There are three different clinical types of ataxia: cerebral, sensory, and vestibular.  Each type will be manifested by impaired coordination when standing or walking. Changes in a dog’s neck and head movement are characteristic of cerebral and vestibular ataxia. Any abnormal movements, whether on one side of your dog’s body or his entire body, should be looked at by a veterinarian or specialist.

Dogs with ataxia can be treated on an outpatient basis in most cases, unless the case is severe. Pet insurance usually helps cover the cost of treatments, which can be hefty. Still, only proceed with treatment once your vet has examined your dog and he has recommended treatment. Usually, there may be some underlying condition, such as an ear infection, that must be done away with before the results can truly be measured.

All breeds are vulnerable to ataxia, so be aware of your dog’s behavior and keep a look out for any abnormal movements or twitches. Keep your dog covered under health insurance. Doing so can ease your mind and lead to a better life  for both you and your dog.

Most vets recommend a good quality dry dog food fed in appropriate amounts. Dry food is less expensive than canned and does not contain excessive moisture. It can be left in open containers without spoiling and in self-feeders for ease and convenience. Dry food also promotes improved oral health and can satisfy dog’s chewing behavior.

Look for a food with a good amount of protein. Avoid food with too much filler, often in the form of corn, peanut hulls, weeds, straw, feathers, and corncobs. Protein should come in either animal or vegetable based products. Chicken, lamb, beef, or pork are all good sources of protein for your pet.

Finally, remember that frequent changes in dog food can lead to digestive problems. If your dog appears to be doing well on a certain brand of dog food, don’t change it. Do everything you can to keep your dog healthy, and especially avoid feeding him dinner scraps!

Many people think that large dogs don’t become cold as easily as littler dogs, but there is no real proof of this. Dogs, like humans, have a normal body temperature, which ranges from 100 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. This means that if it’s cold outside, your dog may appreciate you putting some clothes on him.

Finding large breed clothes can be hard storefront to storefront, so look for an online retailer that has what you’re looking for. Online distributors also offer a one-stop shop for food, toys, and other doggy accessories that your large pup may enjoy.

So don’t be embarrassed to put your large dog in cute little outfits, at least not during cold weather. It may help him feel warmer and will give you something fun to do with your time.

Diagnosing cataracts in your dog should be left to a professional. It often looks a lot like Nuclear Sclerosis, which requires no treatment and which may not hamper your pet at all. It usually appears equally on both eyes as a hazed, grayish-looking effect.

The most common causes of cataracts are unfortunately unpreventable, like old age, hereditary, developmental, and congenial make up. Symptoms include loss of coordination for no reason, problems seeing objects within their peripheral vision (like when you’re not in their direct line of sight), or even less noticeable symptoms like depression.

Just like there are a number of causes, there are also a number of treatments available. Some include prescription medications and eye drops, over the counter alternatives, and laser eye treatment. Consult with your veterinarian to see if your dog does in fact have cataracts, and what steps you should take.

The poodle’s coat consists of two types of hair: the outer coat, which is thick, wiry, and curly and the undercoat, which should be soft and wooly to provide warmth. Poodle puppy coats, however, are different. Their hair is often soft and fine with little or no curl, but a slight wave instead.

That’s because as they grow, so does their hair. As the dog matures into adulthood, the coat develops a thick, curly quality. If you’re curious about how your puppy’s hair will turn out, look at their parents. If they carry good coats, their puppies likely will too.

The beginning of doggy haircuts started when hunters first trimmed the hair of their retrieving dogs to prevent drowning. Given the amount of hair on a poodle, they are a favorite of doggy stylists and their owners.

The style however, is usually determined by the owner’s willingness and capability to maintain the coat in a well-groomed fashion. Poodles that spend a lot of time outside are usually kept with shorter hair because it’s easier clean and comb.

However you style your dog’s hair, be sure you take care of their coat and feed them and exercise them regularly, as diet and exercise affect’s the look and health of your dog’s coat.

Some of the most popular dog names are popular because they’re all-American, such as Max, Jack, or Buddy. Others are popular because they’re fun to say and sound happy and energetic, such as Daisy, Charlie, or Rocky. There are a number of different considerations people take when naming their pets, but the most important thing to remember is that the earlier you do it, the better.

The earlier you name you pet, the earlier you will get yourself saying the name, helping your dog recognize and respond to commands directed at him. While you shouldn’t just settle on a name you’re unhappy with (after all, you’re going to be using this name for the rest of the dog’s life), don’t stress too much about naming the dog. Find out bits about the dog’s personality and let that guide you to the right name.

Worst of all, fleas can affect humans too. Their bite can cause pain and itchiness on the skin, and they’re known to multiply very rapidly. So what can you do to stop a flea infestation or prevent it altogether?

If your dog already has fleas, you may want to consider flea-killing products that are on the market, such as Frontline or Advantage. Other products, such as flea baths, special shampoos, or flea dips can be a safe and effective alternative.

To prevent fleas from ever entering your home, follow a few simple steps. First, be sure to groom your dog on a weekly, or even daily, basis. Clean up after your dog right away when he makes a mess, and stick to a regimented bath schedule for your pet. You should also vacuum often, as vacuuming picks up tons of fleas and their eggs. Finally, using moth crystals or other poisons can get the fleas your vacuum may have left behind.

Fleas can be bothersome and expensive to get rid of, so be sure you’re aware of your pet’s health.

Preparation on your part will lessen your puppy’s stress and make the experience an enjoyable one. The safest option for bringing your pup home is to provide him with a crate. This will keep him from wandering around in the car, which could potentially create problems for you as the driver. Without a crate, he may jump onto your lap while you’re driving, or worse yet, go down by your feet and the car pedals!

If no crate is available, then a tall box would work just as well, as long as it’s not small enough for him to jump out of. Line it with plastic so that no messes leak through onto your car seat, and also add a towel so that your puppy feels comfortable and can snuggle up for the ride. The towel will also provide some traction so that your pup doesn’t slip and slide on the plastic.

Finally, bring someone along for the ride. This person will be able to comfort the dog during the ride and will keep you focused on the road. Don’t blast loud music; instead put on soothing tunes at a moderate level. A soothing radio station will keep your puppy at ease.

Location – Where you live in the world will make a huge difference in the type of dog house you build. If you live somewhere cold, provide heating for your dog by purchasing a heated house or building one with insulation. If you live somewhere hot, then provide ventilation or place it in a shady area under a tree. Finally, if you feel afraid other animals may get at your dog, opt for magnetic doors so only your dog is able to enter.

Size – It may sound obvious, but size matters. You want to make sure your dog will fit in his house, not making it too tight or even too roomy. He should be able to stretch his body in his house and manage to turn around without any difficulty.

Material – Finally, the type of material you use is important. Wood is not often recommended, since wood can splinter and become dangerous for a dog to chew on. If you choose wood, be sure to sand it completely and varnish it with a nontoxic finish that will not harm your dog. Other materials include plastic and PVC.

If getting your dog to adapt to his new home is difficult, ease him into the process. Start slow. Start by placing his meals in his house, so he will be forced to go inside in order to eat. Next, place a few toys and treats in there so that going into his house becomes a fun experience. In no time, he will be familiar and comfortable in his new home.

If you’re at your wits end with your crying up, there are some things you can do to ease your pup’s woes. Try providing something warm for your puppy to snuggle up to. Often, a rubber hot water bottle wrapped in flannel can imitate the feeling of another body next to your puppy’s and can make him feel more at home. Fill it about two-thirds full with very warm water and place it wrapped next to your puppy. Heating pads also work, but be careful that your dog doesn’t bite through any connecting wires. Keeping an alarm clock that ticks near him can ease his worries as well.

Puppies may also cry when they are frightened or nervous. This can happen when they see too many new faces or hear loud noise and confusion. Keep your dog away from too many strangers initially, and put his crate in a safe area where he will not be startled or upset.