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You definitely don’t want your dog and your home to be infested with fleas, but you might be a little concerned about using the hardcore chemicals and pesticides found in traditional flea repellents, whether they’re topical or ingested. Luckily, you don’t have to choose between using chemicals or not protecting your dog. There are lots of natural ingredients that can help repel fleas without exposing your dog to chemicals and pesticides.

But first, if you live in a climate with cold winters, the better news is that you may not need to worry about flea control during the winter. Heat and humidity make the perfect breeding conditions for fleas, so they are much more prevalent in warmer months and locations than colder ones. While it’s not impossible that your dog could catch fleas in the winter, you may be able to simply remove the occasional flea with a flea comb without worrying about daily repellent control.

Apart from the “ick factor” of fleas, they also carry many diseases that can affect your dog, you, and your family. That’s why it’s so important to be vigilant about flea control, no matter what method you use. Common diseases spread by fleas in the United States include Murine Typhus, tapeworms, tularemia, and Bubonic plague – the same plague, known then as “Black Death,” that wiped out half the population of Europe in the 14th century. While Bubonic plague can now be treated with antibiotics, it’s still not something you want to deal with.

With that being said, here are 11 examples of natural ingredients that help keep fleas away.

#1 – Apple cider vinegar

Fleas prefer an alkaline environment, so making your dog’s skin and coat more acidic with topical application of apple cider vinegar and balancing out the alkaline environment inside your dog by adding raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar (ACV) to their water bowl can both help repel fleas. Add up to two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar to your dog’s water bowl (less if he refuses to drink it that concentrated) to balance his alkalinity from the inside. Mix a combination of half apple cider vinegar and half water in a spray bottle to apply it topically, making sure to avoid spraying it into his eyes, ears, nose, genitals, or any open wounds. You can spray your dog up to twice a day to repel fleas.

#2 – Rosemary*

You can make a chemical-free flea dip by boiling two cups of fresh rosemary for 30 minutes. Strain out the leaves and add up to a gallon of warm water. Pour the mixture over your dog and let it air dry. Optionally, you can add a lemon, one sprig of garden sage, and one sprig of lavender for a great-smelling spray that has extra flea-repelling properties.

#3 – Lemon

Juice from a fresh lemon can be rubbed directly onto your dog’s coat, or you can quarter a lemon, pour boiling water over it, let it steep overnight, then spray your dog with the mixture in the morning. Lemon can also be added to flea sprays made with other ingredients for a fresh scent and an added boost of flea-repellent.

#4 – Diatomaceous Earth

Food grade diatomaceous earth (DE) can be sprinkled on your dog and around your yard to help dry out flea eggs before they have a chance to hatch. DE is a non-toxic powder made from fossilized organisms called diatoms. Be sure to avoid industrial strength DE since it’s chemically treated and used for pools and manufacturing.

#5 – Citronella*

You’ve probably used citronella candles or other products around your home to ward off mosquitos. Did you know it’s effective against fleas and safe for dogs, as well? Citronella oil is best used in sprays with other ingredients. Try this recipe for a flea-repelling spray that can be used on your dog and around your home: Combine one gallon of hot water with 20 drops of citronella oil, 10 drops of tea tree oil, 10 drops of lemongrass oil, and 5 drops of geranium oil. Add this mixture to a spray bottle and spray your dog once a day, letting the spray dry naturally.

#6 – Lavender oil

One study showed that diluted lavender, at rates of 10 to 20 percent lavender, was just as effective at repelling fleas as flea and tick sprays containing DEET. A few drops of lavender oil added to a homemade flea spray smells great and is an effective flea repellent.

#7 – Cedarwood oil*

There are many essential oils that can be diluted with a carrier oil like grapeseed oil or fractionated coconut oil at a ratio of one drop of essential oil to one milliliter of carrier oil. The resulting mixture can be applied to a bandana tied around your dog’s neck. Cedarwood oil is one oil that works well like this.

#8 – Peppermint oil*

Peppermint oil can be diluted like the cedarwood oil and applied to a bandana.

#9 – Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is best used in the citronella flea spray we recommended above.

#10 – Lemongrass oil*

This is best used in combination with other ingredients in flea sprays.

#11 – Geranium oil

Geranium oil is an important ingredient in the citronella flea repellent spray.

Looking for all-natural flea relief? Check out our Project Paws of Flea & Tick Repellent products!

Each one provides meals for shelter dogs in need, too.

(H/T: Mother Nature Network, Dogs Naturally Magazine, eHomeRemedies, Pets and Parasites, PetMD, JC Ehrlich Pest Control)

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CBD derived from cannabis and super low in THC, is used to treat human health issues, and recent studies are opening the doors to dogs. The newest study on using CBD oil for dogs delivers good news, something many veterinarians have been anticipating—CBD oil has great potential for treating dogs with epilepsy.

Dr. Stephanie McGrath with Colorado State University’s James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital recently spearheaded a study to learn more about how CBD oil affects dogs with epilepsy. It’s the first study of its kind, and researchers, veterinary professionals, and pet owners are sure to be more than pleased with the results.

Dr. McGrath presented the study’s findings to a full house at the veterinary medical conference in Denver on Monday. According to the results, CBD oil was effective in reducing the frequency of seizures in nearly 90% of dogs in the study. The trial consisted of 16 pups, and all were experiencing two or more seizures a month prior to receiving chicken-flavored CBD oil.  Seven dogs served as a control group and received a placebo for 12 weeks before switching to CBD oil for an additional 12 weeks. At the end of the study, researchers tallied the number of seizures each dog experienced to compare results.

 

These preliminary findings represent the first official steps taken to help dogs with epilepsy find safe and natural relief. There are several pharmaceutical options available, but for many dogs, the side effects of those medications become unmanageable, or the medication fails to be effective. Dogs have been in need of a better solution for a long time, and Dr. McGrath and other veterinarians are optimistic CBD oil might be the answer.

While this study supports the same theory that many dog owners have already tested, Dr. McGrath still says more research is needed. She told CBS Denver,

“Although really exciting results, it still has to be taken with a little bit of a grain of salt, because the power of the study is diminished when you don’t have a lot of dogs involved.”

Not having a lot of dogs is a problem Dr. McGrath is looking forward to solving with her next study. CSU recently received a substantial grant to go toward another study on using CBD oil to treat dogs with epilepsy. Their goal with the upcoming study is to include results from at least 60 dogs and to look deeper into questions like, what is the correct dosage for dogs, and how is CBD oil absorbed by the body? We’re all looking forward to the results and the opportunity to learn more about the potential powers of CBD oil.

Which Brand of CBD Oil Is Safe & Effective for Dogs?

Our team was fortunate to be consulted on the creation of the Cannanine brand of CBD oil for dogs. Unlike most CBD oils, Cannanine is 100% THC free. And like all of our products, every purchase provides healthy meals for shelter dogs.

h/t: CBS Denver

 

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Being a little mischievous is part of being a dog, and for the most part, behavioral issues can be addressed with the right kind of training. There are instances, however, when dog owners accidentally encourage their dogs to pick up bad habits. These undesired behaviors develop slowly until they’re second nature for the dog. There’s no such thing as a point of no return, but it’s definitely harder to break a dog’s bad habits than it is to teach good habits right from the start.

The sooner you realize you’re teaching your pup poor manners, the sooner you can change their behavior for the better. Countless dog owners don’t realize they’re accidentally teaching their dogs to do these four things.

1. Begging for Scraps

We all know what it feels like to be deemed powerless by a pair of puppy dog eyes. They’re so persuasive, a stare down can end up costing you most of the food on your dinner plate. Giving in to your dog’s plea for food, however, will start a long spiral of begging behavior. Once the dog figures out your weakness, they won’t hesitate to take advantage of it. Tossing them food from your plate reinforces the idea that begging gets them what they want. Soon they’ll move on to more intrusive behaviors like invading your personal space when you’re trying to eat and stealing food right from your fingers.

You can’t blame your dog for the behavior because you’re the one that inadvertently taught it to them. If you’ve got a beggar on your hands, it’s time to stop giving in. Jim Burwell’s Petiquette Dog Training says,

“Avoid paying attention to or looking at your dog when you are eating. Paying attention to your dog will encourage the begging. You are setting him up to expect something.”

You can also try engaging your dog in other activities while you eat. Give them their own meal or if your dog knows a “place” command, have them spend the entirety of your mealtime at their place. If your dog knows “go to your mat,” for example, have your dog go to their mat and stay there instead of crowding the table. When your meal is finished, reward your dog’s good behavior with a treat while they’re still on their mat.

2. Jumping for Joy

A dog jumping on you to say hello can almost be seen as a compliment. It means they’re overjoyed to see you, and who doesn’t love being on the receiving end of a dog’s affection? That mindset is exactly why countless dogs develop the bad habit of jumping on people they meet. Their owners think it’s adorable and funny, and dog people most often respond by laughing and giving the dog plenty of pets. That type of reaction serves as positive reinforcement and teaches the dog that jumping is a good thing.

Some people excuse their dog’s behavior because either their dog is too small to do any real damage or because they secretly enjoy the attention. But jumping on people is problematic behavior for several reasons. First, not everyone is going to appreciate your dog putting their paws on them. Big or small, overenthusiastic dogs can be intimidating to your friends and family not used to being around dogs. There’s also the issue of it being dangerous. If your large dog jumps on an elderly person, they could easily knock them down and cause a serious injury. The same thing can happen to kids.

Instead of encouraging the behavior by giving your dog a reaction, you deter jumping by not reacting at all. Your dog jumps because they think it’ll give them what they want, which is the person’s attention. Instead of laughing or scolding, do the opposite of what your dog wants. That means you turn away and ignore them. Wait until all four paws are on the floor before going in for the greeting. If they jump again, turn around again. When you have guests over, it’s best to keep your jumping pup on a leash until they break the habit.

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Is your pooch ecstatic every time you come home, and act like your shadow whenever you’re in the house? That’s because you’re the center of his world, and he always wants to know where you are and what you’re doing.

As it turns out, our dogs are such good observers that they can pick up on our emotions or even detect things about us that we don’t even know ourselves. Ever hear stories of pups who have alerted their people to cancer, pregnancy, or a dangerous stranger nearby? That’s because they’re so intuitive and protective of humans; especially the ones they love most.

Canines are incredible creatures who are sensitive, perceptive, and unconditionally loving. Below, check out 8 amazing things that dogs can sense about humans.

1. Mood

Whether it’s sadness, happiness, calmness, or stress, our dogs always seem to know how we’re feeling. They can actually sniff out the chemical and pheromonal changes that correspond to our emotions. What’s more, our canines keenly observe our every move, and they can read our expressions, body language, voice volume, and tones in order to determine our moods.

2. Attention

Your dog knows when you’re not paying attention to them, so when it’s time for a walk or a game of fetch, make sure to put down your phone! Of course, we can’t focus on them all the time, and sometimes they take advantage of our lack of attention. That’s why some sneaky pooches will counter-surf for extra snacks when no one is looking!

3. Inequality

We know a dog lover like you would never favor one of your pooches over the other, and that’s good: pups can sense when there’s unfair treatment. So when there are multiple mutts clamoring for a treat or chasing after the ball, make sure that everyone gets their fair share!

4. Sickness, Disease, Stress, or Anxiety

With a sense of smell that’s 10,000 to 100,000 times more sensitive than a human’s, our companions can often smell cancer, changes in blood sugar levels, stress hormones, and more. Aside from diagnosable diseases, our dogs always seem to know when we’re simply not feeling well, emotionally or physically. Whether it’s because of a scent we’re giving off or the body language we’re displaying, one thing is for sure: they always know how to make us feel better!

5. Trustworthiness

Fool them once, shame on you… fool them twice, and dogs will stop trusting you! It only takes being mislead a few times — say, you promise your dog a treat to get them to come inside and don’t follow through — before they realize they’re being swindled. In fact, depriving your dog of positive reinforcement is a great way to teach your dog not to obey you. And if your dog sees someone treating you unfairly, they’re capable of holding a grudge against that person (more on that below). Needless to say, our canines are completely honest and dependable to us, and they deserve the same in return!

6. Pregnancy

You’ve probably heard of women who swear that their dogs knew they were pregnant before they did, and maybe you’re one of them! As it turns out, there are a few ways that dogs can sense a bun in the oven. They may pick up hormonal changes through scent, and they may also notice mood swings, changes in routine, and of course, that growing belly!

7. Animosity

Ever get into an argument with someone, only to have your dog jump to your rescue? That’s because they can sense animosity between humans. According to Top 10 Home Remedies:

“Several chemicals are released in the body in response to thoughts of dislike, irritation, hatred, etc. and dogs can sense these chemicals.”

Plus, as mentioned before, our pups know when our body language, expressions, and tone of voice reflect negative emotions. As a matter of fact, studies have shown that your dog can hold a grudge against those who have done you wrong, and it’s in their nature to protect you. Would you expect anything less from your most loyal pal?

8. Intentions

Are you convinced your canine can sense “bad” people? Well, it turns out you’re probably right. iHeartDogs writer Jennifer Nelson explains:

“The leading theory is that dogs use their keen sense of smell to sniff out chemical changes in the pheromones that people emit that would indicate that they have bad intentions… When a person is acting aggressively, their brain chemistry changes in a way that dogs can smell, causing them to react to a potential threat before their human has perceived the threat.”

And as mentioned above, our pups also observe how others treat their favorite humans, so anyone who tries to do you wrong in front of your dog better beware!

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Is your pooch ecstatic every time you come home, and act like your shadow whenever you’re in the house? That’s because you’re the center of his world, and he always wants to know where you are and what you’re doing.

As it turns out, our dogs are such good observers that they can pick up on our emotions or even detect things about us that we don’t even know ourselves. Ever hear stories of pups who have alerted their people to cancer, pregnancy, or a dangerous stranger nearby? That’s because they’re so intuitive and protective of humans; especially the ones they love most.

Canines are incredible creatures who are sensitive, perceptive, and unconditionally loving. Below, check out 8 amazing things that dogs can sense about humans.

1. Mood

Whether it’s sadness, happiness, calmness, or stress, our dogs always seem to know how we’re feeling. They can actually sniff out the chemical and pheromonal changes that correspond to our emotions. What’s more, our canines keenly observe our every move, and they can read our expressions, body language, voice volume, and tones in order to determine our moods.

2. Attention

Your dog knows when you’re not paying attention to them, so when it’s time for a walk or a game of fetch, make sure to put down your phone! Of course, we can’t focus on them all the time, and sometimes they take advantage of our lack of attention. That’s why some sneaky pooches will counter-surf for extra snacks when no one is looking!

3. Inequality

We know a dog lover like you would never favor one of your pooches over the other, and that’s good: pups can sense when there’s unfair treatment. So when there are multiple mutts clamoring for a treat or chasing after the ball, make sure that everyone gets their fair share!

4. Sickness, Disease, Stress, or Anxiety

With a sense of smell that’s 10,000 to 100,000 times more sensitive than a human’s, our companions can often smell cancer, changes in blood sugar levels, stress hormones, and more. Aside from diagnosable diseases, our dogs always seem to know when we’re simply not feeling well, emotionally or physically. Whether it’s because of a scent we’re giving off or the body language we’re displaying, one thing is for sure: they always know how to make us feel better!

5. Trustworthiness

Fool them once, shame on you… fool them twice, and dogs will stop trusting you! It only takes being mislead a few times — say, you promise your dog a treat to get them to come inside and don’t follow through — before they realize they’re being swindled. In fact, depriving your dog of positive reinforcement is a great way to teach your dog not to obey you. And if your dog sees someone treating you unfairly, they’re capable of holding a grudge against that person (more on that below). Needless to say, our canines are completely honest and dependable to us, and they deserve the same in return!

6. Pregnancy

You’ve probably heard of women who swear that their dogs knew they were pregnant before they did, and maybe you’re one of them! As it turns out, there are a few ways that dogs can sense a bun in the oven. They may pick up hormonal changes through scent, and they may also notice mood swings, changes in routine, and of course, that growing belly!

7. Animosity

Ever get into an argument with someone, only to have your dog jump to your rescue? That’s because they can sense animosity between humans. According to Top 10 Home Remedies:

“Several chemicals are released in the body in response to thoughts of dislike, irritation, hatred, etc. and dogs can sense these chemicals.”

Plus, as mentioned before, our pups know when our body language, expressions, and tone of voice reflect negative emotions. As a matter of fact, studies have shown that your dog can hold a grudge against those who have done you wrong, and it’s in their nature to protect you. Would you expect anything less from your most loyal pal?

8. Intentions

Are you convinced your canine can sense “bad” people? Well, it turns out you’re probably right. iHeartDogs writer Jennifer Nelson explains:

“The leading theory is that dogs use their keen sense of smell to sniff out chemical changes in the pheromones that people emit that would indicate that they have bad intentions… When a person is acting aggressively, their brain chemistry changes in a way that dogs can smell, causing them to react to a potential threat before their human has perceived the threat.”

And as mentioned above, our pups also observe how others treat their favorite humans, so anyone who tries to do you wrong in front of your dog better beware!

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If you’re reading this article, you’ve no doubt heard of the benefits of CBD oil for dogs. And while countless anecdotal success stories have circulated social media for years, scientific studies on CBD are also beginning to show promise in helping dogs with many conditions from seizures to pain to anxiety.

You may be taking CBD yourself and wondering: Can I give human CBD oil to my dog? 

The answer is possibly yes, but we’d discourage it for 3 reasons:

1. Most CBD oils contain a small amount of the psychoactive, high-inducing compound THC. While the amount is likely low (under .3%) and unlikely to cause problems for a human, even trace amounts of THC can be dangerous for dogs. If you do give your dog your CBD oil, be 100% sure that it is THC-free (most are not) by checking the certificate of analysis (COA). If a company does not publicly post an updated COA on their website, DO NOT buy from them.
2. Many human CBD oils contain both artificial flavorings and sweeteners that are not made for dogs. Some brands include Xylitol, which is extremely deadly to dogs.
3. Dosages for many CBD oil tinctures made for humans are higher than what should be given to dogs. The concentration of your human CBD oil may be such that giving an appropriate dose for your dog can be difficult, especially for smaller pups. For this reason, you may want to purchase a CBD oil made for dogs in a lower concentration. You can view our CBD for dogs dosage recommendations here.

In summary, while it is possible to give your dog a CBD oil made for humans, you must use extreme caution and may want to be safe by purchasing a product specifically made for animals.

RELATED: Which Canine CBD Oil Does iHeartDogs Recommend?

 

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The 2 organic ingredients in Cannanine™ (Hemp Seed or and CBD) are human grade ingredients. The team here at iHeartDogs uses the CBD oil for both ourselves and our pups! In addition, the same exact formula is sold elsewhere for human use.

However, because we’re a pet products company, our labeling and insurance restrictions require us to put “For animal use only” on the Cannanine product label.

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CBD (cannabidiol) for dogs has become one of the most talked about natural supplements in recent years. And while anecdotal success stories are abundant, what actual scientific studies have been done to confirm the safety and efficacy of CBD?

Much work has still to be done on CBD in both humans and animals, but the results we have so far are very promising. In this article, we’ll cover some of the more significant research in both dogs, people, and other animals.

Epilepsy in Dogs: 89% Reduction in Seizures

A group of researchers from Colorado State University are focusing on learning more about CBD oil as a viable treatment for epilepsy in dogs. For 24 weeks, dogs that experience at least two seizures a month will receive either CBD oil treatment or a placebo. Preliminary results released in July of 2018 have shown that a surprising 89% of the dogs studied showed a drop in regular seizures. The study is a double blind, placebo controlled test. ¹⁷

Dr. Stephanie McGrath is studying the impact of #CBD for dogs with epilepsy at our #csuvethospital.

Her clinical trials found that 89% of dogs in the treatment group had a reduction in the frequency of seizures. pic.twitter.com/iNueCEBJ0U

— CSU Vet Hospital (@CSUVetHospital) July 16, 2018

CSU Study on CBD for Safety & Delivery Method

In 2016, Colorado State University completed work on a pharmacokinetic & safety study of CBD in healthy dogs that was the first to demonstrate the compound was measurable in the blood. The study suggests that CBD usage in dogs is safe enough to warrant studies in a clinical population. ²⁴

For the study, 30 healthy dogs were given 2 different dosages CBD in 3 different methods of delivery: capsules, oil tincture, and a cream applied on the skin. The results showed that CBD given orally in an oil tincture was most absorbed and bioavailable to the body. (This is why we always recommend buying CBD in a tincture instead of CBD treats).

Osteoarthritis in Dogs

Veterinary researchers from Colorado State University Teaching Hospital recently completed clinical trials testing the efficacy of CBD oil as a treatment for dogs suffering from osteoarthritis. All participating dogs showed visible lameness due to arthritis in one or more of their joints at the beginning of the trial. The study went on for 12 weeks, and results are currently pending.¹⁸

 

CBD for Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome

Multiple studies have shown promising results in alleviating symptoms of inflammatory bowel syndrome in humans. Other studies have suggested CBD can slow the course of the disease, improve symptoms, and increase the efficacy of available drugs for the treatment of disorders such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease. ²²

CBD in Treatment-Resistant Epilepsy

Scientists surveyed a group of parents who were interested in sharing information about their children’s experiences with treatment-resistant epilepsy. Nineteen individuals who used cannabidiol-enriched cannabis to treat their children participated. It was found that 84% of the children experienced fewer seizures after taking CBD.²⁰

CBD Helps Mice With Acute Pancreatitis

Mice showed evidence that cannabidiol treatment successfully reduces enzyme activity within the pancreas organ tissue. CBD showed anti-inflammatory properties that lead to “improved pathological changes.”¹⁹

Generalized Social Anxiety Disorder

Researchers administered doses of either CBD oil or a placebo drug to people with generalized social anxiety disorder to determine possible anxiolytic properties of CBD. They measured cerebral blood flow before and after treatment and found CBD oil to be associated with decreased subjective anxiety.²¹

Self Reported Survey Results on CBD in Dogs: April 2018, 349 Respondents

In April of 2018, iHeartDogs conducted a self-reported survey to 349 respondents who reported to have given CBD to their dogs. The following survey results represents the reasons why CBD was given:

 

 

The next question addresses whether the respondents felt like CBD helped the condition for which it was given.

 

 

In summary, 75.3% of respondents reported that CBD was “Very effective” or “Somewhat effective” at helping their dog’s condition for which is was given.

In conclusion, both the scientific and anecdotal evidence suggests CBD may be a very promising tool in maintaing health and wellness in dogs. If you’d like to learn more about CBD, please visit the resources below.

Additional Resources

• CBD for Dogs Buyer’s Guide: Things To Know Before Purchasing
• The Ultimate Guide to CBD for Dogs
• How CBD May Help Your Dog’s Separation Anxiety
• How CBD May Help Your Dog’s Joint Pain

Citations

16. Westword: Colorado State University Leading the Way in Veterinary CBD Treatment17. Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital: Efficacy of Cannabidiol for the Treatment of Epilepsy in Dogs
18. Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital: Efficacy of Cannabidiol for the Treatment of Osteoarthritis in Dogs
19. National Center for Biotechnology Information: Anti-Inflammatory Role of Cannabidiol in Acute Pancreatitis in Mice
20. National Center for Biotechnology Information: Cannabidiol-Enriched Cannabis Use in Pediatric Treatment-Resistant Epilepsy
21. National Center for Biotechnology Information: Neural Basis of Anxiolytic Effects of CBD in Generalized Social Anxiety Disorder

22. Therapeutic Use of Cannabis in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

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We all love being with our dogs. But there are simply times we must be apart and leave them home alone. This isn’t a big deal for most dogs, but if your pup has separation anxiety, leaving them home alone can be immensely stressful for both you and your dog.

We don’t know exactly what causes canine separation anxiety. Some believe it may be related to puppies being separated from their mothers too early. Others believe it’s more related to trauma during their life or a change in living situation such as a move. Whatever, the cause, the solution is not always apparent, and often requires a combination of patience, training, and the right set of tools.

It goes without saying that you should always consult your veterinarian if your dog begins exhibiting signs of separation anxiety. There are often underlying medical issues that can be diagnosed through an examination or blood work.

I recently blogged about my personal journey of battling separation anxiety with my rescue dog. For me, the final solution involved a combination of tactics, including the 4 techniques listed below. I hope these ideas are helpful for you.

1. Sound Therapy

One of the obvious signals to your dog that they have been left alone is silence. Maintaining a level of ambient noise in your home makes them feel safe.

Recently, Amazon’s Audible.com and Cesar Millan’s Dog Psychology Center performed a study on 100 volunteer dogs. The results of a 28 day study found that listening to audiobooks can make your dog calmer and happier when you’re away.

Personally, I had a breakthrough in my dog’s separation anxiety when I discovered that I was able to loop a recording of my voice from a CD player that was placed in another room, making my dog believe I was home all along.

For some, it could be as simple as leaving the TV or radio on.

2. Scent Therapy

Any guesses on what your dog’s favorite smell is? That’s right, the smell of YOU!

Dogs perceive the world through a sense of smell that is hundreds of times more keen than our own. Keeping your smell close to your dog can offer a sense of relief. It was this idea that inspired our Comfort Cuddler tool that creates a simple way for you to keep an object that smells like you near your dog at all times. (you can see the video of it working here)

For many, scent therapy alone will not be enough to cure true separation anxiety, but its often part of a successful holistic strategy.

3. Desensitization Therapy

For most dogs, separation anxiety begins BEFORE you leave the house. Before you even walk out the door, your dog begins to sense what’s going to happen. Dogs are incredibly intelligent and easily pick up on the queues: Grabbing your keys. Putting on your shoes. Getting dressed. These are all signs you’re about to leave.

For a dog with separation anxiety, these signals eventually become the triggers of the anxiety itself. In other words, your dog begins to fear you grabbing the keys just as much as you being gone.

The key is to teach them that these signals DO NOT mean you’re leaving. You have to desensitize them to these behaviors.

For example, you pick up your keys and put them in your pocket or purse, then go sit down on the couch. You put on your shoes, and walk over and sit down and pet your dog. You walk out the door, and quickly walk back in and greet your pup.

Desensitization is a process that takes many days or even weeks of work and isn’t a one time thing. It requires a tremendous amount of patience and often needs to be combined with other methods of treating anxiety.

4. CBD Therapy

Out of all the ideas here, this is perhaps the most popular over the last few years. CBD has been touted to offer a myriad of benefits, anything from anxiety and seizures to pain management and more. While much research has yet to be done, the early results of clinical trials on CBD are very promising.

CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system in your dog’s body and appears to help restore homeostasis and a sense of well being. This can be particularly helpful if given to a dog prior to a stressful situation.

Personally, I was able to use CBD to help my dog beat separation anxiety and discontinue a medication that was causing severe side-effects.

Your mileage may vary, but the amount of dog owners claiming CBD helped their dog’s anxiety is growing by the day.

RELATED: 8 Things To Know Before Purchasing CBD Oil for Your Dog

In a survey conducted by iHeartDogs in April of 2018, 76 dog owners reported to have given CBD oil to their dogs for anxiety. 67% percent of the respondents claimed that the oil was “Very Effective” or “Somewhat Effective” in treating their dogs anxiety.

Again, CBD may not completely cure your pup’s separation issues, but may be an effective tool when combined with the other methods listed.

Separation anxiety can be an extremely frustrating situation for both dog and owners. I hope the ideas listed here will be helpful in your journey through this difficult condition.

RELATED: Which brand of CBD Oil Does iHeartDogs Recommend as Safe and Effective?

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While hairballs are less common in dogs than in cats, dogs can get hairballs. What sort of dogs are more prone to hairballs? What causes hairballs? Should you be worried if your dog vomits one up? How can you prevent hairballs in your dog? Don’t worry, we have the answers you’re looking for. Here’s what you need to know about hairballs in dogs.

What is a hairball?

When a dog (or a cat) licks or chews on themselves, they may swallow some of their hair. Normally, that hair passes uneventfully through your pet’s digestive system, but sometimes hair will wrap around something else undigestible in your dog’s stomach and lodge there. If the mass is too large to pass through the digestive system, your dog may vomit the hairball up.

If your dog has been heaving and trying to vomit for more than a day without producing anything, you should take him to the vet. This is a sign that something may be stuck in your dog’s stomach and won’t come out either side of the digestive tract. This may require surgery.

Should I be worried if my dog suffers from hairballs?

Hairballs by themselves are not inherently dangerous as long as your dog coughs them up quickly, but they may be a signal that your dog’s digestive tract isn’t working properly. A hairball that isn’t expelled quickly can prevent your dog from absorbing fluids properly and lead to dehydration or loss of appetite. If your dog suffers from repeated hairballs or seems to be gagging without throwing up, it may be time for a trip to the vet.

What types of dogs are more susceptible to hairballs?

Dogs that shed a lot are the most prone to developing hairballs. Dogs with medium to long hair that sheds a lot are at the most risk. Any dog that licks itself obsessively for physical or psychological reasons may develop a hairball since they may be ingesting more hair than your average dog.

How can I help prevent my dog from forming hairballs?

The best way to prevent hairballs is to groom your dog thoroughly. If you have a dog that sheds a lot, try brushing them a lot more frequently or taking them to the groomer for a professional de-shedding service (which may be called a carding, Furminating, de-shedding, or some other type of service). The less hair is coming off your dog, the less he will be able to ingest and turn into a hairball.

Another way to help prevent hairballs is to make sure your dog drinks plenty of water. The more water your dog drinks, the more efficiently he will be able to move his bowels, preventing the formation of hairballs.

If you suspect your dog is overgrooming themselves due to boredom, try taking him for longer walks, playing with him more, or giving him his food and treats in a puzzle toy.

If your vet doesn’t find any serious complications causing hairballs in your dog, they may recommend hairball remedies similar to what you would give a cat. They lubricate the digestive system, making it easier for hair to slide through instead of getting stuck and accumulating more hair.

If your dog seems to lick or chew on themselves frequently, try to discover why. Do they have fleas? Are they experiencing allergies? Are they trying to soothe joint pain? If you can figure out why your dog is licking so much and treat the underlying cause, you may be able to stop the excessive licking that is leading to hairballs.

Investigate your dog’s diet. Low-quality diets can actually increase your dog’s shedding. Adding an Omega-3 supplement may help to reduce your dog’s shedding.

All in all, you want to be attuned to your dog’s behavior. If your dog is experiencing lethargy, constipation, diarrhea, or loss of appetite, they may have a hairball they can’t pass or another serious illness and should be taken to the vet immediately.

(H/T: Dogster, PetCareRx, Cuteness)

via Whisker Therapy

Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or you’ve had dogs your entire life, there may be things about your dog that you don’t truly understand. How many of these things do you already know, and how many are new to you? Here are 15 things your dog wants to make sure you know.

#1 – I’m incapable of experiencing guilt.

Even though I look guilty when you scold me for doing something wrong, I’m just responding to the tone of your voice and your behavior. I understand that you’re upset, and I don’t want you to be mad at me, but I probably don’t know why, and I certainly don’t feel guilty for doing something you perceive as bad – there are some emotions I’m just not capable of, and guilt is one of them. Read more about what emotions I can and can’t experience here.

 #2 – I respond better to rewards than punishments.

My favorite things in the world are food and your love and attention. I will happily do whatever you ask (once I understand what you want) for a tasty treat and your words of praise. Punishment can make me fear you, and sometimes I don’t understand what I did wrong. Learn more about 5 crucial reasons to stop scolding your dog.

#3 – If I start acting differently, I probably don’t feel good.

I can’t tell you when I don’t feel good, so sometimes my behavior has to tell you what I can’t. If my appetite or energy levels change for no apparent reason, it’s probably time for a trip to the vet. Learn more here about what behavioral issues you should watch out for.

#4 – Just because I’m yawning, don’t just assume I’m tired.

If you see me yawning, I might be tired, but I might also be scared or stressed out. You need to watch the rest of my body language for cues. You can read more about my body language here.

#5 – I can still learn tricks.

Just because I’m no longer a puppy doesn’t mean I can’t still learn. I might learn a little more slowly than a puppy, but I love how happy you get when I learn something new! Stuck on ideas of what to teach me? Check out these 6 awesome tricks to teach me.

#6 – If I’m destroying stuff, I’m either bored or anxious.

I’m not smart enough to chew on your favorite pair of shoes as retaliation for leaving me alone. I get really bored when you’re gone, and those shoes feel interesting in my mouth. And if I destroyed your miniblinds, I was probably so anxious about being left home alone that I tried to escape out the window to find you. Could I have separation anxiety? Find out here.

#7 – Even though I love it, you’re probably feeding me too much.

More than half of all dogs are overweight, so there’s a pretty good chance you’re giving me too much food or too many treats. I’ll happily eat as much as you’ll give me, but spoiling me with too much food can cause a lot of health problems for me. Check out 10 of the most common obesity-related illnesses.

#8 – Although it’s expensive, please keep me protected against fleas, ticks, and heartworm.

Parasites aren’t just creepy – they can make me very sick. It’s cheaper to protect me against fleas, ticks, and heartworm than it is to treat some of the problems they can cause. Learn more about parasites here.

#9 – My bad breath could mean I have a serious problem.

Let’s face it, I’ll never have good breath. But if my breath is excessively foul, I might be battling periodontal disease, which affects more than just my teeth – it can affect my heart, too! Check out the scary truth about your dog’s bad breath.

#10 – Check the ingredients of my food.

A lot of dog food is the canine equivalent of McDonald’s – sure, it’ll keep you alive for a while, but it’s likely to cause a lot of health problems down the road. How healthy do you think corn byproduct meal or chicken byproduct meal really are? Here’s a hint – byproduct is what’s left over after we take the stuff we actually want to eat. Chicken byproduct, for example, can include things like beaks and feet. Wouldn’t you rather your dog be eating the good parts of the chicken? Here are some tips to help you read dog food labels.

#11 – Please don’t leave me alone all the time.

You may think I’m perfectly happy sleeping all day long while you’re at work, but the truth is that I would rather spend more time with you. I might enjoy doggy daycare so I can play with other dogs, or I might benefit from a lunchtime walk by a dog walker. Either way, I would appreciate not being bored all day long. Here are 5 signs I might be bored.

#12 – Wagging my tail doesn’t always mean I’m happy.

I might be wagging my tail because I’m scared or angry. You need to pay attention to the rest of my behavior and body language. Speaking of body language, do you know these 7 important body language positions and what they mean?

#13 – I get confused when you change the rules.

You let me jump on you, but I’m not allowed to jump on strangers? I’m not allowed on the furniture unless you’re sick and need comforting? I’m so confused! Please keep my rules consistent so I understand what you expect of me. I thrive on routine and knowing what to expect. Need to change my routine? Find out the best way here.

#14 – Take me to the vet every year.

Many health problems are easier to treat the sooner they are caught. Since I can’t tell you when I don’t feel right, it’s important to take me to the vet to get me checked out every year. While you’re at it, learn about signs that it’s time to switch to a new vet.

#15 – I really love you!

Even if I seem to act naughty sometimes, I really love you and want to live with you and make you happy forever! Unfortunately, my dog life is much too short compared to your human life. Once I’m gone, won’t you consider getting something to remember my love for you while also feeding dogs in shelters?

(H/T: Reader’s Digest)Do You Really Understand Your Dog? 15 Things Your Dog Wants You To Know

via Whisker Therapy