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!

The Importance of Breeding Ethics in Pet Ownership

Breeding ethics aren’t just a buzzword—they’re the foundation of responsible pet ownership, ensuring dogs lead lives free from unnecessary suffering. As Dr. Paola explains, ethical breeding prioritizes the health, temperament, and well-being of animals over profit. According to the ASPCA’s position statement, breeders should meet dogs’ behavioral, social, and physiological needs, avoiding conditions that compromise their quality of life. This means screening for genetic disorders, providing spacious environments, and limiting litters to prevent overbreeding. In her practice, Dr. Paola sees the fallout from unethical practices, like puppies with inheritable conditions that could have been avoided through thoughtful pairings.

Signs of Unethical Breeding Practices to Watch For

Spotting red flags in breeding can save you heartache down the line. Dr. Paola warns against “puppy mills,” where dogs are bred in cruel conditions for mass production, often leading to health issues like respiratory problems or behavioral anxieties. Look out for breeders who don’t allow visits to their facilities, fail to provide health screenings, or sell pups too young—under eight weeks old. The ASPCA highlights how these operations prioritize quantity over quality, resulting in animals that suffer from poor socialization and genetic defects. Instead, seek those who follow guidelines like limiting breeding females and ensuring proper veterinary care.

How to Choose an Ethical Breeder for Your Next Pup

Finding an ethical breeder starts with research and questions. Dr. Paola recommends verifying USDA licensing for larger operations, as required for those with more than four breeding females selling wholesale. Ask about health testing for breed-specific issues, socialization protocols, and take-back policies if things don’t work out. Responsible breeders focus on temperament and genetics, pairing dogs to produce healthy, well-adjusted pups. In her experience, these breeders often have waiting lists and encourage ongoing relationships with new owners. For more on breed differences, check our guide to key male vs female dog differences revealed.

westerwaldkennel.com

Westerwald Kennel » Blog Archive » Selective Breeding

Alt text: Diagram illustrating ethical dog breeding practices Caption: Visualizing breeding ethics helps ensure healthier pups for loving homes.

Common Causes of Whining in Dogs Explained

Whining is your dog’s way of speaking up, and understanding the root cause is key to addressing it. Dr. Paola notes that the most obvious trigger is a need or want, like food, water, or a walk, as outlined by the AKC. Puppies often whine for attention or comfort, especially if they’re bored or anxious. Other times, it’s excitement—think greeting you after a long day—or fear during thunderstorms. In her clinic, she sees whining linked to pain, like stepping on a thorn, or separation anxiety when left alone. Recognizing these patterns helps you respond effectively, fostering a stronger bond.

Effective Strategies to Reduce Whining Behavior

To curb whining, Dr. Paola advises ignoring attention-seeking whines to avoid reinforcement, then rewarding quiet moments with praise or treats. For needs-based whining, establish routines like regular walks or playtime to preempt complaints. The AKC suggests checking for hidden issues, like a stuck toy, and addressing them promptly. If it’s anxiety-related, gradual desensitization—starting with short absences—can help, paired with calming tools. In severe cases, consult a trainer; positive reinforcement works wonders without scolding, which might worsen stress. Patience and consistency turn whines into wags.

When Whining Signals a Deeper Health Issue

Not all whines are benign—sometimes they indicate discomfort or illness. Dr. Paola urges monitoring for accompanying signs like limping or lethargy, which could point to pain from injuries or arthritis. Persistent whining with panting or hiding might signal fear or separation anxiety, warranting professional help. If it’s sudden, a vet check rules out underlying problems. Drawing from AKC insights, addressing these early prevents escalation, ensuring your pet’s happiness. For more behavior tips, explore our post on why your cat needs their own Christmas tree.

rover.com

Why Is My Dog Whining?

Alt text: Adorable dog displaying whining behavior Caption: Decoding your dog’s whines leads to better communication and care.

Identifying Food Intolerances vs. Allergies in Dogs

Food intolerances and allergies often get confused, but Dr. Paola clarifies: intolerances involve digestive issues without immune involvement, while allergies trigger skin or GI reactions via the body’s defense system. Common intolerances include lactose, causing diarrhea after dairy, or reactions to spoiled food. Allergies typically stem from proteins like beef or chicken, leading to chronic itching. Understanding the difference guides proper management, preventing unnecessary distress.

Common Symptoms of Food Intolerances to Monitor

Watch for telltale signs like vomiting, diarrhea, excessive gas, or abdominal pain—the hallmarks of intolerances. Dr. Paola sees these often with carbohydrate sensitivities or overindulgence in nutrients like vitamin D. Skin issues, such as itching or ear infections, might overlap with allergies, but GI upsets are key for intolerances. Weight loss or mucus in stools signal chronic problems; early detection through symptom tracking helps tailor diets effectively.

Triggers and Causes of Food Intolerances in Pets

Common triggers include dairy for lactose-intolerant pups, grains like wheat, or proteins in some cases. Dr. Paola points to scavenging spoiled food or ingesting chocolate as acute causes, leading to poisoning symptoms. Breed predispositions play a role—some dogs lack enzymes for certain foods. Environmental factors, like diet changes, exacerbate issues. Identifying these through elimination trials prevents recurrence, promoting gut health.

Managing and Treating Food Intolerances Effectively

Treatment starts with diet adjustment—switch to hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient foods, as Dr. Paola recommends. For intolerances, avoid triggers like dairy; probiotics can restore gut balance. Vet-supervised elimination diets pinpoint culprits over 8-12 weeks. Hydration and bland meals ease acute episodes. Long-term, balanced nutrition prevents relapses; supplements like digestive enzymes aid some cases. Regular check-ups ensure ongoing wellness.

dogsnaturallymagazine.com

5 Signs Your Dog Has Food Allergies

Alt text: Infographic showing signs of food intolerances in dogs Caption: Spotting symptoms early helps manage food intolerances for happier pups.

Prevention Tips for Avoiding Food Intolerances

Prevent intolerances by introducing new foods gradually and monitoring reactions. Dr. Paola advises high-quality, breed-appropriate diets free from fillers. Regular vet visits catch sensitivities early; avoid table scraps to prevent upsets. For puppies, start with simple formulas. Probiotic-rich foods support gut flora, reducing risks. These habits foster resilience, much like our advice on why so many families fall in love with mini goldendoodle.

Integrating Ethical Choices into Your Pet’s Life

Dr. Paola ties it all together: Ethical breeding sets the stage for healthy pets less prone to intolerances or behaviors like whining. Opt for rescues or responsible breeders to support welfare. This holistic approach creates thriving companions.

FAQ: Your Questions on Breeding Ethics, Whining, and Food Intolerances Answered

What are key signs of ethical breeding? Look for health screenings, limited litters, and facility visits—ensuring dogs’ needs are met.

Why does my dog whine excessively? It could be needs, attention, pain, or anxiety; ignore attention-seeking and address roots.

How do food intolerances differ from allergies? Intolerances cause GI issues without immune response, unlike allergies’ skin reactions.

When should I see a vet for whining? If accompanied by pain signs or sudden changes, seek professional evaluation.

How can I prevent food intolerances? Gradual diet changes and quality ingredients minimize risks.

Essentials List: Must-Have Gear for Pet Health and Comfort

Support your pet’s well-being with these essentials that make daily care a joy.

• • This Big Barker dog bed provides orthopedic support for restful sleep.
  • This interactive toy keeps whining at bay with engaging play.
  • A probiotic supplement aids digestion against intolerances.
  • The grooming brush I use for bonding sessions at home.

  Must-Read Books for Responsible Pet Parenting

  Deepen your knowledge with these insightful reads on pet care and ethics.

  • The Art of Raising a Puppy by Monks of New Skete – Timeless advice on ethical breeding and training.
  • Dog Is Love: Why and How Your Dog Loves You by Clive D. L. Wynne – Explores behaviors like whining with science.
  • The Other End of the Leash by Patricia B. McConnell – Insights into dog communication and health.
  • Before and After Getting Your Puppy by Ian Dunbar – Guides ethical choices from breeding to home life.
  • Canine Nutrigenomics by W. Jean Dodds – Covers food sensitivities and optimal diets.

  Wrapping up, Dr. Paola’s wisdom reminds us that ethical choices, attentive care, and proactive health steps create the best lives for our pets. From my hikes with rescues to your daily routines, let’s commit to treating them like family.

  P.S. Ready to prioritize your pet’s wellness? Download my free pet wellness checklist for comprehensive tips and trackers—your guide to a thriving furry friend.

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Can You Breed a Big Dog with a Small Dog?

“Can you have a Belgian Shepherd with a Chihuahua?” – Riley

Hi Riley,

That is a very fair question. A Belgian Shepherd and a Chihuahua can absolutely live together, but it works best when everyone understands their differences, much like a bicycle sharing the road with a truck. They can go in the same direction and do just fine, as long as speed, space, and boundaries are respected. Calm introductions, supervision during play, and teaching the larger dog to move gently are essential because even friendly enthusiasm from a big body can overwhelm a tiny one. Think of it as teaching two dogs to speak the same language despite very different accents. Positive reinforcement, protected rest areas for the smaller dog, and controlled interactions help build trust and safety.

Breeding a Belgian Shepherd with a Chihuahua, however, raises serious welfare concerns and is not considered responsible or ethical. The extreme size difference creates significant risks for the female dog, particularly if the Chihuahua is the dam, as pregnancy and whelping could be life-threatening. Even if the larger dog is the dam, orthopedic, neurologic, and developmental issues can arise in offspring due to mismatched skeletal and growth patterns. Responsible breeding prioritizes health, predictability, and preservation of functional structure, not novelty. I hope this explains.

– Dr. Paola

Help! My Dog Won’t Stp Whining!

“Dear Dr. Paola,

How do I get Minnie to stop whining? She mostly does it because she’s afraid of our ceiling fan and sometimes doesn’t want to enter the room when it’s on – but sometimes she does, so we just leave it on. But, if she’s in a mood where she doesn’t want to enter, she just stands at the door and whines, and could go on for hours, until we turn the fan off. It’s fun.” – Lyle

Hello Lyle.

Whining in this situation is best understood as Minnie communicating discomfort rather than being stubborn or dramatic. For some dogs, a ceiling fan can be unsettling because of the combination of movement, shadows, and low-level noise, similar to how a flickering light can be mildly annoying to one person and deeply distressing to another. When Minnie stands at the doorway and vocalizes, she is telling you that entering the room feels unsafe to her in that moment. Allowing her to whine for extended periods without addressing the underlying fear can unintentionally reinforce her anxiety, even if she sometimes tolerates the fan on other occasions.

The most effective and humane approach is gradual desensitization paired with positive reinforcement training. Instead of waiting for her to push through fear, start with the fan off and reward calm, voluntary entry into the room, then gradually introduce the fan at its lowest setting for very short periods while pairing it with something she finds highly rewarding. Over time, this teaches her nervous system that the fan predicts good things rather than threats. Forcing exposure by leaving the fan on until she gives up is similar to asking someone with a fear of elevators to stand outside one indefinitely; it does not build confidence, it builds stress.

If the fan is not essential, turning it off when she is clearly distressed is not giving in; it is responding appropriately to a fear-based behavior. As progress is made, her confidence should increase, and the whining should fade naturally. If the behavior persists or intensifies, please remember we are one click away to help guide a structured plan for you so that you can help Minnie feel safe while learning to cope more comfortably with her environment.

Best,

– Dr. Paola

Help! My Two Dog’s Have Completely Different Reactions to Food!

“Hey Dr. Paola,

We have two dogs – Tippy is a mutt, pardon the language, but a mix of all kinds, probably a lab, some sort of terrier, and maybe another couple in there, but so hard to tell. He has a stomach made of iron and eats things he shouldn’t all the time and never has so much as a stinky fart.

Everything works fine, and he’s happy (we obviously discourage this behavior, but it’s still wild to see). Then, Tino, a purebred Labrador, gets an upset tummy just by looking at something that’s not for him. I exaggerate – he has no allergies, but if he does happen to try to enjoy a dead rabbit on the farm like Tippy, he gets diarrhea. Wondering if there’s any correlation between mutts and purebreds when it comes to digestive issues. ”  – Isla

Hi Isla,

What you are observing with Tippy and Tino is something veterinarians hear often, and it has a solid biological explanation. Digestive tolerance is influenced by genetics, early diet, and the gut microbiome, which is the population of bacteria living in the intestines. Dogs with mixed ancestry often inherit a wider range of digestive traits, and this genetic diversity can sometimes translate into a more adaptable gastrointestinal system, much like a well-traveled stomach that has learned to handle different cuisines. That does not make them invincible, but it can make reactions less dramatic when dietary indiscretions occur.

Purebred dogs, including Labradors, are selectively bred for specific traits, and that process can unintentionally narrow genetic diversity in systems unrelated to appearance or temperament, including digestion. Labradors are well documented in veterinary literature as tending to dietary sensitivity and food-related gastrointestinal signs, even in the absence of true allergies or disease. This does not mean something is wrong with Tino; it simply reflects how his gut responds more predictably and less flexibly to sudden changes, spoiled material, or high-fat items like carrion.

The important takeaway is that neither dog should be allowed to test the limits of their digestive system, even if one appears to tolerate poor choices better than the other. A resilient gut today does not guarantee protection from pancreatitis, obstruction, or infection later on. Managing both dogs as if they have sensitive digestion is the safest long-term approach.

Regards,

– Dr. Paola

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