Dogs

What are some common household dangers to cats and dogs?

Many household objects can be dangerous to cats, dogs, and even children.

Kittens and puppies are probably at the biggest risk, since they are so curious.

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What's the difference between dog food and cat food?

Dogs are physically able to eat and digest many types of food.

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Do you have any tips on transitioning my cat or dog to a new food?

Some cats and dogs get an upset tummy when changing foods, but a gradual change helps prevent problems.

Unless you have or are getting a prescription diet and your veterinarian says otherwise, the following schedule is a good help to transition your pet to a new type of food without problems:

Days 1 and 2mix 3/4 of the old food with 1/4 of the new food

Days 3 and 4mix old and new food halfandhalf

Days 5 and 6mix 1/4 old food with 3/4 new food

Day 7give 100% new food

If you see signs of problems during the week, slow down the transition.

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Will a pet door stop my dog from chewing?

A pet door can help get chewing problems under control, but it depends on why the pet chews.

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I have a dog and I'm thinking of getting a cat. Do you have any advice?

Many cats and dogs are great friends, but reaching that point can take some patience.

If your dog isnt used to cats, start with considering the dog‘s personality.

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How do I teach my cat or dog to use the door?

Most pets take to their new cat door or dog door quicklythey want to get to the other sidebut others need some training. Many get it in a few seconds, others might need a week or two

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I think my dog may be allergic. Do you have any tips?

Allergies are fairly common among dogs, and just like a human, a dog can develop a new allergy at any age.

The most common dog allergy is flea bites, and a couple of bites can trigger a reaction that will last for weeks.

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If I get a puppy, do I need to start with a small dog door and then upgrade in size?

Puppies grow fast; get the size pet door you will need for the dog as an adult.

It may seem logical to start with a smaller door when the dog is small and gradually increase the size, but you will have to buy several doorsand install several doors.

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Do you think it's better to get a puppy or adopt an adult dog?

Puppies are adorable and watching them grow up is a rewarding experiencebut there are many positives about adopting an adult dog as well.

Puppies have a lot of energy, theyre learning about the world, and they can be a lot of work.

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Where did dogs come from?

Dogs may have developed in many different parts of the world, but the DNA of modern dogs has most similarities to DNA from modern day European wolves.

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Are there different types of dog intelligence?

Dogs are thought to have instinctive intelligence, adaptive intelligence, and obedience intelligence.

Instinctive intelligence is what a breed is created to doand does naturally without extra training.

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My elderly dog appears confused, can old dogs get dementia?

Some older dogs develop cognitive issues, as well as problems with vision and sight, but they can still live full and happy lives.

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I want to get a pet door for my old dog. Is there something special I should keep in mind?

Aging dogs have different needs than puppies, and there are some things to consider when choosing a pet door for an older dog.

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Is antifreeze really dangerous to pets?

Antifreeze is very toxic to pets and leads to many deaths every year.

The problem for pet owners is, it‘s not just the antifreeze in one‘s own carthere can be puddles on the road and in parking lots.

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What should I think of when bringing a new dog home?

The most common mistake people do when bringing a new dog home is not giving enough time to acclimatize to the new environment.

A new furry friend will bring a lifetime of joy and love, but many are still returned to shelters and rescues within the first 24 hours of adoption.

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What does it mean to socialize a puppy?

Socializing a puppy means exposing them to many different people, environments, and situationsthis helps them to get used to the world so they can be well adjusted adults.

Encountering new things is important through a dog‘s life, but probably never more important than between 8 and 16 weeks of age.

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Why did my senior dog stop using the pet door?

If an older dog stops using the pet door, the problem is usually related to aches and pains.

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How well does a dog or a cat hear?

Dogs and cats have a much better sense of hearing than the average human, and sounds that are acceptable to us may be extremely loud to them.

Dogs can pick up sounds that are four times as far away than something a human can hear, and they hear a wider range of sounds than we do.

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Will the PlexiDor Electronic keep my cats in while letting the dog out?

No pet door can guarantee that the cats don’t go outside with the dog.

The cat may not have a key to open the PlexiDor Electronic, but cats are fast and smart, and if they want to go outside, they’ll figure out that they can use the door with the dog.

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What size PlexiDor do I need for my Labrador?

An average size Labrador will need a large PlexiDor dog door.

Labradors come in a variety of sizes and there‘s a difference between English labs and American labs.

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What are your best dog training tips?

No matter what you want to teach your dog, the training process is easier with some basic knowledge.

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I have a very large dog. Do you have a door that will fit an Irish Wolfhound?

The PlexiDor Extra Large is constructed for dogs up to 220 pounds and will accommodate very large breeds such as Irish Wolfhounds, Great Pyrenees, Newfoundlands, and Great Danes.

Dog doors for pets this size face some unique challenges; a traditional flap door cant stand up to the power produced by a 220 pound dog hitting it at full speed.

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How do I make my dog relax?

Physical and mental exercise are the best ways to keep a dog stimulated and occupiedand relaxed in betweenbut to a certain extent, you can train a more relaxed behavior.

Some dogs are extremely energetic and might not get tired no matter how much physical exercise they get.

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What size PlexiDor do I need for my Beagle?

An average size Beagle will need a medium PlexiDor.

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What size PlexiDor do I need for my Chihuahua?

An average size Chihuahua will need a small PlexiDor.

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What is the best dog door for my Newfoundland?

The Newfoundland is a very large, strong, and energetic breed, and the PlexiDor Extra Large will be the best choicethis door is constructed for having dogs this size running through it.

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What size dog door does a German Shepherd need?

The average German Shepherd weighs between 75 and 95 pounds.

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Why does my dog lick me?

There are several reasons dogs lick peopleand each other.

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Why does my dog curl up to sleep?

Dogs in the wild curl up to keep themselves warm, and to protect their soft undersides from predators. For extra protection and warmth, they often dig out a nest to sleep in and the instinct to curl up remains in our domesticated dogs.

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Why does my dog eat grass?

Many believe dogs eat grass because they’re missing something in their diet, or to throw up, but there is no scientific evidence for this.

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Why does my tilt its head when I talk?

Dogs tilt their heads to pick up sounds betterit repositions their ears to pick up sounds from a certain direction.

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Do dog breed characteristics really matter?

Besides the obvious physical differences between dog breeds, they have been bred to perform specific tasksfor instance, most herding dogs are instinctively good at herdingso the breed matters.

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Is my dog sick if the nose is dry and warm?

A dry and warm nose doesnt necessarily mean a dogor catis sick.

A dog‘s nose can be cool and wet one moment and dry and warm a few minutes later.

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Why does my dog chase its tail?

Many puppies and young dogs chase their tails for entertainmentit‘s a builtin toy that can alleviate boredom.

If your dog chases its tail compulsively, you might want to seek a vet to make sure there isnt an underlying health problem.

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Why do dogs sniff each other's butts?

To humans the butt-sniffing ritual can seem awkward, but it gives a dog access to a lot of information about a new acquaintance, such as gender, health, and diet. Dogs remember scents too, and the smell can help determine if theyve met another dog before.

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Why do dogs have slits on the sides of the nose?

Dogs breathe in through the nostrils and out through the slits on the nose. This allows them to always bring new air past their olfactory receptorsand they can breathe in and out at the same time.

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Will my Irish Wolfhound be able to use an electronic PlexiDor?

A small Irish Wolfhound may be able to use an electronic PlexiDor, but large individuals will not be able to get through the opening.

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Why is my dog afraid of riding in the car?

Many dogs love car rides, but others associate the car with something negative. The remedy to fear of car rides is practice and positive reinforcement.

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My dog is afraid of children. What do I do?

There are several reasons to why dogs become afraid of children. The dog might not have gotten an opportunity to socialize with children as a puppy, or it may have had negative experiences with children.

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My dog is afraid of the vacuum cleaner. What do I do?

Dogs occasionally develop fears of certain objectssuch as the vacuum cleaner.

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Why does my dog stare at me?

Dogs often stare at humans to make sure they dont miss anything, to try to read our emotions, or to try to get something. “Somethingis often a snack, but can also be attention, play time, or a walk.

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Can cats and dogs get arthritis?

Arthritis is common in both cats and dogs. Pets are experts at hiding discomfort and disease, but early diagnosis can help manage the pain as well as prevent further damage.

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Is hot asphalt really dangerous to pets?

Asphalt can get very hot in the sun and burn your pet‘s paws.

Dogs seem so sturdy and it‘s easy to assume they’re more resistant to the elements than we humans are.

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My dog was stung by a bee. What do I do?

If your dog is stung by a bee or a wasp, go inside and call your veterinarian. Placing an ice pack on the sting can help, but not all dogs respond well to that.

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Can my dog eat peanut butter?

Dogs can eat peanut butter as long as it doesnt contain xylitol or other artificial sweeteners.

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Is Xylitol really dangerous to dogs?

Xylitol is toxic to dogs and even small amounts can cause seizures and  death.

Just a few years ago, Xylitol wasnt a big problem to dog owners.

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Can my dog eat Macadamia nuts?

Macadamia nuts are toxic to dogs, even in cookies, and even if the dog says it‘s okay.

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Can dogs eat Avocado?

Dogs should not eat avocadoboth fruit and plant contain a substance called persin that is toxic to many animals.

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I have a teacup size dogs. Can they use a dog door?

Even very small dog breeds can use dog doors. Pick a door that opens easily, like the small PlexiDor, and make sure you install it at an appropriate height.

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Why does my dog chew the paws?

There are several reasons dogs start chewing on their paws, such as allergies, dry skin, and nail problems. If you think the behavior is compulsive, it‘s a good idea to consult a veterinarian.

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I'm thinking of getting a pet door, but I'm concerned about my dog digging up my yard.

Dogs like to dig, and understanding why they do it may help manage the instinct. Some dogs never dig, and others love to do it.

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Why do dogs like to chew?

There are several reasons dogs like to chew. Puppies use their mouths to explore and learn about the worldand chewing relieves pain from teething

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Why does my dog eat rocks?

Some dogs seem to think everything belongs in their mouth, and eating rocks is more common than one might think. Though, it isnt a healthy or safe behavior.

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My dog's eyes look cloudy. Why is that?

Aging dogs get physical changes just like humans. If your dog‘s eyes are changing, see a veterinarian to determine if it‘s a condition that should be treated.

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Why does my dog roll in poop and other stinky stuff?

Most dogs love to roll in stinky substances that repulse humans. It is a natural behavior to them, and usually a way to mask their own scent.

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Can I give my dog a human pain killer?

Never give a dog a human pain killer.

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The new pet owner's guide to puppy-proofing a home

While these are lovable traits, new owners are often surprised by the trouble their new pet can cause.

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How do I puppy proof my home?

Many common items in a home can be a danger to puppies.

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When do puppies get their teeth?

Puppies usually have all their baby teeth at an age of five to six weeks, and they have around 28 baby teeth. By six months of age, all the permanent teeth should have grown in.

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Are toys important to dogs?

Toys are important to both cats and dogs, one may even say necessary. Toys keep boredom at bay, provide comfort, and help the pet burn off energy, which in turn prevents behavioral problems.

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Is tinsel dangerous to cats and dogs?

Tinsel, string, and ribbons can be deadly to cats and dogs, and should be kept away from pets.

Cartoon kittens are often seen frolicking with a ball of yarn, but in reality all forms of stringeven shoe lacespose a potentially lethal danger to cats and dogs.

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How do I teach my dog to look at the camera?

Some dogs seem to love the camera. They look at it and wait for theclickbefore turning their heads. Others seem to squirm and just refuse to sit still for a photo.

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Why do vets take blood samples at check-ups?

When you take your cat, dog, or other pet for a checkup, the veterinarian wants to make sure there aren’t any new or hidden illnesses.

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Should I weigh my dog or cat?

It is a good idea to keep track of a pet‘s weight. How often they should be weighed depends on age and overall health.

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How often should I clean my pet's bowls?

Pet food bowls often don’t make it to the dishwasher, but they should be cleaned regularly. The FDA recommends washing pet food bowls, food dishes, and utensils used to scoop food after each use.

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Subtle signs your cat may have a health problem

Cats are masters at hiding illness, and it‘s often easier to note a change in their behavior than the illness itself. Here are some changes to watch for.
Change in appetite
Cats need to eat regularly.

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Are some dog breeds more extroverted than others?

Dogs are individuals and every dog of a certain breed will be different, but the breeds have been created to enhance or suppress certain aspects. For instance, herding dogs have been bred to enhance the herding instinct, hunting breeds to have a strong hunting instinct, and so on.

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Will a dog door give my pet a headache?

Most pets push their dog door or cat door open with their heads, but the doors open so easily they wont get headaches.

If a pet door were to cause a pet pain, they would be unlikely to use it.

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Why do dogs have tails?

Dogs mainly use their tails to communicate.

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Do dogs like music?

Dogs react to music, and just like humans, different kinds of music give different responses.

Slower tempos and simpler patterns can help dogs relax while faster tempos with a multitude of instruments can make them stressed.

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How old is my dog in human years?

Size and breed play roles in how long dogs live, and how quickly they mature. For most dogs, the first year of life is an equivalent of about 15 human years, but after that it slows down.

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My dog met a skunk. How do I get rid of the smell?

Skunks are intelligent and adorable, but the smell they can leave is notand getting rid of it can seem impossible.

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Is it true that small dogs have more dental issues than large dogs?

Particularly toy breeds have more problems with their teeth and mouths than larger dogs. It‘s because their mouths are tiny while their teeth remain relatively large, so there‘s less room between the teeth.

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Can dogs learn to read or do math?

Dogs can learn to recognize printed words and associate them with a meaning. They don’t read full sentences like humans do, but they can learn to recognize letters.

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Can dogs eat bell peppers?

Bell peppers are rich in vitamins and antioxidants and are good for dogs in moderate amounts. Dogs shouldnt eat spicy peppers

Red bell peppers are the best, because they are the ripest and contain the most nutrients.

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My dog ate chewing gum, is it dangerous?

Many chewing gums contain xylitol as a sweetener, and xylitol is toxic to dogs. If you suspect your dog ingested something that may contain xylitol, contact a veterinarian for advice.

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Can I give my dog a beer?

Never give beer or anything else with alcohol to your pet. A dog‘s liver is not equipped to handle alcohol and even small amounts can be fatal.

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My vet said my dog has a neurological issue, what does it mean?

Neurological issues usually means something disrupts the signals between the brain and the body. The three main areas affected in dogs are the brain, the spinal cord, and the nerves.

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