Oral and dental health is incredibly important for all animals. Here at My Pet Nutritionist we strive to educate pet owners on all aspects of health and welfare, so here is our blog about dental hygiene and keeping your pet’s teeth clean! Anatomy of the Tooth and Gum Types of Tooth Just like in humans, dogs have 4 types of teeth. From the front of the mouth to the back of the mouth, these are; incisors, canines, pre-molars, and molars. Adult dogs naturally have 6 incisors on the top jaw,and 6 on the bottom jaw. Incisors are used for grasping items. The canines, of which adult dogs have 2 on the top jaw, and 2 on the bottom jaw, are used for ripping – particularly meat from bones! Adult dogs possess 8 pre-molars on the top jaw, and 8 on the bottom jaw; these are used for grinding – especially bone, and plant matter. Finally, the molars. In adult dogs, there are 4 molars on the top jaw, and 6 on the bottom; these are also used for grinding. The bottom jaw is called the Mandible, and the upper jaw is called the Maxilla. Tooth Structure The outermost layer of the tooth (the white coloured bit we see) is the enamel. This is a fairly thin, hard layer which protects the more fragile/sensitive parts of the tooth. It’s the hardest tissue in the body. Beneath the enamel, lays the Dentin. This is a thick layer of softer tissue which contains numerous microscopic tubules, leading to the nerves in the tooth. These being exposed due to worn enamel are what give the, sometimes painful, sensation when hot/cold foods are consumed. In the very centre of the tooth, you can find the pulp chamber; the powerhouse of the tooth. The pulp in the chamber creates dentin, and also keeps the dentin healthy by providing it with nutrients. The pulp chamber extends into the roots of the teeth, so is often referred to as the root canal. Surrounding the part of the tooth beneath the gum, is a hard substance called Cementum which anchors the tooth into the gum. Gum Structure The visible outside of the gum is called the Gingival Margin, which keeps the teeth securely in place. The next part of the gum, is what attaches the gum to the tooth, and it is known as the Gingival Sulcus. The area where the tooth meats the gum is called the Cemento Enamel Junction. Between the tooth and the Alveolar Bone (the main jaw bone), is the periodontal ligament, which attaches the tooth to the jaw. What do Healthy Teeth and Gums Look Like? Healthy teeth should be white, free from any blemishes (plaque), and meet the gum. Teeth that are grey in colour may need to be removed by a veterinarian because grey denotes dead tissue inside the tooth. A root canal surgery may be performed to save the tooth. Healthy gums should be pink in colour, and moist. They should meet the tooth in a relatively straight line. If the visible tooth is rounded sharply at the bottom, the gum is likely in recession due to gingivitis or periodontal disease. Inflammation around the bottom of the tooth is also a major symptom of poor oral health, as well as bleeding gums. If the gum is blue, red, very pale (almost white) and tacky, this shows there is either an underlying health problem, poor dental/oral health, or dehydration. Age is a factor when looking at oral health. As dogs age, their dental health tends to worsen, often resulting in tooth removals. Older teeth may become discoloured and weaker than those of younger dogs. Findings Here Genetics also play a role in dental health in dogs, just as much as it does in humans. Some dogs are genetically more likely to have weaker enamel, and naturally more yellowed teeth. Breeds most prone to poor oral health include: – Toy Poodle – Greyhound – King Charles Spaniel – Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – Boxer – French Bulldog – English Bulldog – Pug – Yorkshire Terrier – Chihuahua Tips on Keeping Teeth Clean Diet When it comes to diet, which of course we are all about here at My Pet Nutritionist, there are so many things which we could feed our dogs which contribute to poor dental and oral health. Feeding kibble is one of the major contributing factors to poor oral health and dental disease. Firstly, the texture of extruded dry foods; much like when humans eat a biscuit, it gets stuck in our teeth – kibble gets stuck in the dogs’ teeth, as well as around the gumlines, which then contributes to plaque build-up, and gingivitis. Secondly, kibble is very high in starchy carbohydrates which also causes plaque build-up, and damages the enamel. Due to the low level of salivary amylase in dogs (the enzyme that targets carbohydrates), the oral bacteria are put to work, and as a result, the carbohydrates are fermented on the tooth surface, which releases acids which damage the tooth itself. Findings Here Fresh food is much better for the teeth! Not only is it much more digestible than dry food, it’s high moisture content prevents it from getting stuck in the teeth and gumlines. Some breeds with large lips may require a little assistance on removing remnants of food from the inside of the lips. Fresh food is also not high in starchy carbohydrates, so this reduces the risk of tooth and gum damage by carbohydrates. Raw Meaty Bones and Other Chews Feeding Raw Meaty Bones (RMBs) is an excellent way to help keep teeth clean. The ripping action a dog makes to remove the meat from the bone, and the grinding of teeth against the bone itself, help soften and scrape any present plaque from teeth, keeping teeth and gums healthy. Large bones help keep the front teeth and canines clean, whereas smaller bones (always size appropriate for your dog!) will encourage chewing at the back of the mouth to help keep premolars, and molars
Haematomas are one of the more common soft tissue issues we tend to see here at My Pet Nutritionist. The most frequently occurring Haematoma is the Aural Haematoma; a subdermal haematoma found on the ear, however these benign masses can also be found on the spine, the brain, the heart, or anywhere else in the body. This blog will look at some of the types of haematoma, symptoms, diagnoses, and how we can offer support when a dog has a haematoma. What is a Haematoma? Similar to a bad bruise, a haematoma is a collection of blood which has formed in an organ or body tissue, typically as a result of a ruptured blood vessel. Haematomas are often mistaken for a tumour, due to their tumour-like appearance. Haematomas present as hard, raised lumps, which are usually very painful, whereas a bruise is a flat, malleable discolouration of the skin which may be a little sore to the touch. Where bruises usually heal with no additional medical help, haematomas sometimes require surgical intervention, such as drainage as they can become so large, they can cause life threatening issues due to the inability to get sufficient blood flow to a certain area, or they may become infected. Types of Haematoma Let’s discuss a few of the more common haematomas, their symptoms, and causes. Aural Haematoma As previously mentioned, haematomas of the ear are the type we see most often. These usually present on the flap of the ear (scientifically known as the ‘pinna’). When the blood vessel in the ear is damaged, blood leaks into the area between the skin and cartilage of the ear, which causes a pool of blood to form. Depending on the severity of the bleed, the ear position may change as the pool of blood may interfere with the muscles in the ear, as well as the ear canal, due to swelling. Aural Haematomas are extremely painful to the touch, so avoid touching the ear too much so as not to cause pain and distress in your pet. Aural Haematomas happen when there’s trauma to the ear, usually caused by dogs shaking their heads during ear infections and ear mite infestations, or by excessive itching of the area in allergy dogs, or dogs with insect bites on the neck or head areas. Aural Haematomas are also fairly common in dogs who have been a victim of a dog attack when the dog bite hasn’t broken the skin. Studies suggest that Aural Haematomas are not as a result of autoimmunity, but could be caused by other immunological events, such as infection control in the presence of a pathogen, or histamine responses in the presence of an allergen. Findings Here Aural Haematomas can heal on their own, however they often result in ‘cauliflower ear’ – the pinna appears crumpled/intricately folded. The science behind this malformation of the ear following a haematoma, is down to the substance released during the trauma of the area. The fluid which leaks between the cartilage and the skin, is a fibrotic rich serum. When the haematoma heals, the body reabsorbs the leaked fluid, which leads to fibrosis in the pinna. When fibrosis occurs, the fibrotic tissues in the area contract, which causes the folds often seen. Findings Here Haematomas on the Brain Haematomas can be found on the brain, and can be Subdural or Extradural Haematomas. Subdural Haematomas are often associated with underlying brain injuries, whereas Extradural haematomas are usually down to skull fractures, and damage to a meningeal artery (the main blood supply for the brain). These are generally the most dangerous type, and have a variety of symptoms, including vomiting, lethargy, paralysis on one side of the body, confusion, and uneven pupil sizes. In cases where the haematoma is located on the brainstem, upper (cervical) spinal pain is common too. Haematomas on the brain are most commonly seen following trauma to the head from vehicle accidents. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Studies show Cerebral Haematomas can also be caused by an infestation of French Heartworm (Angiostrongylus vasorum). This is just one of the ways the parasite causes major neurological problems. Findings Here While the prognosis for those diagnosed with any subdural haematoma may be a scary one, there is evidence to suggest a veterinary treatment plan is available, and successful for the condition. A study carried out on a large breed dog, kicked in the head by a horse, shows a full recovery within 15 months of intercranial surgery, antimicrobial therapy, and corticosteroids. Findings Here Spinal Haematomas Spinal Haematomas can be present for a number of reasons, and can be debilitating during recovery. Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) patients may suffer from a spinal extradural haematoma, as a result of trauma during the herniation of the affected vertebrae. Spinal compression caused by Pneumorrhachis (air bubbles stuck in the spine) can also lead to haematoma formation. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here There is also evidence to suggest that bites from venomous snakes may also contribute to haematoma formation on the spine. The other most common cause of spinal haematoma is trauma during spinal surgery. Findings Here Findings Here Tracheal Haematomas Haematomas in the trachea can cause acute (sudden) respiratory difficulties/blockages, due to the airway being blocked by the raised haematoma. These are most commonly discovered following surgery, and are caused by the intubation tube used. When the wrong type, or size of intubation tube is used, or the tube is not handled carefully, trauma occurs in the trachea which can cause bruising, or damage to the blood vessels, resulting in the formation of haematomas. Trauma following neck surgery may also contribute to the formation of Tracheal Haematomas, but there are studies to suggest this is the case, and others to suggest it isn’t the case so more research needs to be carried out to determine a definitive answer. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here As with other types of haematoma, trauma from non-surgical events can also cause haematomas. A
In Part 1, we discussed what Leaky Gut is, what autoimmunity is, and possible causes and symptoms of both. Read on to find out how they are linked, and more about the autoimmune diseases most commonly affected by Leaky Gut, as well as how we can support the body through diet, and supplements. How are Leaky Gut and Autoimmunity linked? A healthy gut microbiome is incredibly important as around 90% of the immune system is located in the gut! That’s quite a staggering figure, but it shows the importance of keeping the gut healthy and the microbiome strong. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the most common autoimmune diseases, and their link with Leaky Gut. Thyroid Issues One of the main issues with Leaky Gut and Autoimmunity, involves the thyroid. The body attacks the thyroid tissue as it recognises it as a foreign body. The reason the body sees thyroid tissue as a threat, is down to molecular mimicry. When the immune system releases antibodies to get rid of a threat, they bind at what is known as the ‘active site’, or ‘antigen binding site’. Antibodies are Y shaped proteins, and on the tips of the Y, the binding sites are found. These are a specific shape, to match the proteins on the antigens (the threatening particles). Take a look at the diagram at the top of this blog! Despite food particles clearly being very different to thyroid tissue cells, some of the attached proteins are the same shape on both the food particle and on the thyroid tissue cells. Gluten and Casein (dairy) are particularly alike to thyroid tissue cells, so when an antibody detects the protein it fits with, and binds to it, there’s a high chance it may be thyroid tissue instead of its real target; the food particle. Findings Here Findings Here Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) A condition we hear a lot about, particularly on a professional basis as well as on social media posts when people ask advice on their poorly pets, is Inflammatory Bowel Disease. As per it’s name, this involves inflammation in the bowel, which can be as a result of Leaky Gut. When looking at IBD, diet is so important – many processed foods contain emulsifiers, which can include Cellulose Gum, and Polysorbate-80 (though this one is most inhuman foods, not pet foods). These have been found to interrupt interactions between the bacteria in the intestine, and the gut wall; resulting in the gut wall being less protected than it would be without the presence of these substances. This lack of positive interaction, teamed with the already permeable gut wall (due to Leaky Gut) can cause the onset of IBD. Findings Here Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO), Yeast, and Candida can also contribute to IBD (and are all symptoms of Leaky Gut), which causes inflammation of the bowel, which further increases the risk of IBD onset. Studies show a huge affect on gut permeability when up-regulation of the protein called Zonulin is present. Zonulin helps regulate the permeability of the small intestine, but is detrimental in high numbers as it causes the gut to become more permeable. It is secreted by numerous organs within the body, and can be linked to Leaky Gut and the onset of IBD. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Immune-Mediated Haemolytic Anaemia (IMHA) IMHA is one of the more worrying autoimmune diseases, with a mortality rate close to 70%. There are many reasons a dog may be diagnosed with IMHA, including Vaccine Induced IMHA. When a dog has IMHA, the body is attacking it’s own red blood cells, which are important for transportation of oxygen from the lungs to all parts of the body for healthy muscle usage. IMHA can be caused in some rare cases, by a deficiency in Vitamin B12, which can be linked back to Leaky Gut. IMHA is also often as a knock on effect of other autoimmune diseases like Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Findings Here Findings Here Diabetes Largely linked to Leaky Gut, Diabetes mellitus often requires lifelong medication. Similarly to the mimicry of thyroid tissues by antigens like Gluten and Casein, the onset of diabetes can be facilitated through normal cells being attacked incorrectly by the antibodies circulating the bloodstream. With diabetes cases, the immune reactions affect, and damage pancreatic beta cells (responsible for producing and secreting insulin), which then causes the over-production of cytokines, which in turn causes insulin resistance within the body. Healing the gut, and decreasing gut permeability may help relieve sufferers of diabetes symptoms. Studies show Type 1 Diabetes can be caused as a result of gut damage, but can also cause gut damage. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Immune-Mediated Trombocytopenia (ITP) ITP is a platelet disorder, in which sufferers are unable to properly clot blood due to low platelet counts. Pathogenesis of ITP as a result of leaky gut has been proven to be due to imbalances in the gut microbiota, and the presence of cytokines which interfere with metabolism of fats. Patients with Leaky Gut, as we know, have a very imbalanced microbiome as bacteria leaks out through the channels in the gut wall. Certain strains of bacteria play an essential role at keeping ITP at bay, but are found to be of low levels in those diagnosed with ITP. When these helpful bacteria are leaked from the gut, cytokine production is increased, which then affects the metabolism of fats, which in turn causes pathogenesis of ITP because the lack of fat metabolism causes a lack of available fatty acids to enable the blood to clot. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Rheumatoid Arthritis The previously mentioned protein called Zonulin plays a part in Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA); a joint related autoimmune condition. Just like in IBD, when Zonulin is over-represented, the gut permeability cannot be controlled, and allows useful and harmful substances to enter the blood stream, which are then detected as threats by the immune system. The upregulation of
Being a fairly common health complaint in dogs, particularly larger breeds of dog, here at My Pet Nutritionist we feel it’s important to understand what Laryngeal Paralysis is, what it looks like, what causes it, and how to support the body. We will discuss all these points in this blog! What is Laryngeal Paralysis? Laryngeal Paralysis is a disease which involves the Larynx; commonly known as the ‘voice box’. The larynx is a box-like structure which connects the throat to the windpipe (trachea); and is comprised of various plates of cartilage known as ‘Arytenoid Cartilages’, housing the vocal cords. As well as enabling vocalization in all mammalian species, the Larynx closes off the top of the trachea to ensure food and water are not inhaled. When an animal takes a deep breath, the larynx opens wider to allow for more air to be taken in. The larynx is surrounded by muscles called ‘Laryngeal muscles’ which help keep it stable. As with all muscles, if the nerves inside become damaged, it causes the muscle to relax. If the laryngeal muscles become weakened or paralysed due to nerve damage, the cartilage of the larynx will collapse inwards, as the cartilage is no longer stabilised by the muscles. When the muscles are weak or paralysed and the larynx collapses, this is called Laryngeal Paralysis. Laryngeal paralysis can be congenital (present at birth), hereditary (passed on genetically through generations) or acquired (due to trauma or as a knock-on effect from other health conditions). Like many conditions, some breeds are at a higher risk of developing Laryngeal Paralysis than others. Generally speaking, this disease affects larger breeds of dog. Most commonly affected, is the Labrador Retriever. Different breeds are more commonly affected by different types of Laryngeal Paralysis. Breeds most at risk of acquired Laryngeal Paralysis, usually in middle aged to older dogs: Labrador Retriever Great Dane Irish Setter Newfoundland St. Bernard Breeds most at risk of hereditary and congenital Laryngeal Paralysis: Leonberger Bouvier des Flandres Siberian Husky Bulldogs (various types) Studies also show a higher risk of developing Laryngeal Paralysis for neutered male dogs over entire males, or entire/neutered females. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Symptoms There are many symptoms for Laryngeal Paralysis; let’s take a look! Excessive/Noisy Panting Dogs with the condition will likely pant more than is normal for that dog, especially during humid weather and when stressed or after exercise, and this panting is often quite noisy. Lethargy They may become lethargic or wish not to exercise as a result of Laryngeal Paralysis. Change in Bark Many owners notice a change in the dog’s bark; just like in humans when one’s voice may change, a dog’s bark also has the capability to change if they have a collapsed larynx. Choking, Coughing or Gagging When eating or taking a drink, the dog may choke, cough or gag – this is due to the windpipe not being fully shut off from the throat, and the width of the larynx being extremely narrow. Coughing may mechanically force the larynx to open and allow food and water to enter. As drinking and eating becomes more difficult, those suffering with Laryngeal Paralysis are also more susceptible to Aspiration Pneumonia. Behavioural Anxiety You may notice an increase in behavioural anxiety due to the feeling of vulnerability, as well as respiratory distress due to the narrow opening of the collapsed larynx. Dehydration As water intake becomes more difficult for those suffering with the disease due to the narrow opening, the dog may become dehydrated. Gums will become greyish, dark red or purple due to lack of proper blood circulation as a result of dehydration. The gums also become tacky when the dog is dehydrated. Difficulty Thermoregulating Dogs with Laryngeal Paralysis are more susceptible to heatstroke, even in mildly warm temperatures, is another symptom of Laryngeal Paralysis, and can result in collapse. If your pet is showing signs of heatstroke (vomiting, shaking, seizures, lethargy, panting, glassy eyes, agitated whining, drooling, accelerated heart rate, unconsciousness) it’s imperative to seek veterinary care immediately (though don’t put your dog in a hot car!). Your dog may display multiple of the above symptoms of varying degree. Diagnosis So, how would the vet diagnose Laryngeal Paralysis? There are a few routes to diagnosis of Laryngeal Paralysis, but all will start off by looking at the medical history of the dog, and clinical presentations. Some vets may run X-rays of the chest to rule out problems within the chest cavity, and run blood panels, and urinalysis to rule out infection before examination of the Larynx itself. To avoid sedation, there is evidence to suggest that a suitable method of formal diagnostic testing for Laryngeal Paralysis is by performing an echolaryngography, through the use of ultrasound. Large dogs can be tested on the floor or table, while smaller breeds can happily reside on the lap of the sonographer to reduce risk of false results due to stress. Echolaryngography is a safe, and effective way to diagnose Laryngeal Paralysis. Findings Here Findings Here Another common method, used to diagnose lightly sedated dogs in order to reduce risk of false results due to full anaesthesia (which may cause the laryngeal muscles to relax), is through a transnasal laryngoscopy, where a video endoscope tube is inserted through the nostrils and down the throat to have a good visual of the larynx working. Studies prove this method to be as accurate as a traditional laryngoscopy, whereby the patient may require heavier sedation due to potential gag reflexes following intubation by mouth. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Causes Trauma Trauma to the neck area is often a cause of Laryngeal Paralysis. This can be through repeated use of unsuitable training tools which constrict around the neck, poorly fitting flat collars on dogs who pull, or even through freak accidents involving the neck area such as dog bites and subsequent deep wounds. We see many dogs who sadly develop Laryngeal Paralysis following a general anaesthetic; likely due
At My Pet Nutritionist, we often hear from panicked pet parents when their dog presents with joint issues, especially knuckling of the paw. In this guide we will take a dive into some of the conditions which cause knuckling and look into some remedies to help. What is Knuckling? Often called Knuckling Under, the condition concerns the joints in the paw. Knuckling occurs when the dog walks and/or rests on the top of the foot as opposed to the pads. It can be sporadic, or on every step, and can happen on any one of the paws, multiple paws, or all paws. Knuckling can happen in both puppies and senior dogs. Signs of knuckling in puppies usually show between the ages of 6 and 14 weeks, and most commonly affects large and giant breeds, but can affect smaller breeds too. At the other end of the spectrum, senior dogs usually show symptoms of knuckling under at around 8 to 14 years of age, particularly those suffering from Degenerative Myelopathy or Arthritis. What Does Knuckling Look Like? There are a few signs of knuckling under to look out for: Foot scraping: When the dog walks, they will often scrape the top of their paw on the ground which may cause their claws to wear unevenly. Shaking: The metacarpal/metatarsal areas (the lower fore and hind limb, respectively) may shake or be weak. Paw positioning: The toes will be tucked under the foot, so the dog is walking on the top of the foot, not on the paw pads. This can happen when standing, or when walking. When walking, the paw position may be normal some of the time and tucked under some of the time. What Causes Knuckling Under? Knuckling under is usually an outward symptom of an underlying health issue. We will outline these below. Puppies Carpal Flexural Deformity The most common cause of knuckling in puppies is Carpal Flexural Deformity (CFD), more commonly called Carpal Laxity Syndrome. This condition, that usually presents clinically by 4 months of age, can be down to a dietary issue; usually excess protein consumption, overnutrition and undernutrition. In one study, the phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium values were increased in those with CFD when tested. Findings Here Findings Here Another common reason for CFD is rapid growth spurts; this is particularly common in larger breeds of dog. When this occurs, the bones and tendons grow at different rates, causing the carpus to bow, and the paw to knuckle under. Findings Here Findings Here Puppies with CFD may be required to wear a splint to keep the lower limb straight and hold the toes straight so they don’t knuckle under. Gradually building up the extent of the affected puppy’s exercise may also help rectify the deformity. A balanced, fresh diet is essential to avoid over or undernutrition. The Ultimate Guide to a Healthy Puppy Seniors Osteoarthritis Arthritis is an inflammatory joint disease. It is long lasting and progressive; meaning it continues to worsen with age. Walking may become difficult as joints seize up. Dogs with OA will often be stiff after laying down for periods of time. The most common disease that can result in knuckling in senior dogs is osteoarthritis (OA). According to Canine Arthritis Management, around 80% of dogs over 8 in the UK have osteoarthritis, possibly 35% of the dog population across all ages. In one study, 69% of the sample dogs with suspected cases of OA were confirmed cases. The researchers estimated that an average of 200,000 dogs are affected by OA each year. Findings Here Feeding a fresh diet, with additional supplements with anti-inflammatory effects, can help reduce pain and keep the joints healthy. Read our Guide to Inflammation here! Severe cases may require prescription NSAIDs from your veterinarian. Degenerative Myelopathy Similarly, to OA, Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) is also very common in senior dogs. DM is a progressive degenerative disease of the spinal cord, and often causes paralysis of the hind limbs. Degenerative Myelopathy is a hereditary disease which ultimately shortens the lifespan of the dog, usually within 2 years of diagnosis. Larger dogs will progress faster than smaller dogs. A genetic test can be carried out on younger individuals before breeding to show any mutations to the SOD1 gene, which is where DM stems from. The SOD1 gene codes for the protein responsible for the destruction of Free Radicals in the body, called Superoxide Dismutase. When there is a lack of destruction of Free Radicals, they turn from beneficial to harmful as they begin killing cells which then causes the onset of degenerative diseases. Findings Here Findings Here Some of the breeds most affected with DM include: Pembroke Welsh Corgi Bernese Mountain Dog Poodle Pug Boxer Golden Retriever Borzoi Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers While the condition is often suggested as not painful, your veterinarian may prescribe NSAIDs. You may wish to add plenty of omega 3 and other anti-inflammatory supplements to your dog’s meals. Many owners with dogs in the later stages of DM purchase a dog wheelchair to enable continued mobility. Intervertebral Disc Disease Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is a spinal condition caused by the herniation of an intervertebral disc and can happen on any part of the spine. Retrogenes are copies of a standard gene, which haven’t copied correctly and have then inserted themselves into the genome. The Fibroblast Growth Factor 4 retrogene (FGF4) on chromosome 12 is mostly responsible for the chance of an individual suffering from IVDD as it controls the length of the spine. Findings Here IVDD is most common in chondrodystrophic dogs (those with short legs and long back) but can also occur in dogs with other structures A study carried out by scientists in Sweden looked at insurance claims, thought to be representative of the entire population of dogs in Sweden. 40% of the claims involved some form of disc disease (not just IVDD),proving its becoming a fairly common issue seen in
Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we regularly see frequent urination as a sign of illness, stress and other diet related issues. The scientific name for excessive urination is Polyuria, and it often comes hand in hand with Polydipsia (excessive drinking). Read our Polydipsia blog here. Let’s discuss what may cause this! Diet The diet you feed your dog may affect the amount of urine produced. Dogs fed on a dry food diet will require a larger intake of water as their food is lacking in moisture which puts pressure on the kidneys. Wet/fresh food on average is around 75% moisture verses a dry food which is around 8-10% moisture. Similarly, high salt diets and treats will affect kidney function. The kidneys require a good amount of moisture to keep them functioning properly; so the dog will feel thirstier, consume more water and then as a result, produce more urine to be excreted. Illness Dogs may experience polyuria as a symptom of numerous health issues. Polyuria tends to go hand in hand with polydipsia as excessive thirst causes excessive drinking, which in turn causes excessive urination. Cystitis/Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) A common observation made by pet owners when their dog has a UTI, or cystitis (UTI of the bladder) brewing, is that the dog begins to urinate more often, and in unusual places. This can be tricky to differentiate from adolescent behaviour in younger dogs but is important to rule out if your dog has been urinating in the house, having been fully house-trained previously. A dog will drink more water when experiencing a UTI in an attempt to flush it through the system, which will result in more urine being produced, and the dog being unable to hold it until their next garden visit. If your dog is urinating in unusual places, be sure to collect a urine sample and take it to your vet for analysis. Findings Here Sickness bug/nausea Sickness bugs often cause nausea and/or diarrhoea, which in turn causes a dog to require more liquid. As the dog will have increased their liquid intake, they will also produce more urine. Encouraging a dog to drink more, means they’re less likely to become dehydrated, even if it results in more urination than is normal for that dog. If you’re struggling to get your dog to drink, bone broth is an excellent powerhouse of nutrients as well as moisture –perfect for a poorly digestion. Bladder stones When a dog has bladder stones, they may urinate more frequently than is normal for that dog, producing only a few drops each time.The urine may contain blood, often due to straining, or a secondary Cystitis infection. There are numerous types of bladder stone, and it’s very important to find out from your veterinarian, which type of bladder stone is present. You can then tweak the diet dependent on bladder stone type – check out our bladder stones blog here. Findings Here Findings Here Kidney Disease/Infection Polyuria is one of the most common, and earliest signs of kidney disease. Dogs with kidney disease may also start to urinate overnight. Other symptoms include nausea, weight loss, lethargy, and changes to bowel movements. During the earlier stages of kidney disease, the kidneys become unable to efficiently concentrate urine, causing the dog to drink more; and subsequently urinate more. Kidney infections (scientifically known as pyelonephritis) also cause damage to the inner part of the kidney known as the Medulla, which filters and dilutes urine. When this is damaged, more water is required to successfully dilute the urine; causing the need for more urination. If left untreated, the ability to properly dilute urine decreases. Findings Here Findings Here Liver disease A staggering 50% of canine liver disease cases present with polyuria. Hepatic encephalopathy (the condition when changes in the brain cause liver disease) and liver shunts damage the liver and can cause false signals to be sent back to the brain via neurotransmitters, which causes an increase in the production of a hormone called Adrenocorticotropic (ACTH). Elevated ACTH secretion causes havoc with the tissues in the body, and causes the dog to require more moisture, resulting in the need to urinate more. Findings Here Cushing’s Disease Dogs with Cushing’s Disease usually produce too much of the hormone, Cortisol. As well as being caused by excessive exposure to Cortisol, Cushing’s Disease can be caused by long term use of glucocorticoids – drugs such as hydrocortisone. Like those with Liver Disease, those with Cushing’s Disease have elevated exposure to ACTH, which ultimately leads to increased thirst, and therefore increased urination. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Diabetes Insipidus Just like with polydipsia, polyuria is another very common symptom of Diabetes Insipidus. Of course, there are many other things that may cause polyuria, but Diabetes Insipidus is one of the conditions your vet may wish to discuss with you, often once other conditions have been ruled out via various tests. The most common type of Diabetes Insipidus is Secondary Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus, and your vet may need to instruct a water restriction to be able to measure the concentration of the urine produced. An estimate of 0.32% of dogs in the UK have diabetes, mostly occurring between the ages of 5 and 12 years. Findings Here Findings Here Incontinence Dogs suffering with incontinence may urinate more frequently, but usually in smaller amounts. This is because the sphincter at the bottom of the bladder is weak, or the messages sent from the brain are abnormal, causing the lack of controlled flow. Incontinent dogs will often urinate in small drips through the day when standing, sleeping, walking or getting up from a laid down position. Incontinence can be due to many factors including early spaying (known as spay incontinence), ageing, or even down to genetics when the part of the brain which controls the coordination of the bladder muscles; called The Pons, has a defect. Findings Here Medications Long-term use of certain medications can cause polyuria, including glucocorticoids, phenobarbitone, and furosemide.
Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we often see excessive thirst as a symptom often related to diet, sickness, disease or behaviour. Many pet owners might notice their dogs drinking more water at certain times, so this guide outlines the basics and possible reasons why, from the not so serious to the serious. The scientific name for excessive thirst, causing excessive water consumption, is Polydipsia. The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) define polydipsia as ‘water intake that is twice maintenance requirements’ – dogs consuming more than 100ml/kg bodyweight per day is considered excessive. Dogs may have Polydipsia for a number of reasons, which we will cover in this blog! Findings here Checking for Dehydration First things first, here’s a simple technique called ‘tenting’ which you can use to check if your dog is dehydrated. Gently pinch some of your dogs skin on their side. Does it ping straight back to normal? Yes: your dog is well hydrated No: your dog is dehydrated Gums should be pink and moist. Grey, tacky, or dry gums may show dehydration. Exercise and Environment Just like their human counterparts, dogs if exercising/exerting extra energy and not offered water during their exercise, will become dehydrated. Many will get home and rush straight to their water bowl for a big drink. We recommend taking a portable dog water bowl with you, particularly on longer walks. Filtered water is always recommended. If the weather is warm or humid, your dog will lose water through sweat and panting, so will need to drink more to replenish what’s missing. Diet The diet you choose for your dog may contribute to your dog’s Polydipsia. A fresh food diet (including raw and cooked food), or high quality wet food diet will contain a lot of moisture at around 65-75%. Feeding a dry food, whether it be freeze dried, air dried, or kibble, will sadly be dehydrating, due to lack of moisture at around 6-10%. This may cause a strain on the kidneys also, so many people choose to ‘float’ their dogs meal (adding water to the meal). The salt content in some dry foods and treats, may also contribute to thirst as salt puts extra pressure on the kidneys, meaning a higher water intake is required to help them flush it through. Illness Dogs who have been unwell with a bug, or an intolerance/allergy to a food, causing sickness and/or diarrhoea, may drink excessively, as they lose a lot of water through vomit and faeces. The feeling of nausea may also encourage excessive drinking. There are more specific medical problems of which polydipsia is a symptom. Let’s have a look at those: Urinary Tract Infections (UTI) When dogs experience a UTI, they produce a lot of urine. Due to expelling so much urine, their bodies will feel in a constant state of dehydration, leading to excessive consumption of water to replace the lost fluids. This is the first medical condition to rule out as it is one of the more common reasons a dog may drink lots of water. Findings here Diabetes Polydipsia and Polyurea (excessive urination) are two of the most prominent symptoms of Diabetes Insipidus. Of the types of Diabetes Insipidus in dogs, the most common is Secondary Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus and can be of varying degrees of severity. Your veterinarian may wish to rule out other potential conditions first, then may instruct a water deprivation test to diagnose Diabetes Insipidus – this is the only time you should restrict water from your pet; under full veterinary guidance! Findings here Cushing’s Disease (hyperadrenocorticism) Cushing’s disease is caused when the adrenal gland produces too much of a hormone called Cortisol. Cortisol is used in regulation of blood pressure, keeping heart and blood vessels healthy and working smoothly, and reducing inflammation. When there’s too much Cortisol in the body, weight gain, increased thirst, swelling, hair loss, calcinosis cutis, lethargy, and excessive panting can all be symptoms. Dogs with polydipsia suffering from Cushing’s Disease, drink between 2 and 10 times the normal amount for a dog their size. Cushing’s Disease is often mistaken for dermatitis or liver disease. Findings here Findings here Liver Disease Excessive thirst is one of the most common signs of liver disease, showing in around 50% of liver disease patients. Dogs suffering with liver disease, specifically hepatic encephalopathy, have increased production of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH for short!), which causes an increase in cortisol in the body, ultimately causing dehydration of plasma cells. Because the plasma cells require more water, the dog’s thirst is increased. Other liver diseases also cause polydipsia. Findings here Hypercalcemia and Kidney Disease Having too much calcium in the blood causes hypercalcemia, which can lead to poor functioning of the heart and brain, as well as weakened bones, and the potential for kidney stones. It’s caused by overactive parathyroid glands. Hypercalcemia is often as a result of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), Acute Kidney Disease, hyperparathyroidism, underactive adrenal gland, Cancers and in very rare cases, when the body has taken in too much Vitamin D. Excessive thirst and urinating are the most typical signs of hypercalcemia due to the kidneys being unable to concentrate urine properly. In order to properly dilute urine before excretion, the dog needs to need to drink more to ensure there’s enough water reaching the tissues ofthe kidneys. Findings here Findings here Tumours There are links between polydipsia and tumours in dogs, primarily cancerous tumours involving the kidneys, for similar reasons as in dogs suffering with kidney disease. Polydipsia can also be a symptom of tumours (benign or malignant) due to paraneoplastic syndromes, that are triggered by the formation of a tumour and activates the immune system in an unusual way. Findings here Findings here Pyometra Entire bitches may suffer from open (more common and generally treatable) and closed (life threatening) pyometra. The average age for pyometra is 7.25 years, but it can happen at any age, especially in those who have had multiple seasons. Excessive water consumption is a common symptom
Mast cell tumour (MCT) represents a cancer of a type of blood cell normally involved in the body’s response to allergens and inflammation. When they occur on the skin, MCTs vary widely in appearance. They can be a raised lump or bump on or just under the skin, and may be red, ulcerated, or swollen. In addition, many owners will report a waxing and waning size of the tumour, which can occur spontaneously, or can be produced by agitation of the tumour, causing degranulation. Before we explore this tumour in more detail, lets take a look at mast cell function. Mast Cells Mast cells are found in mucosal and epithelial tissues throughout the body. They are involved in the regulation of variety of physiological functions, including: vasodilation formation of new blood cells bacterial and parasite elimination In addition, mast cells regulate the function of many cell types, such as: dendritic cells macrophages T cells B cells fibroblasts eosinophils endothelial cells epithelial cells Since mast cells generate and release potent molecules, such as histamine, proteases, prostanoids, leukotrienes, heparin, and many cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors, they have the capacity to be involved in regulating the functions of many organs and tissues. Mast cells also play a significant role in the regulation of bone growth, remodelling, and mineral homeostasis. Mast Cell Tumours When mast cells undergo malignant transformation (become cancerous), mast cell tumours (MCTs) are formed. Prevalence Several epidemiological studies from many countries point out that MCTs have a high frequency in dogs. It is the third most common tumour subtype, and is the most common malignant skin tumour, accounting for 11% of skin cancer cases. Breed Predisposition Some breeds are predisposed to MCT development, including: Boxer Bull Terrier French Bulldog Golden Retriever Labrador Retriever Shar-pei Dachshund On the other hand, some breeds present a lower risk of MCT development, including: German Shepherd Chihuahua Poodle Yorkshire Terrier Cocker Spaniel Recent studies also sought to correlate the breed predisposition to the biological behaviour of MCT, and suggest that Pug and Boxer dogs are more prone to tumours with less aggressive behaviour, while the shar-pei tends to develop more aggressive tumours. Sexual Predisposition To date, no sexual predisposition has been considered. Age Predisposition MCT can develop at any age, but it is more common in adult to older animals. Risk Factors: chronic inflammation in the skin, exposure to irritating compounds, c-KIT gene (KIT) mutation Associated Symptoms: delayed wound healing coagulation abnormalities hypotension and circulatory collapse may also occur Gastrointestinal complications are also seen, including ulceration. It is thought this is due to the high blood levels of histamine that stimulate the H2 receptor on parietal cells, resulting in excessive production of gastric acid and increased gastric motility. Gastrointestinal ulcerations are observed in 35–83% of canines affected by MCTs. You may notice black, tarry stools in this case. Conventional Treatment Options: Surgery Anti-cancer medications Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors But, if we are to explore this tumour in all its glory, we must look to the risk factors. Chronic inflammation in the skin It would be wise to consider current skin health, and whether there may be high levels of inflammation. Is your dog itching? Is there an unmanaged sensitivity? Things to Think About: Skin Health Does My Pet’s Skin Have its Own HPA Axis? Tackling Atopic Dermatitis in Pets Exposure to irritating compounds We talk at length about reducing our pet’s exposure to irritating compounds. Here we are considering all exposure, whether its diet, flea/worm treatments, cleaning products in the home or others found in the environment. Check out some of our blogs for more information: Is Your Toxic Home Affecting Your Pet? How Does My Dog Manage Toxin Exposure? c-KIT gene (KIT) mutation This gene encodes a receptor tyrosine kinase that binds stem cell factor in canine mast cells. Mutations drive uncontrolled cell survival and proliferation, which is related to MCT development and progression. We can’t escape that many cancers have a genetic element. At one time we thought genes were destiny, but we are learning more and more that genes load the gun, and the environment pulls the trigger. We can to some extent modulate gene expression, through lifestyle and therefore diet. How Nutrition Affects Your Pet’s Genes In addition, we have some general considerations to make regarding cancer, no matter where it is in the body. Immunity and Diet Supplements Lifestyle Keto For Cancer If you are currently managing an MCT diagnosis and would like to support your dog’s journey, check out our services to see how we can help. Thanks for reading, MPN Team
The fancy way of saying hair loss, alopecia affects more pets than we may think. It may be congenital or acquired and for it to be managed effectively, we really need to understand it. So, let’s take a look at 5 reasons for alopecia in pets. What is Alopecia? Alopecia is the partial or complete lack of hairs in areas where they are normally present. We can imagine our pet’s hair (and skin for that matter) as a report card for the body. If it’s looking a little worrisome, we need to investigate. As we mentioned, alopecia can be both congenital and acquired. Congenital means the animal is born with the condition. Congenital hair loss may or may not be hereditary. It’s caused by a lack of normal development of hair follicles. It may be apparent at, or shortly after birth. Your pet may be born with a normal coat, and patchy or widespread hair loss occurs when they become a young adult. In acquired hair loss, your pet is born with a normal hair coat. It has or had normal hair follicles at one time and is or could produce structurally normal hairs. Subsequently, any disease that can affect hair follicles can cause hair loss. Certain diseases may destroy the hair follicle or shaft or interfere with the growth of hair. Some diseases can cause discomfort, leading to self-trauma (scratching and biting) and loss of hair. It’s important to remember that acquired hair loss can be inflammatory or non-inflammatory. What diseases can Interfere with the growth of hair? Diseases that can directly cause destruction or damage to the hair shaft or follicle include bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infections. It can also include inflammatory diseases of the skin along with skin trauma. These diseases tend to be inflammatory. Parasites and What You Really Need to Know But there can also be factors that inhibit or slow down follicle growth resulting in alopecia. Let’s take a look. Nutritional Deficiencies We are seeing more and more data around specific nutrients in hair growth and health. For example: – Low vitamin D status has been implicated in cases of alopecia, – Over-supplementation of Vitamin A is associated with alopecia – In a Biotin deficiency, signs include hair loss – Folate deficiency can result in hair, skin and nail changes – Vitamin C is known to aid iron absorption, the latter being implicated in hair loss – Hair loss is a common sign of zinc deficiency – Hair loss can be seen in Iodine deficiency as it’s a mineral that aids thyroid function (we’ll share why this is relevant next) We advocate a fresh food diet, rich in nutrients to support overall health. Check out our range of blogs on different nutrients if you would like to learn more. Hormonal imbalances So much of a factor, there is a condition deemed hormonal alopecia in dogs. This can be linked to neutering with many owners reporting hair loss or thinning post neutering. But when we say hormones, we are also considering thyroid hormones. The thyroid gland is active in the initiation of hair growth and replacement. Located in the neck near the trachea or windpipe, this gland produces hormones which regulate metabolism. Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can result in hair loss in the dog although hypothyroidism is likely the more commonly occurring form of hormonal alopecia in dogs. Initially hair loss is patchy, the coat is dry, the hair is brittle and easily pulled out. Quite often hyper pigmentation occurs. In some cases, secondary pyoderma and seborrheic dermatitis may follow. Ultimate Guide: Hypothyroidism Stress Hair loss can follow months after a traumatic event often making it difficult to connect the dots. Hair cycles through different phases and all follicles can be at different stages at any one time. What we now know is that high levels of stress can cause shifts in those cycles. This results in balding or thinning of hair. Stress also depletes nutritional resources along with impeding the digestion and absorption of them and as we’ve already mentioned, sufficient growth relies on a great supply of nutrients. Can Stress Affect My Dog’s Digestive System? Irritation When your dog scratches or bites because they are irritated, it can result in hair loss. Causes of irritation include: – Infection – Pain – Parasites – Sensitivities/allergies Itchy Dogs and Cats Naturally Things to Think About: Skin Health in Dogs Overgrooming Overgrooming can be a calming behaviour employed by your pet. This may be in response to stress or being overwhelmed. Its important to notice any change in grooming behaviour and establish the potential trigger. Stressors may include: – Change in routine – Addition of a new pet – Our own stress – Change in health – Time of year – holidays/fireworks/weather change If you think hair loss may be associated with stress, check out the following blogs for more information: The Pet Owner’s Stress Load Using Nutrition To Support The Stressed Dog Why Dogs Need To Chew 5 Nutrients to Support Your Anxious Dog Overgrooming can also be linked to pain and digestive issues, so check out our blog on licking behaviour for more information. Why Does My Dog Keep Licking Signs of Hair Loss Signs of hair loss may be obvious or subtle, depending on what’s causing it. Congenital or hereditary hair loss can be symmetric (appearing similar on both sides of the body) or located in one area only. It is not usually accompanied by inflammation. Signs of acquired hair loss are influenced by the underlying causes. Hair loss may affect an isolated spot or multiple areas; it may be symmetric or widespread. You may also notice inflammation, thickened skin, colour change, scaling, excessive shedding and/or itching. In addition, some causes may lead to the development of secondary skin diseases like infection or fluid discharge. Some questions to ask when establishing the cause of your pet’s alopecia? Are they getting the nutrients they need from the diet they are offered? Could stress
Every day, our pet’s bodies are exposed to toxins. They are produced internally in the body which includes things like lactic acid and waste products from gut microbes, hormones, and neurotransmitters, but they are also found externally, like air pollution, chemicals from cleaning products or volatile organic compounds from the plug-in air diffuser in your lounge. What’s really sad is that the number of eternal toxins seems to be increasing year on year. The concern is that these toxins have the ability to disrupt essential biological structures in the body. We can’t avoid toxins, because as we have noted, they are also produced internally from normal metabolic processes, but we can limit our pet’s external exposure to reduce the burden on their detoxification systems. Let’s take a look at how these detoxification systems work and why it’s so important to consider how exposed our pets truly are. What is Metabolic Detoxification? Detoxification is carried out by a range of mechanisms and this comes in particularly handy if one pathway is overwhelmed, another can pick up the slack. We can think of it like a waterfall, water will always find a way down. In a healthy system, toxins will be able to find a way out. Initially, the body will attempt to detoxify at source. These locations include the intestinal mucosa, the respiratory mucosa, the microbiome, and the skin epidermis. Whilst these also provide a physical barrier to prevent toxin transport, they also express a range of enzymes which are essential in sweeping toxins away. Detoxification falls into three phases. The first two phases are concerned with breaking down the toxin in the body, and phase three is concerned with excreting it. For the body to manage a toxic load, all three phases need to be working optimally. Phase I Detoxification Here we are mostly concerned with a range of enzymes like MAOs or monoamine oxidases dealing with neurotransmitters (those chemical messengers involved in mood and behaviour amongst other things) and PON1 or paraoxonase 1 dealing with pesticides and oxidised lipids. The names aren’t important, but the point is that at this stage the body needs to be efficiently producing these enzymes to metabolise the toxins. Most of this occurs in the liver, so for healthy detoxification processes, the liver needs to be functioning well too. A Brief Guide to Liver Function in Pets This stage is particularly nutrient-demanding and sufficient levels of key vitamins and minerals are essential. They include: Vitamin A Vitamin C Vitamin E Vitamins B1, B2, B3 Iron But amino acids like cysteine are also important. Free Radicals and Detox This phase also generates high numbers of reactive oxygen species, or ROS leading to oxidative stress. So, supporting the body’s antioxidant defences is also important. Does My Dog Need Antioxidants? Once toxins have passed through phase I, they are not completely finished with. Intermediate metabolites are produced and they sit in the body. It’s almost like putting your rubbish in the outside bin, but missing collection day. The rubbish remains. This is where Phase II comes in. Liver Guard Phase II Detoxification Within phase II there are a number of pathways and they are all responsible for detoxifying different compounds. The pathways include: Methylation Sulphation Conjugation Glucuronidation Acetylation The process of methylation deals with heavy metals, plastics, medications, mould, histamine, and hormones, amongst others. Methylation Nutrient Needs: Vitamin B9 Vitamin B6 Zinc Magnesium The process of sulphation deals with heavy metals, heavy smoke, hormones, neurotransmitters, plastics, phenols, and medications including antibiotics. Glutathione conjugation deals with heavy metals, plastics, mould, heavy smoke, pesticides, and medications like steroids. Glutathione is a master antioxidant so is also important in neutralising the reactive oxygen species produced in phase I. Glucuronidation is involved in managing heavy metals, sex hormones, neurotransmitters, plastics, mould, smoke, medications including paracetamol, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories and immunosuppressants. Glucuronidation Nutrient Needs: Vitamin B3 Vitamin B6 Iron Acetylation supports the detoxification of smoke, halides, neurotransmitters, histamine, and medications including antibiotics. Phase III Detoxification At this point, we move into phase III, where we need to ensure the excretory part of the process is working as it should. This includes the function of the gut, skin, liver and kidneys. For optimal excretion of toxins through the digestive system, gut health is vitally important. Maintaining the mucosal barrier is key for gut health along with supporting motility. What Is The Gut Barrier? The Dog’s Digestive System Here functional ingredients can help lubricate the digestive tract, promote regular motility, aid elimination, and support the microbiome. Some useful ingredients include: Slippery elm De-glycerised liquorice (DGL) Glutamine N-acetyl-glucosamine Gut Guardian What Can Help Gut Dysbiosis? Adequate hydration is also important along with limiting stress where possible. Can Stress Affect My Dog’s Digestive System? The Importance of Water Top tips to support detoxification: Support detox at source – ensure skin and gut health The skin provides an effective physical barrier to prevent toxins entering the body, so its structure and microbiome is key. Feed a diet that includes bioavailable protein and fat and reduce exposure to grooming products that can skew the microbiome of the skin. We also need to take steps to optimise gut health. 7 Steps to Optimal Gut Health For Pets Feed a nutrient dense diet Each phase of detoxification requires certain nutrients, and the processes are quite demanding. Ensure you are feeding a diet rich in the following nutrients: Vitamins A, C, E B Vitamins: B1, B2, B3, B6 and B9 (folate) Minerals: Iron, Zinc and Magnesium. The first phase also produces high numbers of free radicals so include antioxidant foods in the diet too! Perfect additions include: – Berries – Nuts and Seeds – Green Leafy Vegetables – Oily Fish – Eggs – Liver – Meats – Peppers – Strawberries – Broccoli Reduce the toxic burden The best way to support the detoxification system is to not overload it in the first place, so avoiding toxins wherever possible. This isn’t easy,
Whether it’s a trail of slobber across your face or you’re sitting in wonder at your dog licking the slate around the fireplace, dogs like to lick. Everything. We find it endearing and a sign of affection when we get a tongue to the ear, or we just assume they’re practicing good hygiene when they are licking their paws. More often than not, only your dog knows why they are licking that rock in the garden. But there are occasions when there is more to licking behaviour. Let’s delve into the world of allergies, stress, pain and just good old-fashioned grooming. Why do dogs lick their paws? If you made a tally of a day in the life of your dog, licking paws would come in pretty high. More often than not, dogs will lick their paws to groom themselves. So, if they’ve come in from their walk or even just from a mooch around the garden, you’ll find them preening themselves and even having a little nibble. This is generally expected behaviour. However, this can become excessive if your dog is irritated by something they walk through or on. Grasses, pollens and toxic chemicals can all cause irritation to their sensitive paws. You also run the risk of salt or antifreeze exposure during extreme weather. Not only does this irritate them externally, but through grooming, they ingest it and can cause subsequent damage internally. It’s always best to rinse your dog’s paws when returning from a walk and give them a towel dry. In extreme climates you can even apply an all-natural paw balm or simply some coconut oil. Dogs will also lick parts of their body that are painful or stiff; so, if your dog has strained or sprained their leg, they may start licking their paw of the affected leg. Long nails can cause pain too, so check your dog thoroughly if the licking is a new behaviour. Dogs In Pain Excessive licking is usually identified by a reddening of the hair on the area being licked, so it’s pretty easy to notice. This is thanks to a protein found in the saliva which stains the hair. It’s not blood, don’t worry. However, excessive licking can cause trauma to the hair and skin, leaving inflamed, red and sore patches. This is why the underlying issue needs to be tackled as soon as possible. Why do dogs lick people? Some dogs lick people, some dogs don’t. How they have been raised plays a huge part in this. Quite often, if a dog has been allowed to lick their owner, they may lick other humans. If, however, an owner doesn’t want this behaviour, then they will ignore it. The dog won’t get a response and often will cease to do it. Those of us crazy dog owners who couldn’t care less whose canine slobber we get covered in, usually become jovial, we smile or laugh. The dog, even in the absence of a “food” reward, is receiving positive reinforcement. Dogs can read human emotion and, maybe, if they think we like being licked, they figure it’s just something they should keep doing. Why do dogs lick faces? It’s impossible to know for certain why dogs like our faces, but we think it comes from their puppyhood. If you notice how Mum Dogs behave with their puppies, they spend a huge time licking them, grooming them. The great thing is, the more a Mum Dog does this, the more resilient her puppy is as they grow. They are also less reactive to stress. It is believed that this behaviour reduces the amount of stress hormones in the puppy’s body. So, we could argue that our dog licks our face because they are imitating the behaviour they experienced. We could also argue that our dogs do it to help soothe us (do they do it more if we are stressed?) The less endearing explanation is that actually, as a dog’s sense of smell is so great, they’ve sniffed out a crumb or remnant of food/drink around our mouths and actually just want a taste. Why do dogs lick your feet? Most will agree, feet are the smelliest part of the human body. In terms of biology, this is pretty accurate. Human feet have more sweat glands per inch than anywhere else on the body. Wearing tight fitting socks and shoes also keeps moisture and heat in, providing a great environment for bacteria to multiply. Dogs have a great sense of smell, so when there could potentially be a great mixture of water, ammonia, potassium, nicotinic acid, magnesium, chloride, sodium, creatinine, uric acid, ascorbic acid, thiamine and riboflavin (also known as sweat) and then a whole host of different bacteria, why wouldn’t your dog have a lick and see what they could find? Dog’s explore their world through smell and sight. Maybe they’re just drawn to the smelliest part of the human body? (we’re not saying you have smelly feet, they can just find more information there). Why do dogs lick the air? Whilst dogs do explore their world through smell, and smell contributes massively to taste experience, it’s unlikely that when your dog is licking the air, they are trying to “taste” the air. They are more likely, stressed. Licking is a stress behaviour for canines. Notice when your dog is licking the air; what is happening in their environment. Is someone touching them? Has someone new come into the home? Are you near their food? Is someone near their toy? Are kids nearby? Have you made a fuss and touched a certain part of their body? This could indicate pain. It’s important to notice the trigger and also watch for other stress behaviours like; drooling, panting, yawning, pacing, head flicking or turning away from the stressor/trigger. Find the trigger and remove it. Licking is a warning signal; ignorance often leads to escalation. Why do dogs lick their nose? Like we mentioned above, this is most likely a sign of
Obesity is a huge problem in the pet world. Whilst official figures are quite reserved in their rates, the true number of pets who are obese or overweight is worrying. Being overweight increases the risk factors for developing: Cancer Diabetes Heart disease Osteoarthritis and degeneration of joints Urinary bladder stones Surgery complications Respiratory difficulties Kidney disease All things considered, it’s easy to see why obesity significantly reduces lifespan and why it is something that really needs to be addressed. What is Obesity? Obesity is defined as an accumulation of excessive amounts of adipose tissue. It is generally a state of positive energy balance. When food is ingested, it is digested and metabolised. The body uses the nutrients it needs and converts the main macronutrients to energy. On a simplistic level, it could be argued that obesity is the result of eating more food than is needed to carry out normal daily activities. However, we know that obesity is far more complex than this. Whilst this can be an issue for some pets, we must also consider other factors which contribute to weight gain in pets. Obese Microbes When we said obesity is multifactorial, we weren’t kidding. Studies have demonstrated that transplanting the microbes from an overweight mouse to a lean mouse, would subsequently make the lean mouse, fat. Findings here The suggestion is that the presence of a particular gut microbial community may affect how much energy is extracted from the diet. Antibiotics of course play a role in this. Studies have shown that treatment with antibiotics markedly influences body composition. In short, low diversity in the gut is associated with marked overall adiposity. There are a range of factors that can contribute to low diversity in the gut including: Maternal grooming behaviour Newborn environment Medications/antibiotics Diet Environmental toxins Stress Microbes can also drive hunger. In short, they secrete proteins that generate cravings for the substances they thrive on. Many processed foods are calorie dense but not nutrient dense. This is worth considering for the hungry dog who never appears to be satisfied. Predisposing Genes There is also a polymorphism found on four genes that can contribute to canine obesity. Not surprisingly one particular variant is found in some Labradors. This variant regulates how the brain recognises hunger and feelings of being full. Findings here This doesn’t mean that these dogs are destined to be obese, what it means is that their environment needs more modification than those dogs who don’t possess the variant. Hormones It seems that, on a simplistic level, certain hormones cause fat cells to suck up fatty acids more readily than they otherwise would or slow down the rate at which triglycerides are converted back. Both oestrogen and testosterone have been shown to decrease the rate at which certain cells take up free fatty acids, which results in keeping the fat cells relatively small (and why in humans you will notice differences in fat gain between males and females). This is why after neutering your pet, you are advised to monitor their weight as more often than not, they gain weight. Thyroid Issues The thyroid gland releases hormones that regulate your dog’s metabolism, so a thyroid condition could cause your dog to rapidly gain weight if it reduces the amount of hormones being produced. This condition is known as hypothyroidism and can cause weight gain, lethargy, dull or dry coat, or oily, greasy skin. Hypothyroidism in Pets Cushing’s Disease Cushing’s disease in dogs, also known as hyperadrenocorticism, is a condition where a dog’s body produces too much of the stress hormone cortisol. Hyper meaning too much, adreno meaning the adrenal gland and corticism refers to the outer part, or cortex of the adrenal gland. Cushing’s in dogs is the opposite to Addison’s disease, which is when the body doesn’t produce enough hormones. Cushing’s Disease in Dogs Generally if your dog is gaining weight over a period of time, it is worth looking at their food intake compared with their activity levels. If you see a more rapid onset of weight gain, it could be worth getting your dog checked over for any underlying health issues. Check out our blogs for managing obesity in pets: Obesity in Pets – Part One Obesity in Pets – Part Two If you are concerned about your pet’s health, then check out our services to see how we can help. Thanks for reading, MPN Team
