Category: pet care

Having a pet is a long-term commitment that requires lots of care and responsibility for years to come. Dogs have unique needs at different phases in their life so it’s important to make a plan when they start the transition into their senior years. These tips can help you ensure you’re giving your furry friend the best care as they start to age.

Keep Them Healthy

Talk with your vet about Houston TX pet care and what your dog may need according to their age, history and breed. You may need to adjust their diet based on their risks for certain diseases. Also, as they become less active, it may be helpful to switch to a food that helps prevent unnecessary weight gain. Wellness checkups will likely be bumped up to twice a year so your vet can keep an eye out for any changes or issues.

Keep Them Happy

Although your dog may not be as fast and energetic as they once were, dogs of all ages still need exercise and plenty of play to keep them happy while engaging their brains. Even a gentle, slow-paced walk can do wonders to maintain weight, prevent stiff joints and boost your little buddy’s mood.

Keep Them Comfortable

As dogs age, they may need more gentle support as they’re more prone to arthritis and joint inflammation at this stage. Consider an extra supportive dog bed to cushion their body and try to avoid too many trips up and down the stairs. A health supplement can also help minimize inflammation and keep their joints well lubricated. If your dog appears to be in pain, talk to your vet about the options available to help them feel more comfortable.

Dogs can provide comfort, companionship and fun no matter what their age. Be sure to give your older dog the extra attention they need to stay healthy and happy during their senior years.

The German Shepherds are considered as a new dog breed is having an origin that can be traced back to 1899. Though it is a new breed, it is one of the most popular types of dog breeds that people like to keep at home. In the U.S.A, this dog breed ranked the second most popular breed in 2016. This dog breed has lots of talents and features that make them ideal for older adults who are lonely and these breeds give them the best companionship. 

This dog is fun and friendly and can easily adjust to the older adults who live alone or live with other elders or their young grandchildren. It is a great dog for those who are looking for several years of companionship. If you are looking for German shepherds for sale, you should choose breeders who are reliable and take care of the puppies from the beginning. Providing the best training to these puppies from a very early age is also important. 

One such home for shepherd puppies is AKC German Shepherds Home, a temporary home for the puppies of German Shepherds, and then they are sold to the respective buyers as a pet. Here, the puppies are raised with care and love and ensure that the best quality of training is given to them from the beginning. 

Though AKC German Shepherds Home is a family-owned business, the puppies are mainly brought from various parts of Germany, Canada, and North America. 

How the Purchasing Process Happens

To start with the buying process, you should first learn and accept that you are welcoming a fur baby into your home, and you should have open hearts to love the puppy-like child. The buying process is simple and clear, and once the puppy gets selected, some of the vital steps that are followed are-

1. Vaccination
2. Registration
3. Pre-flight checks
4. Shipping

It is clear that, once you choose the puppy that you want to buy, the seller first vaccinate the puppy to make it free from all sorts of diseases and protect a protective shield from further health issues. Then the puppy is registered, pre-flight checks are made for ensuring easy and smooth transportation and shipping is made. 

Why You Should Choose AKC German Shepherds Home 

Though various organizations raise German shepherd puppies, AKC German Shepherds Home is considered the best one due to some vital reasons-

• Socialized And Handled With Care

The puppies here are taken care of from birth, and they are handled, socialized and trained with the utmost affection. They are handled daily from an early age; the muzzles are moved up and down, the mouth is opened, and they are being held back in the air and made socialize. 

• They Are Raised As A Family

Here in this home, these puppies are raised as a family, providing them with utmost care and affection so that they easily get accustomed to a new home. The first week of their birth is crucial, and the team notices every step of the dog and provides what they need. They are made to socialize by playing with other old dogs and children. 

If you are looking for German shepherd puppies or larger dogs, choosing the best breed is crucial. 

Having a dog at home is like taking care of a child or a family member because you need to provide for his essential needs. You need to feed him the right food, have a walk in the neighborhood or park, groom him regularly, and make sure to give him a comfortable bed. Some breeds should be kept in a cage because of their aggressive behavior and are not sociable.

However, a lot of dogs like cuddling or playing so they get along with the other pets and human beings as well. The fun they bring to the members of the family and individuals, who live alone, is incomparable, especially when they have built a connection. One of the favorite breeds that you can find even with celebrities is the French bulldogs. Like other pet dogs, we have to provide them their needs such as food, vitamins, and a nice bed too. You can check sites such as www.bulldogpros.com to know your pet’s bedding options.

You might be asking why a French bulldog when you can adopt a Shi Tzu, Dalmatian, Chihuahua, or Poodle. Well, we all have preferences and it does not matter what type it is as long as you are willing to take care of this pet and provide his needs. Now, if this new member of the house will stay indoors, then you need to get him space so that he can sleep comfortably.

French Bulldog

This is a small breed of dogs with huge bat ears which is their trademark and they can grow up to 13 inches tall. This Frenchie resembles a miniature bulldog with a muscular coat, a big square-shaped head, a heavily wrinkled face, and the nose is quite shorty. They are usually playful but alert and can easily adapt to different environments that make them irresistible cuties.

They may have a charm that you had been looking for because they are a great companion. You won’t hear too much barking from them since they are a quiet type but that won’t stop them from being alert and good watchdogs. Now, if the owner doesn’t like staying outdoors for a walk, then you don’t have to worry because this Frenchie won’t require ample time to do exercises outdoors – this site will tell you more about caring for this pet.

So, who will not like having such a charming French pet at home when you know that it won’t harm your kids and won’t be a burden to your daily routines? I guess all you need to do now is to prepare his bed and welcome him to his new home. In this way, he will feel that he is accepted and would be receiving lots of love.

Importance

You should know that your Frenchie must also have enough time to sleep to stay healthy and this will only happen if you will provide him the right one. Keep in mind that your bulldog may get sick without sufficient rest because they are always actively running or playing around so make sure he can maintain his energy level. By the way, the bedstead will give you less time to clean the floor or mat because of the fur so it is still better to have a bed of his own.

Do not forget that animals also need to maintain the heat or temperature of their body so it would be great to give them an insulated one to keep them warm at night or during the winter. You will surely buy him a suit to protect that from cold weather but it is still best to let them lie on the bed and not on the floor so they won’t get ill. They may also experience joint paints or arthritis, especially when they get older, and using a comfortable space will help them relieve joint and muscle issues.

Your pet may also experience stress or separation anxiety when the owner leaves them and that would be hard for them to understand that’s why they always wait. You should know that having a place to sleep will help him decrease the level of stress or anxiety because they feel the comfort and safety on their bed. Your French bulldog may feel like he is abandoned and as owners, you should minimize those negative emotions.

Things to Consider

It has to be durable and easy to wash because you need to maintain the cleanliness of his bed to keep him away from germs or bacteria. Make sure that the material used is soft and polycotton, when he sheds a lot, chew-proof since some of them likes chewing, and made of memory foam or bead for the thick pad when he is quite heavy.

You don’t need to be choosy when it comes to the design but you will have a lot of options and this will depend on your personal preferences, anyway. The one you will choose will also depend on your budget and a more complicated design is surely pricier. You may focus more on his sleeping habit and position because this piece should be able to accommodate them no matter how they sleep.

Do not forget to know the weight and height of your pet and your French bulldog may weigh about 16 pounds, then about 11 inches tall. This information is necessary for finding the right size of the bed. Now, for older pets or those with health conditions make sure to get them the appropriate type because they need more care and so that they can sleep or rest well.

These naughty little ones can live in urban flats or in a chalet on the outskirts of the city. They are affectionate with the family and even jealous if other dogs or cats steal their daily portion of cuddling.

But don’t worry, as inside the home they don’t look for difficulties. Of course, outside … that is something else! In this guide, discover more details about the intense temperament and characteristics of the glamorous Yorkies terrier.

The Yorkies terrier breed and its humble origin:

Although the Yorkies terrier is one of the most flirtatious breeds today, its appearance in the 19th century in Britain was not overly glamorous. And it was used to hunt rats! Being an inexpensive dog, the poorest families used the Yorkies terrier breed to kill these dirty rodents. Later the bourgeois class adopted him and the Yorkies terrier became the “posh” dog we know today.

The small size of the Yorkshire terrier belies its true personality, which is energetic, lively and dominant. Yorkshire terriers are affectionate, but they also demand a lot of attention; this breed is a good choice for someone who wants to spoil a dog.

Yorkshire terriers make excellent watchdogs. But they can show a temper with other children if they don’t treat them with respect or kindness. Some can be aggressive towards other small animals, although there are Yorkshire terriers that live quite peacefully with other dogs and even cats.

Yorkshire terriers can be barkers, although they can be trained not to bark excessively. Some may be stubborn when it comes to toilet training.

This is the temperament of a Yorkies terrier

Affectionate with their own, the specimens of this breed will soon win the sympathy of the members of the household. If you ignore them, they will show their anger through destructive behavior. They are not very tolerant of childish antics and due to their small size they can be easily hurt.

They also do not like to be isolated in the yard or to be home alone for a long time. For these dogs it is essential to be able to interact with human beings and feel that we care about them. However, you should not be too overprotective, because in that case they could become fearful or neurotic.

What care does a Yorkies terrier need?

The specimens of this breed are adapted to any type of home, although their exercise needs should not be neglected. Inside the home they are quite active, as they like to play and check that everything is in order.

If you have a garden, they will be happy to share a play session with you several times a week. Renew them from time to time so that they do not eat any component that could choke.

Ah! And you must be very careful during outings. Although they are small, Yorkies Terriers are believed to be the size of a Great Dane. A good idea is to always wear them with a long strap that allows you to control their movements without taking away their freedom.

On the other hand, the Yorkies terrier breed has a long life expectancy and if you take care of it as it deserves, you will have a great friend for at least 15 years. It is a fragile dog so be careful not to hurt it! It can suffer spinal problems or dislocation of the patella.

When you hear the expression, “A man’s best friend,” what is the first thing you think of? Unless you’ve been living under a rock most of your life, the answer is pretty universal: a dog.

And a lot of other Americans would agree with that sentiment. With about 50% of American households having at least one Fido in their family, a dog seems to be the prime candidate to turn any house into a home.

But why do people love dogs so much? Are there any benefits of having a dog? Keep reading and find out 9 awesome reasons to get a dog ASAP.

Lead a More Active Lifestyle

For the most part, you will not find a better partner to go walking with than a dog. Not only are they always poised and ready to get on that leash, but having a daily routine of taking your dog on a walk is beneficial for both pet and owner alike.

In fact, a recent study found that dog owners had 20 percent higher activity levels than people who did not own dogs. More movement means better cardiovascular health, increased stamina, and an overall healthier body. It’s like having your own furry, friendly personal trainer!

Happier and Improved Mood

Let’s face it: dogs will put a smile on your face. Their antics, happy-go-lucky personality, and silly tail-chasing behavior all help contribute to a positive mood.

Why can we say that? Dogs are happy by default and are always glad to see you. Ask any dog-lover what happens if you step out of the house, even for five minutes. The minute your face appears at the doorway, your dog feels like he’s finally reunited with a long-lost friend.

Wholesome and loyal to a fault, dogs will love you no matter what and always come back for more belly rubs.

Feel More Protected

Dogs are one of those animals with a ‘pack mentality’. Their home and their human family are the borders of their world, and they take the responsibility of protecting that world very seriously.

Although a dog’s vision is moderate, they have a keen sense of hearing and smell. The slightest noise outside, such as an unexpected visitor approaching the door, will put them on high alert. They are quick to notify the household if a stranger is approaching.

This can even make things like taking a walk or going on a car ride feel more secure. Most of the time, even the presence of a dog ensures any unwelcome guest stays away.

Helps Grow Your Social Circle

While very protective, dogs can also help you connect with others. In fact, owning a dog opens you up to a whole new world socially.

Since walking the dog gets you out of the house on a daily basis, there is the chance to connect with neighbors who are outside as well. Most dog owners can vouch for the countless number of times they are stopped by passersby during walks, only to be asked if they would allow them to pet their fur baby.

Not to mention the countless outings, dog parks, and other opportunities to connect with others, many find the social benefits of having a new pet undeniable.

Entertainment for the Kids

While dogs are not toys, if you have children in your home, a dog can fill in certain gaps. Whether racing around in the backyard playing or snuggling together watching movies, dogs are notorious for enhancing anyone’s childhood. A lot of adults’ childhood memories revolve around that special four-legged friend that kept us company.

Company for Seniors

Many senior citizens have to cope with life alone or with far less to do once they reach retirement. Dogs have proven to be the companions they need and have helped fight off loneliness.

Because of this, many retirement centers bring dogs around for visits to improve the mood of their residents. This often contributes to better overall health among their older occupants.

Great Traveling Companions

Dogs just love to go out and be a part of their human families’ lives, and errands or vacations are no exception. You will not find a better car ride buddy than a dog, hands down. And while you obviously can’t bring them everywhere you go, dogs have been known to be great participants in camping trips, beach days (where dogs are allowed), and the like.

Get Ready for Parenting

Although this reason gets a few eyebrows raises at times — this should not be the ONLY reason to take on a pet — it still is worth mentioning. If you don’t have children yet, but would someday like to, a dog will definitely help get you ready for the responsibility involved.

Between maintaining a regular feeding schedule, household training, and other responsibilities, dog owners learn how to develop things like patience, love, and a good routine. These qualities help contribute toward not just being a great parent to your fur baby but also being a successful parent to the Homosapien variety in the future.

Make Your House a Home

No matter if you’re single, married, or apart of a family, owning a dog brings that much-needed aspect to a home. Warm, caring, and loyal, a dog is the kind of pet that can round out your lives and bring a great deal of joy.

Countless More Reasons to Get a Dog

This isn’t an exhaustive list; we could go on and on with many more reasons to get a dog. While they can be a great deal of work and require some patience, dogs can add an aspect to anyone’s life that just makes everything better.

So, in other words, why get a dog? To sum it up, because dogs are just AWESOME.

Want to learn more about the ins and outs of dog ownership? Take a look at some of our other helpful articles to find out more!

 

Seeing the excitement and joy on your dog’s face when you hand them a new toy or treat is one of the best experiences of being a dog owner. But buying dog gifts isn’t always as simple as it seems.

If you sometimes get a little stuck trying to work out what gift to get your dog, you’re not alone. Fortunately, there are some simple things you can do or think about that will make the experience of buying dog gifts better for you and your pet.

To help you make the right decision, we’ve put together a list of four factors to weigh up. Read on to learn more.

1. Make the Gift Memorable

When buying dog gifts, make them memorable. In some ways, you are buying the gift just as much for you as for your dog. Pick something that your dog will enjoy but that will also create a happy memory for you.

Buying gifts online is convenient and safer during a pandemic, but if you can get into a pet store, you’ll have the memory of searching and finding the perfect gift for your dog, too. There’s something that creates a more lasting memory when the act of gifting is tangible.

2. Quality Is Key

Don’t buy your dog a gift because of the price. Choose the gift because of its quality. Whether it’s a chew toy, a new bed, or a bag of treats, it’s always best to look for something that will last or is made of the best ingredients.

Giving your four-legged friend a new gift is even more pleasing to them and you if it won’t fall apart in a few moments. Read reviews online or ask someone in the store for their opinion about the options you are considering.

As an example of quality when buying dog gifts, check this out. This list of English Bulldogs gifts is full of quality ideas.

3. Know Your Dog

Even though your dog won’t know that you just gave her a special gift, it’s still about making sure they are happy with it. So, study your dog. What does he like most that he already has?

What kind of treats does she prefer? Do they go crazy about rope pulling or is it a squeaky toy that gets them excited?

You almost certainly already have this information in your head. Make a shortlist of the things that you know your dog loves. That way, you can find a gift that matches up perfectly.

4. Let Your Dog Choose

If you can visit your local pet store, take your dog with you. Buying dog gifts in a store with your dog is the best way.

Lead your dog around the store showing them the kinds of toys or treats you might buy. They might sniff one more than another one or be more interested in something. This reaction from your dog could give you the tip you need to choose the perfect gift.

Buying Dog Gifts Should Create Memories for You and Happiness for Them

Use these simple tips and guides when buying dog gifts. You want the special new toy or treat to create a happy memory for you when you see your dog take it for the first time. You also, of course, want your dog to be happy with the gift.

Know your dog. Make sure the gift is of high quality. Let your dog be your guide.

We love dogs just as much as you do, so check out our blog for more great ideas and articles.

The first night with a new puppy is challenging for both you and the puppy. This might be your puppy’s first night without his or her mother so you want to make sure you keep it feeling safe and comfortable.

One of the biggest parts of that is working out where should your puppy sleep and in this article, you’ll discover how to figure out where the best place is for your puppy.

Read on!

Use a Puppy Crate

When you prepare for your new puppy, a training crate can be an invaluable tool. It creates a small, safe space for your puppy.

It creates a dedicated sleeping area for your puppy, keeps them out of trouble as they haven’t been potty trained yet, and allows you to show them that night time is for settling down and sleeping.

They might not take to it at first, and a lot of puppies will whine for the first few nights, but you want to start setting habits early. That’s why it’s important to use a crate from the first night.

Things to Add to the Puppy Crate

A crate on its own won’t be enough to help the puppy feel comfortable. Add a blanket to give your puppy some warmth and make the crate a softer setting.

Also, add a plush toy. This will give your puppy something to sleep against, and create a feeling of sleeping next to his or her mother.

You can also add a divider to the crate. This gives you control over the size of the space available for your puppy. It means you can create a warm, snug space on the first night and increase the space in the future as your puppy grows.

Where Should You Place Your Puppy’s Crate

Place the crate somewhere free of drafts and where you can keep an eye on your puppy overnight. As it is a new setting, it’s recommended you keep the crate in the bedroom to get the puppy used to the crate.

You might not get much sleep for the first night, or maybe the first few nights. But when your puppy is used to the crate and settles down at night, you can start to move the crate further away from your bed and eventually into a different room.

Have a Plan B for Where Should Your Puppy Sleep

One of the most important things to remember with a puppy is that the first 24 hours are new for you and also new for them. You won’t know ahead of time how they’re going to behave or react to the environment they’re coming in to.

When deciding where should your puppy sleep at night, preparing ahead of time is great. However, having a back-up plan or some way to adapt is going to help if your puppy doesn’t react well.

Don’t let the puppy sleep in your bed, however. It’s tempting, but it can create bad habits that will be harder to train your puppy out of later on.

Be Prepared

A new setting won’t be easy for you or your puppy so mentally prepare yourself for some rough nights and a lack of sleep.

When working out where should your puppy sleep, keep in mind the puppy’s wellbeing, how you’re going to check in on them, and their long-term training.

For more advice on caring for your pet, read the rest of our blog.

If you’re looking to join the 63.4 million American households that own a dog, you’re making a great decision. These animals have been bred to be man’s best friend, so their lifestyles perfectly coincide with most humans’.

Choosing the right breed, however, is still an important and complicated endeavor. Luckily, a Presa Canario puppy is a great choice for most people and households, so the search may be over! Read on to learn more about this awesome working breed to discover whether or not these pups are right for you.

1. You’re More Introverted

Preso Canario dogs are a fairly calm breed. In contrast with many other larger breeds of dogs, they are pretty quiet and don’t bark very often. While they do have loud voices as a result of their size, they won’t bark unless they’re trying to defend you or their home against what they perceive as a threat.

These dogs are confident and calm, but they are still a working breed. However, when exercised properly, they will sleep while at home and be affectionate and adorable in a low-maintenance way.

2. You Prefer Large Breeds

Preso Canarios are fairly large working dogs. They reach an average height of 21-25 inches and are about 75-100 lbs.

If you want a dog that will take up space both in your home and in your heart, you’re making the right choice when you choose a Preso Canario. They’re cute when they’re puppies, but they’re also adorable when they grow to their full height. After all, adulthood doesn’t make them any less loving!

3. You Like to Exercise

Despite their generally low-maintenance needs, Preso Canarios need to be exercised frequently. Since they’re bred as working dogs, they become destructive when they do not have their exercise needs met. This means taking a long walk or jog at least once a day.

You also may want to give your new puppy tasks to complete throughout the day. This can be as simple as a game of fetch. You can also let your dog have unfettered access to a fenced-in backyard with many toys in it that they can ‘herd.’

4. You Don’t Want to Groom Extensively

Unlike poodles and other small dogs, Preso Canarios have extremely low grooming needs. They have a short coat, which means that no styling will be necessary. You only need to bathe them about once a month.

You can also brush or comb out their coat weekly if you think that your dog has become a bit dirty. They are really calm and do not mind being groomed, but it is unnecessary to do it too often.

5. You Live in a Warm Climate

Because Preso Canarios have such thin coats, they aren’t well suited to cold climates. This makes them the ideal dog for those who live in more temperate states or those that have nice weather year-round.

Of course, you can always adopt any dog from your local shelter and give them a home. However, if you’re going to a breeder, you may only want to consider Preso Canarios if you live somewhere that doesn’t have a lot of snow or ice. Otherwise, your dog will become very uncomfortable when they need to go outside in the cold!

6. You Want a Purebred Puppy

Many people value having purebred dogs when looking for a new addition to their family. Presa Canarios are a breed that often is bred specifically for those that want them. If you want to adopt an infant puppy, this is a great pah for you and your family.

You can find more information about breeding Preso Canario puppies on La Nobleza kennel’s website. Here, you can not only have dogs bred to suit your needs, but you can also choose pre-existing dogs from other litters that need a home.

7. You Have Adequate Funds

In addition to the high adoption fees that come with purebred dogs, Preso Canarios are known for having more health issues than other dogs. Unfortunately, they only have an average lifespan of 9-11 years, but during this timeframe, they will become part of your heart and give you memories to last a lifetime.

Still, you will need money in case your dog develops the health issues characteristic of their breed. They often develop heart and lung problems later in life. They also are at high risk for hip and elbow dysplasia as well as epilepsy, so be vigilant and on the look for problems that may arise.

8. You Have an Open Heart

Adopting a dog requires you to have an open home and an open heart. You’re not just getting a pet- you’re getting a new family member that you and others in your household will grow to love dearly.

Make sure that you’re ready to be knocked over by a lot of love before adopting any dog. It’s an amazingly beautiful thing that you need to be prepared for.

So, Is a Presa Canario Puppy Right for You?

The answer, for most people, is an absolute ‘yes.’ These animals are friendly, fun, and loving, which makes them the perfect addition to any family.

Now that you know whether or not you should get a Presa Canario puppy, it’s time to learn more about pet ownership. Check out the ‘pet care’ section of our home page for more information on how to properly care for your furry friend. You can also read articles on our website about making sure that you have the right puppy accessories before bringing your new family member home.

Dogs can experience stress just like humans. And while the causes may be slightly different, the symptoms and the negative health outcomes can be the same.

If you’re worried about your pet’s anxiety, there are things you should be on the lookout for. That way, you can help soothe them or get them medical attention if needed.

Read below to learn the signs your dog is stressed out.

1. Unusual Changes to Eyes and Ears

A stressed animal may have physical signs of their anxiety, like dilated pupils or rapid blinking.

You may also notice that their ears change position from relaxed to pulled closer to the head. This shows that they are at a heightened level emotionally and could be experiencing stress.

2. Isolation

If a dog is isolating himself, it could be a sign that he wants to be left alone or that he stressed. Usually, a dog can work through this on his own and it could be a sign that he was temporarily frightened or spooked by a sudden movement or loud noise.

Rescue dogs may also take some time to adjust to having people around all the time.

If you notice signs of separation, give the dog a little bit of time to adjust. If the behavior continues, consider consulting a professional.

You don’t want your dog to experience chronic stress for these reasons.

3. Increased Shedding

Most breeds of dogs have some shedding. But if you notice that your dog’s shedding has gotten out of control, think about potential stress triggers that the dog could be experiencing.

If you have been away from home a lot or have construction at the house it could create an unusual environment that makes the dog feel uncomfortable or uneasy.

4. Licking and Yawning

Much like shedding, a dog licking its nose or yawning may not seem out of the ordinary. But did you know that these are also signs of stress?

You might notice that a dog is drooling or licking its nose when you are about to give it a treat. This is a harmless short term version of stress as they await food. But if you notice the same behavior happening more frequently, your pup might be dealing with stress.

When a dog yawns it could be a sign of sleepiness but it could also be a stress yawn. If you see the yawn along with any of the other signs on this list, it’s probably from stress.

5. Panting

If your dog is panting for no reason it could be stress-induced. It’s very similar to when humans experience stress and they are short of breath.

If the panting continues and is irregular with their behavior, call your vet for more information.

How to Use the Signs Your Dog Is Stressed Out

Now that you know the signs your dog is stressed out, how can you use that to help your furry friend?

The key is to keep their environment as normal and stress-free as possible. Keep them on a regular exercise and diet routine and avoid leaving them home alone for long periods of time.

If you think the issue may be more serious or that your dog has a health problem, contact your vet and arrange an appointment.

For more advice and lifestyle news, take a look at our other articles online!

A blood test or diagnostic test helps us to learn details about the wellbeing of your dog, which can only be learned by extracting and examining a blood sample. This includes a CBC (complete blood count) and a blood chemistry that analyses the chemical components in the blood.

CBC for dogs is used to classify and measure white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets in a specified volume of blood. This involves a study of the form and condition of cells for health and functionality. This information helps you understand more about your dog’s immune system (white blood cells) and its ability to bear oxygen (red blood cells).

Often the CBC may help to assess the underlying cause of anemia or infection. Drugs that have an effect on the bone marrow alter the CBC. Certain types of cancers, particularly leukemia, can be evident from a blood test. Blood parasites and certain microorganisms are identified by careful examination of the blood cells during the CBC. In certain cases, the results of the CBC might lead the veterinarian to prescribe further diagnostic tests.

How is Complete Blood Count (CBC) performed?

For a complete blood count, the veterinarian may take a blood sample from the cephalic vein by inserting a needle into the forelimb, starting distally (near the paw) and working proximally (away from the paw). The blood sample is then sent to the laboratory for further examination.

What does Complete Blood Count (CBC) measures?

The CBC indicates veterinarian the status of your dog’s anemia, inflammation, hydration, blood clotting, and immune system response. CBC is important for dogs with symptoms such as diarrhea, fatigue, pale gums fever, vomiting, or lack of appetite.

What does the Complete Blood Count (CBC) tell us about red blood cells? 

RBC is a representation of the number of cells circulating. If it is low, it means that your canine friend has anemia and, depending on the situation, further diagnoses may be required to find out why. If this number is too high, it generally means that your dog is dehydrated, although there are uncommon diseases that can cause a high red cell count in the absence of dehydration.

What does the Complete Blood Count (CBC) tell us about white blood cells?

In the case of white blood cells or leukocytes, the differential count determines what types of leukocytes are present, which gives your veterinarian an idea of the origins of any inflammation. In the differential count, we get two measurements for each type of cell – a percentage and an absolute count. Percentages indicate whether the ratio of different types of cells is normal. Absolute counts reflect the degree to which each cell count is either too high or too low. White blood cells are usually elevated when infection is present and can decrease in some disease processes or when certain medications are provided, such as chemotherapeutic agents.

What does the Complete Blood Count (CBC) tell us about platelets?

Platelet counts are often carried out in combination with a complete blood cell count (CBC). Platelet counts of less than 20,000 to 30,000 per microliter of blood are likely to cause spontaneous hemorrhage. Additional diagnostic tests may be used to examine the underlying causes of the problem. These can include additional veterinary tests, such as: blood tests, x-rays, ultrasound, or bone marrow samples, depending on the type of the suspected underlying process.

Does CBC cause side effects in dogs?

CBCs typically do not cause any side effects. If side effects occur, they are mostly mild and occur at the needle site. Side effects that could occur include:

• bruising
• swelling
• infection
• discomfort
• bleeding