Welcome to our “Ask Dr. Paola” series, where every Monday we bring expert advice straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to help our readers better understand their dog’s health and well-being.

Whether you’re a new pet parent or a seasoned dog lover, Dr. Paola is here to provide answers to your most pressing questions. From nutrition tips and preventive care to troubleshooting common behavioral issues, Dr. Paola is ready to offer insights that will keep your furry friend happy and healthy. Stay tuned for expert guidance on a range of topics that matter most to you and your dog, so you can make informed decisions and provide the best possible care for your canine companion. ‎Have‎ a ‎question? Send it in here!

Help! My Dog Won’t Stop Licking His Bed!

“My dog Marshall won’t stop licking his dog bed at night, and he lies right beside my bed. The sound is not exactly the white noise sound I’d like to hear right before I fall asleep. I’m sure he’s doing it out of comfort, and as much as I’d love to have him in my bed, he gets nervous when I bring him up and wants to go down immediately. What can I do?”– Caleb

Hi Caleb,

What you are noticing with Marshall is actually quite common. Many dogs use repetitive licking as a way to unwind, almost like children who hum or rock themselves before falling asleep. While it helps him relax, the sound can certainly make it harder for you to drift off, and in some cases, it may even reflect a need for a little extra support. Since Marshall does not feel settled in your bed, the goal is to give him other comforting options that work for both of you.

A safe chew or a food puzzle before bedtime can be a wonderful alternative. Chewing releases calming endorphins, much like licking does, but the activity is usually quieter and often helps dogs ease into sleep more smoothly. A stuffed toy that encourages gentle gnawing rather than hard crunching is especially useful, since it gives Marshall the soothing effect he seeks without the constant sound. Adding a white noise machine can also help, creating a calm environment where his nighttime habits are less noticeable.

Making sure Marshall gets plenty of exercise and mental enrichment during the day will set him up for a more restful night. If his licking suddenly becomes more intense or you notice other changes in his behavior, a veterinary check is always wise to rule out things like skin irritation or digestive discomfort. Most often, though, with a few adjustments to his routine, both you and Marshall can end the day on a much more peaceful note. I hope this helps!

– Dr. Paola

Help! My Dog Eats Anything & Everything!

“My dog Indie is extremely food motivated. Although I measure his meals so he gets exactly what he needs and do my best to make sure he doesn’t get any human food, if he has access to anything (literally ANYTHING that may be considered food), he will eat until he is sick and pooping everywhere. Is there a way I can curb this behavior or help him change his mindset about food/eating? He is not aggressive about food; I can take things away from him no problem (he’s a mild-hearted chihuahua rescue), just very passionate about engorging. “ – Emily

Hi Emily,

It sounds like Indie’s relationship with food is very intense, and that is not unusual for a rescue dog who may have faced hunger in the past. For many dogs, eating quickly and excessively becomes an instinctive survival strategy, even when their needs are now consistently met. While we cannot erase that history, we can help him feel secure by managing his environment and channeling his love for food in healthier ways.

The best place to start is with prevention, making sure no food or edible items are left where he can access them. Trash bins with secure lids, sealed containers, and careful kitchen habits are essential. Since Indie is highly food motivated, enrichment tools such as puzzle feeders, snuffle mats, or stuffed toys can give him the satisfaction of working for his meals while naturally slowing him down. Dividing his ration into several smaller meals instead of two larger ones can also ease that feeling of urgency.

Most often, this type of behavior is rooted in habit and past experience. However, there are medical conditions that can cause dogs to seem excessively hungry, including diabetes mellitus, Cushing’s disease, intestinal parasites, or malabsorption problems. If Indie’s appetite ever seems to intensify suddenly, or if you notice weight changes despite controlled feeding, it would be wise to have him examined to rule out these possibilities. With consistent structure and a little creativity, most dogs like Indie gradually settle into a calmer routine around food, feeling both secure and well cared for.
Best,

Best,

– Dr. Paola

Help! My Dog Ate a Button!

“My small puppy, Billie, is a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and she ate a small button. What should we do?”  – Tina

Hi Tina,

When a puppy eats something like a button, it is always considered potentially dangerous, because objects that small can still obstruct the gastrointestinal tract. Puppies, especially small breeds like Cavaliers, have very narrow intestines, so even items that seem tiny to us may get stuck and prevent food from moving normally. This can lead to serious complications if not addressed promptly.

The safest step is to have Billie examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Please let this be a reminder to all readers that the Ask Dr. Paola form is not a place for emergencies and does not replace veterinary care.

Depending on how recently she swallowed the button, your vet may be able to induce vomiting safely to bring it back up. If more time has passed, they will likely recommend imaging, such as X-rays, to confirm the button’s location and decide whether it can be monitored or if intervention is needed. Until then, it is best not to try home remedies, since they can increase the risk of injury. Because foreign body ingestion can quickly become an emergency in small puppies, prompt veterinary attention is truly the best course of action here. Please don’t wait, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Sincerely,

– Dr. Paola

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Welcome to our “Ask Dr. Paola” series, where every Monday we bring expert advice straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to help our readers better understand their dog’s health and well-being.

Whether you’re a new pet parent or a seasoned dog lover, Dr. Paola is here to provide answers to your most pressing questions. From nutrition tips and preventive care to troubleshooting common behavioral issues, Dr. Paola is ready to offer insights that will keep your furry friend happy and healthy. Stay tuned for expert guidance on a range of topics that matter most to you and your dog, so you can make informed decisions and provide the best possible care for your canine companion. ‎Have‎ a ‎question? Send it in here!

Do Small Dogs Really Need Small Toys?

“Hi Dr. Paola,

Are small dog toys necessary for small dogs?– Jeff

Hi Jeff,

Yes, they are! Appropriately sized toys are very important for small dogs. Just as you would not hand a toddler a large tool meant for an adult, small dogs need toys that match their size and mouth structure. Toys that are too large can be frustrating and discourage play, while toys that are too small for a breed’s size and bite strength can pose a choking hazard. The right size encourages safe chewing, interactive play, and mental stimulation, all of which are essential for a dog’s well-being.

For small dogs in particular, toys also help support dental health by reducing plaque buildup and giving them an outlet for natural chewing instincts. Rotating different textures and shapes keeps play engaging, much like offering a child a variety of puzzles to keep their mind active. Choosing durable, non-toxic toys specifically designed for smaller mouths ensures both safety and enrichment, helping your little dog stay both entertained and healthy.
Sincerely,

– Dr. Paola

Help! My Dog Is Limping!

“Hello Dr. Paola,

Bella was running at day care and stopped quickly, and started limping. They say she has a deformity in her kneecap. She is not herself. What can I do to help her feel better? Will this condition improve or continue to get worse?” – Carol

Hi Carol,

What you describe in Bella sounds very much like patellar luxation, a condition where the kneecap slips out of its normal position. This is one of the most common orthopedic issues in small and toy breed dogs, although it can occur in larger dogs as well. Depending on the grade of the luxation, some dogs show only occasional skipping or mild lameness, while others develop persistent pain, limping, or even secondary arthritis over time. Since Bella is not herself and is showing clear signs of discomfort, a veterinary exam is important to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity.

Treatment depends on how unstable the kneecap is and how much it impacts her quality of life. Mild cases can sometimes be managed with weight control, joint-supportive supplements, physical therapy, and activity adjustments. More severe cases often require surgery to realign the kneecap and stabilize the joint, which can provide lasting relief and prevent further damage. The condition does not typically resolve on its own, and in many dogs it progresses if left untreated, so early evaluation is the best way to keep Bella comfortable and protect her long-term mobility. While you arrange her appointment, limiting vigorous activity and providing a soft, supportive resting area will help reduce strain on her knee. I hope this helps!

– Dr. Paola

Help! I Am Trying to Avoid Medication!

“I have been using Hills Prescription Derm Dog food for my 8-month-old puppy, Gabi, as she must have allergies and is always itching or biting. I don’t want to use a prescription medicine and have been trying all sorts of treats that are supposed to be probiotic for allergies and skin sensitivities. A friend told me she uses Open Farm, Salmon and Oatmeal. I would like to try it. Does Open Farm have all the nutrients and vitamins that dogs/puppies are supposed to get from regular dog food. I don’t want to make my own dog food as you need to add supplements but am willing to try Open Farm Dog Food.

Please let me know what you think. I never had this problem with any dogs I have had in the past, just this new puppy this year. Thank you for your help.” – Barbara

Hi Barbara.

Skin itchiness and chewing can indeed be related to food allergies, but they can also be caused by environmental allergens, parasites, or skin infections, so it is always important to have your veterinarian confirm the cause before making dietary changes. Prescription diets like Hill’s Derm are carefully formulated for elimination or hydrolyzed protein trials, which are the gold standard for diagnosing food allergies in dogs. Introducing multiple treats or switching foods without a structured trial often makes it difficult to know what is truly helping.

Regarding your question about Open Farm Salmon and Oatmeal, this brand is marketed as a complete and balanced diet, and, when labeled as such by AAFCO, it should contain the nutrients and vitamins required for maintenance or growth. However, if you are feeding a puppy, you must ensure the formula specifically states that it meets AAFCO nutrient profiles for growth, including large breed growth if that applies to your dog’s breed. While Open Farm can provide complete nutrition, it is not designed as a diagnostic tool for allergies, the way prescription diets are. If your puppy truly has a food allergy, switching to an over-the-counter food without ruling things out first may prolong her discomfort.

The best next step is to work with your veterinarian on a structured elimination diet trial, which typically lasts 8 weeks and uses a single novel protein or hydrolyzed protein diet with no other foods or treats. This is the most reliable way to identify if food is the cause of her itching. Once that is established, your vet can guide you on safe, long-term diet options that may include high-quality commercial foods like Open Farm.

Good luck!

– Dr. Paola

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Are you gearing up for a trip but anxious about finding the right pet sitter or boarding facility for your dog? Leaving your dog with someone else can be difficult, but being armed with the right questions for a new sitter or facility can give you the peace of mind that your dog will be in good hands.

Each facility is designed to meet a different clientele, and pet sitters have different specialities and levels of experience—which means there’s a lot to know before you sign on. To learn how to tailor your questions to your specific dog and needs, we asked certified professional dog trainer Paige Gordon (CPDT, PCTIA) of SpiritDog Training for advice.

1. Accommodations

The first thing to ask about is your dog’s environment. You’ll want to know whether your dog will have enough space, whether the space will be comfortable, and how the facility deals with emergencies.

Make sure you know:

• How many other dogs will be there, and how will my dog share space with them?
• Where will my dog eat and sleep?
• Does my dog have their own space or enclosure, and how big is it?
• What kind of outdoor access will my dog have?
• Is the indoor space temperature-controlled?
• How many people are present at any given time?
• What kind of certifications do you have?
• Do you have business insurance?
• How close is the nearest vet, and how would you get my dog there?
• How can I get updates on my dog’s stay?
• Can I take a tour and see the space?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all right answer to these questions. For example, some dogs will be just fine being left alone by their sitter for a few hours—but for other dogs, it might be important to have someone present on site at all times. The biggest green flag when it comes to accommodations is transparency, especially the ability to visit the space. Gordon recommends touring all the spaces if possible, not just the public-facing ones.

Red flags are things like small kennels, low staff-to-dog ratios, and vague emergency procedures. Anything that makes it hard to give dogs their own space or separate them by age, size, and energy level can signal a problem.

2. Schedule

It’s important to know what your dog’s day will look like. Even if some options cost more, the answers to these questions can give you a lot of information about the facility and their operating philosophy.

Make sure you know:

• What will a typical day look like for my dog?
• How long will my dog be alone, and where will they be when they’re alone?
• When and where will my dog be fed? Do you leave food out if they don’t eat right away?
• When are play and walks scheduled?
• Are nighttime potty breaks and/or walks available?
• Can my dog’s medication schedule be accommodated?

A good schedule doesn’t have to be rigid—but it does need to match your dog’s general needs. Great kennels and pet sitters will be able to keep your dog relatively close to their home routine, from the number of meals to the amount of exercise.

Having alone time to decompress in their own space isn’t a bad thing for many dogs, but a lack of supervision or long absences can be. Other causes for concern are feeding dogs in shared spaces (which can force competition for food) and the inability to accommodate any extra feedings, walks, or potty breaks—that speaks to a kennel or sitter that’s overwhelmed.

3. Exercise and Activities

Ask questions to make sure your dog will get enough exercise and mental stimulation while you’re away—and ensure that exercise is supervised and safe.

Make sure you know:

• What kind of exercise will my dog get every day?
• What kinds of activities will be scheduled or available?
• Are any dog play groups separated by age, size, or energy level?
• How are dogs supervised during exercise and play?
• What kinds of games or enrichment do you offer?

A menu of activities and ideas for enrichment shows that your kennel or sitter has thought through their approach to exercise. Good answers will leave you feeling comfortable with the types of activities and the level of supervision, confident that your dog will have the interaction and stimulation they need—whether with humans or other dogs.

Red flags when it comes to exercise are a lack of regulated activities, no games or puzzles, and low levels of interaction. If a facility can’t accommodate your dog’s play style—whether that’s exuberant or more sedate—this likely isn’t a good fit for your pet.

4. Preparation

One of the best ways to ensure your dog’s stay is a happy one is finding out how to prepare your pup for a sitter or a boarding facility.

Make sure you know:

• How should I prepare my dog’s food and medication for their stay?
• Can I bring a comfort item?
• What vaccinations do you require?
• Can I leave a list of emergency contacts if I’m not available?
• Can I bring my dog by for a visit before their stay?
• Can we schedule a one-night trial run?

Many places will ask you to prepare daily food and medication and may have specific instructions about how to package and label them. These are good signs, because it means they have thought through the best way to feed and administer medicine. If the facility or sitter lets you bring a comfort item, even better.

Many places will also want you to leave additional emergency contacts who will be local—a good sign of careful planning. Lastly, a reputable place should allow you to visit beforehand so that your dog will be more comfortable with familiar surroundings during their stay.

If a facility won’t allow you to bring your own food, consider this a warning sign. Many dogs have specific dietary needs that a generic food cannot meet, or they could have a stomach too sensitive to switch foods on no notice.

Though requesting that you leave toys at home isn’t always a red flag—after all, toys can trigger resource guarding—great kennels and sitters will make sure your dog has a space all their own for comfort items. If you’re not allowed to see that space ahead of time, that’s always a red flag.

Viktoriya Telminova via iStock

5. Is This a Good Fit for My Dog?

Some dogs need special consideration before they go to stay with a sitter or at a kennel. Here’s what to ask about puppies, seniors, dogs with health issues, and more.

Puppies

Before boarding your puppy, make sure you know about age requirements, energy levels, social activities, and rest times.

• How old do puppies need to be to stay here?
• Do you have specific food and rest times for puppies?
• What vaccinations do you require? Are all other dogs on the premises vaccinated?
• What types of activities can puppies do?
• Will puppies share space with older dogs?

High-energy dogs

Dogs with high energy levels that don’t get met can become destructive or suffer from increased anxiety. A few questions of your prospective new sitter can help to alleviate concerns.

• Will my dog be able to play with other high-energy dogs?
• Can I purchase extra playtime or walks?
• Can I bring toys for my dog to keep them occupied?
• Will there be the opportunity for games like fetch or frisbee?

Reactive dogs

Dogs who are reactive to noises, easily overstimulated, or don’t respond well to other dogs may have some very specific needs at their new boarding facility. As you talk to the operator or to the sitter, be sure to be honest about your dog’s needs and get answers to some important questions:

• Can my dog have a stay with lower sensory stimulation?
• Can my dog have a single accommodation?
• Can my dog be fed without other dogs around?
• Is the staff trained to handle reactive dogs?
• What techniques will the staff employ with a reactive dog?

Anxious dogs and dogs with separation anxiety

If you have a high-anxiety dog and/or one who experiences separation anxiety, leaving them with a sitter or at a facility can be stressful for you too. Gordon notes that for high-anxiety dogs, you might consider asking whether your dog can do a trial night just to be sure. As you talk with your prospective sitter, here are some good things to consider:

• Can my dog have a stay with lower sensory stimulation?
• Can my dog have more interaction with humans/dogs if that helps with their anxiety?
• Can my dog bring comfort items and toys?
• What activities are available for anxious dogs?
• Can my dog have a longer test visit?

Shy or dog-selective pups

Not all dogs love other dogs. If you have a dog who is shy or dog selective, be up front with the new sitter or boarding facility. Talk about your dog’s specific needs and ask questions about how the facility might best accommodate your dog’s personality. Gordon recommends that you ask for references, especially if you have a shy dog. See how other pet parents of shy dogs felt about the experience.

• Can my dog have minimal interactions with other dogs?
• Can my dog have more interaction with the staff?
• Can my dog have a stay with lower sensory stimulation?
• Can my dog have interactions only with certain types of dogs (quiet, low-energy, confident)?

Dogs with health issues

If your dog has temporary or permanent health issues, be sure to talk to the prospective facility about your dog’s specific needs and how they can help to make sure that your dog is comfortable while you are away. This could include special bedding, medications, or exercise needs.

• Can you meet my dog’s health needs? (Be specific!)
• Can you administer medications on my dog’s schedule?
• Can you make accommodations to help keep my dog comfortable?
• Can I bring items that will help my dog be more comfortable (e.g., an orthopedic dog bed)?
• Will my dog be able to be isolated from specific allergens?
• Is there a vet on call?

Seniors

Senior dogs can have some very specific needs. Getting the answers to some key questions from the sitter or facility can help to give you confidence that this boarding option is right for you.

• Is there flexibility with the schedule?
• Can I provide soft foods (e.g., wet or fresh food)?
• Can my dog have designated rest or quiet times?
• Can you administer medications throughout the day?
• Can you make accommodations to help keep my dog comfortable?
• Can I bring items that will help my dog be more comfortable (e.g., an orthopedic dog bed)?
• Can my dog only play with similarly-aged dogs?
• Is there a vet on call?

Asking the right questions can not only help you find the right sitter or the right facility for your dog, but also give you and your pup peace of mind while you’re away. You can even ask for a phone number you can reach out to if new questions occur while you’re away. A good sitter will always be happy to help.

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