Looking for more knowledge about your dog's health? On this page, you'll find various articles about the health and well-being of your dog. We discuss various herbs and minerals, but also delve deeper into conditions, diseases, and everything else related to dogs.
Feeding
Is sugar in food a problem for dogs too?
We all know that people should not eat and drink too much sugar. It is unhealthy and fattening. Especially when it comes to so-called fast sugars, which are common in sweets and biscuits. But does the same apply to dogs? Are they also allowed only a limited amount of sugar? And is there actually sugar in dog food?. To start with the last point, Yes, dog food contains carbohydrates and sugars. These often come from grains, which are a key ingredient in many types of dog food. Starch is typically the main energy source in dog food. Cheaper dog foods often contain more starch, usually derived from grains, compared to premium dog food. Types of Sugars Not all sugars and carbohydrates are the same. Cooked starch is easily digestible for dogs, while lactose can be problematic for some. Cellulose from plants is p...
Feeding
Fruit and vegetables for your dog?
Dogs are omnivores and can enjoy some fruits and vegetables. So it is best to give them some healthy vegetables or pieces of fruit as snacks sometimes. But beware: not all fruits and vegetables are suitable and some plants are even downright toxic. We list them for you.. Healthy Vegetables and Fruits for Dogs: Apples: Rich in fiber and vitamin C, but be sure to remove the seeds and core! Bananas: A good source of fiber and potassium. Pineapple and mango: Sweet and exotic. Carrots: Crunchy and nutritious, especially as a snack. Spinach: High in iron and vitamin A. Blueberries: Great for digestion and packed with vitamin C. Watermelon: Cut into small pieces and seedless. Cucumber: Refreshing and tasty, and the skin can stay on. Broccoli and Brussels sprouts: High...
Feeding
What should go in the feeder daily?
Of course, as a dog owner, you want the best for your buddy. Healthy and tasty food, but also enough of it. At the same time, it should also be doable for you as an owner to prepare and feed the meals. What should you take into account?. Whatever you feed your dog, make sure the diet contains all the essential nutrients they need. Preferably with minimal grains, well-digestible proteins, and sufficient omega-3 fatty acids. Omnivore, Vegetarian, or Vegan? Dogs are naturally omnivores, meaning they can digest both animal and plant-based nutrients. An omnivorous diet naturally includes all the nutrients your dog needs. However, with some adjustments, a dog can also be fed a vegetarian diet. In that case, you need to ensure they get...
Diseases
What is the difference between Cushing's and diabetes?
Diabetes mellitus (diabetes) and Cushing's syndrome (also known as hyperadrenocorticism) are two different diseases. Dogs can get either disease, or both. There are some similarities between these two diseases, but also differences. We list them for you.. In both diseases, dogs tend to drink and urinate excessively, and special diabetes food can support your dog in both cases. However, the two conditions differ in their cause, treatment, and partly in their symptoms. Cushing Cushing’s syndrome is caused by an excess of cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. Overproduction can be due to a tumor in the adrenal glands or the pituitary gland or as a result of long-term corticosteroid treatment. Symptoms of Cushing: Increased thirst and f...
Feeding
Diseases
Nutrition and supplements for your dog with Cushing's disease
Dog owners regularly ask us what foods and/or supplements can support a dog with Cushing's disease. We are happy to explain in this article.. Cushing's disease, also known as hypercortisolism, occurs when a dog’s adrenal glands produce too much cortisol. The stress hormone cortisol plays a role in fight-or-flight responses and other short-term bodily reactions, but chronically elevated cortisol levels in the blood can negatively affect many aspects of health. Disrupted Insulin Response Cushing's disease in dogs can contribute to insulin resistance and is even one of the main causes of insulin-related problems in dogs with diabetes. Do...
Diseases
Why it is important to spot Cushing's in dogs early
Identifying Cushing's disease in dogs early is crucial. This gives the best chances of a longer and more comfortable life for your dog. The earlier the disease is diagnosed, the sooner treatment can start, the right food can be given and the development of symptoms can be delayed.. Cushing’s disease in dogs, also known as hypercortisolism, is a hormonal disorder in which the adrenal glands produce excessive amounts of cortisol. Too much cortisol is harmful to health and causes a range of problems. In some cases, surgery is necessary to stop the overproduction of cortisol. In other cases, a dog will be given medication to better regulate cortisol levels. Symptoms What symptoms may indicate Cushing’s disease in your dog? Watch for: excessive thirst and frequent urination swo...
Diseases
What is cushing in dogs?
Cushing's disease in dogs, also known as hypercortisolism, is a hormonal condition in which the adrenal glands produce too much cortisol. Too much cortisol is bad for health. Cushing's disease is mostly seen in middle-aged or older dogs.. English Translation: Cortisol is a corticosteroid, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands from cholesterol. Cortisol plays a crucial role in metabolism and the processing of proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids. It is a stress hormone, just like adrenaline. Cortisol prepares the body for a fight-or-flight response. However, a (prolonged) excess of cortisol is harmful to health and disrupts various bodily processes. Cushing's disease can occur in all dog breeds but appears to be more common in D...
Respiratory
Resistance
.png)
Can your dog catch a cold?
When we humans run around sniffling or coughing, it is often said that we have ‘caught a cold’. But is that sniffling really due to the cold? And can dogs also catch a cold from cold weather?. People often think that they catch a cold because they were in a draft or because they were cold. However, this is not entirely correct. When you have a cold with a runny nose and coughing, there is always a virus involved—sometimes a bacterium as well. This also applies to dogs. Cold Weather What is true, however, is that viruses and bacteria often survive longer and infect more people and animals when it is cold. High humidity is also often favorable for viruses. In this way, cold and wet weat...
Others
What is the optimal environment temperature for dogs?
Dogs often run from inside to outside without giving much sign of cold or heat. But at what temperatures should you start paying attention? And how warm should it be in the house to keep your dog comfortable?. Dogs Have a Slightly Higher Body Temperature Than Humans. Dogs have a body temperature ranging between 38°C and 39°C. If the temperature falls outside of this range, it could indicate health issues such as fever or hypothermia. Optimal Temperature The optimal outdoor temperature for dogs is usually between 15°C and 25°C, while the ideal indoor temperature is between 15°C and 20°C. Good to know: despite their fur, dogs can get cold relatively easily. Dogs with a thin coat, in particular, feel the...
Skin
Facts about coats: what does your dog get out of his hair?
One of the most fascinating things about dogs is the enormous diversity in the appearance of different dog breeds. It is almost unbelievable that all types of dogs share a common ancestor. Take the coat: from lush winter coats with an ‘undercoat’ to very short-haired coats and anti-allergenic curls, the variety is huge. But why is the coat actually important for your dog? And how do you keep your dog's coat healthy?. Dogs Have Different Coat Types Dogs have various types of coats, such as short-haired, long-haired, rough-haired, and smooth coats. A dog's coat serves multiple purposes. First, it provides insulation against cold and heat, keeping the dog comfortable in different weather conditions. Additionally, the coat protects the skin from sharp objects, contaminants, insects, and other external factors. A healthy coat is therefore essential for your dog’s well-being. Role in Immunity A dog’s coat also pla...
Stress
Supplement for calmness: miracle cure or support?
Many owners like to give their dog a supplement against stress on certain occasions. For example, around New Year's Eve, to reduce stress caused by fireworks. An herbal supplement that includes hops, chamomile and valerian is great for this purpose. But what should you expect from such a supplement for calmness? Is it a miracle cure?. You may have guessed it: there are no miracle cures. Even an herbal extract to reduce stress and anxiety won’t eliminate all problems for every dog. But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t work. You should see a calming supplement as a way to support your dog. Thanks to the herbs, your dog is less likely to startle easily and can release tension more quickly—for example, after a loud firework bang from a neighbor. A Holistic Approach A supplement can certainly help, but it’s best to see it as part of a...
Cannabinoids
Behaviour
Clove
Stress
When to start using a herbal supplement for fireworks stress?
As the year ends, the noise from fireworks starts to increase, leading to loud bangs and clouds of smoke in many places during the last days of December. Many dogs experience stress from fireworks, and many owners want to help their dogs with a stress-relieving supplement. But when is the best time to start?. First things first: not all dogs experience stress from fireworks. And for many dogs, anxiety and tension from fireworks can be reduced through training and distraction. However, some dogs do experience a lot of stress, and for these animals, a supplement can be a solution. Calming herbs Herbs such as valerian, ginseng, lemon balm, chamomile, and hops have a calming effect and help reduce the sharpness of stimuli, making it easier for tension to dissipate. A supplement containing these herbs can...