Dogs

Practical, vet-approved advice to help you keep your dog happy, healthy and safe — from everyday care to emergency warning signs.

Dogs

Seizures in dogs: causes, symptoms and what to do

Key takeaways Seizures in dogs are caused by abnormal brain activity and can range from dramatic (collapsing, jerking) to subtle signs like…

Dogs

Is palm oil bad for dogs? What to do if your dog eats palm oil

Key takeaways Palm oil isn't toxic to dogs but can cause sickness, diarrhoea, and in rare cases pancreatitis or gut blockages. It's not…

Dogs

Can dogs eat seaweed? What to do if your dog ate seaweed on the beach

Key takeaways Seaweed washed up on beaches can be very dangerous for dogs. Watch for vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy and loss of appetite…

Dogs

My dog ate sand: Sand impaction in dogs, symptoms and treatment

Key takeaways Sand impaction happens when swallowed sand builds up and blocks the intestines, it's rare but can be fatal if untreated.…

Dogs

Can dogs eat corn on the cob?

Key takeaways Corn cobs cannot be digested and can cause life-threatening blockages, this is a veterinary emergency, not something to wait…

Dogs

BBQ Safety for Dogs

Key takeaways Cooked bones, corn on the cob, and skewers are common choking and internal injury risks at BBQs. Onions, garlic, xylitol, and…

Dogs

Is my dog the right weight? Use our dog weight chart

Knowing your dog's ideal weight is one of the most useful things you can have to hand as a pet owner. It helps your vet assess whether your…

Dogs

Hot pavements and artificial grass: The hidden risk to your dog's paws

Key takeaways Pavements, tarmac and artificial grass can reach dangerous temperatures on warm days. Use the seven-second rule to test any…

Dogs

15 hazards to avoid for a dog-friendly garden

Key takeaways Compost, mouldy bird food, and food waste bins can all contain mycotoxins, a highly dangerous and easily overlooked garden…

Dogs

Alabama Rot in Dogs

Key takeaways If your dog has unexplained skin sores or ulcers, especially after a muddy or wooded walk, contact your vet as soon as…

Dogs

Battery Risks for Dogs

Key takeaways If your dog eats a battery, contact a vet immediately – do not wait for symptoms to appear. Batteries can cause serious…

Dogs

Can dogs eat white chocolate? Is it bad for dogs?

Key takeaways White chocolate contains only negligible amounts of theobromine, so it isn’t toxic in the same way as dark or milk chocolate.…

Dogs

Summer hazards for dogs: What every dog owner needs to know

Key takeaways Summer brings many hazards like heatstroke, toxic substances, and parasites, which can cause serious illness or be…

Dogs

Travelling with your dog: Safe and happy car journeys

Key takeaways Secure car travel for dogs is vital for their safety, prevents driver distraction, and is a legal requirement for every…

Dogs

My dog is choking, what should I do?

Key takeaways Choking is a life-threatening emergency often caused by something stuck in the throat, making your dog distressed and…

Dogs

Pancreatitis in dogs: causes, symptoms and treatment

Key takeaways Pancreatitis is inflammation of your dog’s pancreas, a small organ vital for digestion, which can be serious and needs urgent…

Dogs

Rawhide for dogs: Is rawhide bad for dogs?

Key takeaways Rawhide is produced by cleaning and processing animal hides, often treated with chemicals and preservatives that may harm…

Dogs

Top 9 Autumn Hazards for Dogs Every Owner Should Know

Autumn is a wonderful time of year that brings crisp leaves, golden walks and cosy evenings. But as we get to enjoy the seasonal changes,…

Dogs

A guide to pet euthanasia

Euthanasia is one of the most difficult decisions any pet owner will face. It is a deeply emotional choice, often accompanied by feelings…

Dogs

A guide to worms in dogs

Find out how to spot worms in dogs, and the health risks they pose Are worms dangerous to dogs? Worms can harm dogs in various ways.…

Dogs

Dog poop colour and consistency: What's normal and when to worry

As pet owners, we all want to keep our dogs happy and healthy, and one of the best ways to monitor your dog's health is by paying attention…

Dogs

Worms in dog poop: Signs, treatment, and prevention for dog owners

As a pet owner, discovering worms in your dog's stool can be unsettling. Intestinal parasites such as roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, and…

Dogs

What are the signs of heatstroke in dogs and how can you prevent it?

Key takeaways Heatstroke happens when a dog's body temperature rises dangerously high and they can no longer cool themselves down, it's a…

Dogs

What to do when your dog is stung by a bee or a wasp

Key takeaways Dog bee or wasp stings can range from mild irritation to serious, life-threatening allergic reactions, especially with…

Dogs

How cold is too cold for dogs?

Understanding cold weather risks for dogs Preparing your dog for colder temperatures during the winter months is essential. This…

Dogs

What food and drinks are poisonous to dogs?

What we consider tasty and nutritious can be extremely dangerous or even poisonous for our dogs. Many dogs are eager to eat the same foods…

Dogs

How to tell if a dog is in pain: Nine warning signs

Key takeaways Dogs often hide pain from injuries or underlying problems, so owners must know how to spot the subtle warning signs to help…

Dogs

Can dogs eat mince pies?

Can dogs eat mince pies? Mince pies contain raisins, which are poisonous to dogs. Many festive foods, including traditional mince pies, can…

Festive Christmas Tree with Lights and Decorations

Dogs

Santa is coming to town, so is your dog's Christmas dinner on the naughty or nice list?

Christmas is fast approaching, and you may be wondering whether you'll wind up on Santa's naughty or nice list. But how does your dog's…

Vets Now Emergency Clinic caring for a dog

Dogs

Mucus in dog poop: 7 possible causes

Most dog owners at some point in time will have reached down to pick up their dog's poop and spotted mucus running through it. This slimy,…

Dogs

My dog has eaten nuts | Which nuts are safe for dogs to eat

Even in a best-case scenario, nuts tend not to be the best snack for a dog. They have a high fat content, which can lead to stomach upset…

Dogs

Preventing canine brucellosis | A guide for dog owners

What is canine brucellosis? Brucellosis in dogs is an infectious bacterial disease caused by the organism Brucella canis. Until very…

Dogs

Tetanus in dogs | What are the signs and treatment?

Learning about the effects of Tetanus in dogs helps you recognise the early warning signs and ensures your dog receives prompt veterinary…

Dogs

Ear infection in dogs | Symptoms and Treatment

Ear infections can be a very common problem for dogs, with some breeds being more prone to them than others. Your daytime vet can routinely…

Dogs

What is ivermectin toxicity for dogs?

What is ivermectin toxicity in dogs? Ivermectin is a medication used to treat parasite infections in animals. It works by interfering with…

Dogs

Is my dog OK after her spay?

My dog seems sleepy after spaying - is this normal? Your pet will have received one or more different types of painkillers and potentially…

Dogs

My dog has diabetes – what do I do?

Receiving a diabetes mellitus diagnosis for your dog can be overwhelming. However, with proper care and management, many diabetic dogs lead…

Dogs

How to: give a dog insulin injections

How much insulin does my dog need? When you saw your daytime vet for your dog's initial diabetes consultations, they will have determined…

Dogs

Hypoglycaemia in dogs

What is the difference between hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia? Both low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia) and high blood sugar (hyperglycaemia)…

Dogs

What do I do if my dog eats cannabis?

Is weed toxic to dogs? Dogs are notorious for eating things that they shouldn't, whether it's something that they pick up from a walk or…

Dogs

Do pets need probiotics? What about prebiotics?

As a pet owner, you may have heard about prebiotics and probiotics and their potential benefits for your cat or dog 's health. These two…

Dogs

Which fruits can dogs eat? Safe and unsafe fruits explained

Is it safe for dogs to eat fruit? For humans, fruit can be a relatively healthy way to get indulge in a bit of a sugar hit while still…

Dogs

Which plants are safe for dogs to eat?

Dog owners may worry about which plants can harm their dogs, and there are some common toxic garden plants that dogs should steer clear of.…

Dogs

Accidental mating in dogs – what to do next

When female dogs go into season, they will usually attract a lot of attention from male dogs. If you do not want your female dog to become…

Dogs

Can dogs get hay fever?

Can dogs get hay fever? While many humans suffer from the misery of hay fever as the weather improves it might surprise you to learn that…

Dogs

Why is my dog drooling?

The facts about dogs drooling In this article, we'll examine why dogs drool, whether your dog's drool is normal, how you can help them, and…

Dogs

Why is my dog sneezing?

Why do dogs sneeze? Your dog could be sneezing for lots of different reasons but one of the most common reasons a dog sneezes is to get rid…

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Dogs

Why is my dog constantly licking, biting, itching and scratching?

If your dog is constantly scratching and biting himself, which could indicate they are suffering from severe itching of the skin, known…

Dogs

Blood in Dog Poop

Should I worry if my dog has blood in their poo? Yes – blood in your dog's stool can be a sign of something serious. While there are…

Dogs

Dogs and fireworks: Preparing your dog in advance

How to get dogs used to fireworks before they start There are fewer things worse for dog owners than seeing their pet in distress. That's…

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Dogs

Dog eye infections: Causes, symptoms and treatment

Eye infections can be as uncomfortable for dogs as they are for us humans. There are a whole host of possible causes of eye infections in…

Dogs

A guide to dog skin conditions

What is wrong with my dog’s skin? Skin problems are one of the most common reasons owners take their dog to the vet. Abnormalities such as…

Dogs

Dog's normal body temperature: What to do if your dog has a fever

What should a dog's temperature be? A dog's temperature should be between 38 to 39.2° Celcius (101° and 102.5°F). Your dog's body…

Dogs

How to: Help a sick pet

Step-by-step: Caring for a sick pet at home Vomiting is common in both cats and dogs and often resolves itself without veterinary treatment…

Dogs

Dog coughing causes

Why is my dog coughing? Just like us, dogs cough to get rid of things they have breathed in (such as dust and germs), but dogs explore the…

Dogs

Why do dogs eat grass? Everything you need to know

The facts about dogs eating grass Many dog owners worry that their "dog eating grass" is a sign that they're sick. But dogs eating grass is…

Dogs

My dog ate rat poison. What should I do? A guide to rat poisoning in dogs

Is rat poison harmful to dogs? Rat poisons and mouse poisons, also known as rodenticides, are products formulated to kill rodents. The…

Dogs

Gastroenteritis in dogs causes, symptoms and treatment

What is gastroenteritis in dogs? Gastroenteritis in dogs refers to the inflammation of a dog's stomach and intestines, typically resulting…

Dogs

Can dogs eat mushrooms? The facts about dogs and mushrooms

It's not uncommon for dogs to come across mushrooms while out walking, particularly during autumn, and some dogs might see them as an…

Dogs

Fire hazard warning for dog Halloween costumes

Our video reveals the shocking results of our dog Halloween costume flammability experiment Our emergency vets see lots of difficult cases…

Dogs

Are acorns poisonous to dogs? My dog ate an acorn, what do I do?

Should I be worried if my dog eats acorns? Acorns are nuts of the oak tree and are a common sight on the ground during the autumn and…

Dogs

Halloween dog safety tips

Tips for having a safe and happy Halloween with dogs Halloween must be a very confusing time for dogs, with many strange and unfamiliar…

Dogs

Nine vet-approved tips for calming your dog during fireworks

How to calm your dog during fireworks? An evening of thundering booms and colourful flashes might seem like fun for us humans, but for your…

Dogs

Anaemia in Dogs

What is anaemia in dogs? Anaemia in dogs occurs when there is a decrease in the number of red blood cells in the body. These cells carry…

Dogs

Pale gums in dogs: Use our dog gum colour chart

What colour should dogs' gums be? The colour of your dog's gums says a lot about their health, and any changes could be a sign that…

Dogs

Cushing's disease in dogs

What is Cushing's disease in dogs? Cushing's disease in dogs, also known as hyperadenocorticism, is a condition where a dog's body produces…

Dogs

Peritonitis in dogs

What is peritonitis in dogs? Peritonitis is an inflammation of the peritoneum – the membrane that lines the inside of a dog's abdominal…

Dogs

What is colitis in dogs and how do I know if my dog has it?

What is colitis in dogs? Canine colitis is the inflammation of a dog's large intestine or colon. The colon absorbs nutrients and helps dogs…

Dogs

What is Addison's disease in dogs? Symptoms, treatment and care

What is Addison's disease? Also known as hypoadrenocorticism, Addison's disease is a potentially life-threatening deficiency in hormones…

Dogs

What is water intoxication in dogs and how can I prevent it?

What is water intoxication in dogs? Water intoxication in dogs can occur when dogs swallow an excessive amount of water. This can happen…

Dogs

Dog Poison Checker

If you're worried that your dog has eaten something toxic, our poison checker will tell you what to do next What is poisonous to dogs? It's…

Dogs

Dog poisoning: Signs of poisoning in dogs and what you need to do

What should I do if my dog has been poisoned? If you think your dog has been poisoned stay calm and make sure the source of the poison is…

Dogs

Can dogs eat cat food?

Can dogs eat cat food? Dogs should not be fed cat food and dog owners who have cats should ensure their dog's access to cat food is…

Dogs

Grass seed in dogs, what to do if seeds are lodged in your dog’s paws, ears or skin?

What causes grass seed wounds in dogs? Grass seeds, are, perhaps surprisingly, a fairly big cause of emergency admissions to many of our…

Dogs

What is seasonal canine illness and is my dog suffering from this disease?

What is seasonal canine illness? Seasonal canine illness (SCI) is a little-known condition that typically affects dogs in the autumn.…

Dogs

My dog won’t stop panting, what should I do?

Why is my dog panting? Dogs pant to regulate their temperature. Unlike humans, dogs aren’t able to regulate their temperature using sweat…

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Dogs

Kennel cough in dogs

What is kennel cough? Kennel cough results from inflammation of a dog's throat, lungs and airways and is caused by various viruses and…

Dogs

What's AHDS in dogs? Symptoms of acute haemorrhagic diarrhoea syndrome

What is acute haemorrhagic diarrhoea syndrome in dogs? In dogs, acute haemorrhagic diarrhoea syndrome (previously called haemorrhagic…

Dogs

Why is my dog limping? Lameness in dogs in front or back legs

What are the causes of lameness in dogs? Lameness in dogs is not a disease. But it is often the sign of a painful condition, such as a…

Dogs

Can you give a dog paracetamol? 9 common questions about pain relief answered

Increasingly, a common question our vets ask is, can dogs have paracetamol for pain relief? When your dog is unwell or has a painful…

Dogs

Blue-green algae dangers to dogs

What is blue-green algae? Blue-green algae — also known as cyanobacteria — are tiny organisms typically found in freshwater lakes, ponds,…

Dogs

I've a flat-faced dog such as a French bulldog. What do I need to know?

The flat-faced dog phenomenon In recent years, there has been a marked rise in the number of people buying flat-faced dog breeds. These are…

Dogs

All you need to know about dog and puppy vaccinations

What do I need to know about puppy vaccinations? Vaccinations are highly recommended (and essential if they're going abroad or into…

Dogs

What to do if your dog swallows a bone, ball or other 'foreign body'

What happens when a dog swallows a bone, or other 'foreign body'? Most dogs, especially puppies, will occasionally swallow something they…

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Dogs

Why do dogs eat poop and how do I stop my dog eating poop?

Why do dogs eat poop? Coprophagia is the term for eating poop. While it may appear revolting to humans, it's not always due to an…

Dogs

Is my dog having a stroke? What are the main stroke symptoms in dogs?

Are dog strokes the same as strokes in humans? The chance of your dog suffering a stroke, in the same way a human would, is fairly low.…

Blog is it safe to leave my dog in the car during the winter months

Dogs

Dog walking safety tips for walking your dog at night

Walking dog at night - is it safe? Many of us lead busy lives and in the winter months walking your dog at night or during the hours of…

Dogs

Diarrhoea in dogs: A guide to dog diarrhoea

What is diarrhoea in dogs? Diarrhoea are stools that are soft to liquid in consistency. Dog diarrhoea , sometimes referred to as diarrhea,…

Dogs

Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs

Antifreeze and dogs Antifreeze poisoning in dogs typically occur when ethylene glycol, one of the main ingredients in antifreeze, leaks…

Dogs

Can dogs eat grapes? Why are grapes and raisins bad for dogs?

Can dogs eat grapes? Grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs and can lead to acute kidney failure or even death. While all forms of grapes are…

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Dogs

Can dogs eat chocolate? All your dog and chocolate questions answered

Can dogs eat chocolate? While dogs might love the delicious sweet taste of chocolate as much as humans, it's important to remember that…

Dogs

Xylitol poisoning in dogs. What should I look out for?

What is xylitol? Over the past few years there's been a big increase in the use of sugar substitutes and sweetening agents. One of the most…

Dogs

Pyometra in dogs: Everything you need to know about the life-threatening womb infection

What is pyometra in dogs? Pyometra is a serious womb (or uterus) infection in dogs. The condition can be life-threatening and requires…

Dogs

Signing a 'puppy contract' before buying a dog

The puppy contract The BVA Animal Welfare Foundation and the RSPCA have developed the puppy contract to help puppy buyers avoid many of the…

Dogs

Lungworm in dogs, what are the symptoms, causes and treatment?

What is lungworm in dogs? Lungworm is a type of parasitic worm – called Angiostrongylus Vasorum – which can affect dogs, foxes and badgers.…

Dogs

Dog being sick: How to care for a vomiting dog

Why is my dog being sick? Dogs throw up for lots of different reasons. Vomiting is often brought on by a sudden change in diet, through…

Dogs

Seven simple ways to create a dog-friendly house

How do I create a dog friendly home? If you are thinking about getting a puppy or even an older dog, it's worth taking a few moments to…

Dogs

My dog keeps falling over, what should I do? Ataxia in dogs symptoms

If your dog suddenly loses their sense of balance they could be suffering from a serious health problem that requires immediate veterinary…

Dogs

Dehydration in dogs, what are the signs and symptoms?

What is dog dehydration? Dehydration in dogs is a common, potentially life-threatening condition. It's the result of not drinking enough…

Dogs

Dental disease in dogs, what to do about bad teeth and gingivitis

What is dental disease in dogs? Unlike humans, dogs don't tend to suffer from serious tooth decay, but the majority over the age of three…

Dogs

My dog’s been injured by a fish hook, what should I do?

Fish hook injuries in dogs Our vets regularly see fish hook injuries in spring and summer in both dogs and cats. Dogs are particularly…

Dogs

My dog's whelping, what should I do if she suffers labour complications?

What is whelping? Whelping is the process of a dog giving birth to puppies. Most dogs are capable of whelping on their own without…

Dogs

Canine parvovirus: what every dog owner needs to know about parvovirus infection

What is canine parvovirus? Parvovirus enteritis (PVE) is a highly contagious disease caused by the canine parvovirus, or parvo as it's…

Dogs

Dog eye problems | How do I look after my dog's eyes?

Why should I check for dog eye problems? Getting into the habit of regularly looking at and assessing your pet will help you pick up any…

Dogs

Breathing problems in dogs

What should I do if my dog has breathing problems? Breathing problems in dogs are life-threatening conditions so if your dog is breathing…

Dogs

Ear problems in dogs | How do I check for dog ear problems?

Why should I check for dog ear problems? Getting into the habit of regularly looking at and assessing your dog's ears will help you pick up…

Dogs

How do I know if my dog has sore paws? Checking for dog paw problems

Why should I check my dog's paws? Your dog's feet take the brunt of the wear and tear during exercise and everyday life. Sore paws can be…

Great Danes are at highest risk of bloat

Dogs

Bloat in dogs: Everything you need to know about the life-threatening condition

Bloat in dogs: the facts Bloat in dogs is an extremely serious, life-threatening condition which requires urgent veterinary treatment. It…

Dogs

Dog skin problems | How to check your dog's skin and body condition

Why should I check for dog skin problems? Many dogs pick up lumps and bump as they age and being familiar with what is there 'and what is…

Dogs

Ear problems in dogs

Why does my dog have ear problems? Ear injuries in dogs happen for many reasons. Fights between dogs often result in tears to the pinna…

Dogs

What you need to know about dog castration

What's the difference between neutering and castration? There is no difference – castration is the specific term to describe neutering of a…

Dogs

What you need to know about spaying your dog or puppy

What does spaying a dog involve? Spaying is the specific term given to the neutering of a female animal. The dog spaying procedure involves…

Dogs

Why is my dog lethargic and not himself? Causes of lethargy in dogs

What is lethargy in dogs? Lethargy means sluggishness, drowsiness or dullness. A dog who's lethargic may show no interest in going for a…

Dogs

7 Common emergencies in puppies

Common emergencies in puppies Some forms of common puppy illness should be considered an emergency and should be treated by a vet as soon…

Dogs

My dog broke a nail, what should I do?

Torn nails can be difficult to treat and painful for your dog. They can also bleed a lot which can be alarming for owners. It's important…

Dogs

Dog collapse or fainting, what are the signs, causes and treatment?

My dog's collapsed, what could be wrong? Acute collapse in dogs is a sudden loss of strength, that causes them to fall and be unable to…

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Dogs

Teeth problems in dogs | How to check for dog dental problems at home

Why should I check for teeth problems in dogs? We don't tend to worry about our dog dental problems when they are eating normally. However,…

Dogs

What should I do if my dog is electrocuted?

Electric shock in dogs Electric shock, also referred to as electrocution, is most commonly seen in puppies and young dogs after chewing…

Dogs

Dog herpes and canine herpesvirus, what is it and is it dangerous?

What is canine herpesvirus? Dog herpes is a common virus that affects a large proportion of the dog population. It's believed as many as…

Dogs

Ticks on dogs: how to identify and remove ticks

Ticks are prevalent in the UK, especially during the Spring and Autumn seasons. For dog owners, it's essential to understand how to…

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Dogs

How do I do a dog health check at home?

Why should I health check my dog? Hopefully, your dog will lead a long and happy life and, in most cases, will only see your vet every year…

Dogs

Adder bite dog owner guide: What to do if your dog is bitten by an adder

Are adders dangerous to dogs? The European adder is the only venomous snake native to the UK. Adults are up to two feet long and have a…

Dogs

What to do if your dog has been hit by a car and who is responsible?

My dog has been hit by a car, what should I do? Emergencies tend to happen when you're least expecting them. Knowing what to do and what…

Dogs

Should I get my dog neutered?

What is neutering? Neutering is the general term used to describe surgically removing some or all of the reproductive organs of your dog.…

Dogs

What to do if a dog attacks your dog?

How common are dog fight injuries? Injuries from dog-on-dog violence are commonly seen at Vets Now. These can range from small punctures in…

Dogs

Dog dementia, what are the signs of dementia in dogs?

We all recognise that our pets slow down as they get older and we accept that this is a normal part of the ageing process, but the syndrome…

Dogs

Older dog incontinence at night, why is my dog peeing inside?

What is dog incontinence? Urinary incontinence in dogs is the involuntary loss of urine. It usually affects middle-aged and older neutered…

Dogs

Dog can't poo: How to help a constipated dog

Constipation in dogs is when a dog is unable to poo or is struggling to poo – which is typically dry and hard. Older dogs are more prone…

Dogs

What's hyperthermia in dogs and what are the signs and treatment?

What is hyperthermia in dogs? Hyperthermia means a high temperature and occurs when dogs are no longer able to self-regulate and keep their…

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Dogs

Struggling to Give Your Dog a Pill? Try These Simple Tips

How to get a dog to take a pill If your vet has prescribed your dog pills, it's certainly for their benefit. However, it's not uncommon to…

Dogs

Does my dog have puppy strangles? Causes of juvenile cellulitis

What is puppy strangles? Puppy strangles, also known as juvenile cellulitis or juvenile pyoderma, is a rare skin disorder which most…

Dogs

My dog won't eat, what should I do? Dog not eating causes

Has my dog got anorexia? Animal eating disorders are more common than people think. Anorexia in animals simply means a loss of appetite (as…