Loss of Bladder Control in Dogs

The most common cause of the loss of bladder control is a hormonal disorder that occurs in older dogs. Occasionally, spinal degeneration or trauma also causes incontinence. Dogs who have serious seizures may also lose bladder control. Other medical problems include bladder infections, diabetes, and kidney disease.

However, if your dog is relatively healthy, check to make sure that your dog isn't urinating due to separation anxiety, stress, or a change in the environment. Dogs sometimes revert to their pre-housetrained ways with the introduction of a new puppy or baby in the household.

Sudden Aggression

If your normally gentle pooch suddenly exhibits aggression towards other dogs, don't automatically call a trainer. Veterinarians suggest that you rule out all medical causes of aggression first since these are often culprits. Dogs in pain can exhibit aggressive behavior; dog joint pain, problems with teeth, and changes in eyesight are all common causes. More severe causes can stem from brain injury or changes in brain chemicals, conditions that are often manageable with medication.

Dog Grooming: Eye Tear Stains

If you have a smaller dog and his/her coat is light in color, chances are you have noticed dark patches under his/her eyes from time to time. Unlike their human counterparts, dogs don't develop dark circles from a lack of sleep or when they've had a 'ruff' night. Those dark patches can be caused by a multitude of factors. Dogs who eyes tear excessively can develop yeast or bacterial infections that cause a reddish-brown stain. Blocked tear ducts, ear infections and allergies are also common causes of eye staining. There may even be a genetic component. And, if the water in your area has an especially high mineral level, your dog's eyes may have a tendency to stain. Once you have determined the cause of your dog's eye stains -- and if you can eliminate the source -- you can work to remove the stains from your dog's facial hair/fur. Breeders have found a mixture of Milk of Magnesia, corn starch and peroxide to be successful.

Breeding Your Purebred Dog

If you have made the investment in a purebred female dog, you may be considering breeding her to continue the lineage. To find the a male stud of good breeding, start with a source that offers advice you can trust. The American Kennel Club has been promoting purebred dogs and breeding since 1884. The organization's mission is to "advocate for the purebred dog as a family companion, advance canine health and well-being, work to protect the rights of all dog owners and promote responsible dog ownership." While they do not recommend specific breeders, they do provide links and resources on breeding. Do your homework there first, and your ultimate choice with be a more informed one.

Papillion: The Butterfly Dog

Just looking at this tiny pup, you might expect it to take flight! Its oversized ears have earned it the nickname "the butterfly dog," but the Papillion (pronounced PAP-ee-yon) is not flighty at all. The breed is intelligent, friendly, affectionate and a whole lot tougher than it looks. Weighing in at roughly 10 pounds, this dog enjoys a good romp in the yard with its people of whom it is fiercely loyal and protective. One of the oldest dogs on record, the papillion's signature ears can be either erect or drooping, both of which compliment it spotted silky coat. Expect to give your papillion a daily brushing to maintain that coat for up to 16 years (a typical life time).

All Shook Up!

Some dogs may do an intentional hearty shake from time to time. This behavior often displayed when a dog has an undesired experience, such as being tugged vigorously at the leash. You dog is literally "shaking off" the experience and moving on. There is no health concern to this type of shaking, which can often be seen in some of the smaller breeds of dogs.

However, if your dog is having a more seizure-like form of shaking where he is actually convulsing, you should take him to the veterinarian for an examination.

Dog Healthcare: Feet

Sometimes the hardest thing to diagnose is problems with a dog's feet, legs and joints. A dog that wakes up in the morning stiff and walking with a limp may be perfectly fine by lunch time. The dog owner and the veterinarian have to be keen observers since the dog can't tell them -- with words, anyway -- how he/she is feeling. Because of this inherent problem with communication, the safest thing for any dog owner to do when he/she notices the dog limping is to take it to the vet and get it checked out. Be observant and tell the vet everything you have noticed your dog doing. For example, if your dog appears to be jumping a bit when he/she walks, there may be damage to the superior articulations. A dog that doesn't want to put weight on a leg may have a fracture. And a dog that puts his leg down very slowly may have a wound of some type. Sensitivity to injuries of the bone also vary by breed; greyhounds, Chihuahuas and Maltese 'feel' these injuries with greater intensity. If you think your dog has been injured, get help before you examine him yourself. Consider a muzzle; he/she may accidentally bite you if your movements cause him/her pain. Ultimately, take the dog to the vet to get the proper care that he/she needs.