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.

dog eating a treat out of human's hand

How to Use Dog Treats for Training, Bonding & Rewarding

Treats are a good way to reward, train and bond with your dog. Learn how many treats you should give your dog and the number of calories needed for their diet.

Articles

Why Do Dogs Have Whiskers?
Why Do Dogs Have Whiskers?
Why do dogs have whiskers? Whiskers are to dogs what fingertips are to humans — they provide dogs with the sensory means to navigate their surroundings. Whiskers grow strategically on your dog’s face, framing their muzzle, snout, chin, and eyes. These specially tuned hairs help guide your dog through their day by providing the dog with sensory input, just as you use your fingertips, or an insect uses its antenna. Whiskers help with navigation, vision support and overall safety for your dog.
Why Do Dogs Tilt Their Heads?
Why Do Dogs Tilt Their Heads?
Any dog owner knows pups do a lot of adorable things, from the way they bring us little gifts to the way they explode in joy when they know it's feeding time. One of their cutest — and least comprehensible — quirks is the way they tilt their heads when you talk to them. If you've ever wondered what this endearing behaviour means, dig into this guide for some theories on why dogs tilt their heads like this.
Dog Yeast Infections
Dog Yeast Infections
If you've noticed your normally cheerful pup obsessively scratching one part of their body or immediately continuing to scratch themselves after being stopped, it might be an indication of a dog yeast infection. This unpleasant skin condition is fairly common in dogs, but fortunately, it's not that difficult to get under control. Read on for an overview of dog yeast infection symptoms and treatments.
How to Tell if Your Dog Is Depressed
How to Tell if Your Dog Is Depressed
If you're like most dog owners, your dog is usually pretty cheerful about life in general. You can see it when they excitedly greet you at the front door when you get home from work or bound around when they know it's time for a walk. Sometimes, though, you might notice your normally upbeat pup seems a little downcast. Let's take a look at how to tell if a dog is depressed.
Dog Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome
Dog Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome
Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is a type of disorder sometimes seen in senior dogs. A decline in the ability of the dog’s brain to function is a hallmark of CDS.
How to Teach a Dog to Swim
How to Teach a Dog to Swim
Swimming can be an enjoyable activity for dogs, but it's not one that always comes naturally. Learn how to properly introduce your puppy to the water and how to teach your dog to swim with these tips and tricks.
How to Feed a Large Breed Dog
How to Feed a Large Breed Dog
Choosing the best food for and determining how to feed a large breed dog can be difficult. Your large breed dog may have a mammoth appetite, but is bigger always better when it comes to meals for your canine?
Understanding Pancreatitis in Dogs
Understanding Pancreatitis in Dogs
The pancreas is located under the stomach at the beginning of the small intestine. It’s responsible for certain regulative and digestive functions in the body. Pancreatitis in dogs is defined as inflammation of the pancreas. In this article, we’ll further define pancreatitis and explain the causes, symptoms, and treatment for it.
How to Spot, Remove, and Prevent Ticks on Dogs
How to Spot, Remove, and Prevent Ticks on Dogs
It’s common to find ticks on dogs, even if your dog doesn’t spend a great deal of time outdoors. With such a high probability of your dog naturally coming in contact with a tick, it’s important to know the best practices for removing a tick from a dog as well as for preventing ticks on dogs. Luckily, tick prevention and treatment is a simple task.
Do Dogs Smile?
Do Dogs Smile?
Do dogs smile? You already know that your dog likes spending time with you, so why wouldn’t your dog’s smile be genuine? If you sometimes catch yourself marvelling at how human your dog can seem, then you may have caught your dog smiling at you before.
Why Is My Dog Sneezing?
Why Is My Dog Sneezing?
If you've owned or been around a dog for very long, you've probably heard them sneeze. It's a common occurrence in dogs and other pets, and many owners find it funny and cute. However, you may also be concerned about why your dog is sneezing and if it means something is wrong.
How to Tell if Your Dog is Pregnant
How to Tell if Your Dog is Pregnant
Perhaps nothing is more exciting than the prospect of a new litter of puppies on its way. But how can you tell if your dog is pregnant? Whether you are a breeder hoping for a pregnancy or suspect that your dog may be pregnant, there are signs to watch for that indicate her condition. Read on to learn how you can prepare for the pitter-patter of little paws in the near future.