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A Fundamental Dog Training Concept You Must Understand For Success With Your Dog
I moved into a new house about 14 days ago. The funny thing about this house is that--when you walk into the master bathroom, the light switch is on the left side, opposite of where the sink is. Well, practically every other house I've ever lived...

Bow Wow Bliss: Five Ways to Meditate with Your Dog
Meditation is as simple as a walk in the dog park. Imagine sitting down with your dog. As you both begin to relax, your breaths become longer, less hurried. Your thoughts slow down until it seems like you are not thinking at all. If you and your...

Dog Training: Frequently Asked Questions
Article: I frequently get asked the same questions by different clients all the time. Here are the questions and the solutions. Why won't my dog come to me when I call them? First of dogs with out a fenced in yard...

Goldfish Care - Learn The Basics To Happy, Healthy Goldfish
So you've decided to bring a new life into your world, and no it's not a baby, it's a goldfish! Growing up, many people had a goldfish as their first live pet, and their first dead pet too. Too many times have parents been required to flush...

Shih Tzu - Train Your Shih Tzu Using Rewards And Positive Reinforcement
Training shih tzu and all dog breeds using positive reinforcement and reward training has long been recognized as both highly effective for the owner and a positive experience for the dog. Positive reinforcement training is so important that it...

 
Allergies in Dogs

Does your dog have allergies? It is interesting how dogs experience many of the health issues that humans do, including allergies.
Dog allergies can include skin allergies, dog food allergies (particularly corn and soy), house dust and dust mites, ragweed, molds, pollens and others.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Dog Allergies
Symptoms of dog allergies include your dog licking her paws, scratching her body or pawing at her ears (due to inflammation). In severe cases, you dog may have oozing hot spots on her body. Allergies may be seasonable or your pet may suffer all year round, depending on the allergen.
How to Avoid Allergens
Avoiding allergens should be the first step in treating your dog's allergies. If you suspect your dog may have allergies, see your vet for proper diagnosis and treatment.
If you dog is allergic to dust mites, vets suggest you use a plastic cover over your dog's bed, use a waterproof liner to keep mites from getting in the bed, avoid letting your dog on upholstered furniture and avoid stuffed animals. Dogs with dust mite allergies do best in uncarpeted rooms. Be sure to vacuum very frequently.
If you dog has allergic reactions to pollens, keep him out of fields and tall


grasses. Keep your lawn cut short and keep your dog indoors during days with high pollen counts.
How Are Allergies Treated in Dogs?
Typically, mild allergies are treated with soothing shampoos liked oatmeal shampoo, vitamins containing essential fatty acids to help stop itching and keep skin from getting dry. Hydrocortisone spray or shampoo may also help to relieve itching. Check with your vet for other recommendations.
Best Dog Breeds If YOU Have Allergies
If you suffer from dog allergies, the following dog breeds may be a good choice for you because they don't shed much, or have hair rather than fur: Terrier, Chinese Crested (hairless), Italian Greyhound, Maltese (has coat similar to human hair), Shih Tzu (has hair rather than fur), Poodle (little shedding). Other popular low-breeds are crosses with Poodles such as the Cockapoo and Labradoodle. Keep in mind that no dog is completely non-shedding, except perhaps hairless breeds!
About the Author
Valerie Goettsch is web master of My Favorite Dog, a website featuring dozens of articles and information on where to find the best of everything for your dog, from flea meds to beds, training and designer clothes.