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Q?
Why do dogs chatter their teeth?
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A.
Dogs will chatter their teeth for a few reasons. One reason they will chatter their teeth is to channel their excitement. Another reason is because they are distressed or frustrated with a certain situation. It is important to study your dog to see what body language they are trying to portray.
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Q?
What treats are good and not good for my dog?
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A.
If you want to give your dog a treat, stick with the treats that are specifically made for dogs or you can give them food that we eat, but only select items. Carrot sticks, apple, cucumber, turkey, cooked eggs, raw unsalted peanut butter, corn, and pork as healthy natural alternatives. Foods to avoid are chocolate, avocado, nuts, raisins, grapes, and citrus fruits to name a few. I know we all like to treat our dog once in a while but feeding your dog just a little bit of bad human food here and there will add up down the line and cause weight gain.
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Q?
What is the difference between a therapy dog and a service dog?
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A.
A therapy dog is someone's pet who has a certification to visit a hospital, nursing facility, school, library, etc to provide comfort to those who don't feel good. A service dog is trained under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). They perform tasks for individuals with a disability. They are allowed to be taken anywhere so that their handlers are able to participate in every day activities.
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Q?
What is bloat?
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A.
It is when a dogs stomach fills with gas causing it to expand and twist. The expansion of the stomach puts pressure on the diaphram making it very hard for the dog to breathe which leads to a quick death. To avoid this, do not have your dog eat or drink a large amount of water 30 minutes before and after excessive exercise.
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Q?
How often should I brush my dogs teeth?
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A.
You should brush your dogs teeth once a day to prevent tarter build up and promote healthy gums. If you have a puppy you should start them early and introduce them to the activity. Use a finger toothbrush and dog toothpaste. For adult dogs, an electric toothbrush is best since it is gentle on the gums and creates an easier process of reaching all the teeth. A regular toothbrush with soft bristles will do as well.
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Q?
What type of bone is best for my dog?
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A.
Nylabones are the best type of bones for your dog to chew on. They are safe since they are made of durable nylon and do not produce pieces that could chip off the dog could choke on. There are many different varieties to choice from with most of them having nub designs to provide dental stimulation and chewing satisfaction.
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Q?
How often should I walk my dog?
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A.
You should give your dog a minimum of three walks a day. It helps to maintain a healthy body weight for your dog. Obseity can lead to osteoarthritis, cardiovascular disease, liver disease, and insulin resistance. Walks are the time that you and your companion get to spend together. This gives your dog an opportunity to socialize and check out the sights and smells of the outdoors. Daily exercise also helps with boredom and destructive behavior.
