Author: Wendy Rose Gould

When bringing home a new puppy, that pet-parent checklist is chock-full of fun things like securing a cozy place to sleep and keeping yummy training snacks on hand. Figuring out—and sticking to—a puppy vaccine schedule is also super important. Because their immune system is not fully developed, young puppies are at risk for bacterial and viral infections, including distemper, parvovirus, canine hepatitis, and canine influenza. The ideal time to socialize your puppy is from 3–12 weeks of age. Keep your puppy on a dog leash and walk them on clean, dry pavement—and away from grassy areas where other dogs walk and poop.

Properly storing your dog’s food helps maintain its nutritional value, prevents contamination, and keeps your pet safe from potential health risks. Here’s why proper storage is essential: Preserves freshness and nutrients: Exposure to air, heat, and moisture can degrade essential vitamins and fats. Prevents spoilage: Improper storage can lead to mold growth, rancidity, or bacterial contamination. Keeps pests away: Rodents, insects, and other pests can be attracted to improperly sealed food. Reduces food waste: Storing food correctly helps extend its shelf life. Keeps it tasty: Stale or spoiled food may become unappetizing to your pet.,Jump to section Why Is Proper Dog Food Storage So Important? How To Store Dry Dog Food How To Store Wet Dog Food How Long Does Dog Food Last? How Can I Tell If My Dog’s Food Has Spoiled? FAQs About Dog Food Storage What is the best dog food container?

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for neurologic function, intestinal function, red blood cell synthesis, and fatty acid and amino acid metabolism. While it’s usually included in complete and balanced dog foods, some dogs may benefit from additional vitamin B12 in their diet.  Let’s explore vitamin B12 benefits, what a deficiency looks like, and how to increase the vitamin when supplemental care makes sense.  

Q: Sometimes my dog will start scooting their butt across the floor out of nowhere, as if they’re trying to itch a scratch they can’t reach! I’m not sure if it’s just a silly quirk or if they need some medical attention. Is a dog dragging their butt normal?   A: It’s fairly common to catch a dog scooting their butt across the floor, and while it might look funny, it’s usually a sign of discomfort. Scooting is often caused by skin irritation, leftover fecal matter, or pressure from the anal glands. While any dog can exhibit this behavior, it’s particularly common among smaller or stockier breeds, like Chihuahuas or Pugs.   To learn more about why dogs drag their butts and how to help, we spoke with a canine behavior expert and a veterinarian who shared what pet parents need to know.