Dog Articles

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.

Featured Dog Articles

Dog body condition chart
Is there such a thing as average dog weight? According to Purina’s experts, an average weight or range will vary from breed to breed and even between males and females. Learn why here, along with what they suggest using instead.
dog sitting in a suitcase on a bed
Do dogs need to wear seatbelts in the car? Yes, but not all dog car seatbelts are created equal. Find out how to choose one and get other dog car safety tips from our experts here.
purina-how-to-adopt-a-dog-500x300.jpg
Adopting a dog is a big step. There are a lot of things to consider, from choosing the right dog for your lifestyle to deciding where to adopt from. Let us help you find the perfect canine companion.

Articles

  • Don’t just assume your dog’s ears itch if he scratches them frequently. It may be a sign of a painful infection. Contact your veterinarian if you notice any of the following changes: ear discharge, a strange odor and head shaking.
  • A seizure is sometimes described as an electrical storm in the brain. Brain cells, called neurons, communicate using electrical and chemical signals. A seizure, also referred to as a convulsion or “fit,” occurs when there is a sudden surge of electri
  • Normal wear and tear on joints occurs daily. Cartilage protects your dog’s bones and joints from the friction caused by everyday movement. Natural glucosamine—a building block of cartilage tissue—can help maintain cartilage for healthy joints and mob
  • Inflammatory bowel disease in dogs and cats can affect their quality of life in many ways. Find out how to spot the signs of IBD, what the risk factors are and the treatment options your veterinarian may suggest.
  • Some dogs develop a painful hip problem called hip dysplasia. It’s most common in large breeds such as Labs, Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds, and can lead to arthritis later in life. A dog with hip dysplasia will have trouble running and getti
  • What are common symptoms of heart disease in dogs? Sudden onset shortness of breath, apparent weakness or a distended abdomen might be signs of heart disease in your dog.
  • Perhaps the awareness of the benefits of fiber in human diets has prompted pet owners to ask about its benefits in pet foods. Once described as “filler” or “bulk,” fiber has gained recognition for the beneficial effect it has on the gastrointestinal
  • You’re not the only one who suffers from dry skin in the winter. When the heat comes on more frequently in the house, your pet may also become itchy. Unless your dog or cat is continually scratching himself, dry skin is not a serious health issue.
  • Gastrointestinal disease is one of the most common reasons dogs are brought to their veterinarian. There can be a wide range of symptoms of dog digestive problems, including: