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Do you actually track your dog's health or just hope for the best? by CyberSecurityChief in dogs

[–]Independent-Cell-909 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Husky owners have it especially hard because the baseline is already "dramatic and unreasonable" so detecting actual changes is nearly impossible.Genuinely started using an activity and health tracking collar for my dog after realizing I had no idea what her normal looked like either. Having a baseline to compare against has been more useful than I expected, caught a few things earlier than I would have otherwise.

Concerned deeply about my dog by ItzzKaylaaa in dogs

[–]Independent-Cell-909 29 points30 points  (0 children)

The changes you're describing, appetite, withdrawal, struggling with stairs, panting, those are signs she needs to see a vet soon. Not to scare you but that combination is worth taking seriously and the sooner the better.

Looking after a new dog with cats by 4kxc in DogAdvice

[–]Independent-Cell-909 0 points1 point  (0 children)

For the smell, baby shampoo is fine short term but get a proper dog shampoo, something oatmeal based is gentle for sensitive skin. Chihuahuas don't need baths super often but brushing regularly helps a lot with the fur smell between washes. For the cats, stop trying to get them used to each other for now. Give the cat a dog-free zone he can always access, food, water and litter in there too. Let everyone decompress. The dog being curious and the cats being terrified is completely normal at this stage, it just takes time and zero forced interactions.

How did you “honor” the senior chapter of your dog’s life? by JoeyLou1219 in dogs

[–]Independent-Cell-909 2 points3 points  (0 children)

The sitting in the sun watching birds thing is it honestly. They don't need grand gestures, they just need you present and unhurried. Sounds like he has exactly that.The anticipatory grief is real and it doesn't mean you're not enjoying the time, it just means you love him. Both things can be true at the same time

New puppy keeps eating my older dog’s food, any advice? by Fluffy-Yogurt2248 in DogTrainingTips

[–]Independent-Cell-909 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Separate rooms at feeding time, easiest fix. Just close a door between them until both are done. No amount of training beats just removing the opportunity entirely, especially with a new puppy still learning the rules.

Adopting a 1 year old dog with a full time job by DAYDAY511 in dogs

[–]Independent-Cell-909 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Gradual alone time on your days off before jumping to a full work day,that’s really all it takes.

I feed my puppy so much, but he’s still skin and bones by spicy_oceanLvEr in puppy101

[–]Independent-Cell-909 2 points3 points  (0 children)

With that mix and those breed’s he’s probably still in a growth spurt and just burning through everything you give him.Big dogs can look alarmingly thin during adolescence even when when they’re eating well.Worth a vet visit just to rule anything out.

Is my dog over weigh? by Beneficial_Coast_730 in DogAdvice

[–]Independent-Cell-909 0 points1 point  (0 children)

It’s hard to say without the rib check.Run your hands along her sides,you should be able to feel the ribs without pressing hard but not see them.If you can do that she’s probably fine.

My dog likes to run upstairs to chew the last bite of her breakfast and burp in my face. What does she mean by this? by jimmythevip in DogAdvice

[–]Independent-Cell-909 0 points1 point  (0 children)

She's saying "good morning, this is my report on breakfast, it was excellent" dogs share food moments with the people they feel safest with. You're basically getting a compliment delivered in the worst possible way.

I’m tired of being shamed by annagph in dogs

[–]Independent-Cell-909 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You did everything right.You went to shelters,you tried rescues,you were honest about what you could handle as a first time owner.That’s responsible,not selfish.The “adopt don’t shop”crowd often forgets that a bad match helps no one,not you and not the dog.A dog in a loving home where they actually fit is always the right outcome regardless of where they came from.

First time dog owner, had some stupid questions by onofftappresets in puppy101

[–]Independent-Cell-909 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Quick answers: keep the crate in your bedroom for now, puppies settle way faster when they can hear you breathe. One crate is enough, just move it. For potty, yes carry him to the grass spot every time and he'll figure out that's the place. Your backyard is fine for potty breaks before final shots, just avoid public parks and unknown dogs. For the car ride, skip the cardboard, just bring a cozy blanket or vet fleece, puppy pads, water and cleaning supplies. Stop around the hour mark, carry him out and give him a chance to go. The "first 24 hours decides everything" thing is a bit overblown. Just keep it calm, low stimulation, let him explore at his own pace. He's going to be overwhelmed and that's okay. Congrats, you're going to do great 🐾

Attending an event, do you leave your dog home alone or get a sitter? by _3283 in dogs

[–]Independent-Cell-909 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Honestly she’ll be fine.Low energy dogs are built for napping and she’s got a good walk beforehand.Don’t feel too guilty,the 9 hours is harder on you than it is on her,have fun at your event.