Dog Skin Problem: Mites

Perhaps your dog will be one of the lucky ones who never get any dog skin problem. But sometimes, even the most pampered and well groomed indoor dog can catch a dog skin problem. Any dog, no matter what kind of breed or environment he’s in, can be a candidate for a variety of dog skin problems.

Examples of parasites that attack even the cleanest of the dog are mites. Mites are very tiny parasites that cause dog skin problems by triggering irritation and also cause infection. There are three types of mites that cause problems in dogs. Demodex and Sarcoptes both cause mange and Otodectes causes inflammation of the ear.

Among the three types of mites that causes dog skin problem, Otodectes is the only type that can be seen without the use of a microscope. Seldom, you may see them as tiny white moving dots in the ear.

Demodex is another type of mite that causes dog skin problem. Although they are naturally carried by most dogs, this type of mite does not usually cause nuisance. But it can become a dog skin problem from time to time when your dog is undergoing stress. It can also attack puppies and causes dog skin problem because puppies’ natural defenses are not fully developed yet and are more susceptible to this parasite’s attack.

Demodex causes what is termed as pustular dermatitis in your cute puppies, located around the head and shoulders. Sometimes it becomes infected, a dog skin problem that is known as juvenile pyoderma. Signs of this dog skin problem are: hair loss, flaky and oily skin, and a characteristic “mousy” odor.

In treating this type of dog skin problem, your dog must be taken to the vet within 24 hours of this developing or serious scarring can occur. Your vet can prescribe antibiotics and drugs that give your dog effective relief. Your vet might also suggest a special shampoo to control the oiliness of the coat as well as the smell.

Sarcoptes is another type of mites that cause dog skin problem that can affect your dog regardless of his age. This type of mite is more commonly known as scabies, a dog skin problem that can also affect humans. The Sarcoptes burrow through the skin and produces tunnels where they lay their eggs. When this type of dog skin problem attacks humans, the infection usually dies away, although you should still consider treating it.

The following are signs of this type of dog skin problem in your dog; itchy rash of red spots usually located on ears, elbows, and hocks. On human skin, the “tunnels” can actually be seen.

Rapid treatment is also very important in treating this type of dog skin problem in order to avoid human infections and also to prevent your dog from harming himself by scratching and biting. The vet can prescribe special chemicals that are applied in insecticidal shampoos. The vet can also prescribe drugs to help stop your dog from biting and scratching himself.

Dog Treats: More than just a tasty snack!

Proper feeding is the most important factor in caring for your dogs. They need to right amount of vitamins and nutrients to stay healthy and stay active. But while certain types of foods give them the required vitamins and nutrients, we should not overlook the benefits and values of giving them dog treats.

Dogs need constant love and attention, and one way to show them that they are being appreciated and loved is giving them delicious dog treats. Because dog treats taste much better than regular dog food, giving your dog tasty dog treats as a reward every time he does something good will make him remember the good deed and encourage him to do it again.

Dog treats are also a good tool when training your dog. For them, nothing else says they are doing a great job than a pat on the head, praise, and dog treats to go along with it. Giving them dog treats during training also encourages them to work harder. Providing dog treat during training will also make the experience more fun and enjoyable.

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Small Dog

Benefits of getting a small dog

Dogs are wonderful pets. They shower you with plenty of love and affection. Moreover, owning a dog is said to produce a calming effect to their owners, and are also helpful in lowering high blood pressure.

But what kind of dog is right for you? Should you get a small dog or a big dog? And if you decide to get a small dog, what are your choices? Which small dog is right for you?

Nowadays, more and more pet owners are choosing to get a small dog rather than a big dog. One obvious reason is that a small dog is very convenient and practical to own. A small dog does not require a big place. You do not have to live in a big house with a big yard to own a small dog. In fact, you can live in a small studio apartment and still be able to keep a small dog without any difficulty.

A small dog is also perfect for an elderly person, especially those living alone. And although small dogs require more exercise than large dogs, they usually get enough of it from just running around the house or apartment.

Family Watch Dog

Are you in search of a new puppy that you can bring home to the kids that will make a great family watch dog when he grows up? What family doesn't? But what type of dog would make a great family watch dog?

I know that the first thought that comes to my mind when I hear “family watch dog” is a German Shepherd or a Golden Retriever. Or how about a big tough Rottweiler for a family watch dog?

With all of this talk about a family watch dog nobody ever seems to mention our little friends that, although lacking in size, make up for it in barking. I'm talking about one of my favorite dog breed called the Chihuahua!

You know these little guys make fantastic family watch dogs. They are so high strung and will just bark and yap away if the hear the faintest of sounds at night.

I have had small dogs all of my life and have felt totally safe with my little taco bell dog watching over us as we sleep. People always laugh when I tell them that my family watch dog is a Chihuahua, but it's true and there is nothing worse that a night-time burglar hates than the loud warnings of a Chihuahua yelping from afar!