Common Dog Questions with Answers
Health & Wellness
Most dogs eat small amounts of grass occasionally; it’s usually harmless. Some do it out of boredom, others to improve digestion. If it’s large amounts and frequent or followed by vomiting, consult your vet.
Bad breath is often due to dental disease. Tartar buildup, gum infection, or even internal issues (like kidney disease) can cause it. A veterinary exam and dental checkup is recommended.
At least once a year for healthy adult dogs. Puppies need more frequent visits, and senior dogs may need checkups every 6 months.
Occasional vomiting isn’t uncommon, especially if they eat something odd. Frequent or severe vomiting is a sign to see the veterinarian.
Don’t feed for 12 hours (unless it’s a puppy). Offer water or ice cubes to keep them hydrated. After 12 hours feed a bland diet: boiled chicken and rice. Call the veterinarian if you see blood in the stool, your dog is lethargic, vomiting, it’s a puppy or a senior dog, or it lasts more than 1-2 days.
Signs include limping, whimpering, hiding, aggression, reduced appetite, or changes in behavior. If in doubt, consult your vet.
You should not give your dog human medications unless specifically instructed by a veterinarian. Many common human drugs can be toxic or fatal to dogs, even in small doses.
Behavior
It could be boredom, anxiety, attention-seeking, or reacting to sounds or people. Training and exercise is very helpful.
It can be boredom, anxiety, a learned habit, or even a medical issue like GI discomfort.
Common causes include fear, lack of socialization, past trauma, or protective instincts. A professional trainer or behaviorist can help.
Dogs are pack animals. They may follow you out of affection, curiosity, or separation anxiety.
Provide plenty of chew toys, mental stimulation, and exercise. Puppies especially chew during teething.
Diet & Nutrition
A balanced, high-quality commercial dog food suited to their age, size, and health. Avoid feeding human food without checking if it’s safe. If you decide to make your own food consult the veterinarian to provide information on how to create a balanced recipe.
Always double-check. Grapes, chocolate, onions, garlic, and xylitol are toxic. Some fruits and veggies are fine in moderation.
It depends on their age, weight, and activity level. Check the dog food label and adjust as needed. Your vet can help calculate it.
Not necessarily. Unless your dog has a specific allergy, grain-free isn’t always healthier and may be linked to heart issues in some cases.
Training
Use a no-pull harness and reward calm walking. Stop walking when they pull and only move when the leash is slack.
Make the crate a positive, cozy space. Start with short periods and slowly increase. Never use the crate as punishment.
Use treats and positive reinforcement. Start with sit, stay, come, and leave it. Keep training sessions short and fun.
Use treats and positive reinforcement. Start with sit, stay, come, and leave it. Keep training sessions short and fun.
Grooming & Care
Every 4–8 weeks for most breeds. Overbathing can dry the skin. Some breeds may need more or less frequent baths.
Use dog nail clippers and trim just the tip. Avoid the pink quick. You should have styptic powder on hand to stop accidental bleeding. If unsure, a groomer or vet can help.
Some shedding is normal, especially seasonally. Excessive shedding can be due to stress, diet, or health issues. Hair loss that leads to balding or thinning of the coat is abnormal and should be brought to your veterinarian’s attention.