Author: Lindsay Boyers

Yes, dogs can be allergic to chicken. In fact, it’s one of the most common dog allergies, according to Shalsee Vigeant, DVM, medical director at Veterinary Emergency Group in Sugar Land, Texas. Chicken accounts for 17% of allergic reactions in dogs. (Beef reactions are the most common at 34%.) If a dog is allergic to chicken, their immune system mistakenly identifies the proteins in chicken as harmful, leading to a widespread inflammatory response. This could be due to genetic predisposition or environmental factors, and exposure to certain ingredients over time can increase the likelihood of developing an allergy, according to Sam Varon, DVM, practicing veterinarian at Broadway Veterinary Hospital in Sacramento, California.,Jump to section Can Dogs Be Allergic to Chicken? Can Puppies Be Allergic to Chicken? Dog Chicken Allergy Symptoms How Vets Diagnose a Chicken Allergy in Dogs Dog Chicken Allergy Treatment What To Feed a Dog Allergic to Chicken FAQs About Dog Chicken Allergies

Many dogs treat fallen leaves like nature’s snack bar, happily munching on a pile around the yard or chasing them down on a walk. But while the habit might seem harmless, can dogs eat leaves safely?  Eating a leaf here or there usually isn’t a big deal, but some leaves can be toxic, and eating too many can upset your pup’s stomach. Here’s what you need to know about why dogs eat leaves, the risks to watch out for, and how to curb the behavior if it becomes more than just an occasional nibble.  If you suspect your dog ate a toxic plant, contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661 immediately. 

As a dog parent, you’ve likely experienced that awkward moment when your pup’s snout is suddenly glued to your private parts like you’ve hidden a piece of steak down there. You try to casually maneuver away, placing your hand in front of yourself as a guard, waving off any intruders. This might be enough to give some dogs the hint, but with others it escalates. Soon, it’s like a bull match with a target on your nether regions and your bobbing and weaving to avoid the wet-nosed assault. If your dog seems really attached to your genital area—or worse, your guest’s crotch—you’re probably asking yourself the question, “Why do dogs smell your crotch?” We’ll break down the reasons and give you some tips on how to correct this behavior if it becomes embarrassing.

You’re in the middle of slicing a fresh, juicy tomato when you catch your pup staring at you, just waiting for you to drop a slice. But can dogs eat tomatoes?   Ripe tomatoes are safe for dogs, but there are some parts of the tomato plant that should stay off limits. Additionally, unripe tomatoes contain compounds that can lead to toxicity.   Before you toss your dog a piece of tomato, here’s everything you need to know to keep your pup safe.  Before introducing any new food into your dog’s diet, always check with your veterinarian. 

As you enjoy your Friday night pizza, it’s tempting to share a bite with your dog—after all, pepperoni and cheese are usually a big hit with them! However, there’s one ingredient usually in pizza that you may be overlooking: garlic. Although it’s typically hidden in the sauce, it makes you wonder: Can dogs eat garlic?  While a taste might not cause immediate harm, garlic can be toxic to dogs, even in small amounts. So, it’s best to avoid giving it to your dog altogether. Here’s everything you need to know.  Did your dog eat a large amount of garlic? This is considered a medical emergency and you should take your dog to the vet immediately. 

Dog paw pads are meant to be tough—but they aren’t immune to issues. Because they make regular contact with the ground and can take a beating, sometimes they crack.  While they can make your dog uncomfortable, cracked dog paws aren’t always a cause for concern. But if you notice other symptoms—or excessive licking—it’s a good idea to step in.   Let’s look at-home solutions for caring for cracked dog paws and signs when it might be time to take your dog to the vet. 

A shy or reserved dog is one who typically doesn’t seek out interaction with other dogs or people. They may be uncomfortable in new situations, and move close to their owners or back away from any action. Leslie Sinn, DVM, DACVB, CPDT-KA, veterinary behaviorist and founder of Behavior Solutions in Ashburn, Virginia, says to think of them as a wallflower: They’re happy to sit back and watch what’s going on, but don’t necessarily want to join the middle of the party. You can identify a shy dog by how willing they are to approach and engage people and other dogs. A dog’s personality may change depending on the situation, though. Their actions are often driven by a sense of caution or unease in unfamiliar situations, or with unfamiliar people, says Dr. Sinn. That means a shy dog may be outgoing and playful with their family, but more reserved when they’re around strangers.,Jump to section What Is a Shy or Reserved Dog? What Does a Shy or Reserved Dog Look Like? Why Are Some Dogs Shy or Reserved? How To Help Your Shy or Reserved Dog Are Shyness and Anxiety in Dogs the Same Thing?