Low-Calorie Dog Treats

Meet Sarah

  We all love to give our dogs treats, and it’s no different when our dogs are on a diet. How can we treat our dogs so that they get something tasty, that won’t add inches to their waist line? Commercial low fat dog treats are simple to use. They do not require any preparation [...]

How much to feed your dog

Begging for donuts

Most dog-lovers have been guilty of feeding their precious pooch human food as treats from the dinner table at one time or another. I’m certainly guilty of that. However, after our recent vet visit, I’ve come to realize the importance of maintaining your dog’s weight. Obesity is one of the biggest health risks to our [...]

Recognize the signs of dog obesity

know your dog's weight

As I recently discovered during Hennessey’s latest check-up, it is important to learn to recognize whether or not a dog needs to lose a few pounds. Keep in mind that that dogs, much like humans, come in many different shapes and sizes. You should be familiar with what’s normal for your particular breed of dog.  [...]

Dog obesity is bigger than you think

Overweight Dog

If you own an overweight dog, then you need to read this post. Glasgow University in Scotland conducted a study that suggested that as much as 60% of the pet dogs in that city were obese or overweight. In the United States, that figure is 35%; while 40% of Australian dogs are in the unhealthy [...]

Homemade Dog Food Recipes & Proper Dog Food Nutrition

homemade diet

If you’re a pet owner, chances are you remember the 2007 China dog food contamination, but did you know there were numerous pet food recalls over the last year alone? October 8, 2010:               “Blue Buffalo recalls several dog foods…” September 3, 2010:         “Hartz Mountain Corp. recalls…possible Salmonella contamination…” August 29, 2010:               “Proctor & [...]

Foods dogs should avoid

Veterinarian symbol

Below is a list of foods you should avoid giving to your dog.  Please note this is a reference list based on articles from DVMs and a personal conversation with my own DVM.  This list is not intended to be all-inclusive.  Please consult your DVM if you have any questions regarding a food on or [...]

Dog overweight? Why it matters.

Overweight Dog

There are approximately 62 million dogs in the United States (“Editorial,” 2007), of which an estimated 35-50 percent of pet dogs are overweight (Mindell, 2008).  Some dog genetics (such as Labrador retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, Dachshunds, Basset Hounds, and Pugs) may be a contributing factor to obesity (Rainey, 2009).  However, the primary cause for obesity [...]

Age-related dog food?

Best Friend

When you go to the supermarket or pet store, you’ll notice there are many types of dog food. There are foods for puppies, foods for adult dogs, and even foods for seniors? How important is it that your dog is fed a food appropriate for his age and lifestyle. While it’s true that once upon [...]

Dog Poison Prevention: Grapes

Please don't feed me grapes

Did you know dog poisoning can be caused by some types of food? For example, some dog owners (and uneducated trainers) have used grapes, sultanas or raisins as treat for their dog. Many pet dog owners enjoy sharing a bunch of grapes with their canine friend. As much as dogs seem to like them, grapes, [...]

Are raw food diets really good for your dog?

homemade diet

Since the 2007 pet food recalls, more dog owners are turning to raw food diets.  Go to your favorite search engine, type in “raw food diet for dogs” and see how many hits you receive.  A recent check showed approximately 2,020,000 hits for this subject alone (1). Advocates claim raw food diets improve the condition [...]