Identifying Dog Worms and their Symptoms

There are 5 different types of dog worms (internal parasites), which your dog can fall prey to. These are: heartworm, hookworm, roundworm, tapeworm and whipworm. As a dog owner, I recommend that you educate yourself on these worms in order to be able to recognize the symptoms if they should become evident in your dog.

Early worm detection is important because each type of dog worm requires a different form of treatment. You should also be aware of the fact that roundworm and hookworm are zoonotic, which means that these worms can be transmitted to humans. Some worm infestations may show little to no symptoms, whereas others can demonstrate severe symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss. Some dog worms can be seen by the naked eye while some cannot, therefore it is a good idea to ask your vet to perform a stool test for dog worms once a year.

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Below you can find a list of common telltale symptoms of dog worm infestation, but keep in mind that these symptoms can also be a sign of a more serious problem. Either way, always consult a veterinarian whenever your dog is not "his usual self."
Dull coat Weight loss Appetite loss Pot-bellied appearance Coughing Low energy level Diarrhea Vomiting
ROUNDWORMS (Toxocara canis, Toxascaris leonina)

Identifying Dog Worms and their Symptoms

There are two types of Roundworm: Toxocara canis and Toxascaris leonine. This is the most common type of dog worm, which affects the intestines and causes a pot-bellied appearance, mostly in puppies. There are a few ways puppies can become infected. Puppies are often infected before birth through the mother's uterus or through her milk. Puppies can also contract these worms through the ingestion of an infected animal (such as a rodent) or infected soil. Roundworm eggs can live in soil for many years. Once a puppy has ingested the infected soil, the eggs will hatch in his intestines, allowing the worms to live there and grow to adulthood. These adults will then produce more eggs.

Roundworms may be found in your dog's stool or vomit. They can grow to about 7 inches in length and have a spaghetti-like appearance. If this type of infestation is not detected early and is allowed a chance to develop, a buildup of worms in the intestines can cause an obstruction which may result in death. The symptoms of a severe infestation are: pot-belly appearance, diarrhea, vomiting, dull coat and weight loss.

Puppies should be dewormed every 2 weeks between 2 and 12 weeks of age, then monthly until he is 6 months old. Once your puppy has reached 6 months of age, he is less susceptible to contracting these worms but should continue yearly exams (or more often if considered high-risk).

Because Roundworm can be transmitted to humans, it is important to promote good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly. Transmission of this dog worm to humans is usually through infected soil, which may be in your backyard or front lawn. Because the eggs are sticky and can easily adhere to hands or clothing, make sure children (and adults) wash their hands after playing outside (especially at a park or playground), after playing with the dog and before it's time to eat.

Treatment generally involves administering oral medication (dewormer) with follow-up fecal exams and a monthly heartworm medication. Try 1-800-PetMeds - America's Pet Health Resource

Prevent your dog from contracting roundworms by cleaning up fecal matter from the backyard as often as possible. Also, administering a heartworm medication such as HeartGard - Prescription Heartworm medication for Dogs & Cats is a good preventive. Do not mix wormers and consult your vet before giving your dog any medication. And last, but not least, always remember annual exams.

HOOKWORMS (Ancylostoma caninium)

Like Roundworm, Hookworm harbors in the intestines and can also be transmitted to humans. Hookworms can affect a dog at any age. It is a small, thin worm that hooks on to the intestinal wall and sucks the blood from its victim, which cause anemia and perhaps death. Due to their sharp teeth, they also cause bleeding in the intestines. Hookworms are not visible by the naked eye, therefore should be diagnosed by a vet. As with roundworm, hookworms also live and grow to adulthood in the intestines. They can also be transmitted to pups while in the mother's uterus or through her breast milk. A dog infected with hookworm would experience bloody stool, anemia, weight loss, pale gums, diarrhea and low energy level. Skin irritation can be a sign of a severe infestation.

Hookworms can be transmitted to humans by penetration of the skin, making it is possible for people to become infected simply by walking barefoot on infected soil. Hookworms, when transmitted to humans, can cause bleeding in the intestines along with abdominal pain and diarrhea.

Treatment usually consists of oral medications (dewormer), follow-up fecal exams, intravenous therapy and, if necessary, a blood transfusion. Hookworm infestation can kill your pup before the worm is ever detected. This is why it is so important to keep up with veterinary visits and exams.

TAPEWORMS (Dipylidium caninum)

The tapeworm gets its name from its long, flat, tape-like appearance. It is yet another parasite that affects the intestines, and like the roundworm, can be seen by the naked eye. Broke pieces of this dog worm would be found in the dog's fecal matter, which give it a rice-like appearance. These pieces of worm, although broken, can be found (still moving) around the dog's anus, in his stool or in his bed. Common symptoms of severe tapeworm infestation are abdominal pain, nervousness, severe itching around the anus, vomiting and weight loss.

Transmission to dogs is often caused by the ingestion of infected fleas. Although, humans are susceptible to being infected, a dog cannot transmit the dog worm to a human directly.

Regular over-the-counter deworming medication is not effective in eliminating this type of dog worm. A prescription dewormer is administered orally or by injection (praziquantel or epsiprantel). Consult your vet. Try 1-800-PetMeds - America's Pet Health Resource

WHIPWORMS (Trichuris vulpis)

Whipworms are long, thin (whip-shaped) dog worms that live in the dog's colon and are not visible by the naked eye. They attach themselves to the intestinal walls and feed off of them which, in turn, causes intestinal bleeding. Common symptoms of whipworm infestation are anemia, weight loss, flatulence, diarrhea with blood or mucus in the stool and lack of energy.

Although whipworms are the most difficult to eliminate among the families of dog worms, there is effective treatment available.

Whipworm is most effectively treated with fenbendazole (panacur), but febantel can also be used. Prescription medications are usually more effective. The treatment lasts for up to 5 days and is repeated after 3 weeks. After this treatment is finished, consult your vet about recommending a heartworm medication (containing milbemycin oxime) as a prophylactic to future infestation. Try 1-800-PetMeds - America's Pet Health Resource

Along with administering heartworm medication regularly, here are other ways to prevent reinfection:
Remove feces from backyard every few days Clean yard with a safe cleaning agent (which kills worms) Have feces tested every 6 months (more often if previously infected)
HEARTWORMS (Dirofilaria immitis)

Heartworm, although highly preventable, has the potential to be fatal, if contracted and left untreated.

Heartworm is spread by mosquitoes, mostly during the warm months when mosquitoes are most active. The mosquito becomes infected from biting dogs that carry the disease. These dog worms destroy the muscle and tissue of the heart, which can cause congestive heart failure and result in death. At this advanced stage, your dog would experience the typical signs of worms, such as pot-belly, coughing, lack of energy and dull coat.

Unfortunately, there are no symptoms of this disease until it has progressed to an advanced stage. For this reason, it is important to start your dog on a heartworm preventative such as HeartGard - Prescription Heartworm medication for Dogs & Cats at 6 months of age (after the first stage deworming process is complete. Check with your vet). Prevention is the best medicine.

General guidelines for dog worm prevention

When walking your dog in a park, picking up his feces as a standard practice not only prevents soil contamination, but also prevents the spread of many other dog diseases. Regular visits to the vet and stool testing is a great way to prevent dog worms, as well as other illnesses. Twice-yearly worm testing is recommended. Make sure your dog is tested for worms before starting a heartworm preventative. High-risk dogs should be screened more often (check with your vet). Flea control is important because fleas are responsible for the spread of tapeworms. Most puppies find feces quite appetizing. Keep your dog away from feces: his own as well as others. This is the most common form of worm infestation. When cleaning your dog's area, such as his bed or crate, spray it with a strong saltwater solution and let dry. This aids in the prevention of worms. Before traveling with your dog to obscure destinations, consult your vet of the potential risks to your dog. Avoid exposing your dog to stray animals, birds and dead rodents, which often harbor immature tapeworms that can mature inside your dog. Contact your vet if your dog displays any symptoms after receiving worm medication.
This information is NOT intended to replace the advice of a veterinarian, dog trainer or pet care professional.

Identifying Dog Worms and their Symptoms

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Unpredictable Aggression In Dogs - Rage Syndrome - A Neurological Disorder

Without a doubt the most dangerous dog a professional trainer can encounter is the dog with "Rage Syndrome". Let me first caution the reader not to jump to the conclusion that your dog has "Rage Syndrome" if he is showing simple and predictable dominance or pain related aggression. This in no way would imply that the dog has "Rage Syndrome". This condition is in fact very rare and seldom seen. In 28 years of training approximately 700-1000 dogs per year I have only witnessed true "Rage Syndrome" around a dozen times. Using these kinds of numbers one can see how truly rare this disorder is. Having stated this fact, this disorder by its' very nature, is the most dangerous
of all issues a trainer or owner may face with a dog.

One case in point was a 200 pound Newfoundland that was brought to us for training ten years ago.

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"Samson" had been purchased as a cute and cuddly puppy by a member of the crew of a ship that specialized in taking out church groups and college kids for weekend cruises in a local harbor. The breed had been selected for their reputation as excellent water rescue dogs. Everything was going along as planned on the weekend excursions until Samson turned one year of age. The owner noticed that on one weekend trip a cheerleader had begun to start a cheer on the trip and the dog suddenly became extremely aggressive toward her. Luckily the dog had been on a leash and restrained.

Unpredictable Aggression In Dogs - Rage Syndrome - A Neurological Disorder

The owner had written the incident off as a misunderstanding on the dogs part toward the girls
body language and loud voice. He brought the dog to us after the next incident in which the dog
after a similar trip, had walked down the gang plank with two girls who were petting him and showing him affection. He explained that the girls boyfriends had shown up and when the girls went to leave the dog had lunged toward one of the girls legs with an open mouth and a growl. One of the boyfriends seeing this had kicked the dog in the head. The dog then turned and grabbed the boyfriend by the leg dragging him to the ground. The owner explained this away saying "if I was kicked in the head I would bite him too."

Samson presented at the consultation with a wagging tail and had slobbery kisses for everyone.
He was compliant to command and correction and sought praise and attention. He was very comfortable in his own skin and showed no signs of shyness or aggression. He was checked in
for training and his first ten days went off without a hitch. Samson willingly learned all of his commands including the down command. The down command is usually the one that will be difficult if dominance is a factor as dogs will see this is a challenge and a subordinate position. Samson was more than willing to submit himself to training and he relished the praise that came with a job well done.

On the tenth day the Kennel Techs were cleaning the kennels and moving the dogs as required to sanitize. When they got to Samson's kennel one of the girls entered his kennel with a hasty leash
and looped him to move him to another kennel. He went along happily wagging his tail. When she
got to the clean run where she was going to put him he balked. She had walked into the kennel and turned to him saying "come on boy. lets go" in a high pitched praising tone. The next thing she knew he was on her. He knocked her to the ground and grabbed her by the leg dragging her to the back of the run while shaking her. The other Kennel Tech reported that it looked like a Grizzly Bear attack.

She was screaming and he was shaking her. The other girl had the presence of mind and the bravery to enter the kennel and stick the hose she was washing with up the dogs nose to get him to release.

He was so fixated on his victim that when she was released, and ran for the door to escape, he ran right past the girl with the hose and caught her at the gate. He grabbed her by the other leg and pulled as she held on to the door. She was lifted prone into the air. The second girl then shoved the hose up his nose again which gave them both precious seconds to escape.

The Kennel Tech was taken to the emergency room where the doctor reported that the injuries to her legs although severe were miraculously placed in a location where there would not be any permanent damage. This is the worst scenario a trainer can face. Normally you can judge a dog by the behavior it presents in a consultation as well as the information you obtain from the client. In this case the client had explained away the aggression and in hind sight probably withheld some other information.

Unfortunately withholding information is all to common when a client consults with a trainer. The usual excuse for this is that they don't want to prejudice the trainer against the dog. The unfortunate result of this can be placing the staff in danger.

In yet another case, we witnessed a woman's eleven month old Doberman attack her in front of our eyes. He knocked her to the ground and began biting her down her rib cage area. When we came
to her rescue we were bitten several times in the process of saving her. Unfortunately after the dog was safely put in a crate (after the three of us had been bitten nine times) she left saying that her husband would have to make the final determination on what happened to the dog. Rather than taking the dog to a Neurologist as we had suggested, she left him with a Doberman Rescue group. In this case the easing of their conscious by not putting the dog down, put other unsuspecting people at risk.

This is an example of what NOT to do.

"Rage Syndrome" is in fact an epileptic seizure in the emotional lobe of the dogs brain. Like other forms of epilepsy (motor, or behavioral) the dog behaves normally 98% of the time. It is the 2%
that is the problem. This can happen in any breed of dog. I have seen it to date in a Labrador Retriever.Golden Retriever, German Shepherd, Belgian Malinois, Mixed Breed,the aforementioned Doberman and Newfoundland, and about a half dozen Springer Spaniels. Yes, I said Springer Spaniels. This condition is common enough in the breed to be commonly referred to as "Springer Rage". Springers have more of a genetic predisposition toward this condition for some reason than other breeds. Again, I must stress that this is extremely rare and therefore just because you have a Springer Spaniel you should never assume that this condition will automatically be an issue.

Like other forms of epilepsy this condition can be treated with Phenobarbital which has the effect of lessening the seizures in the brain. The obvious problem in the case of "Rage Syndrome" is that even one occurrence is one too many, and therefore dogs diagnosed with this condition are generally put down. Because the stakes are so high it is recommended that at least two opinions are sought before a diagnosis is made. The best professional opinion you can obtain is a Neurologist. Your Veterinarian can give you his or her opinion, as well as a referral. In the case of one client with a Springer Spaniel, the owner was honest with us and explained that her Veterinarian had suggested that the dog be put down. She stated that she would be more comfortable if we would be willing to evaluate the dog and give her a second opinion. In this case we took the dog in under observation. It took about a week to see the normally sweet dog fly into a murderous rage for no apparent reason. The dog would then go back into a normal state without apparent memory of his actions. Unfortunately we had to concur with the owners Veterinarian that the dog should be euthanized.

This condition is also being studied in humans. Almost every condition that can be found in the brain of a dog can be found in a human being. These tests may some day explain some criminal behavior in humans. The symptoms of this condition are:

* Unexplainable aggression that comes out of nowhere.

* Aggression that seems unrelated to dominance.

* A marked change in the dogs eyes, snarling and growling, lunging.

* The dog seems to abandon the behavior as suddenly as it came on.

* The dog seems not to recall the previous aggressive behavior.

* Unpredictable timing of the aggression.

What to do if you think your dog has "Rage Syndrome"

*Do not try to diagnose it yourself. Owners many times are wrong about the causes of aggression.

*Do seek at least two professional opinions (Veterinarians and Trainers) At least one Veterinarian.

*Do give your professional advisors all of the facts that you can think of. Do not withhold information!

*Do not put others in danger. If you think your dog has "Rage Syndrome" do not leave him with

children. Remove him from all situations where he can do harm to anyone.

* Do not make excuses for behavior that frightens you or others. Being afraid of your dog should be

the first indicator that professional help needs to be sought for diagnosis and/or treatment.

For more information on "Rage Syndrome" as well as other causes of aggression I would suggest that you read Dog Training 101-The Book That Puts You In Control. You can locate this book on my website at: http://www.K-9Companions.com

Unpredictable Aggression In Dogs - Rage Syndrome - A Neurological Disorder

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How to Train a Cockapoo Puppy - Use the Right Mindset When Training Your Cockapoo Dog!

The Cockapoo is a mixed-breed canine derived from a Cocker Spaniel and Poodle. It is a loving, friendly dog who is usually good with children and families. Cockapoos are of high to average intelligence and require much socialization during their early years.

Although relatively easy to train, Cockapoos can be prone to housebreaking difficulties. They require consistent, firm and loving care taking, but are usually very loyal and obedient. Cockapoos can be stubborn thanks to their Poodle heritage, but with guidance will respond eagerly to their owners. Daily exercise is a must as Cockapoos are eager for physical and mental activity.

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The primary thing that any successful dog trainer should do is win the assurance and respect of the animal to be taught. Setting this groundwork is very significant when training a dog. Dogs are very social and naturally respect a authoritarian guide.

How to Train a Cockapoo Puppy - Use the Right Mindset When Training Your Cockapoo Dog!

In a dog's world, if you are the guide, then he will naturally go along with what you command him to do. Trying to instruct your dog without first establishing the admiration and self-confidence that he needs will likely bear out fruitless. As you interrelate with your dog as the alpha in your pack, he will naturally give you the loyalty and dependence that you warrant. When your dog genuinely trusts you, he understands that his responsibility is to adhere to your direction, and he will want to do it effortlessly.

Most new dog owners misconstrue love and affection for loyalty and respect. While a new puppy just wishes to be loved, make sure that you do not offer affection to your puppy at an inappropriate time. Often drawing a hard line between acceptable and improper behavior and enforcing it can be complex. By establishing rules for your dog to follow, you let him appreciate what you require of him.

By drawing unambiguous limitations and requiring a dog to respect them, you allow him to act just as he logically would in a pack. In a social pack dogs understand the rules and consequences for breaking them.

Good luck training your new Cockapoo puppy!

How to Train a Cockapoo Puppy - Use the Right Mindset When Training Your Cockapoo Dog!

Cushing's Disease, Canine Diabetes and Hypothyroidism in Dogs

Dogs suffer from hormonal imbalances just as their owners do on occasion. Canine diabetes, hypothyroidism in dogs and Cushing's disease are three of the most common endocrine diseases for canines.

Cushing's Disease

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Cushing's may be naturally occurring or the result of corticosteroid use. It is the result of an overactive adrenal gland that is producing too much hormone. If Cushing's Disease results from drugs given to address another health problem, withdrawing the medicine will allow the dog's body to return to normal functioning levels.

Cushing's Disease, Canine Diabetes and Hypothyroidism in Dogs

If the disease is not caused by medication it may be due to a pituitary gland tumor stimulating the adrenal gland to produce excessive natural corticosteroids. Pituitary tumors are responsible for 85% of naturally occurring Cushing's Disease in Dogs while adrenal tumors account for only 15%.

Symptoms of Cushing's Disease in dogs are increased drinking and urination, increased appetite, frequent panting, hair loss that may appear evenly on both sides of the body, abdominal swelling, and high blood pressure. Cushing's is often diagnosed when a frustrated pet owner complain of high water intake and frequent urination that has become a problem. Diagnosis is accomplished with blood tests.

Untreated, Cushing's can suppress the immune system, weaken the heart and muscles and cause damage to the nervous system of the animal. Adrenal gland tumors can be removed by surgery while pituitary gland tumors are treated with Lysodren which is the traditional pet med for this condition. Lysodren is related to DDT and was used to treat human acne. The dosage must be carefully calculated and pets on Lysodren need close monitoring. Side effects can be minimized with proper dosing but include vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite.

Anipryl does not appear to be as toxic as Lysodren and has not displayed as many side effects. It may take several months for Anipryl to provide relief and pet owners will see the gradual improvement in the dog's health over time. Vetoryl for dogs is a promising new pet med to treat both pituitary and adrenal dependent instances of of Cushing's Disease. Vetoryl acts by controlling excess cortisol production. Side effects of the drugs listed above range from loss of appetite, gastrointestinal problems and diarrhea to potentially life threatening drug reactions. Any side effects noted should be reported to your veterinarian without delay.

Canine Diabetes

The symptoms of diabetes are also symptoms of other potential dog health problems. The most frequently mentioned symptoms are:

Increased urination Excessive water intake Weight loss without loss of appetite Dog sleeps more, is lethargic or seems overly tired

Excess glucose in the system leads to frequent urination as the dog's body attempts to rid itself of the excess. High urine output generates a greater thirst and the cycle repeats itself. Ketones in the blood can lead to ketoacidosis and an emergency situation for the pet owner. The diabetic dog may be eating normally or eating more than usual but the ketones prevent the body from utilizing the nutrients.

If your usually active and alert dog becomes tired and lacking energy he may begin sleeping far more than normal. This is a critical symptom of canine diabetes and calls for urgent attention. Although there are three types of diabetes found in dogs, Diabetes Mellitus is the most common by far. Treatment for diabetes mellitus consists of insulin and managed diet. Canine diabetes can be managed and controlled. Early diagnosis and treatment leads to the most effective treatments and reduces other health problems that might be caused by untreated diabetes.

Hypothyroidism in Dogs

In dogs, hypothyroidism most often develops between the ages of 4 and 10. It is the most common hormonal disorder in dogs and most often affects pet that have been spayed or neutered. Some breeds are prone to hypothyroidism and these include the Doberman, Golden Retriever, Irish Setter, Greyhound, Great Dane, Poodle and Boxer as well as the smaller Cocker Spaniel, Dachshund and Miniature Schnauzer.

This disorder is a deficiency of thyroid hormones that affects metabolic function or all of the animal's organ systems and is rarely found in mixed breed dogs. No one specific symptom is associated with this health problem but it is a combination of symptoms that will lead your vet to suspect canine hypothyroidism. Symptoms include:

Mental dullness, lethargy Loss of hair Obesity or rapid weight gain Increased shedding or dry coat Change in pigmentation of the skin Intolerance to cold High cholesterol (yes, dogs can have high cholesterol) Anemia

It is not difficult to treat canine hyperthyroidism. A synthetic thyroid hormone given daily will solve the problem. The strength and frequency of dosage will be determined by your vet based on weight and severity of the disease. Periodic blood tests will help your vet establish the perfect dose for the dog. When treatment for hypothyroidism in dogs is started, it is the beginning of a lifelong treatment for the animal. Thyro-Tabs (generic Soloxine) are the treatment of choice for many vets and can be purchased a discounts from online pet med sites.

Cushing's Disease, Canine Diabetes and Hypothyroidism in Dogs

Small Dogs - Different Breeds, Different Personalities

Small dog breeds are great pets, but since their personalities are all different, it's a good idea to look at their individual characteristics to see if they fit with your lifestyle.

Pomeranians:

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Pomeranians developed from a much larger dog breed and seem to have retained the mellow character. They are good with children if they have been raised with them from puppyhood. They are playful and active. They tend to bark and require daily grooming.

Small Dogs - Different Breeds, Different Personalities

Chihuahuas:

Chihuahuas are an interesting small breed. I have raised several herds - and that is a good word for a group of chihuahuas - and their temperament is a bit different from other small dogs. They can be very aggressive towards other dog breeds. I adopted one chihuahua who kept attacking a German Shepherd who finally bit her. After she got out of the hospital she went after him again. I ended up with her because she wasn't going to quit attacking bigger dogs. Some chihuahuas will growl and nip at small children. Good points - chihuahuas are very loyal and affectionate. They don't require as much exercise as other small breeds so they make ideal pets for apartment dwellers or older people. They are good with cats.

Boston Terrier:

Good with children and other animals, the Boston terrier is a good small dog for families. They are suitable for any lifestyle. They can be aggressive chewers. Their short coat is easy to keep clean.

Jack Russell Terrier:

This dog breed is only for the most active owners. They love to chase balls, can hop onto a table with ease and can be aggressive if not trained properly. Very intelligent and lively, they require a lot of attention and discipline.

Maltese:

This small dog breed can be very protective of its owner. It is not suitable for families with children because they are very fragile.

Shitzu or Shih tzu:

Good natured and non-aggressive, these friendly little dogs make great family pets. They require daily brushing but their hair is non-shedding. Good with other animals.

Bichon Frise:

These little dogs make good family pets. They are good with children as well as other animals. Very intelligent, easy to train and lively. Their coat doesn't shred.

Dachshund:

Not a hound but a terrier bred to go after vermin, the breed is lively and affectionate. Good with family members but will become aggressive to children outside the family. They make good watchdogs and will bark frequently to alert their owners.

Pekinese:

Very fierce and loyal, these little dogs are not good around children or other animals. These are good dogs for the elderly. Their coats require a good deal of grooming.

Skye Terrier:

Great with children, okay with other dogs but not tolerant of cats. This unique breed makes a fine pet. Distrustful of strangers.

The next step after selecting a breed is to find a reputable breeder. To get more information, visit us at http://www.dog-match.com/small-dog-breeds

Small Dogs - Different Breeds, Different Personalities

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Not All Dogs Benefit From A Summer Haircut or Shave Down

It would be impossible to count how many times each summer a professional groomer is asked to shave a client's dog in an attempt to make it cooler. Here in rural Montana where the summers are scorching, I have had requests to shave almost every breed imaginable. It is a common misconception that all dogs would automatically be cooler if they had less hair.

First it is important to consider is what type of hair the dog has. All dogs can basically be divided into two groups. First we have those who need to have their cut on a regular basis, such as poodles, shih tzus, cocker spaniels, lhasa apsos, terriers, etc. Dogs in this group have hair that would continue growing longer and longer until it was cut. These breeds can be shaved with no problem. Taking off excess coat by shaving them down in hot weather will indeed make them more comfortable and cooler, and will not cause damage to the dog's coat. However, this is not the case with the second group.

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This group of dogs consists of all the other breeds, longhaired or shorthaired, whose hair grows to one length only and then remains that length. These dogs typically shed much more than dogs in the first group. These include retrievers, pomeranians, great Pyranees, chow chows, pugs, German shepherds, huskies, and the list goes on and on. Their coats act as insulators against the elements, and should never be shaved. After all, do you take the insulation out of your home in the summer to make it cooler? Absolutely not, and the same goes for these dogs as well.

Not All Dogs Benefit From A Summer Haircut or Shave Down

The coats of the dogs in the second group consist of two different types of hair, a soft, downy undercoat, and harsher, thicker hairs called guard hairs. These two types of hairs are actually designed to mat and tangle up to form a hard shell or pelt around the animal to keep their temperature regulated in extreme weather. Without proper brushing and grooming on a regular basis, this often happens, leading the owner to the false conclusion that the coat needs to be shaved off to make the dog cooler. However, shaving the hair off of these dogs takes away their insulation from the heat, actually making these dogs hotter and more uncomfortable. Shaving also makes them more susceptible to sunburn as well.

It is important to understand that if you make the decision to go ahead and shave these types of dogs anyway, their hair will never be the same again. Shaving will change the coat forever. Not only does the hair grow back in extremely slowly, but also it grows back in much softer and sparse. The color of the coat will be different too, as the hair will be at least two shades lighter than it was before.

One of the worst things about shaving a dog with this type of hair is that the dog can develop what we call clipper alopecia. In simple terms, it just means that the hair does not grow back. This is caused by a change in the guard hairs when they are cut. Clipper alopecia usually develops first in a patch on the dog's back, located right in front of the tail. After shaving, only thin layer of hair will grow back there, usually reaching a maximum length of about one half of an inch. Dogs that develop this condition have coats that appear to be moth-eaten. This is not an attractive sight!

Okay, so what happens if you do have a dog that is matted to the skin and appears to be too hot in this balmy weather? Seek the advice of a properly trained groomer to determine the best course of action. With the many miracle grooming products that are out there on the market, many times these coats can be saved with a couple of intense grooming sessions and some effort in daily grooming from the owner. This optimizes the dog's coat to perform its insulating tasks properly. Occasionally, the coat truly is beyond repair and does in fact have to be shaved to start over. Your groomer can help you with this decision and give you pointers on how to avoid this situation in the future.

It is important to note that if you have a mixed breed dog, it can be difficult to determine which group the dog falls into. Most groomers can evaluate a dog's coat upon inspection to let you know which group the dog falls into, and what course of action to take, the risks involved, etc.

As a former professional groomer, I strongly feel that it is the groomer's responsibility to fully explain these things to clients wanting to have their dogs shaved. It is important to share knowledge with the clients to make the best decision possible for the pet in need of grooming.

COPYRIGHT 2008 Shannon Heggem

Not All Dogs Benefit From A Summer Haircut or Shave Down