Health & Care

Summer can be a wonderful season to explore the outdoors with your dog, but high heat, strong sun, and hot surfaces can quickly turn dangerous. This guide walks you through how to keep your dog cool, hydrated, and safe around water, plus how to spot trouble early and act fast. Gentle reminder at the start: This guide shares general education only. Always speak with your veterinarian about your dog’s specific health needs, and seek urgent veterinary care if you notice signs of heatstroke, serious burns, or any emergency. Key Takeaways What Summer Heat Does to Dogs Dogs do not cool themselves the same way humans do. They have only a small amount of sweat glands on their paw pads, which does very little for temperature control. Their main cooling tool is panting, which releases heat through moisture evaporation from the tongue and airways. American Kennel Club When the environment is very hot or very humid, panting becomes less effective. If the body makes heat faster than it can lose it, body temperature rises and can reach dangerous levels. Some dogs struggle much more in summer heat, including If your dog fits any of these categories, take extra precautions How Hot Is Too Hot Veterinary sources describe normal dog body temperature as roughly one hundred to about one hundred three point eight degrees Fahrenheit. Vca Anything well above that range because of environmental heat is called hyperthermia and can lead to heatstroke. Major damage can occur when body temperature climbs above about one hundred six degrees, and temperatures near one hundred nine degrees can cause organ failure and death without rapid treatment. Most owners do not have a thermometer handy during walks, so it helps to use a simple decision guide. Practical heat guide for everyday walks Never rely only on air temperature. Pavement and sand can become much hotter than the air. One report cited by the American Kennel Club notes that when the air is around eighty six degrees, asphalt can reach about one hundred thirty five degrees, which can burn paws quickly. A simple pavement test Also remember Keep Cool at Home and Outside Shade and airflow basics Indoor cooling tips Safe water play rules Shallow water play can be a great cooling tool when it is done thoughtfully. Avoid unsafe hacks such as Quick checklist before you go outside Hydration That Actually Works Water needs differ by size, activity, diet, and temperature, so it is safest to focus on general principles rather than exact numbers unless your veterinarian gives a specific target. In hot weather, dogs lose more water through panting and can become dehydrated faster. Practical ways to support hydration Gentle hydration boosters that are usually safe for many healthy dogs Safety notes Safe Exercise Timing and Heat Smart Activities Midday summer heat is risky for most dogs, even if they appear eager to go out. Hot sun, high humidity, and hot pavement increase the chance of heatstroke and paw burns. American Kennel Club A safer general plan Heat smart activity ideas for indoors These activities provide mental stimulation without adding dangerous heat stress. Hot Pavement and Paw Pad Protection Dogs’ paw pads look tough, yet they can burn quickly on hot pavement, cement, and sand. Temperatures on dark asphalt can reach well above one hundred twenty degrees even when the air feels much cooler. Step by step pavement test Protection options If you suspect a paw burn Heatstroke and Heat Exhaustion Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are life threatening medical emergencies. Heat exhaustion means the body is struggling but may still respond to early cooling and rest. Heatstroke means body temperature has risen to dangerous levels and can damage organs. Common warning signs of overheating and heatstroke in dogs include What to do immediately If you suspect heatstroke What not to do Strong but calm reminderHeatstroke is an emergency. Immediate veterinary care can be the difference between life and death. If you are ever unsure, treat the situation as urgent and contact a veterinarian right away. Sun Safety and Sunburn Prevention Yes, dogs can get sunburned. Sources such as PetMD and veterinary dermatology specialists note that light coated or hairless dogs, dogs with shaved areas, and dogs with pink or lightly pigmented skin are at highest risk. Commonly affected areas include Protection tips If you see redness, peeling, or your dog seems painful to the touch, contact your veterinarian for care, since severe sunburn can require medical treatment and repeated burns raise skin cancer risk. Water Safety at Pools, Lakes, and Beaches Not all dogs are natural swimmers. Some breeds, especially flat faced dogs, very heavy chested breeds, and dogs with mobility or heart problems, can tire quickly in water. When to use a life jacket Choose a bright jacket with a handle on top so you can lift your dog easily. Beach hazards and saltwater risks Prevention steps Pool rules Water day checklist Expert Tips and Real Life Examples These short scenarios show how to turn guidelines into everyday choices. They are based on common situations reported by veterinarians and pet owners. American Kennel Club Morning city walk on a warm day Alex lives in an apartment with a medium sized mixed breed dog. The forecast predicts a warm dry day with a hot afternoon. Alex sets an early alarm, checks the pavement with the back of a hand, and chooses a route with trees and grass rather than dark asphalt. They carry a small water bottle and give the dog a short rest in shade halfway through. TakeawayPlanning around cooler hours and surface temperature keeps the walk safe and enjoyable. Backyard play with a kiddie pool Riya has a young retriever who loves water. On a summer day Riya sets up a shallow kiddie pool in the yard under partial shade and fills it with fresh water. She keeps the water only ankle deep, stays close while her dog splashes, and empties the pool afterward so the water does not sit all day.

Winter can be beautiful, but it often means shorter walks, icy sidewalks, and a bored dog staring at you from the couch. When the temperature drops, it is easy to cut back on exercise and enrichment without realizing how much it affects your dog’s body and brain. Staying active in winter is not only about long walks in the snow. It is about building a mix of safe outdoor time, creative indoor games, and mental work that suits your dog’s age, breed, and health. In this guide, you will find practical, veterinarian aligned ideas for winter dog activity, from coats and booties to puzzle toys and doggy daycare. You will also learn how to protect paws from salt, watch for cold stress, and build routines that keep your dog happy until spring. Key Takeaways What Keeping Your Dog Active in Winter Really Means and Why It Matters Keeping your dog active in winter does not have to mean pushing through a long walk every time the weather looks harsh. Instead, think of winter activity as a toolkit of options that combine: Why winter activity and enrichment matter When daylight shrinks and sidewalks are icy, it is very easy to skip exercise sessions. Over time, this can cause: Veterinary organizations remind owners that dogs, like people, are prone to cold related issues such as hypothermia and frostbite, so they should not simply be left outdoors for long periods in freezing conditions. AVMA A good winter plan gives your dog safe ways to use their body and brain without spending too long in harsh weather. Key Benefits of Winter Activity for Dogs Physical health benefits Mental and emotional benefits Relationship benefits Training new tricks, playing hide and seek, or working together on puzzle toys builds communication and trust. Your dog learns to look to you for fun and guidance, and you learn to read their signals of excitement, tiredness, or stress. Lifestyle benefits A simple winter routine makes daily life easier for both of you. When your dog expects a few short play, training, and sniffing blocks through the day, you are less likely to face a restless dog that explodes with energy right when you want to relax. Winter Risks, Warnings, and Common Mistakes to Avoid Winter activity is important, but it must be safe. Here are key risks to keep in mind. Cold exposure, hypothermia, and frostbite Dogs do not share the same cold tolerance. Thick coated northern breeds can stay outside comfortably longer than a small short coated dog, but every dog has limits. Veterinary advice suggests that when air temperature falls to around the freezing point, most dogs should not stay outside for extended periods without protection and monitoring. Experts note that dogs are at risk of frostbite once temperatures fall below freezing, especially if they are wet. Hypothermia, which is a drop in core body temperature, can follow and may be life threatening without treatment. American Kennel Club Visible warning signs can include: If you see these signs, take your dog indoors, dry them gently, and contact a veterinarian. For suspected frostbite, veterinary sources advise against rubbing the area. Instead, they suggest placing a warm damp cloth on paws or ears for short periods, and seeking prompt veterinary care. Symbios Animal Health Ice, snow, and deicing salts Snow and ice can pack between toes and cause painful ice balls. Deicing salts and chemicals can dry, crack, or burn paw pads and may be toxic if your dog licks them off. Bond Vet Common owner mistakes include: Pet health sources recommend a protective paw balm or wax before walks in salted areas, and cleaning paws with warm water afterward, then drying thoroughly. Over doing intense exercise on slippery surfaces Running on ice, frozen ground, or packed snow increases the risk of slips and sprains. Sudden twisting can strain knees, hips, or toes. Lunging after a squirrel on a slick sidewalk can also pull your shoulder or back. Shorter, controlled walks on safer routes are usually wiser than long, fast runs on icy ground. Ignoring individual dog needs A young northern breed may enjoy longer snow play than a senior small breed with a thin coat. Flat faced breeds, toy breeds, and dogs with heart, lung, or joint disease often need shorter outdoor sessions and more indoor enrichment. Overfeeding winter treats It is easy to use snacks to entertain a bored dog. Without adjusting portions or adding activity, this can lead to winter weight gain. Watch your dog’s waist and ribs, and ask your vet about body condition scoring and calorie needs. Step by Step Guide to Keeping Your Dog Active and Safe in Winter Step 1. Assess your dog and your winter environment Before planning activities, take a moment to consider: Step 2. Choose and fit appropriate winter gear when needed Not every dog needs a coat, but many feel much more comfortable with one. Veterinary and humane organizations note that small, thin coated, or elderly dogs often benefit from extra insulation in cold weather. AVMA Consider: Step 3. Build an indoor activity and enrichment routine Indoor enrichment is the heart of winter dog activity, especially when weather limits outdoor time. Aim for several short blocks each day. For example, ten to fifteen minutes of focused indoor enrichment two or three times a day can make a big difference. Ideas include: Try building a simple daily pattern such as: Step 4. Plan safe outdoor time Outdoor walks are still valuable in winter, but they need extra planning. Step 5. Add social and structured options if appropriate Some dogs are social butterflies. Others prefer quiet time with their family. For dogs who enjoy other dogs and new environments, consider: Step 6. Monitor and adjust Winter activity plans are not one size fits all. Keep paying attention and be ready to adjust. Expert Tips and Real Life Examples Make indoor games more challenging over time Turn everyday life into enrichment You do not need a closet full of toys

Congestive heart failure, often shortened to CHF, can sound terrifying, especially when you are watching your dog breathe harder or slow down on walks. The good news is that CHF is usually manageable for a period of time with the right veterinary care and thoughtful home monitoring. This guide explains what CHF is, why it happens, what you might notice at home, what your veterinarian will do, and how to support your dog day to day. Key Takeaways • Congestive heart failure is not a single disease. It is a syndrome where fluid backs up in the lungs or body because the heart cannot keep up with circulation needs. MSD Veterinary Manual• Common early clues include a new cough at rest, faster breathing when sleeping, reduced stamina, and less interest in food or play. Vca• Many dogs feel noticeably better once fluid is controlled, often with diuretics and other heart medications chosen by your veterinarian. Merck Veterinary Manual• Home monitoring matters. Tracking resting breathing rate and weight can help catch trouble earlier.• Prognosis depends on the underlying heart disease, the stage at diagnosis, and how well the dog responds to therapy. What Is Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs? In simple terms, congestive heart failure means the heart is no longer pumping effectively enough that blood and fluid start backing up. That backup raises pressure in blood vessels, and fluid can leak into places it should not be. In veterinary medicine, CHF is considered a syndrome rather than a single disease. It is the result of advanced heart disease that has progressed to the point where increased pressures cause fluid accumulation in the lungs or in body cavities such as the abdomen or chest. MSD Veterinary Manual A helpful way to picture it: the heart is a pump with one job, keep blood moving forward. When parts of the heart fail to move blood forward efficiently, pressure builds behind the problem area. That pressure is what leads to congestion and fluid buildup. Types and How It Affects the Body Left sided congestive heart failure What is happening inside: Pressure backs up toward the lungs. Fluid leaks into lung tissue and air spaces, which is called pulmonary edema. What you might notice at home:• Coughing, often worse at night or when resting• Faster breathing during sleep• Trouble catching breath after mild activity• Less willingness to walk or playThese signs fit what many veterinarians see in dogs whose fluid is primarily in the lungs. Right sided congestive heart failure What is happening inside: Pressure backs up into veins returning blood to the heart, leading to fluid accumulation in the abdomen or chest, and sometimes swelling in limbs. Fluid in the abdomen is called ascites. What you might notice at home:• A belly that looks rounder or suddenly “bloated”• Reduced appetite because the belly feels full• Slower movement, discomfort when lying down• Sometimes breathing difficulty if fluid builds around the lungs Both sides can be involved Some dogs have changes that affect both left and right sides over time. You might see a combination of lung related signs and belly swelling. Your veterinarian will use imaging and other tests to figure out where the fluid is and why. Causes and Risk Factors in Dogs CHF is caused by underlying heart disease. The most common underlying problems differ by dog size and breed. Myxomatous mitral valve disease in small breeds Myxomatous mitral valve disease, also called degenerative mitral valve disease or chronic valvular disease, is widely recognized as the most common heart disease in dogs in many regions. An ACVIM consensus document notes it accounts for approximately 75 percent of heart disease cases seen in dogs by veterinary practices in North America. PMC Dogs at higher risk tend to be small breeds and older adults. Some breeds, such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, are well known to be predisposed, and ACVIM includes this breed as an example of a high risk group for screening. PMC Important honesty note about a common number you may see online: some articles report that around 80 percent of CHF cases are caused by mitral valve insufficiency. Your reference article includes that claim. I was not able to confirm that exact CHF percentage from an ACVIM guideline or a veterinary textbook style source. What higher quality sources do support clearly is that degenerative mitral valve disease is the most common heart disease in dogs and a very common pathway to CHF in small breed dogs. Dilated cardiomyopathy in medium and large breeds Dilated cardiomyopathy is another major cause of CHF, especially in larger dogs. The Merck Veterinary Manual discusses CHF in the context of atrioventricular valve insufficiency and dilated cardiomyopathy, and it also notes pimobendan use for CHF in these scenarios. Merck Veterinary Manual Congenital heart disease and other contributors Some dogs are born with heart defects that can eventually lead to heart failure. Others develop rhythm problems (arrhythmias) or high blood pressure issues that strain the heart over time. MSD Veterinary Manual Sometimes, owners never learn a single neat cause, especially if multiple heart changes are present or the dog is first diagnosed during a crisis. Symptoms and Early Warning Signs One reason CHF feels scary is that early signs can look like “normal aging” at first. Here is a practical way to think about what you may notice. Early and subtle signs owners might miss • Your dog slows down sooner on walks or asks to turn back early• A mild cough that shows up after excitement, then starts appearing at rest• Sleeping breathing becomes faster than it used to be• Your dog seems less interested in food, play, or social time• Panting is more frequent even when the room is not warm VCA lists signs such as coughing at rest or sleeping, increased resting respiratory rate, swollen belly, and pale or bluish gums as concerns associated with CHF. Vca More obvious or advanced signs • Noticeable effort to breathe, especially when lying down• Persistent cough• Weakness,

Dogs should not eat pickles. While your dog is unlikely to suffer any ill effects from a slice or two of pickle, the ingredients in them (garlic and onion powder being the major offenders) are not good for dogs as many of them can be toxic or unhealthy. The safest bet is to avoid pickles altogether and offer fresh cucumbers instead, which are crisp, hydrating and low cal in moderation. It’s a reasonable question to ponder when you’re staring at the pickles and your pooch, especially since all of those crunchy spears look so benign. Cucumbers (the base of pickles) are, in fact, a dog-friendly treat while pickles themselves are not ideal. Can Dogs Eat pickles? Veterinarians like Dr. Alejandro Caos, DVM, warn pet parents not to feed dogs pickles because of the extremely high sodium levels as well as seasonings and potentially toxic additives. This post will cover the reasons why pickles are dangerous, what to do if your dog ingests one, and safe options you can offer as an alternative. Why Can’t Dogs Eat Pickles? Pickles and Their Ingredients Pickles originate from cucumbers and are preserved in a brine of vinegar, salt, sugar and other spices. Although these items are what makes pickles taste like pickles, they can also be dangerous for dogs. Toxic Ingredients: Garlic & Onion A lot of pickle recipes rely on both garlic and onion, which are also Allium family members. Excessive Salt (Sodium) Brine is very salty, and extra sodium can lead to dehydration, high blood pressure or heart stress.Too much salt (Salt poisoning or hypernatremia) due to large amounts of salt can cause: Other Additives & Spices Pickle brines are both acidic and extremely salty. The real risks are salt and seasonings such as garlic or onion. Vinegar can be indigestible, sugar and some spices do not contribute anything. Bottom line: Pickles are not sub-lethal in every small dose, but they’re not benevolent either. If Your Dog Eats a Pickle, What Should You Do? Should your dog snatch a pickle, don’t be alarmed. One piece is probably not going to be too dangerous – especially in a large, healthy dog. Nonetheless, continue to watch your pet for symptoms. Signs of Pickle Ingestion Poisoning in Dogs Call your vet if any of these symptoms develop and/or contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center for immediate assistance. Can Dogs Eat Cucumbers – A Risk-Free Substitute Yes, dogs can eat cucumbers, and cucumbers are safe for dogs to consume. Their water content is about 95 percent, so they’re a hydrating, low-calorie treat that’s great for overweight dogs or to help dogs stay cool in hot weather. Benefits of Cucumbers for Dogs Feeding Guidelines As always, consult with your vet before adding any new food to your dog’s diet. Expert Tips for Pet Parents Conclusion Though it may be tempting to share your crunchy pickle spear with your pup, dogs shouldn’t eat pickles. The hazards from salt, onion and garlic are perfectly illustrate the risk – benefit profile. Instead use cucumbers. Cucumbers – Plain cucumber slices are safe, cool and nutritious. When in doubt, consult your pet’s veterinarian before adding a new food to their diet. Providing your dog with a balanced, safe, and veterinarian-approved diet is the best way to help him live a long, healthy life. FAQs About Dogs and Pickles Q1: Can dogs eat dill pickles? No. Even dill pickles have too much salt and vinegar, possibly garlic or onion that would render them unsafe. Q2: If my dog eats an entire pickle, what should I do? Most dogs would be O.K., but they might experience upset stomach, diarrhea or sodium overload. If your dog is showing symptoms, call your vet. Q3: Are bread and butter pickles bad for dogs? No. These have additional sugar, salt, and spices that are not good for dogs. Q4: Can puppies eat pickles? Not recommended. Puppies even more so than adult dogs are highly sensitive to salt. Stick to vet-approved puppy treats. Q5: Can cucumbers be used in place of pickles? Yes. Fresh cucumbers are not a problem (they can be hydrating and low-calorie, if you eat them in moderation). Q6: What vegetables should dogs avoid? Steer clear of onions, garlic, leeks, scallions and raw potatoes — all can be poisonous. Q7: My dog ate a single pickle slice, do I need to call the vet? Most likely not, but keep an eye out for vomiting, lethargy or anything unusual. Call your vet if you see symptoms. Johnson ColemanDr. Johnson Coleman is a dedicated veterinary expert with over 10 years of hands-on experience in animal health and wellness. His mission is to help pets live longer, happier lives through compassionate care, practical guidance, and a genuine love for animals. After earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, Dr. Coleman spent a decade working in both private clinics and community shelters, where he gained deep expertise in preventive medicine, pet nutrition, and behavioral care. He believes that pet owners deserve reliable, easy-to-understand information about their companions’ health. Through his writing, Dr. Coleman breaks down complex veterinary topics into friendly, actionable advice that helps readers make informed decisions for their pets. Outside of his professional work, Dr. Coleman volunteers with local animal rescue groups and enjoys spending time outdoors with his two golden retrievers. His lifelong dedication to animal welfare continues to inspire his work and connect with pet lovers around the world.

What might seem like a small decision of naming your dog can make your life change. The ideal name builds tighter bonds, simpler training, and enhanced safety when you need to catch your pup’s attention. Here you’ll see data-driven favorites, fresh theme suggestions, an instant five-step name test, and easy first-week training with owner-style samples. Key Takeaways What Makes a Great Female Dog Name Effective names are short, concise, and easy for everyone in the family to say many times a day. The American Kennel Club recommends one or two syllables, and notes that vowel endings can help vary tone, which dogs detect. Why it matters: A study published in Science (Andics et al., 2016) found that dogs differentiate the meaning of words from the tone in which they are spoken. Brain-scanning research finds that dogs use different brain regions to analyze words and tone, and reward systems light up most when both are identical. This confirms using names that are easy and pleasant to say. Names that sound like commands can cause mistakes according to the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT). Kit sounds like sit, or Poe sounds like no, which slows up the training. Choose a name that does not resemble your standard commands. Two quick filters • Syllables: one or two, easy to yell and repeat. • Shape of sound: snappy consonants and a sharp ending your dog can pull out of noise. Popular Female Dog Names Right Now (Data-Backed) Large datasets allow you to see what the current benchmark is. Chewy’s 2025 rankings, based on millions of pet records, show that Bella, Luna, Daisy, and Lucy are on top. AKC’s 2024 registration-based rankings also place Luna, Bella, Daisy, and Lucy on top for females, backing the trend across platforms. Why popularity is a good thing: easy to pronounce, popular with trainers and vets, and easy for children. Why popularity can be limiting: in the park, daycare, or school, many dogs may wind up having the same name, reducing recognition. Unique and Creative Name Ideas by Theme Every theme offers names that are fresh, easy to shout, and less likely to interfere with cues. Nature, light and earth Vibe: soft, outdoorsy, calm.Lumi, Clover, Sable, Nova, Fern, Bria, Maple, Sol, Isla, Dune, Zephyr, Thistle Literary and mythology Vibe: clever, timeless, story-rich.Arya, Circe, Brontë, Lyra, Elara, Freya, Sappho, Juno, Mara, Tilda, Echo, Rhea Vintage and classic Vibe: warm, friendly, never dated.Mabel, Hattie, Ada, Pearl, Nell, Cleo, Edith, Dora, Faye, Hazel, Alma, Birdie Short and snappy Vibe: crisp sounds, quick recall.Pip, Nix, Kiko, Zia, Trix, Kai, Jinx, Coco, Zuri, Nyx, Koda, Miso Sporty and bold Vibe: energetic, playful, confident.Rocket, Vega, Roxy, Indie, Jett, Scout, Kora, Tali, Veda, Ripley, Storm, Jazz Cute and playful Vibe: bubbly, sweet, family-friendly.Poppy, Mochi, Tofu, Nori, Peaches, Mimi, Pippa, Waffles, Lolly, Dottie, Bibi, Sunny Food-inspired Vibe: fun, memorable, trend-aligned.Biscuit, Chai, Brûlée, Pickle, Saffron, Mango, Truffle, Miso, Brie, Cannoli, Olive, Mochi Food names continue to trend on national reports, so this path is both trendy and cute. How to Test a Name Before You Commit Experts at VCA Animal Hospitals recommend testing a dog’s name before deciding on it. Apply this five-step checklist for a day or two. 1. Clap test Say the name after two rapid claps. If it gets through and your dog turns, keep it. If it confuses you, try a clearer one. 2. Recall test at 10 feet Drop a treat, then back away and call the name once. Reward any head turn or move towards you. You are checking for clarity, not obedience. 3. Real-world noise test Test it by the sound of running water, TV broadcasting, or outside. Does it remain distinctive, or does it blend into the noise landscape? 4. Family approval Have the entire family say the name three times at a normal pitch. Listen for mispronunciations and make sure it is friendly each time. 5. Test call in public Say it softly, then shout it out across an area or yard. If you feel shy shouting it out, choose another. Training Tips: How to Teach Your Dog Her Name Goal: the name, “look at me for something great.” Keep training sessions brief and positive. Days 1–2: Home game of “names” Stand two steps back. Say the name once, punctuate the eye contact with “yes,” and pay with a toy or treat. Do 10 small reps, two or three times a day. Do not repeat the name if there is no response, make the situation easier instead. Days 3–4: Add movement and distance Lunging a treat to mark, backing up several fast steps and then saying the name. Reward when she trots or turns to. Keep it game, don’t turn the name into a reprimand. Day 5: Light distractions Practice in the yard or hallway. If she flinches, reduce space or increase reward value. Don’t forget, your recall word is separate from the name, and you should make the recall unique. Day 6: Generalize with family Encourage other members of the family to play the same game. Vocal consistency reinforces learning. Short sessions are preferred over marathons. Day 7: Real-life drop-ins Prename before meals, leashing, or playing, and then reward. You are building a history that the prename ensures positive things. Reinforcement timing and rewards Mark the instant she looks at you, then reward with the treat right away. A small soft food, a quick tug game, or a tossed treat all work. Keep the high ratio in the beginning, then phase it out gradually as the response is on autopilot. Common mistakes Repeating the name three or four times in a row, linking the name to unpleasant repercussions, or using the name as your cue to retrieve. Make the recall cue “come” or “here” different and distinctive. Mini Case Examples Case 1, Shy rescue A shy mixed-breed rescue begins with abrupt consonants. Her family tried “Ziggy,” which startled her. They switched to “Lila,” did name game with soft voice and miniature treats, and her check-ins were