Dog Articles

Part of caring for your dog is understanding his needs. When you need to know more about dog nutrition, health, behavior or training, turn to Purina’s experts. In the below articles you’ll find all their best information and tips so you can better care for your dog.

dog eating a treat out of human's hand

How to Use Dog Treats for Training, Bonding & Rewarding

Treats are a good way to reward, train and bond with your dog. Learn how many treats you should give your dog and the number of calories needed for their diet.

Articles

Dog Zoomies: Where Does All That Energy Come From?
Dog Zoomies: Where Does All That Energy Come From?
Nearly every dog owner knows about dog zoomies: those sudden bursts of energy that have your pup shooting across the room or chasing its tail like there's a dog treat attached to the end of it. You've probably had a good laugh about your dog's case of the zoomies, but have you ever wondered where all that energy comes from and why your dog suddenly has it?
Dog Hernias
Dog Hernias
It's quite common for dogs to develop hernias, and in puppies, it’s even more likely. A hernia occurs when contents from the dog’s abdomen push through a hole or tear in the fatty tissue or muscle wall in the region. Nine out of 10 cases of hernia in dogs are caused by genetic predisposition, with many puppies born with the condition. Still, being struck by a car or some other trauma can also cause your dog to develop a hernia.
Why Do Dogs Have Whiskers?
Why Do Dogs Have Whiskers?
Why do dogs have whiskers? Whiskers are to dogs what fingertips are to humans — they provide dogs with the sensory means to navigate their surroundings. Whiskers grow strategically on your dog’s face, framing their muzzle, snout, chin, and eyes. These specially tuned hairs help guide your dog through their day by providing the dog with sensory input, just as you use your fingertips, or an insect uses its antenna. Whiskers help with navigation, vision support and overall safety for your dog.
Why Do Dogs Tilt Their Heads?
Why Do Dogs Tilt Their Heads?
Any dog owner knows pups do a lot of adorable things, from the way they bring us little gifts to the way they explode in joy when they know it's feeding time. One of their cutest — and least comprehensible — quirks is the way they tilt their heads when you talk to them. If you've ever wondered what this endearing behaviour means, dig into this guide for some theories on why dogs tilt their heads like this.
Dog Yeast Infections
Dog Yeast Infections
If you've noticed your normally cheerful pup obsessively scratching one part of their body or immediately continuing to scratch themselves after being stopped, it might be an indication of a dog yeast infection. This unpleasant skin condition is fairly common in dogs, but fortunately, it's not that difficult to get under control. Read on for an overview of dog yeast infection symptoms and treatments.
How to Tell if Your Dog Is Depressed
How to Tell if Your Dog Is Depressed
If you're like most dog owners, your dog is usually pretty cheerful about life in general. You can see it when they excitedly greet you at the front door when you get home from work or bound around when they know it's time for a walk. Sometimes, though, you might notice your normally upbeat pup seems a little downcast. Let's take a look at how to tell if a dog is depressed.
How to Teach a Dog to Swim
How to Teach a Dog to Swim
Swimming can be an enjoyable activity for dogs, but it's not one that always comes naturally. Learn how to properly introduce your puppy to the water and how to teach your dog to swim with these tips and tricks.
How to Feed a Large Breed Dog
How to Feed a Large Breed Dog
Choosing the best food for and determining how to feed a large breed dog can be difficult. Your large breed dog may have a mammoth appetite, but is bigger always better when it comes to meals for your canine?
Dog Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome
Dog Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome
Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is a type of disorder sometimes seen in senior dogs. A decline in the ability of the dog’s brain to function is a hallmark of CDS.
How to Spot, Remove, and Prevent Ticks on Dogs
How to Spot, Remove, and Prevent Ticks on Dogs
It’s common to find ticks on dogs, even if your dog doesn’t spend a great deal of time outdoors. With such a high probability of your dog naturally coming in contact with a tick, it’s important to know the best practices for removing a tick from a dog as well as for preventing ticks on dogs. Luckily, tick prevention and treatment is a simple task.
Understanding Pancreatitis in Dogs
Understanding Pancreatitis in Dogs
The pancreas is located under the stomach at the beginning of the small intestine. It’s responsible for certain regulative and digestive functions in the body. Pancreatitis in dogs is defined as inflammation of the pancreas. In this article, we’ll further define pancreatitis and explain the causes, symptoms, and treatment for it.
Why Is My Dog Sneezing?
Why Is My Dog Sneezing?
If you've owned or been around a dog for very long, you've probably heard them sneeze. It's a common occurrence in dogs and other pets, and many owners find it funny and cute. However, you may also be concerned about why your dog is sneezing and if it means something is wrong.