The old cliche that a “dog’s nose knows” is undoubtedly true. Indeed, a dog’s nose tells a tale about a pet’s overall health. Generally, a cold, wet nose is considered a good sign that your dog is feeling well (even if brushing your pet’s snout may be a modestly uncomfortable way to wake up in the morning). Yet, did you ever wonder, “Why do dogs have wet noses?”

Having the answer can make for some fun water cooler discussion. Knowing the reasons behind a dog’s wet nose can also help you understand why a dry nose can be a red flag that something is amiss. Additionally, is it possible for dogs to have a nose that is too wet? We sniffed around and dug up the answers for you.

Why do dogs have wet noses?

Generally, a dog with a wet nose is healthy. How did a pup’s snout get so wet in the first place, though? A few reasons:

• Mucous: Your dog explores the world through their nose. Mucous isn’t just snot. Instead, dogs secrete a thin layer of mucous through the inner lining of their nose. This mucus keeps the nasal canal wet and clings to your pup’s nose holes, boosting the animal’s ability to absorb scent chemicals. As a result, dogs can smell even better, enabling them to explore the world around them more fully.
• Sweat: Never let ’em see you sweat? Not necessarily, in the dog world. While you may not see your pet dripping in sweat like you do after a long walk, pets perspire through their paws and noses. As with humans, sweat helps regulate body temperature in dogs, keeping them cool as cucumbers even after rousing play sessions or in hot weather.
• Licking: Your dog’s tongue is long enough to reach their nose. Saliva naturally moistens a pet’s nose a bit more than usual.
• Environment: Dogs often walk nose-first, letting their snout lead the way. Since dogs explore the world with their noses, they may sniff around in damp grass, soil, or a giant puddle. The moisture from the environment may make a pet’s nose wetter than normal. Naturally, walking in the rain will also leave a dog’s nose (and body) pretty wet.

How wet is too wet?

A wet nose is usually a sign all is well. However, there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. As the pet parent, you’ll know your dog’s “normal” nose. If a nose seems much more moist than usual, it could be a red flag that something is up. Specifically, be on the lookout for nasal discharge. Some clear discharge is normal. However, too much of it could indicate the dog is sick.

Additionally, thick, discolored green or yellow mucus may be a sign your dog has a respiratory infection (just like humans). Bloody discharge could indicate your dog has been infected by a tick, is experiencing inflammation, or even has cancer. Your vet can do a workup to get to the bottom of the issue.

Should I be concerned if my dog’s nose is dry?

While some dogs are prone to dry noses, a warm, dry snout is certainly a reason to investigate. Warm or cold weather, age, and a temporary respite from nose-licking because of sleep may also make a dog’s nose dryer. However, a dry nose can also indicate an underlying condition.

Pay attention to your dog’s behavior. Are they pooping and peeing as usual? More lethargic? Eating and drinking? If their behavior is also off, a call to the vet is in order. In fact, if in doubt, give your pet’s doctor a ring. If nothing else, you’ll get peace of mind that your dog is A-OK after a checkup.

Final thoughts

Dogs’ noses are generally naturally wet and cold. A wet, cold nose is a sign your dog is feeling well. Dogs have wet noses because of mucus. Additionally, a pet’s nose may be wetter than usual if they recently sniffed around in a damp area, licked their nose, or are sweating. If a dog’s nose is way wetter than usual, your pet may have a respiratory infection. Blood in nasal discharge is another reason to call the vet.

Additionally, a dry nose isn’t always a red flag. For instance, older dogs and certain breeds naturally have drier noses. However, a dry snout can be a sign of illness. Call your vet if you’re concerned. The veterinarian can do a workup to ensure your dog is healthy and offer treatment options for illnesses.

Whether you’re indulging in a summertime treat or creating the ultimate tropical fruit salad, pineapple is never a bad idea. Its tangy, refreshing taste complements many other flavors, and you can prepare it in a number of different ways. But while you’re chopping up your pineapple, there’s a good chance your food-motivated dog isn’t far away. After all, they may be hoping you’re cooking them a chicken dinner!

Before you toss your pup a piece of delicious pineapple, it’s only natural to wonder whether dogs can have this fruit to begin with. A few fruits are downright dangerous for dogs, including grapes, avocados, and pitted fruits, but can dogs have pineapple? Let’s find out.

Can dogs have pineapple?

You’ll be glad to know that dogs can have fresh pineapple in small quantities. Actually, there are many benefits to feeding furry friends this tropical fruit. Not only is it a delicious alternative for a dog treat, but it also contains several essential vitamins and minerals. Vitamin C, B-complex vitamins, potassium, iron, zinc, and magnesium can all be found in this summertime treat. As the canine experts at the AKC note, pineapple’s nutrients are important for a healthy digestive system and immune system.

However, not all pineapples get the green light for your dog’s consumption. It’s important to know that only fresh pineapple should be fed to dogs — not any pineapple cocktail or canned fruit. Prepared produce often contains lots of sugar, which is not healthy for any pet to eat. In fact, fresh pineapple contains sugar, too, which is one reason why it should only be a treat for dogs in moderation. Additionally, pineapple’s high fiber content can upset some dogs’ stomachs, while its acidity can wear down tooth enamel if consumed in large amounts.

How to prepare pineapple for dogs

When sharing a few bites of fresh pineapple with your pup, there are some more precautions to keep in mind. For example, make sure not to feed your dog either the spiny outer layer or the tough solid core of the fruit. Eating these pieces runs the risk of causing an intestinal blockage, so be sure to let your dog’s vet know if they do happen to steal the core, spines, or skin. You may have to bring them in for an exam, or your vet may advise you to wait and see.

Speaking of veterinarians, it’s also a good idea to check in with your dog’s doctor before any major diet changes. Because pineapple is high in sugar, it may not be recommended for dogs at risk of diabetes. Even if your dog gets the A-OK to eat pineapple, it’s best to start with a single bite-sized piece just to see how their stomach reacts. If they do well, you can try two pieces next time.

Just like when sharing any human food with your dog, make sure to cut pineapple into small enough pieces. This juicy treat could get messy, though, so finding a snacking spot that’s easy to clean is simply a bonus. Happy snacking!

If you’ve ever noticed those extra-long hairs on your dog’s face, it’s only normal to wonder what they are and what they do. Whether your buddy visits the groomer or gets their fur brushed at home, it’s hard not to notice these hairs. Dogs can turn away and even paw at their face when they’re touched, so they surely serve a purpose. As it turns out, they’re actually dogs’ whiskers! But why do dogs have whiskers?

These whiskers, or vibrissae, are important for the way dogs sense the world around them. They provide all kinds of sensory information through nerve endings under the skin, but how exactly do they work?

Do all dogs have whiskers?

Actually, yes! Although many dogs have whiskers that are much more prominent than those of other pups, all dogs naturally develop whiskers. However, they may not look the same on each dog, and some may no longer be there at all. If you take your dog to the groomer for a haircut on a regular basis, for example, their whiskers may be trimmed right along with the rest of their hair or fur.

It’s also important to consider that whiskers aren’t only the stiffer, prominent hairs on a dog’s snout or chin. When a dog has especially long eyelashes or eyebrow hairs, those are whiskers, too. A dog’s vibrissae are often located “above the eyes, on the chin, and above the upper lip,” according to Ryan Llera, BSc, DVM, and Lynn Buzhardt, DVM, from VCA Animal Hospitals.

Whiskers are some of the first hairs that grow when a puppy is born, and they can be straight or curly, depending on a dog’s genetics. Whatever these vibrissae look like, they are deeply rooted and thicker than the rest of your pet’s hair, allowing them to use whiskers as a way to pick up sensations from the world around them.

Why do dogs have whiskers?

When talking about human facial hair, “whiskers” refer to a man’s mustache or beard, but when talking about dogs, whiskers are more of an extension of the animal’s sense of touch. These long hairs contain deep blood vessels and nerve endings that pick up on the slightest movement or pressure, including the smallest, gentlest summer breeze.

Essentially, whiskers are to dogs what antennae are to insects. They allow dogs to learn more about their environment through touch, whether it’s detecting a nearby wall while walking in the dark or feeling the dust on an old surface. They can even help a dog decide when — and when not to — enter narrow spaces. Think of vibrissae as another layer of protection for the eyes and face.

Now that you know all these canine fun facts about the whiskers on their faces, you may think twice the next time you twirl or play with these long hairs. They’re quite sensitive. You can also make the best decisions at your dog’s grooming appointments, as trimming the whiskers isn’t always a great idea. Now you know!

Every dog owner will be embarrassed by their pup at least once or twice, but nothing compares to the shame of catching your dog in the act of humping. Whether they’re going to town on another dog, another person, or even nothing at all, it’s easy to understand why you’d want to learn more about this behavior. The sooner you know how to respond to this lewd act, the sooner it can stop.

Questions like, “Why do dogs hump?’ and “How can I stop my dog from humping?” will one day be nothing more than a memory. This impolite habit can be unlearned — though often not as quickly as it’s learned — with some time, redirection, and a few well-timed distractions. Keep on reading to learn more about the humping habit and what you can do to prevent it.

Why do dogs hump other dogs?

As many dog owners know, dogs can hump almost anything, from other dogs to inanimate objects. No matter what they’re mounting, though, you should know that this behavior means something different for dogs than what it signifies for humans. Most of the time, there’s nothing sexual about it.

When it comes to humping other dogs, explains Dr. Mary Burch, director of the AKC’s Canine Good Citizen program, dominance is often the motivator. This can be a one-sided display of dominance from one dog to another, or it can be a back-and-forth part of regular play. Even though it’s a normal canine behavior, not all dogs like to be humped, so this is a behavior best discouraged for dog owners who prefer to stay on the safe side.

Stopping your dog from mounting begins with your everyday obedience training. If your dog learns to respond to you immediately in virtually all other situations, odds are they will listen when you interrupt their impolite behavior. The more you redirect this behavior, the more your dog will learn that it’s not an acceptable thing to do.

Some dogs will take behavior corrections into their own paws, too. This is normal and nothing to worry about, so long as the corrections are not aggressive and the other party takes the hint.

Why do dogs hump legs?

Oftentimes, a dog won’t even mount another dog from behind. They may wrap around a pal’s leg while they go to town, or they may even find the leg of a person they’re fond of. What’s up with that?

As Dr. Burch explains, mounting can also be a sign of stress or overexcitement. It’s a physical manifestation of overstimulation at its finest, which is why it can happen suddenly as part of either play or anger. Just think about it this way: A dog has feelings so large that they don’t know what to do with it all. Odds are, they aren’t even thinking of who they’re mounting or how.

Why do dogs hump people?

As Dr. Burch said, dogs mount both people and dogs out of pure overstimulation, not desire. Although this behavior would mean something very different between people, it doesn’t mean much when a dog humps a person. They’re just worked up and excited.

Occasionally, a dog may hump in an attempt to get their owner’s attention. Because it works! Just about everyone gets distracted by a dog mounting their leg, even if only to shoo them away. For an attention-loving dog, that’s considered a win. If this is the case, the best thing you can do to discourage mounting is to ignore it. Reward your dog with attention after they’ve stopped humping to reinforce the correct behavior.

Why do dogs hump the air?

Sometimes, a dog may not even hump anything at all. They may grab onto a leg, another dog, or even a pillow without actually mounting it, which is most often seen when a dog has previously been punished for mounting but hasn’t completely stopped the behavior. This could be a sign that your corrections are working — so keep it up!

When humping could indicate a problem

If your dog begins mounting when they aren’t known for over-excitable reactions, you might want to keep an eye on the behavior. There are a few cases when humping could be a sign of a medical problem, including a prostate problem in males. Some kinds of skin irritation, urinary tract infections, or other discomfort can also cause a dog to mount in seek of symptom relief. In this case, humping may be less of a social behavior and something that happens much more suddenly.

If something about your dog’s behavior seems odd or changes suddenly, you may want to make an appointment with your dog’s veterinarian. Better safe than sorry, after all!

No matter how long you’ve been dealing with mounting, know that you can help your dog get rid of this shocking behavior for good. This change won’t happen overnight, but your days of dog park embarrassment will be behind you soon enough.

Animals communicate with us in numerous ways by vocalizing, posturing, and moving, to name just a few. When it comes to our dogs, most owners understand what it means when they wag their tails in joy or bark at the delivery person (we’re not sure if this is joyful as well). However, fewer pet parents have a clear idea of what different ear positions, like dogs’ ears back, are trying to say to us humans and what to look out for.

Learning to decode your pup’s feelings from their ears can help you understand your furry friend and give you a good sense of their needs. This is what it can mean when your dog’s ears are back.

Why do dogs pull their ears back?

It might make you nervous to see your dog pull their ears back, and sometimes this indicates that something has spooked or upset them. But there are a number of different interpretations for this behavior. In time, you’ll learn what they mean and more importantly, what they mean for your specific pet. These are the things your pup pup might be feeling when they pull their ears back.

Sad

When you turn to leave your precious bud behind, you may spy them shifting their ears back in sadness. Don’t stress on this too much though. We hate to say it, but the second you close the door behind you, they probably lay down for a solid nap. It’s good to know in this situation that nothing’s really wrong, even if your pet gets a temporary pang of loneliness.

Scared

If the pulled back ears accompany a tucked tail, you know fear or submissiveness enter into the equation. Pay particular attention to body language when you suspect that Fido is quivering in terror over a perceived attack (which as often as not turns out to come from the vacuum cleaner or an impending storm).

Anxious

Your buddy might squeeze their ears back every time they have to take a trip to the vet, for example. Anxiety often also comes with excessive licking, panting, or even shaking in some breeds. Nine times out of 10, you’ll know what causes this and when to expect it.

Comfortable

Luckily, ear pinning doesn’t always indicate a bad thing. It frequently tells you the complete opposite: that your pooch feels perfectly safe and at home. Sometimes, this helps one dog tell another that they will submit and allow the other animal to lead the interaction. No worries here if your dog exhibits deference — it just shows who’s the boss in the moment.

Aggressive

Sometimes, a dog with their ears back is a dog about to bite. That certainly doesn’t mean you’re the target, as it could be another pet, but you should remove them from the situation as carefully as possible. Pull your pup away if they’re on the leash or distract them with a command to divert attention from the object of their frustration.

Pain

Pinned ears occasionally mean that the body parts themselves hurt and so your furry friend has brought them back to alleviate that discomfort. Alternatively, many times your buddy might pin their ears while otherwise stressed from a physical ailment. If you can’t find any other cause, you may need to investigate whether they’ve sustained an injury and take them to the vet if you find something wrong.

Neutral

While our pets perk up their ears in excitement or to hear something better, they tend to default to a pulled-back vibe for everyday ear wear. Some breeds look like this all the time, making ear position something of a moot point in figuring out their feelings. However, in many instances, your pet will simply hold their ears in a way that feels safe, comfortable, and easy to them, meaning pinned back might actually be entirely neutral. When this turns out to be the case, give them a little scritch behind the ears.

Dog ears tell us lots of things about their moods and feelings. Since there are so many ear positions, it can become tricky to differentiate one from the other. For that, we suggest working with a trainer or online resource to get a better sense of what different ear positions mean. At the end of the day, however, every animal is unique, and you’ll have to study your specific puppers to get the full picture of their emotions and ear positions. Once you get to know your dog, you’ll become an expert on all their body language and can easily determine their underlying state from the ears.

Our pets bring us huge amounts of joy with their wet noses, adorable pointy ears, and happy tails. While the ears and nose both serve pretty similar functions in humans, we don’t have the benefit of a tail. But why do dogs have tails? It all comes from the evolution of their ancestors millions of years ago, and these appendages still prove quite useful to pups and other animals today. Here’s everything you need to know about tails in dogs.

How did tails develop?

Early fish may have sprouted tails to better swim in the ocean. But when those ancient creatures first stepped out on land, they kept their tails, which changed shape and size depending on their specific needs. Truly, nearly every vertebrate species in the animal kingdom has a tail, with very limited exceptions, including us.

Humans and apes like chimps are some of the few that have lost their tails to time. This probably happened because Homo sapiens walk in a very different way from our four-legged friends. Tails do a lot for our pets and help them in all kinds of ways that we don’t benefit from.

Why do dogs have tails?

Help them move

Improve balance

Facilitate communication

Can a dog live without a tail?

Certainly, and many get by tailless with no problems. Historically, some dogs have had their tails docked to fit breeding standards, though that’s no longer recommended by vets. But if you adopt a sweet furry friend with no tail, like a Corgi or a French bulldog, which are frequently born without full tails, you don’t have to worry about your beastie getting along in their life. Our pets adapt quickly and won’t have any memory of needing their extra length to get on.

We probably would do better with a tail, but actually, we’re one of few mammals that lack this. Our dogs use theirs for numerous things including balance and communication. It’s important to allow your sweet pet to keep their tail if at all possible but plenty of dogs live successfully without one and adjust easily. Don’t worry too much if you bring home an animal that has no tail — you’ll learn how to interpret their moves no matter what.

When dog owners are in the kitchen, it’s only normal to have an extra pair of eyes watching their every move. Furry friends are never far away when food is around, and it’s all too easy to toss your dog a table scrap their way when they look up with those pleading eyes. How could you say no?

Unless a dog is dealing with dietary restrictions or medical issues, the occasional bite of people food won’t hurt. Of course, it’s important to make sure that whatever you’re feeding them is safe for canine consumption, as so many dog owners go to the internet to double-check. That’s why you’re here!

If you’ve been wondering, “Can dogs eat shrimp?” — you’ve come to the right place. We’ll break down everything you need to know about feeding dogs shrimp so you can get back to cooking.

Can dogs eat shrimp?

Long story short: yes! When prepared correctly (more on that below), dogs can eat a small amount of cooked shrimp. Like with any food, there can be too much of a good thing, and it’s always best to start small — and even check in with your vet — before adding a new food to your dog’s diet.

Shellfish allergies in dogs don’t look like the scary, life-threatening anaphylactic reaction that can happen in people. With canines, food allergies typically happen after long-term exposure, but a bout of stomach upset isn’t out of the question. Whenever feeding your dog something new, be sure to watch out for any signs of canine intestinal upset.

Benefits of feeding your dog shrimp

There’s no doubt that shrimp is tasty, but did you know it could even have nutritional benefits for your dog? It’s true — shrimp is full of vitamin B3 (also known as niacin) and B12, which play important roles in the body’s most important functions. It also contains phosphorus, which is great for bone health, and it has brain-boosting antioxidants.

However, there are a few downsides to consider before feeding your dog shrimp. Even though it’s low in fat, calories, and carbs, shrimp is high in cholesterol. That’s why sticking to moderation is key, as high cholesterol in dogs can lead to a number of health concerns.

How to prepare shrimp for dogs

If you’re preparing shrimp at home and want to set a few aside for your dog, make sure the pieces are peeled, cleaned, and deveined. You can remove the tail of the shrimp before or after cooking, depending on what’s easiest for you, but make sure to remove them before feeding your pup.

Also, be sure NOT to feed your dog raw shrimp. There are a number of different bacteria in uncooked shrimp that could make your pup sick. If they do happen to get into raw shrimp, keep an eye out for symptoms of illness like vomiting and diarrhea. Be sure to contact your veterinarian if you notice these symptoms. When cooking shrimp for your dog, don’t use any oils, seasonings, or spices. Many of these ingredients can be unhealthy or harmful to canines, so stick to boiling, baking, grilling, or steaming.

With just a few precautions, you can safely include shrimp in your dog’s tool belt of treats. It’s a great ingredient to feed in moderation, whether as a dog treat or part of a meal, and odds are, your dog will find shrimp delicious, too!

If you’ve ever come home from work and caught your pup snoozing on your bed, you know. Dogs like a soft place to lie down every bit as much as we do. And why not? They spend as much as 18 hours a day sleeping.

Big dogs, in particular, can develop health-related problems, such as arthritis, hip dysplasia, and joint pain, as they age. Not only does the right bed provide comfort and support, but it also enhances good sleep, which is equally important for their cognitive health. The right bed is also one that gives your pooch plenty of room to stretch out comfortably.

Our top recommendations

So, how big should a dog bed be? Take a look at these oversized dog beds for your favorite pup.

FunnyFuzzy Large Dog Cushion Bed

This oversized dog bed does more than just give your furry companion a place to lay their head. It’s ultra-soft and plushy, scratch-resistant, and offers enhanced head support thanks to a substantially thickened headrest. Your good boy — or girl — gets neck, head, and spine protection while they relax, ideal for their warm little bodies. Better yet, the detachable cover unzips easily and can be thrown in the washer for a quick clean. The spacious design gives them plenty of room to stretch their legs for proper pooch pampering. For a limited time, use code Pawtracks10 to get 10% off sitewide!

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FurHaven Orthopedic Luxe Lounger

This dog bed by FurHaven is the best seller on Amazon for good reason. With six sizes to choose from, you’re sure to find one that fits your pet perfectly. We also like these features:

• The open mattress design makes it easy for your pup to get in and out of the bed and sleep in his favorite position.
• The washable bed cover comes in 11 colors and is made of plush faux fur.
• The medical-grade solid orthopedic foam is easy on joints and does not flatten.

Reviewers, especially those with big dogs, say the bed keeps its shape and is super comfortable for those with arthritis and hip dysplasia. It’s also a big hit for picky dogs who are choosy about the style of bed they sleep in.

Buy at Amazon

Bedsure Orthopedic Dog Bed

Egg crate construction, flannel covering, nonskid bottom — what more could you ask for in a dog bed, right? How about these three bonus items?

• A great price, no matter the size. The smallest size (28 by 23 by 7 inches) is under $40, while the largest size (53 by 42 by 8) sells for $119.
• Washable cover with a double-sided zipper, which makes for easy off and easy on.
• Waterproof lining, just in case your pup becomes sick or has an accident.

Online reviewers rave about the bed’s quality and say the bed keeps its original shape after multiple uses, and that it’s a big hit with their dogs, especially those recovering from surgeries.

Buy at Amazon

Casper Dog Bed

Well, you treat your dog like a member of the family, so why not buy him a dog bed manufactured by a mattress company? When your dog sleeps on a Casper dog bed, he’s sleeping on a mattress made with memory foam and support foam to give him a good night’s sleep (or daytime nap).

We also appreciate:

• The research: 110 prototypes developed, 480 hours of laboratory testing, and 11 months of dog sleep studies.
• The 30-day, risk-free trial.
• Free shipping and returns.

You’ll pay more for this dog bed, but customers rave about Casper’s quality and customer service. Pet owners with dogs who like to scratch their bedding before they lie down say the material holds up well to the abuse. Another says her dog, who has a choice of several beds throughout the house, seeks out the Casper to catch a nap during the day.

Buy at Amazon

One more thing …

While it might be tempting to cuddle with your dog in your own bed, experts advise against it. Research from Mayo Clinic indicates that your quality of sleep suffers when your dog sleeps in your bed as opposed to sleeping in his own bed in your room. So, while your dog (and maybe you, if you’re being honest) loves snuggling in your bed, buying him his own oversized dog bed is a sure way to ensure sweet dreams for you both.

German shepherds are one of the larger dog breeds — females are typically around 50 to 70 pounds and males can go up to 90 pounds. However, these lovable pups are truly gentle giants. They’re affectionate and make good family dogs. They’re also whip-smart, adaptable, and highly trainable. For these reasons, German shepherds are often working dogs and heroes who serve as first responders, military members, and service animals.

Your German shepherd may not receive any medals of honor, but they’re certainly the top dog in your book. Understandably, you can’t imagine life without your German shepherd. Unfortunately, this breed doesn’t live as long as some other popular ones. It’s a tough reality. Knowing it can help you give your dog the best life possible, though.

Let’s dig into the German shepherd’s lifespan and how to keep them healthy for as long as you can.

What is the average German shepherd lifespan?

According to the American Kennel Club, German shepherds typically live 7 to 10 years. To put that in perspective, the average lifespan of a dog is 10 to 13 years. Chihuahuas typically live 15 to 17 years, Biewer terriers’ lifespan is about 16 years, and Pyrenean shepherds can stick around until they are nearly 20 years old.

Is 10 years old for a German shepherd?

Common German shepherd health issues

It may not seem fair that German shepherds don’t live as long, but there are some reasons. For one, long-lived breeds are generally smaller than the German shepherd. Smaller dogs tend to live longer and are less likely to die from cancer than their larger canine counterparts. For example, Pyrenean shepherds, with the longest average lifespan, typically weigh 15 to 30 pounds, considerably less than a German shepherd.

German shepherds are also susceptible to some conditions and issues that may impact their lifespan and overall well-being, including:

• Otitis externa (an infection in the outer ear canal)
• Obesity
• Bloat
• Dental disease
• Heart disease
• Musculoskeletal disorders
• Blood clotting
• Inability to stand

According to one U.K. study, the last two — musculoskeletal disorders and an inability to stand — were the two most common causes of death.

How to keep your German shepherd healthy and happy

You can’t protect your German shepherd from everything; despite your best efforts. Some conditions are hereditary, and aging is a fact of life. However, there are some steps you can take to help your German shepherd live the most fulfilled and healthiest life possible.

Exercise regularly

Physical activity is crucial to weight management, especially for a breed prone to obesity like the German shepherd. It may also help reduce the risk of heart disease. The amount of exercise will vary based on your specific German shepherd, but they may need several hours. There are many ways to help your pup get physical activity, including:

• Long walks
• Runs together
• Agility courses
• Puzzle toys
• Games of fetch
• Opportunities to swim in safe lakes or pools

Diet

You’ll want to give your German shepherd a well-balanced, AAFCO-approved dog food. Consult with your vet on how much and how often to feed your German shepherd. If you’re getting your German shepherd as a puppy, vets suggest feeding them growth food for large breeds. The food is intended to slow their growth rate, but they’ll still reach the standard size for their breed. It can reduce the risk of hip dyslexia later in life.

Vet visits and vaccines

Sometimes, early intervention can lead to better outcomes, so regular vet visits are critical. Also, some conditions are preventable, such as rabies and heartworm. Monthly prevention and staying up-to-date with shots will help mitigate unnecessary diseases.

Ear cleaning

German shepherds are prone to ear infections. Weekly cleanings can eliminate build-up and bacteria that can lead to inflammation and infections.

Dental care

Dental disease can affect a dog’s eating habits and just be painful overall. Brushing at least once daily for a minute is the best way to reduce bacteria in the mouth, vets say.

Final thoughts on German shepherds

German shepherds are loyal, lovable, and trainable. Some go into service gigs by becoming members of the military or guide dogs. Others are simply companions — and that’s certainly good enough. Unfortunately, these gentle giants don’t live as long as other breeds. The average German shepherd lifespan is 7 to 10 years, which is shorter than smaller breeds. German shepherds are more susceptible to musculoskeletal disorders.

They can also become obese. Generally, larger breeds are more prone to cancer than smaller breeds. Feeding your dog a healthy diet and getting plenty of exercise can help reduce health risks. The good news? German shepherds make great running and swimming buddies. Other to-dos include regular check-ups with the vet, weekly ear cleanings, and brushing teeth daily.

Ensuring your furry best friend gets plenty of water is one of the most important parts of being a pet parent. But how much water should your dog drink on a daily basis? Veterinarians claim the general rule of thumb is a simple equation: The majority of dogs require around 1/2 to 1 ounce (about 1/8 of a cup) of water per pound of body weight each day. Don’t want to reach for your measuring cup? Make sure your pup has round-the-clock access to clean water, and everything should be fine.

That being said, if your dog empties their water bowl several times a day, or you notice their intake has increased drastically, you should probably keep a close eye on things. If your dog drinks a lot of water, you may be wondering, “Why is my dog always thirsty?” We’ll share how to monitor your pup’s water intake, the most common reasons your dog may be thirsty, and when you should speak with your vet.

Why do some dogs drink a lot of water?

It’s mainly due to their size. According to the Halifax Humane Society, a 65-pound dog should drink approximately 33 to 65 ounces a day, but if your pooch gets some of this liquid from food, they may not want to drink as much water directly from their bowl. If you’re concerned your dog might not be getting the right amount of water each day, try measuring it out before you pour it into their bowl, so you can gauge exactly how much water they drink each day. 

What are dog dehydration symptoms?

When you take your little guy to the vet, they likely check your dog’s hydration level with the skin tent method, meaning they pinch the skin on their back and watch it return to normal. If your buddy is properly hydrated, this should happen almost instantly. We don’t recommend messing with their skin all the time, but if you spot other signs, you might want to try it out. Those other symptoms include:

• Dry mouth and nose
• Thick saliva
• Unusually low energy
• Loss of appetite
• Sunken eyes
• Excessive panting

While any one of these could mean nothing on its own, taken together, you have pretty good evidence that your animal’s experiencing dehydration.

Why is my dog always thirsty?

There’s no need to fear if your dog suddenly drinks more than usual. Dogs tend to dehydrate faster during warmer weather, so if your pup guzzles every last drop of water in mid-July, it’s most likely because they overheated during the afternoon walk. Similarly, if your pooch has stepped up their activity recently, their water intake will most likely increase to match their new fitness level.

You should always take precautions with your dog when the temperatures climb. Dehydration can easily become life-threatening, so we don’t recommend leaving your pup outside for long periods. Try going for walks during the coolest part of the day and save the strenuous exercise for when the heat’s less intense. 

Medications can affect thirst

Some medications have side effects like dry mouth, dehydration, and excessive thirst. If your pooch is taking prednisone for asthma or allergies, that could be the reason why they’re drinking so much more water lately. Furosemide, a drug used to treat heart failure, can cause increased urination, which means your dog will be thirstier to make up for losing so much fluid. Lastly, certain seizure medications can cause a spike in appetite, thirst, and urine output, so if your pooch is on medication, make sure you have an in-depth discussion about potential side effects with your veterinarian. 

Consider your dog’s diet

Dry dog food contains little water, often 10% or less. Dogs who exclusively eats dry kibble may experience excessive thirst compared to dogs who eat a diet rich in moisture. You’ll also want to check the sodium content of your pooch’s food and try not to give your dog table scraps, no matter how much they beg. Too much sodium not only causes excessive thirst, but it can also make your dog seriously ill.

If you think your pooch might have had too many table scraps lately, look for symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea in addition to increased water intake. While it’s rare for anyone to feed their dogs enough sodium to make them sick, a trip to the vet is in order if it happens.

When is excessive drinking a cause for concern?

If your dog suddenly begins to drink in excess while the weather and their activity level remain constant, it’s probably time for a quick trip to the vet for a few tests. It’s possible your dog is thirstier than usual for a perfectly benign reason, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to the health of your fur babies. Keep your dog’s bowl filled, and if you think they’re drinking more than usual, it helps to measure and write down how much you add to the water bowl each time. 

What conditions can lead to excess thirst?

Don’t worry, most of the time, your pup’s drinking habits have everything to do with how dry your house gets and nothing to do with a scary underlying condition. However, your vet might run some tests if the water drinking gets out of hand. This will probably look like an exam, blood work, and a urine test. Your animal’s pee has a big story to tell here since it reflects their water intake pretty well.

The increased thirst could wind up stemming from something really basic, like a thyroid problem, or nothing at all. However, some serious conditions do often change drinking habits, including kidney disease, cancer, diabetes, infections, and liver disease. Hopefully, it’s not one of these illnesses but best to rule them out no matter what.

Your dog’s health is important to you, and you want your furry friend to live a long and happy life. By learning your pet’s routines, how much they usually eat and drink, and monitoring their urine output, you’ll be a step ahead of the game if something changes. Even if your dog looks fine, and the only difference is the amount of water they drink, don’t be afraid to contact your vet. If you stay on top of your dog’s case, you might be able to catch a problem before it becomes serious.