known as bloat or torsion, this disease can be a fatal condition that can greatly affect big dogs with deep chests such as the Kuvasz. It is a common condition for older dogs that grew up with bad eating habits. For instance, consuming one large meal a day, drinking excessive water or exercising right after eating can add up to a dog’s risk of contracting this disease.

GDV occurs when the stomach is occupied by gas or air, and then twists. In this situation, the dog will not be able to belch or vomit because of the excess air in its stomach, and the normal return of blood to the heart is hindered. As a consequence, the blood pressure tends to drop and the dog undergoes a state of shock.

The dog can die any minute without immediate medical attention. If your dog has a swollen abdomen and if it vomits without throwing up, then it might be suffering from GDV. Other signs and symptoms to watch out for include weakness, sluggishness and a fast heartbeat. If these symptoms occur, consult your veterinarian immediately.

Care Features

The Kuvasz are energetic dogs that require a lot of exercise. Since they are active, they are not suitable for apartments or homes that don’t have a large, fenced yard. Even on open ground, they still need daily exercise such as long walks or runs, especially once they reach maturity.

The Kuvasz can stay outdoors in temperate to cold climates for a long time because of their dense fur. Like any dog, however, they also need to feel loved and nurtured by their human companions, so interacting with them is crucial for their holistic development.

Feeding Schedule

Dogs also need food as much as other dog breeds do. This dog breed’s ideal food intake depends on its age, size, shape, metabolism and level of activity.

Kuvasz’s recommended daily amount of high-quality dog food ranges from 2.75 to 3. 75 cups a day, and owners are advised to divide it into two equal feedings. The higher the quality of dog food, the greater its impact is to your dog.

Coat, Color, and Grooming

The Kuvasz’s thick white coat can extend to six inches in length. To prevent mats from forming, brush your Kuvasz by using a grooming rake or a pin brush a couple of times a week. If the coat of your Kuvasz gets tangled, use a large-toothed comb joined with a conditioning spray to loosen up the fur’s tangles. This dog breed needs more regular brushing during spring and fall because they shed heavily during these times.

The Kuvasz does not require bathing unless it is already smelly. However, owners who love taking extra care of their dog companions can bathe their dogs once or twice a week, depending on the weather.

The coat of Kuvasz is unscented and it has dirt and water-repelling properties. Bathing this dog breed too frequently could strip the natural protective oils off its coat, making it more vulnerable to dirt. Most Kuvasz owners use sprinkling talcum or cornstarch powder to clean the coats of their dogs.

Then, they brush the powder afterward. The fur that grows between its toes should be trimmed down. In the like manner, regular nail clipping is integral in keeping the dog away from harm, especially since dogs can unintentionally scratch their face.

You also need to brush its teeth at least two to three times a week to eliminate bacteria and to remove tartar formed inside its mouth. Daily brushing could also help prevent gum disease.

To make the most out of your dog companion’s grooming session, start as early as possible so the dog will be accustomed to grooming habits while growing up. Handle its paws with care and check out its mouth and ears. Also, incorporate a reward system so grooming wouldn’t be a traumatic experience on your dog’s part.

Children And Other Pets Compatibility

It takes time to earn the trust of a Kuvasz, especially since they are highly suspicious in nature. However, once they have already built a strong relationship with their human companions, they are extremely loyal companions. In addition to that, the Kuvasz should not be left alone for an extended period of time.

The Kuvaszoks are affectionate to children and can be overly caring and protective. If your kids are playing with their friends, it’s important to supervise them especially if your dog is nearby. Since it is protective of ‘his’ kids, it can interpret sudden noise or movements as a danger or threat. Likewise, puppies can also be too rambunctious for young children.

Just like dealing with other dogs, you should always educate your children how to approach the Kuvasz with additional care. Teach them the difference between dealing with a stuffed toy and a live animal since a dog’s feelings must be recognized. Also, never overlook the importance of supervising pet-children contact to ensure the safety and security of both your child and your dog companion.

If you are looking for a protective family dog, it’s best that you consider the Kuvasz for your next pet. However, always remember that owning a dog is a huge responsibility. If you feel like you can commit yourself to take care of this dog breed, then it’s time that you welcome your new puppy with open arms.

Heroic, clever and warm-hearted in nature, the Kuvasz is definitely the ideal companion for people who are looking for a trustworthy pet. Although the Kuvasz may be distrustful at first, gaining its trust and loyalty is more than worth it. By giving them enough attention, care, and friendship, we’ll be the center of their universe.

Finding the Perfect Vet Practice: A Comprehensive Guide

By

Natasa Pantelic

-

January 16, 2026

Finding the Perfect Vet Practice: A Comprehensive Guide

For individuals new to pet ownership and haven’t navigated this process before, it’s essential to recognize that selecting the proper veterinary practice is a crucial yet sometimes challenging task. The sheer variety of available vet practices can make this decision appear daunting.

However, there’s no need for concern. By dedicating some time to research and heeding the guidance, you can discover the ideal veterinary practice without it becoming an overwhelming endeavor.

Registered Vet and Word of Mouth

First of all, you must be registered to practice as a vet. So, you should always go for a registered veterinarian and only those practicing with the proper license. To ensure your potential vet matches this criteria, you can always check their title, often MRCVS or FRCVS, after their name. You can also further your research and look them up on the RCVS website.

As a pet owner, you probably hang out with other pet owners in your area. That’s why, to find the perfect vet practice, you can ask for advice and recommendations from your other friends who are also pet owners. They can recommend a veterinarian or tell you which ones to avoid.

If you are searching for the perfect vet practice and are still determining where to begin, read on for more valuable insights.

Distance and Schedule

Regarding your living area, distance is another fundamental matter to consider when finding the perfect vet practice. Whether you want your vet to be close to your home or to see a mobile vet near you if a long car trip with your sick pet is something that you want to avoid. So, remember that distance is an essential aspect of your research, and try to look for the best match within your area.

The schedule of your vet practice should match your schedule as much as possible. So, this is another factor to consider, as only some vet practices have the same opening hours, and others might not offer emergency support.

You should go to a vet practice that does offer emergency support, as you never know when you will need your vet.

If you are not the only owner, you should sit down with the others and discuss this matter to determine which vet practice offers the best opening hours for all of you before making an executive decision.

Manners and Price

Veterinarians are doctors for animals, and therefore, they must be professional and objective. At the same time, your pet can tell you a lot about whether or not they like them or how they are handled.

Your ideal veterinarian should have empathy, professionalism, availability, knowledge, and practice to make you feel comfortable and, most of all, to keep your pet safe and sound without causing them any unnecessary stress.

The price is another matter that you should factor in when picking the perfect vet for you and your animal friend. The fees a vet practice can charge depend on several factors, such as location, services and many more.

Target those practices within your budget range, or find out if your pet insurance offers specific courses and facilities for an affordable price. Be careful, though, that the price should not be the most crucial aspect, as the quality of the vet practice should always be above all else.

Staff and Reviews

The veterinarian is the central figure of a vet practice, of course, but many other people are working there and you should get a nice feeling from them and your pet. So keep in mind the overall feel of the practice when you go and check it out and make sure that you feel comfortable there before deciding to sign up.

Together with that, you should always research what other people have written and said about a specific vet practice before deciding to go there for the foreseeable future. Many times, an interesting review can speak more than many other factors and could direct you towards the right practice or take you away from a lesser one.

When it comes to reviews, you have to be thorough, as many times people speak their minds without thinking about it twice, but they are only sometimes reliable.

Compare good and bad reviews and try to understand if the content of the reviews matches the actual reality. You will be able to understand whether or not a specific vet practice could be the perfect place for you and your pet.

In Conclusion

These were some of the best tips and tricks on how to find the perfect vet practice. Ensure to check aspects such as professionalism and word of mouth, as well as distance, services, schedule, manners, price, and the overall vibe of the places you are considering.

Your beloved companion stands to gain immensely from this diligent research effort as veterinary care becomes a necessity for all pets at some point. Remember that the internet offers many informative resources should you seek further guidance. Additionally, don’t hesitate to engage in discussions with friends and family who are pet owners if any concerns arise.

In your quest for the ideal veterinarian, you’ll want to consider the well-being of your furry friend, especially if you’re thinking about bringing home a canine companion from the list of healthiest dog breeds with minimal health concerns.

If you don’t have access to a pet-owner network in your vicinity, you can explore online forums, blogs and communities well-versed in these matters. These virtual spaces often provide valuable insights and advice.

Thank you for your time spent reading this guide. Hopefully, it has been a valuable resource in your quest to find the perfect veterinary practice.

Akita – All Dog Breed Profiles

By

Vinko Woodman

-

January 16, 2026

The Akita is a dog breed native to the highlands of northern Japan. In many countries, there are 2 types of Akita dogs, namely the American Akita and the Japanese Akita. However, the differences between them are almost insignificant and not even recognized by all kennel clubs around the world.

The Akita is considered the national dog of Japan and a natural monument as well. In the past, these dogs were prized, even venerated and only the nobility was allowed to own such a majestic dog.

They were used as imperial guards, to hunt bears and wild boars. Their role has changed since, but they are appreciated just as much as they used to be.

Not recommended for people who wish for a lapdog, live in a small apartment or don’t have a strong character, the Akita is so intelligent, courageous and agile that it might make its own rules if it is not properly trained by a firm owner.

This amazing dog breed that almost disappeared after World War II is present throughout the world, standing by the side of various persons who are richer by having a loyal friend besides them.

Fortunately, the owners of these dogs don’t have to worry about sickness in case of the Akita. This dog is predisposed to certain diseases, but it rarely gets sick if it is properly fed and cared for.

Breed Characteristics

Dog Breed Group:	Working Dogs
Height:	Generally 2 feet to 2 feet, 4 inches tall at the shoulder
Weight:	Generally 70 to 130 pounds
Life Span:	10 to 12 years

The Akita is a great, brave, strong and vigilant dog. It is a working dog breed that often participates in competitions and is also used for therapy. In Japan, the Akita is considered a symbol of health, prosperity and wealth.

However, it is not the type of dog that can be easily dominated or left alone. Having such a dog implies many responsibilities and requires experience with other types of dogs. An owner of the Akita should be dominant and earn the dog’s respect.

Dominance is more a state of mind, but in case of the Akita, one must be prepared to dominate it physically too, if necessary. The Akita will take control and be the leader if there isn’t someone who can tame it.

The Akita is a bright, sensitive and responsive dog with which one can spend time training it, playing with it and just enjoying its company. It is a very loyal dog that knows what devotion means and that will stick by its owner and its family for the rest of its life even if it will only recognize one member of the family as authority.

During samurai days, dogs were a symbol of strength, loyalty, power, wealth and courage. This is why they were raised with respect and great love.

All dogs, including the Akita had special shoes on, which were embroidered with their owner’s rank. Although they used the Akita for its numerous skills, they also repaid it by treating it accordingly and by loving it like it were a member of the family.

Recent analyzes of this dog breed’s DNA confirmed that it is one of the most primitive breeds. Among the most famous dogs that belong to this dog breed is Hachiko. In Japan, this particular dog is known for its loyalty to its owner.

After he died, Hachiko went to the train station where it had seen him last, every day for the rest of its life. In fact, Hachiko died in front of the train station waiting for its owner. That train station is called Shibuya Station and there’s a life-size statue of Hachiko. There is an entire movie based on these real life events.

Main Highlights

Akita is the largest of the Japanese Spitz types of dogs.
The ancestors of the current Akita dog were used for guarding purposes or for hunting black bears. They were called Matagi dogs and they were smaller than the Akita dogs known these days.
The Akita is a large dog, with a strong constitution, balanced proportions and massive bone structure. The main physical characteristics of this dog breed are relatively wide head, almost shaped like a triangle, solid nose, small eyes and erect ears.
The Akita is a dog with a robust allure, vigorous, solid and well-proportioned, but which emanates tenderness and grandeur.
The Akita is a dog full of benefits. It inspires strength, nobility, dignity and balance. Some people think it is the perfect combination between a cat and a bear.
It was declared a natural monument by the Japanese government. The copies bred in Japan are called Akita Inu. Inu is the Japanese word for dog.
This dog breed is separated in 2 other dog breeds, the Japanese Akita and the American Akita, but not recognized everywhere around the globe.

The Akita Inu (Japanese) and the Great Japanese Dog (American) developed in parallel in different countries, so the occurrence of 2 different breeds was inevitable.
In the US, the UK and in all countries that are not members of the FCI, the 2 breeds, namely Akita Inu and the Great Japanese Dog are not separated, but considered one and the same dog breed.
The Akita dogs are used for therapy, security and as faithful companions.
Japanese women often leave their children in the care of these dogs. They are extremely loyal and good companions.
The Akita needs a wise and experienced owner, who is able to understand what such proud and independent dogs need and how they can be handled. If trained properly, the Akita becomes gentle and loving. If not, it behaves like a tiger.
This dog breed’s energy level is medium to high. In addition, these dogs have very strong and unique personalities. Therefore, they need daily walks and intense exercising at least 2 times per week.
The Akita is a large dog, but not a giant breed. Therefore, it is a good apartment dog, requiring a moderate level of physical exercise. However, it would be best to be kept in a wide yard.
This dog breed is not recommended for those people who have never had dogs before. It is more complicated to raise a well-behaved Akita than other types of dogs.
The Akita breed loves to grab things with its mouth, including people’s wrists. This gesture is not at all aggressive. The dog is just trying to ask for something.
Akita dogs often make funny and strange sounds. They do bark in case of danger, but they sometimes make various sounds to entertain people or because they have their reasons.

Breed History

The Akita is an ancient Japanese dog breed named after the Akita prefecture. Its history began more than four centuries ago. At first, it was known as the bravest hunter of bears and then it became the dog of shoguns and samurais.

In other words, the nobility owned such dogs and used to spoil them by making collars out of gold and leashes out of silk for them. Because of all these reasons, it has quickly earned an important status, that of the symbol of strength, courage and wealth.

Although the Akita went through difficult times, being crossed with other breeds to satisfy the requirements of certain people and used as fighting dog, it has also been through an extensive purification process that helped it return to its initial characteristics.

In the beginning, the Japanese Akita and the American Akita were the same dog breeds. In 1603, in the Akita region, the Matagis Inu breed was used for fighting purposes. A few hundred years later, in 1868, these medium sized dogs were mated with copies from the Tosa and the Mastiff dog breeds.

The result of these crossings was a dog with less Spitz type qualities and with an increased waist. In 1908, when the fights between dogs were banned, breeders started to improve this type of dog, relying more on developing other characteristics that aggressiveness. In 1931, Akita Inu is recognized as a new dog breed in Japan and declared a natural monument.

During the World War II, these dogs’ coats were used to make military garments. Sadly, back then, the only dogs that got away were the German Shepherds. They were useful for the military, so that’s why they were spared.

Dog owners were so desperate that they tried to combine their dogs, regardless of breed with German Shepherds in their attempt to save them from death. Therefore, at the end of World War II, the number of Akita dogs was dramatically reduced.

Even so, there were 3 distinct types, namely the Matagi Akita, the Akita dogs used for fights and those mated with German Shepherds. However, after the war, during the restoration period of the pure breed, Kongo-go from the Dewa line experienced a brief but extraordinary popularity.

Many copies of Akita dogs from the Dewa line were endowed with the characteristics of the Mastiff and the German Shepherd and were brought to the United States by members of the US military forces.

These dogs were intelligent and capable of adapting to different environments, fact which was fascinating for the dog breeders in the United States. In 1956 was founded the American Akita Club and the American Kennel Club accepted it as a purebred in October 1972. At that time, the AKC and the Japan Kennel Club didn’t have an agreement regarding the mutual recognition of purebred dogs, fact which prevented the introduction of the new bloodlines in Japan.

Therefore, the Akita dogs from America became slightly different from those in Japan. The American Akita’s features remained unchanged since 1955, but still a little dissimilar compared with the features of the Japanese Akita.

The first Akita, Kamikaze-Go, was brought to the US by the legendary Hellen Keller in 1937, followed by Kenzan-Go, in 1939. Then, immediately after the war, more and more people wanted to have such dogs. Military personnel and American businessmen wanted to leave Japan with at least one Akita dog.

This sudden interest determined a few dog breeders to produce puppies of poor quality just to earn some cash. In 1956, 11 enthusiasts who owned 30 copies of purebred Akita founded the American Akita Kennel Club.

After long disputes between Japan and America, they adopted the reciprocity clause. This means that in 1992 people started importing Akita dogs from Japan once again. However, the differences between the American Akita and the Japanese Akita couldn’t go unnoticed.

The American Akita is taller and heavier; it has a shorter and more powerful snout and often a black mask. The dog breed from Japan is more stylized, with a longer snout and strict color standards. It was only in 1999 when the FCI recognized the American version as a new dog breed called the Great Japanese Dog.

Size

The Akita is a large sized dog. Even if there is a weight difference between the American Akita and the Japanese Akita, the following information represents the average weight for both specimens. Male Akita dogs weigh between 70 and 130 pounds, while females can reach about 110 pounds. The Akita dogs measure between 24 and 28 inches tall regardless of gender.

Personality and Character

The Akita was a hunting dog and military dog during the past, so it is courageous and proud. Even it was raised to be a companion dog during the last decades it is still instinctually well prepared to react in dangerous situations.

One can deeply understand such dog or not understand it at all. Japanese people describe it as “Ichi-Ban”, which is a phrase used to say “natural pride”. They consider that a dog without this moral quality is not a purebred Akita. Dignity is one of the fundamental elements of this dog breed because dignity, in general, is fundamental in the oriental culture.

Like any dog, the Akita needs to be trusted, a peaceful place to live and a loving family. The owner of an Akita should be authoritative, but also balanced, imposing himself or herself calmly and firmly.

This dog loves treats just like other dogs, so it can be easily rewarded in case it deserves one, and why wouldn’t it? Spending time with an Akita is as crucial as feeding it. These dogs don’t like to be left alone. In addition, if they are alone for too long, they become destructive.

Thanks to its courage and devotion to its owner, the Akita is always willing to fight in order to defend its owner. This applies in case of animals or men, but aggressiveness is not a purpose for these dogs.

Nevertheless, the Great Japanese Dog and its Japanese version are true fighters that don’t run from danger, but face it with courage. They show their intention to attack seconds before actually doing it. Believe it or not, they have the capacity to distinguish guests from intruders.

The Akita is a great and very intelligent dog. It possesses the ability to judge and has a very independent nature. It learns everything very quickly, but it gets bored easily. This doesn’t necessarily mean that it will start destroying things, but that it is smart enough in order to learn a multitude of commands and tricks. Of course, in order to listen, it needs a firm owner who can dominate its powerful character and tame it.

Health and Potential Problems

The most common cause of death in case of Akita dogs is cancer. In addition, this dog breed is prone to developing hip dysplasia, eye problems, lupus or hypothyroidism. Other problems encountered in Akita dogs are progressive atrophy of the retina, autoimmune diseases or blood problems.

The GDV – Also known as gastric dilatation with or without torsion, the GDV is a digestive system problem caused by excess gas found in the stomach. This is a problem that needs to be solved quickly and that requires the intervention of a specialist. Symptoms of this disease include abdominal discomfort or pain, depression, difficulty breathing, drooling or unsuccessful attempts to vomit.
Hypothyroidism — This hormonal disease is common for Akita dogs and it can be easily treated. Symptoms include one or more of the following problems: skin and coat problems, outbursts of aggression, irritation, lethargy, musk. A hormonal treatment should fix any dog belonging to this breed.
Hip dysplasia — This affection occurs most commonly in case of aging Akita dogs. However, if a dog grows too much in a short period of time, it can also suffer from hip dysplasia. It should be treatable with surgery.
Progressive retinal atrophy — PRA is a disease that gradually degrades the retina of Akita dogs and other dogs belonging to different dog breeds. These dogs’ photoreceptors degenerate over a longer period of time.

Care Features

The Akita dog breed is not easy to care for. These types of dogs require attention and a lot of affection. Therefore, only people who have enough time to spend with an Akita dog should actually own one.

If not receiving enough attention, the Akita will not only destroy things around the house or the yard, but it will feel sad, unwanted and abandoned. Such a dog needs an authoritative owner because it is not the type of dog that listens to any member of the family.

It does not require too much walking or exercising if it can freely move in a wide yard or inside a house. As for life in an apartment, this large sized dog can adapt to it, but it would be much happier in a large yard. Because of energy and behavioral reasons, an Akita should exercise enough in order to get tired and want to take a break.

An Akita’s training program should start from the moment it steps inside one’s home. It is also a type of dog that needs to socialize. Lack of socialization during growth usually leads to dangerous and antisocial behaviors.

Therefore, in order to train an Akita dog, one needs firmness, patience and consistency. This dog should never believe that it has the chance to dominate its owner.

One very good way for an Akita owner to show its dominance is to eat before feeding the dog. It should understand that its owner is superior and definitely in charge. The same goes for all the members of the family. Everyone should treat the Akita as the main owner treats it, because otherwise it may become naughty and daring. In addition, it should be taught to socialize in order to diminish the danger of attacking strangers.

Feeding Schedule

An Akita dog should eat between 3 to 5 cups of dry dog food per day, divided in 2 equal meals. Ideally, the food should not contain preservatives, but be rich in meat, fish, rice and sea plants. Other food sources for Akita dogs include cabbage, green beans, fresh pork meat and potatoes. Food based on chicken should be introduced gradually. When feeding an Akita avoid corn, beef and horse meat.

Coat, Color and Grooming

The coat of Akita dogs is characterized by straight and coarse hair. The Kennel Club from Japan considers that an Akita with a black mask is an error, while the American Kennel Club accepts it and, moreover, prefers it over dogs without a black mask. The Japanese Association accepts 3 colors when it comes to this breed’s coat, namely red, white and brindle in these colors.

As for washing an Akita dog, it is a process that should be repeated every 3 months. Unless it gets really dirty, its waterproof coat and its self-cleaning skills should be trusted for a longer period of time. In order to keep its plush coat healthy, it has to be brushed weekly and daily when it sheds. Shedding occurs twice or three times per year.

Nail clipping might not be pleasant, but it is absolutely necessary. Once a month, the Akita should be taken to the vet for nail trimming. Owners may also cut their dogs’ nails, but only after learning how and getting the dog used with the entire process.

In addition, Akita dogs have sensitive ears that should be checked weekly and wiped with a cotton ball and a special solution for cleaning ears purchased from pet shops.

Children And Other Pets Compatibility

The Akita is aggressive with other animals, so it wouldn’t be a good idea to let it loose without a leash on around other dogs or strangers. Akita males show aggression toward other males, while females do not tolerate other females’ presence.
Some Akita dogs can live in peace with a dog of the opposite sex, while others prefer to be alone. As for other smaller animals, the Akita will instinctively chase cats, rodents, birds and wild animals.

The Akita is not very tolerant with young children that may not leave it alone or abuse it by trying to play with it. If it is raised by a family with children, it will become very protective and it will not be a danger to them. However, it may be aggressive towards other children. In general, a kid under the age of 12 should not be left alone with an Akita if they don’t know each other.

In addition, the Akita is very possessive of food. This type of dog should have its own feeding place, not a shared space with other animals. Its food bowl should be placed far away from the other pets’ eating areas. They might become this dog’s lunch or dinner if they try to have a taste out of its food bowl.

Conclusion

American or Japanese, the Akita shares the same past and origins. In terms of personality, these types of dogs are not different from each other. The only features that might not be 100% alike are physical.

The American Akita seems to be a little larger than the Japanese Akita. Other than that, these dogs are natural monuments in Japan, so they are characterized by dignity, loyalty and balance. In fact, some people and specialists in this domain don’t even recognize the existence of 2 distinct dog breeds.

Just as many dog breeds that exist for a really long time, the Akita was almost extinct as a dog breed after World War II. Many copies had a lot to suffer when they were killed for their coat, which was needed to make garments for soldiers.

Since they survived that awful period, they are now cared for and appreciated even more than they were during the shoguns and samurais years.

Since the Akita needs attention, affection and a dominant owner, it is definitely not a dog easy to manage.

However, many people are definitely ideal owners for these dogs. It is said that the character of man is similar with the character of the dog he or she chooses, so perfect compatibility is possible!

A Guide to Choosing the Right Furry Pet for Your Lifestyle: From Fluffy to Fabulous

By

Hemun Bobana

-

January 16, 2026

If you’re thinking about getting a furry pet, there are several factors to consider before making your decision. Different animals have different personalities, needs, and requirements, and it’s essential to choose a pet that suits your lifestyle and preferences. In this article, we will provide you with a guide to help you choose the right furry pet for your lifestyle.

Consider Your Lifestyle

The first thing to consider when choosing a furry pet is your lifestyle. Are you active or more of a homebody? Do you have a busy schedule, or are you home most of the time? These are essential questions to ask yourself because they will help you determine what kind of pet will be the best fit for you.

For example, if you have an active lifestyle and enjoy spending time outdoors, a dog may be the perfect companion for you. Dogs require daily exercise, and they love going for walks, runs, and hikes. On the other hand, if you prefer a more relaxed lifestyle, a cat may be a better option. Cats are independent animals that are happy lounging around the house and don’t require as much attention as dogs.

Consider Your Living Situation

Another important factor to consider when choosing a furry pet is your living situation. Do you live in an apartment or a house? Do you have a yard or a balcony? The size of your home and the amount of outdoor space you have will play a significant role in determining what kind of pet you can have.

If you live in an apartment or a small space, a cat may be a better option than a dog. Cats don’t require as much space as dogs and are content living indoors. However, if you do have a yard or balcony, a small dog may be a good fit. Small dogs, like Chihuahuas or French Bulldogs, don’t require as much outdoor space as larger breeds and are happy living in small apartments or houses. View more options for better lifestyle of your pets visit here

Consider Your Budget

Before getting a furry pet, it’s essential to consider your budget. Different pets require different levels of care, and some can be more expensive than others. For example, dogs require regular vet visits, food, toys, and grooming, which can add up over time. On the other hand, cats are generally less expensive to care for, but they still require regular vet visits and food.

It’s also important to consider any unexpected costs that may arise. For example, if your pet becomes sick or injured, you will need to pay for vet bills. It’s a good idea to have a budget set aside for any unexpected expenses that may come up.

Consider Your Personality

Your personality is another important factor to consider when choosing a furry pet. Different pets have different personalities, and it’s essential to choose a pet that matches your personality and preferences.

For example, if you’re an introvert and prefer quiet nights at home, a cat may be a good fit. Cats are independent animals that don’t require as much attention as dogs and are happy lounging around the house. On the other hand, if you’re outgoing and enjoy being active, a dog may be a better option. Dogs are social animals that love spending time with their owners and require daily exercise.

Consider Your Allergies

If you or someone in your household has allergies, it’s essential to consider this when choosing a furry pet. Some pets, like dogs and cats, are known to trigger allergies in some people, while others, like guinea pigs or rabbits, may be a better fit.

If you have allergies, it’s a good idea to spend time with the pet before bringing them home to see if you have any reactions. You can also speak to your doctor about allergy medications or treatments that may help alleviate your symptoms.

Consider Adoption

Finally, when choosing a furry pet, it’s essential to consider adoption. There are many animals in shelters and rescues that are looking for their forever homes, and adopting a pet can be a rewarding experience.

Adopting a pet from a shelter or rescue organization not only gives an animal a second chance at life but also helps reduce the number of animals in shelters. Plus, many pets that are available for adoption are already house-trained, spayed or neutered, and up to date on their vaccinations.

When adopting a pet, it’s important to do your research and find a reputable organization. Ask questions about the animal’s history, behaviour, and medical needs to ensure that the pet will be a good fit for your lifestyle.

Types of Furry Pets

Now that we’ve covered some factors to consider when choosing a furry pet, let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular types of pets.

1. Dogs

Dogs are one of the most popular types of pets and are known for their loyalty, affection, and companionship. They come in all shapes and sizes, from tiny Chihuahuas to large Great

Danes. Dogs require daily exercise, training, and socialization, but they can make excellent companions for active families or individuals.

2. Cats

Cats are another popular pet and are known for their independence, grace, and playful personalities. They come in many breeds, from long-haired Persians to short-haired Siamese. Cats require less attention than dogs and are content living indoors, but they still require daily playtime and socialization.

3. Rabbits

Rabbits are cute and cuddly pets that are known for their soft fur and floppy ears. They come in many breeds, from the tiny Netherland Dwarf to the larger Flemish Giant. Rabbits require daily exercise and socialization, but they can make great indoor pets for families or individuals.

4. Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs are small, social animals that make great pets for families with children. They are known for their cute squeaks and playful personalities. Guinea pigs require daily exercise, socialization, and a healthy diet, but they can make excellent indoor pets.

5. Hamsters

Hamsters are small, cute pets that are easy to care for and make great pets for children. They come in many breeds, from the long-haired Syrian to the short-haired Dwarf. Hamsters require a clean cage, daily exercise, and a healthy diet, but they can make excellent indoor pets.

Conclusion

Choosing a furry pet can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s important to consider your lifestyle, living situation, budget, personality, allergies, and adoption options before making your decision. Whether you choose a dog, cat, rabbit, guinea pig, hamster, or another furry friend, be sure to give them the love and care they deserve. With proper care and attention, your furry pet will be a loyal companion for many years to come.