Home » Pet Resource Topics » Dogs

Dogs

We hope this is useful information. However, our health resource articles are not a replacement for a veterinary consultation! If you have any questions or would like a vet to see your pet about any health concern, please fill out our appointment form or call (480) 968-9275.

If you are not yet a client of University Animal Hospital, bring in your New Client Form and get 10% off your first visit!

Breeding for Pet Owners 5 - Problems at Birth



What happens if my dog has trouble delivering her puppies?

 
Although the majority of dogs will give birth without the need for assistance, problems can arise which require veterinary attention. It is important to closely monitor your pet during birthing and seek veterinary care if you have any concerns.

Breeding for Pet Owners 6 - Rearing Puppies and Care of the Mother

This time is critical to ensure that the puppies and mother will maintain a healthy status.  Many issues can arise to cause concern for both the mother and the puppies.  Stay attentive, she may need you more now than ever before.

Breeding for Pet Owners 7 - The Growing Puppy, Lactation and Weaning

What should I expect during the puppies’ first few weeks of life?

 
During the first three weeks of life, puppies require little care from the owner provided the mother is doing her job. Puppies are born with their eyes closed but they open after 7-14 days. If any swelling or bulging is noted under the eyelids they should be gently opened by massaging with a cotton ball dampened with warm water. If the swelling is due to infection, pus will emerge as the eyelids open and it is important to contact your veterinarian. If the eyes have not opened by 14-16 days of age or if you are concerned about any discharges, it is important to seek veterinary care.

Breeding for Pet Owners 8 - Finding Homes and Vaccinations

When will I be able to place the puppies in homes?

 
Most puppies can be placed in their new homes at around eight weeks of age. Puppies should remain with the litter this long to ensure proper weaning and social development. Puppies that are taken from the litter and mother earlier than this are known to have an increased amount of behavioral problems.

Canine Aggression - Diagnosing and treating

 
Aggression is the most serious and dangerous behavior problem that dog owners may need to deal with. Since there are many different types of aggression, making a diagnosis, determining the prognosis (the chances of safe and effective correction) and developing an appropriate treatment plan are usually best handled with a veterinary or applied animal behaviorist.

Canine Destructiveness - Chewing

Chewing is a normal behavior for dogs, however if not channeled correctly it can become destructive.

Why do dogs chew?

Canine Destructiveness - Digging

Why do dogs dig?

Digging behavior in dogs can have many motivations, it could be related to their breed or it could be related to anxiety. Digging may also be an activity similar to destructive chewing that occurs when pets are left alone with insufficient stimulation or attention. This is particularly so in puppies and in highly energetic dogs.