Looking After Greyhounds, Lurchers & Other Similar Breeds: Top Tips & Tricks

Many people are under the false impression that lurchers, greyhounds and other similar breeds don’t make great family pets due to their general association with being working dogs, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Let’s face it – hunting, racing and other ‘sports’ that these breeds are forced to take part in are not enjoyable for dogs in the slightest, and they would much rather be cuddled up on the sofa with a loving owner instead! 

Owning a lurcher, greyhound or other similar breed of dog can be such a fun and rewarding experience. However, they require a lot of care and attention, and have their own unique needs that you should take the time to understand before you consider welcoming one into your family. It’s important that you can take the opportunity to research the topic of caring for lurchers and greyhounds if you plan on adopting one, as this way you can make sure they benefit from the best quality of life as soon as they enter into your care. 

Thankfully, this guide contains some of the best steps that you can follow to look after your lurcher, greyhound or other similar pup, helping to keep them as happy and healthy as possible. So, what are you waiting for? Read on to learn more so that you can confidently care for your long nosed furry friend!

Image Source – Pexels 

Finding The Right Collar 

First and foremost, when you adopt a lurcher, greyhound or other similar breed you need to make sure that you can find the right collar. You won’t be able to leave the house without it, as you need something secure to attach their lead to whenever you take them outside for a walk. The main issue with a normal, average collar is its shape in comparison to the shape of a lurcher or greyhounds head. In many cases their neck is actually thicker than their jaw or head, meaning a basic collar will slip right off if they were to pull their head back for any reason. Unless you want your dog to have a high chance of escaping, then you need to find a specially designed thicker collar that won’t slip off their more narrow head! It’s easy to find the right collar, just search specifically for a lurcher or greyhound style so that you can maintain total confidence whenever you take them outside. 

Walk, Walk & Walk Some More 

Lurchers, greyhounds and other similar breeds absolutely love exercise, and would enjoy nothing more than running ragged around an open field for hours on end. However, this isn’t always feasible when you have a hectic schedule and no land to release them on, so you need to make an effort to walk them as much as possible. It’s a good idea to aim to walk your new lurcher or greyhound for at least 2-3 hours per day, although it is well known that greyhounds can be “couch potatoes”. You should take them around some natural locations if possible, as walking by the side of the road will provide them with little stimulation and will likely be very boring for both you and your dog. If you don’t have the time or energy to walk your lurcher or greyhound for several hours a day, then find a local dog walker who can take them out – exercise is essential for their well-being, and it’s your responsibility to ensure their needs are met. 

Check Their Health Regularly 

Unfortunately, there are a variety of different health conditions that a lurcher, greyhound or other similar breed will be more susceptible to compared with other types of dog. As a result of this, you should always take the time to visit the vets and check their health regularly. Having a basic check up every few months will allow you to spot any potential warning signs that could be causing pain or discomfort for your dog, and you can implement preventative measures to minimise their chances of falling ill. Any good dog magazine will detail information about potential conditions that your dog may experience in their lifetime, so do your research.

Looking after a lurcher, greyhound or other similar breed can be so fulfilling, as they are such loving and affectionate dogs that are so loyal. Following some of the steps detailed above can certainly help you to take great care of your pup, so take the time to utilize these recommendations for the sake of their long term health and happiness. Start by finding the right collar, walk them often, and be sure to check their health regularly.

How Can I Entertain My Dog?

Separation Anxiety In Dogs - Scamps & Champs

During these uncertain and constantly changing times, our best friends and companions need consistency to keep them calm and happy. One day we are out at work for long periods the next, we are at home full time. Despite being home more, most of us still have to work meaning our furry friends have no one to play with or entertain them all day. There are some simple things we can do to ensure our dogs remain happy and healthy:

A good view!

When we were fully locked down, I know people found a good source of entertainment was looking out of windows, it can be the same for our dogs! If they have somewhere comfy to sit with a good view, this will provide hours of ‘company’ but not suitable if your dog likes to bark at people going past as this may annoy your neighbours!

Indoor scavenger hunt for treats

Does your dog love a good game of hide and seek? If so, hide some treats in places you don’t mind your dog searching. This can become several little games during the day as they find treats in other places. You could also use a Kong to provide a game with treats too. Our 80% fish treats are ideal for this.

Scamps & Champs - Pet Food

Leave the radio or TV on

Some dogs suffer from separation anxiety when you aren’t there and one way to combat this is with the radio or TV. These provide distractions from the sounds which may make your dog anxious – traffic, construction and other outside noises. You can experiment to see if your dog is more of a ‘classic vibes’ or a ‘soft rock’ kind of pooch.

If you haven’t tried leaving the radio on for your dog before, have it on as background noise when you are around so your dog will associate this noise with the comfort of home.

Set up a playdate

How about getting your dog’s favourite friend round for a few hours so they have company? This can help to socialise your dog and keep them comfortable around other dogs on a regular basis.

Hire a dog walker

Why not treat your best friend to a walk with Scamps & Champs Derby? Dog walks can provide much-needed stimulation and exercise during a long day whilst their owner is busy working.

Walks can be tailored to your dogs’ needs. It will also mean it won’t be a shock for your dog to be walked by someone else as and when you do return to work.

A lack of walks may lead to bordem, possibly even destructive behaviour and potentially a weight gain. We can help with this!

Doggy daycare

Scamps & Champs Derby have a team of carefully selected families who could offer your dog some care and attention leaving you free to concentrate on a busy day at work. Our team provides a home from home experience and never leaves dogs alone for more than 2 hours.

If you’re not able to be with your four-legged friend during the day and need friendly dog walking or doggy daycare anywhere in Derby, contact our team today. You can call and chat to us about what you’re looking for and we’ll be happy to help.

The Cat’s Whiskers – And The Dog’s Too!

The Cat's Whiskers - And The Dog's Too!

Ever wondered why your pet has Whiskers – what they are for and what do they do?

Whiskers are a type of hair found on a number of mammals, they are typically characterised by their length. You will find them on cats, dogs, mice and rats as well as other mammals.

Tactile Vibrissae is another name given to these long hairs which grow around the muzzle, jaws and eyebrows and which are used as tactile organs.

These hairs are different to other hairs on your pets body because they are thicker and stiffer and more deeply implanted. The follicles at the base of these hairs are packed with blood and nerve rich endings which allow the vibrissae to work like antennas that are hugely sensitive.

Dogs and Cats don’t need to make full contact with surfaces to know that they are there. The vibrissae are also an early warning system that allows your pet to navigate, especially at night.

They provide an awareness of both size and shape that prevents your pet from colliding with objects that may damage it’s eyes or face, because vibrations travel down the hair follicle and send messages to the sensory parts of the brain.

The Whiskers also make your pet aware of blind spots and changes happening around them, as they can pick up slight differences in air currents which can alert them to any coming dangers. In cats, the whiskers also detect movement even when they are in hot pursuit which makes them such amazing hunters.

Cats also have special sensory organs at the ends of their whiskers that give them information about their own body and limbs and this, along with their vision, helps them make such death defying leaps from one place to another. If you trim a cat’s whiskers, they often will become disoriented and have trouble moving around.

Cutting a cat’s whiskers is like cutting off the ends of our fingers, and even though the whiskers will often grow back, they should never be cut.

Your Pets Are Just Amazing And Deserve The Very Best Of Care!!

Scamps and Champs offer a range of pet care services which are designed to support you and your pet.

Whether you need dog walking, pet visits, day care or home boarding we are here for you, and we work around your shift patterns, shopping days or get togethers. Discounts and packages available.

We also offer a fabulous range of Vet approved and Specialised Pet Food.

Call now on 0333 200 5827

How Do I Clean My Dogs Teeth?

How Do I Clean My Dogs Teeth?

Your dog’s teeth are used for more than just eating, they also use their teeth during play and to learn about their surroundings.

And just like us, dogs can get dental problems If their teeth are not cared for. Your dog can suffer serious health issues including gingivitis that can lead to gum disease and tooth loss. Bad teeth can also affect dogs that have heart problems by allowing infections to travel through the bloodstream.

If your dog has bad breath (thats not caused by any underlying illness) and a yellow/brown hard coating of plaque building up over their teeth, it’s time to do something about it.

It’s always best to start from an early age – but you can still get them comfortable with teeth cleaning, whatever their age.

Use a time when your dog is relaxed and keep the training sessions short, don’t force the issue or your dog will never want you near their mouth.

Start by getting them used to having your hand near their mouth – this can be done by gently stroking your dog’s face and cheek very gently – stop if your dog gets upset – do this over a period of several days so that your dog knows you are not going to hurt them.

The next stage is to put dog toothpaste (never use human toothpaste) onto your finger and allow them to lick it off – again do this for a few days.

Once your dog is happy with this, you can start with the tricky stuff

– using the toothpaste, run your finger along the inside of their mouth very gently. After a few days you can move on to the next stage.

Buy a suitable dog toothbrush and introduce this with the toothpaste on and just let them lick it off the brush.

Do this over a few days until your dog is happy with it and then slowly introduce the toothbrush inside their mouth, using gentle round motions, just do the front teeth first always let them lick the brush in between. Do this for a few days.

Slowly but surely move to the back teeth – do it ever so gently, stop if they get distressed and always praise them and let them have the toothbrush to lick so this becomes the reward.

After several weeks you should be able to clean their teeth without too many problems – always try to clean where the teeth meet the gum margin but always be gentle.

You can use vet approved dental chews and treatments that can be added to their water bowl that will help to maintain their oral hygiene between brushing.

If your dog’s teeth are very bad or have a large build up of tartar then speak to your vet who will arrange for the teeth to be specially cleaned.

Don’t worry if it takes longer for your dog to get used to having their teeth cleaned, just keep praising them and take it very gently one step at a time.

Take A Look At Scamps And Champs Very Own Range Of natural And Specialised Foods, And Chews. To Discuss Our Range Call Us On : Tel 0333 200 5827. 10% discount for new customers using code SCAMPSNEW at checkout.

Autumn Hazards For Dogs

Autumn Hazards For Dogs - Scamps & Champs

Keeping your pet safe – Hazards to look out for during Autumn

The leaves are starting to change colour and fall, conkers and acorns can be found aplenty on the ground, bushes and trees are full of luscious berries, It’s a sure sign that autumn is finally here.

However, the autumn also brings some hazards for your pet that you need to be aware of.

Seasonal Canine Illness

Seasonal Canine Illness (SCI) has been under investigation since September 2010. It’s a mystery illness generally seen between the months of August and November which can affect dogs of any size, shape or sex, it can cause dogs to become very ill. The condition appears very quickly after the dog has been walked in woodland.

The most common clinical signs are :

  • Sickness
  • Diarrhoea
  • Lethargy

These signs are typically experienced within 72 hours of walking in woodland.

If you suspect your dog is showing signs of SCI then contact your vet immediately.

Leaves and leaf mould

Piles of leaves can develop bacteria and mould. If your dog ingests these it can lead to gastrointestinal upsets.

Contact your vet if you think your pet has ingested leaf mould.

Conkers

It can be rare for a dog to be poisoned by the Conker, however, ingestion can cause gastrointestinal problems, signs to look out for

are:

  • Drooling
  • Retching
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea
  • Abdominal pain

The conker can also cause intestinal blockages, and though dogs normally vomit any ingested conkers quite quickly, you should always seek help from your vet.

Acorns

Exposure to acorns is common in the autumn and winter. Acorns have a toxic ingredient thought to be tannic acid, which can cause damage to the liver and kidneys.

Signs of ingestion include:

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea
  • Abdominal pain and lethargy
  • Ingested acorns can also cause an intestinal blockage

Berries

Both elderberries and holly berries can cause stomach upsets in dogs.

But the most dangerous berry-bearing plants are deadly nightshade with its shiny black berries; cuckoo pint, aka lords-and-ladies (which produces spikes of orange-red berries), and mistletoe. All are typically found in woodland.

Many popular ivy plants, including English ivy and Devil’s ivy/Golden Pothos, have moderate toxicity to pets.

Signs of ingestion include:

  • Mouth and stomach irritation
  • Excessive drooling
  • Foaming at the mouth
  • Swelling of the mouth, tongue and lips
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea

If your pet has eaten berries, take them to the vet for treatment – always try to take a sample of the berry for the vet to identify.

Glow sticks

If you or your children like to use/play with glow sticks around the bonfire, please ensure that your pet can’t get hold of them

The chemical mixture inside of both luminous jewellery and glow sticks can cause irritation to your pets gums, it can also cause:

  • Dribbling
  • Frothing and foaming at the mouth
  • Vomiting and stomach pain

Thankfully, although the signs can look dramatic, ingestion is unlikely to cause significant problems – however, you should always seek professional help and advice from your vet.

For Something Nutritious And Delicious That Your Dog/Cat Can Eat All Year Round, Take A Look At Our pet food webpage and See Our Excellent Range Of Pet Food, Tooth Chews And Treats. All of our recipes are made here in the UK with ethically sourced ingredients.

To Discuss Our Pet Food Please Call Us On 0333 200 5827.

Exiting Lockdown & Anxious Animals

How the New Lift in Lockdown Rules Could Cause Anxiety for Your Pets

Loosening Lockdown Rules

Following the latest Government announcement signifying further loosening of lockdown regulations, there are signs that we could be transitioning into a ‘new normal’ imminently. Whilst this news comes as a great relief to many of us who have been separated from loved ones for almost three months, we need to take a moment to consider that this may not be such good news for our beloved pets. Scamps & Champs Chichester would like to highlight the main concerns we may be facing in the up and coming weeks with our anxious pets and how you can assist a smooth transition for your pets, as you begin to leave your house for longer periods of time.

Jackpot Joy

Many of us have been completely quarantined at home for medical reasons, with little or no contact with the outside world for elongated periods of time. Whatever your circumstances are one thing is certain, you have probably been at home with your pets a great deal through this unprecedented period.

Aside from the obvious concerns, your pets have probably perceived your new extended time at home as a great comfort accompanied with additional fuss and food! In fact, they probably think they have struck gold right now by having you and your entire family home 24/7! Furthermore, with your desperation to get outside and enjoy a burst of fresh air and exercise, it is very possible that as a dog owner you have been taking your canine companion for extra walkies too! Jackpot!

An Alteration in Routine

Without our commute to work, the school run, trips out in the evenings and at weekends, not only have we significantly shifted our daily routine but so have our pets. Whereas we would probably leave the house and our pets at least twice a day and possibly for several hours at a time during busy periods, we may now only be leaving the house to walk our dogs. In short, some of our pets may be by our sides throughout the entire day without us even realising it.

Anxiety in Our Animals

As humans we often become anxious during significant changes in our lives and it is no different for our pets. In their minds they have become used to our company, everyone being at home and all of the additional benefits that come with this. Therefore if we suddenly go back to work and begin leaving them they could become extremely anxious, upset and even distressed. So the important question is; how can we avoid this happening?

Scamps & Champs Chichester are here to help you by providing pet visits where we can come and check that your pets are okay, change their water, feed them and let them outside for some fresh air. We also provide a dog walking service where we can come and collect your dog and take them for a walk, so if you are self-isolating or going back to work and unable to walk your dog then we are here to help. At Scamps & Champs Chichester we are keen to provide you with accurate, up-to-date advice so this week we spoke to Hannah’s Hounds Dog Training who provided us with expert tips on how to reduce anxiety in your pets’ behaviour, in the up and coming weeks.

Tips for Reducing Pet Anxiety

  • Start Now – Start leaving your pets for short periods of time now, whilst you are still self-isolating. Put them into their safe space so they know you are leaving the house. You could even just go out of the room and upstairs so that they think you’re going out, then you are still close by to help if they become distressed. When you do eventually start going out you can do this in small steps too, by heading out the front door and sitting in the car or walking down your drive to be close by.
  • Build It Up – If your pet is really struggling with separation anxiety then just start small by just walking out of a gate or the front door and coming back inside.You can then build on this gradually by leaving the room for two minutes, then next time five minutes and build up to the time you would usually be out for. Start by just leaving the room and pretending to go out, until you are certain that your pets are settled and content with you going out of the house properly. If your pet gets overly distressed, you may need to contact a professional dog behaviourist for help.
  • Safe Space and Triggers – Always leave your pets in their safe space. Be consistent with where you leave them, when you leave them and the signs you provide to your pets as you leave. Perhaps you give the same cue, say the same words or turn on the same radio station as you leave. Keep the message consistent so that they recognise the signs that you are leaving the house and they know what is about to happen, this will help reduce anxiety.
  • Treats, Toys & Time – Throughout the day when you are home, keep your pets engaged and active at several points during the day. Have activities planned such as a Kong toy or lick mat, where they have to work for their food and treats. Keep their minds and bodies engaged and active throughout points during your day, so that when you do leave they are ready to slow down and have a break whilst you are out.
  • Exercise – Keep your pets well exercised with plenty of fresh air where possible, so that when you do leave the house they are tired and happy to have some down time in their safe space. When you do leave you could also use a chew toy or treat to keep them occupied whilst you leave them for their settle period of rest. This will help reduce anxiety and keep them calm.
  • Lockdown Puppies – If you have bought home a new puppy during lockdown then it is very possible that they have never been left. Make sure you are incorporating all of the above advice within your professional puppy training even before lockdown ends. Start now, leaving your puppy is often an aspect of training that gets forgotten. If you are unsure about this then contact a professional dog trainer.

If you are at all worried about leaving your pets whilst you return to work Scamps and Champs Chichester can come and check on your pets whilst you are out for additional piece of mind. If you have purchased a ‘lockdown puppy’ whilst you have been off work and home all of the time, you may also like to consider our Puppy Sitting Service. If you have any questions or queries don’t hesitate to contact Scamps & Champs Chichester for further support and advice by emailing chichester@scampsandchamps.co.uk, calling our Branch Manager Sarah Young on 07931 526514 or contacting us via our Facebook Page.

What does your dog’s poo colour mean?

What Does Your Dog's Poo Colour Mean?

Does your dog’s poop look funky? Here’s the scoop on doggie-doo of every color and how to tell normal dog poop from problem poop:

Normal Dog Poop

It varies from dog to dog, breed to breed and can change depending on the type of dog food being eaten. In general, color should be medium brown and neither too soft and liquidy (diarrhea) or too hard to pass comfortably (constipation). Pay attention to your dog’s “healthy” 

poops (color, consistency and frequency) so you can recognize when there’s a problem.

Black Dog Poop Or Very Dark Dog Poop

Black stool in dogs may have a “tarry” or “sticky” consistency, which may be a sign of a gastrointestinal ulcer or a stomach ulcer. Many human medications can cause stomach ulcers in dogs, especially aspirin. Never give human meds without consulting your vet.

Red Dog Poop Or Streaks Of Blood In Stool

This can indicate bleeding in the GI tract. Streaks of blood in your dog’s poop may be colitis (inflammation of the colon), a rectal injury, an anal gland infection or possibly a tumor.

Pink Or Purple Dog Poop

Anything that resembles raspberry jam (sorry to ruin your toast) could indicate hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE). A large number of dogs die each year from HGE but most will recover with prompt treatment. Seek emergency medical attention.

Grey Or Greasy-Looking Poop

Doggy-doo that appears fatty, glistens or comes out in large, soft amounts could indicate Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI). 

Commonly referred to as maldigestion, EPI is a disease in which the pancreas does not produce the necessary enzymes to digest fat. EPI is treatable, so see your vet.

Green Dog Poop

Dog green poop can be common if your dog eats large amounts of grass. 

However, it can also be a parasite, rat bait poisoning or other internal issues. If your dog has green poop, see your vet to be safe.

Orange Dog Poop

It could indicate a liver issue or biliary disease, or it could just mean that your dog’s food moved too quickly through the GI tract to pick up the bile. Bile is what changes poop to the normal brown color we expect. If your dog has orange diarrhea, contact your vet.

Yellow Dog Poop

Yellow mucus usually indicates a food intolerance, especially if you’ve recently changed your dog’s diet. Take a look at what your pet’s been eating and try to rule out any new ingredients that could be causing stomach upset and mustard-yellow dog poop.

White Specks In Poop

Worms often look like white grains of rice in your pup’s stool. This is treatable, so see your vet.

WHAT IS COPROPHAGIA?

Coprophagia is the scientific name given to poop eating (sorry if you’ve just eaten); although coprophagia is upsetting and revolting to us; it is a common problem in dogs and puppies and there can be any number of causes:

If your dog is eating poop, it is always a good idea to have him/her seen by a veterinarian. Your vet will help determine if there are any medical conditions or behavioural issues causing your dog to be excessively hungry.  A Complete Blood Count can also help determine if the dog is anaemic or has a bacterial infection.

The vet may also recommend a urinalysis, or faecal fat test (measures fat in the stool sample), and a faecal exam (checks for parasites). 

These diagnostic tests can help narrow down the cause and may reveal underlying health issues.

Dogs that are anemic may need B-12 injections.

Intestinal parasites – The parasites are feeding on the dog’s nutrients causing him/her to be super hungry. Parasites should be treated with a de-wormer and your dog’s bedding, toys, and bowls will need to be washed in hot water.  Flooring should be cleaned and disinfected to help eliminate any remaining eggs. Dogs should be regularly wormed.

Endocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) – this Is a disorder where the pancreas is not producing digestive enzymes; the food being ingested is not broken down nor are the nutrients being absorbed (the dog is starving) – Treatment of Coprophagia in Dogs with Endocrine pancreatic insufficiency is usually treated by replacing digestive enzymes using freeze dried pancreas extracts from pigs and cattle. The extracts are sprinkled on the dog’s food usually 30 minutes before feeding.  The dog will also be placed on dietary supplements and vitamins.

Underfed – Not feeding the dog the right amount of food or giving a poor quality diet – Dogs diagnosed with deficient diets will need to be fed a better quality commercial food. It is recommended that you read the ingredient label; the first ingredient should be a protein not a “by-product”. Dietary supplements and vitamins may also be prescribed if the food source does not contain them.

Malnourished Taste – Cat faeces may actually taste good to a dog

If you have a new mum and pups in your home you may notice that the Dam (mother) will often eat their puppies poop – this is done to clean the den; this is a normal behavior in dogs and should stop once the pups are weaned and more self sufficient.

Prescription medications can also make a dog very hungry – this needs to be discussed with your vet.

Behavioural reasons for coprophagia in dogs: include abused dog that was not being fed – these dogs may get used to eating their own poop in order to obtain some form of nourishment – Puppy mill puppies that were neglected and overcrowded causing anxiety issues will often eat their own poop and this then becomes a habit that is hard to break.

Seeking owner’s attention or just boredom (no activities or playtime) this is often seen in Kennelled/isolated dogs where isolation is extended for a long time. Your vet may suggest more playtime and walks, and less alone time.  Dogs that are exercised and played with tend to be more content. If your dog persists in eating faeces the veterinarian may recommend a dog behaviourist to help stop the behaviour.

Recovery of Coprophagia in Dogs  that were diagnosed with a medical condition will need follow-up visits to monitor their progress. Dogs that were diagnosed with a behavioural problem will need their owner to have patience and breaking the habit will require consistency.

Dogs are pack animals and do not do well being isolated or confined.  

They require love, activities and attention.

In addition, it is important to ensure that you pick up faeces from the yard as soon as you can and regularly clean your cats the litter box if this is a source of poop eating.  Providing toys as well as teaching your dog the command “leave it” may also help him to stop eating faeces.

There are also deterrent soft chews made of natural ingredients which may help the dog not to eat his own faeces.

WHY IS IT NECESSARY TO PICK UP AFTER YOUR PET?

Do you walk through the park or woodland and get fed up of seeing dog poop everywhere?  It’s not the dog’s fault, it’s the fault of those who will find any and every excuse under the sun not to pick up their dog’s poop – Here are just two excuses people use for not picking up.

Excuse No.1

It Is A Natural Fertiliser –  This Is NOT True,

Because Not All Poop Is Created Equal as we shall see.  If it was, then we wouldn’t have to invest so much time and money in the sewage treatment of our own waste.

Other types of manure such as cow or horse has a very different make up from dog waste because their digestive systems and diets are very different.

For example, Cows are herbivores whereas dogs are omnivores and their diets are very high in proteins.  Though dogs waste is high in nitrogen and phosphorous it can have the opposite effect of fertiliser and can actually burn your lawn if you don’t pick it up. Worse still, it can cause all sorts of issues for local watersheds, because once it gets into the water it can cause all kinds of sickness both for other animals and humans too.

Excuse No.2

It Will Wash Away In The Rain – Again NOT True!

This is not the case with dog poop – the fact is that dog waste can 

take over a year to break down naturally.  And the other down side is 

that bacteria in the poop and any parasites it contains will linger in 

the soil for several years after the poop has finally dissolved. (Dog 

waste is even more full of disease causing bacteria and parasites than 

other types of waste).

These bacteria and parasites are harmful to humans and spread disease 

to other dogs.  Dog waste is full of E. coli, salmonella and is a 

common carrier of the following: Worms (several types), Parvovirus, 

Coronavirus (NOT COVID 19), Giardiasis, Salmonellosis, 

Cryptosporidiosis, and Campylobacteriosis.  These bacteria and 

parasites can actually linger in the soil for years after the dog 

waste has disappeared.

IF YOU DON’T PICK UP AFTER YOUR DOG, YOU ARE PUTTING OTHER PEOPLE AND 

OTHER DOGS AT RISK OF GETTING SICK – BE A RESPONSIBLE CITIZEN – BAG IT 

AND BIN IT !!!

NB – Canine coronavirus (CCoV) is not the same virus as SARS-CoV-2 

that causes the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). CCoV does not affect 

people. CCoV causes gastrointestinal problems in dogs, as opposed to 

respiratory disease, it is spread by dogs eating poop or coming into 

contact with another (infected) dogs poop.

Don’t forget Scamps & Champs offer a dog poo pick up service. Contact cardiff@scampsandchamps.co.uk. View our dog poo pick up prices here https://scampsandchamps.co.uk/services/dog-animal-poo-pick-up/dog-animal-poo-pickup-prices/

Should You Look Into Your Dog’s Eyes

Should you look into your dogs eyes?

Dogs rely on a lot of non verbal communication with each other and us for a number of reasons. Eye contact is used by dogs as an important form of communicating authority and hierarchy in the pack. Though dogs rarely stare openly into each others eyes because confrontation is something that most dogs wish to avoid at all costs, as direct contact can signify both rudeness and a challenge to authority.

A dominate dog will stare down an inferior dog in order to assert its authority and position in the pack, whereas the submissive dog will look away and expose its neck in order to avoid conflict and to show subservience.

However, dogs may watch the eyes of their human owners or stare at us in order to assess the signals that we give. They may also be seeking attention or hoping to receive something good.  A few other reasons that dogs look at us are:

our ability to provide food

clues about our emotional state

assessing our intentions

information about what is happening in their world

It is  believed that the dog’s unique ability to look into our eyes and hold our gaze was one of the first steps in domestication, and since dogs have been domesticated for at least 10,000 years (and some scientists believe much longer, up to 100,000) this ability has been selected and carried down the generations of dogs.

It is felt that dogs and people bond through eye contact . … but now, scientists have found actual proof that the connections between humans and their dogs have the same biochemical basis as the mother-child bond, and it’s strengthened by the same thing: a loving gaze.

In fact, research in Budapest using eye-tracking technology shows that dogs are as sensitive to their owner’s looks as small children are with their parents. They recommend that owners increase their eye contact with their puppies so that they can build a better relationship, and getting the dog to maintain eye contact is now an important part of training.

However, looking into a dog’s eyes is not the same as staring and most dogs can tell the difference between the two. Staring can be a threat in dogs and in some other species. When someone stares at a dog, maintaining eye contact when he or she has no right to do so, it can make an already nervous dog hostile or scared.

If you encounter an unfamiliar dog try to avoid looking directly into his/her eyes and instead look at ears or feet. Because dogs have an excellent knowledge of body language, the dog will be watching you to understand your intent, though you may not realise it.

Dogs are great companions and want to be loved. Since dogs know that what we think will influence our behavior to them, they are looking at us because they want to know how we feel.

Look into my eyes and tell me differently.

Why Is Chocolate Harmful To Dogs?

Why is chocolate harmful to dogs

Chocolate is the product of dried and fermented  seeds of the Cacao tree (Theobroma Cacao) and the active ingredient in chocolate is Theobromine.

Chocolate and cocoa products including the mulch made from the seed shells and used in gardening are poisonous to dogs even causing death if the amount ingested is large enough, though it also depends on the type of chocolate and the amount the dog has actually ingested and also the size of the dog compared to the amount that it has eaten.

The key toxic component chemical in the chocolate that harms the dog is called theobromine,  which is only produced in chocolate . Humans can metabolise theobromine quickly as the half life of the chemical is only 2-3 hours for humans who then excrete it from the body, but for dogs it is a much slower process with the half life of the chemical taking up to 18hours  which can cause a build up in the liver as it metabolises prior to excretion in the urine.Theobromine is known to affect the central nervous system, the cardiovascular system and the respiratory system.

Dark chocolate and cocoa products contain the most theobromine whereas milk or white chocolate contain the least. Bitter dark chocolate used for cooking also contains very high levels and even a vey small amount can be enough to poison even a very large dog, though the lethal dose is roughly between 250mg and 500mg per kilo of the dogs body weight.

However, a dog that eats just a small amount of milk chocolate may still be affected and may develop an upset stomach with diarrhoea and vomiting,  it is always wise to seek medical advice however small the amount and however big the dog.

A dog that eats a whole box of chocolates or a large amount of very dark chocolate will require emergency treatment as they may suffer dangerous effects that lead to death.

The onset of the poisoning may be preceded by severe hyperactivity, muscle tremors and an irregular heartbeat, panting and increased thirst, during this time the dog may develop internal bleeding, increased heart rate and finally a heart attack.  The signs of chocolate poisoning may not show until 2-24 hours after ingestion and even for a small amount of chocolate ingestion you will need to watch the dog for at least 72hours afterwards.

If you know that your dog has eaten chocolate then you should try to induce the dog to vomit as well as getting advice from the vet.  If the dog’s life is in danger then the vet may put the dog on intravenous fluids to flush the stomach contents and may also give charcoal based medication to absorb the poisonous chemical before too much harm is caused.

How To Crate Train Your New Puppy

How To Train Your Puppy - Scamps & Champs

Knowing hоw to сrаtе train уоur puppy effectively wіll hеlр tо resolve mаnу оf thе рrоblеmѕ that can occur durіng thе grоwіng up рrосеѕѕ from рuрру to аdult dog. Crаtе trаіnіng is роѕѕіblу thе most effective mеthоd оf toilet trаіnіng, аѕ wеll as еnѕurіng that thе сrаtе is safe fоr your рuрру.

Stаrtіng сrаtе training early wіll pay dividends bу rеmоvіng mаnу of thе рrоblеmѕ that can аrіѕе in the futurе аnd іѕ bаѕеd on the fасt that a рuрру’ѕ natural іnѕtіnсt іѕ nоt to ѕоіl whеrе it еаtѕ аnd ѕlеерѕ.

Althоugh early сrаtе trаіnіng іѕ rесоmmеndеd, note that puppies less thаn twelve weeks оld have very little blаddеr control, ѕо соnѕіdеr thіѕ. Puрріеѕ younger thаn nіnе weeks hаvе even lеѕѕ and need thе tоіlеt mоrе frеԛuеntlу, ѕо it is nоt аdvіѕаblе tо сrаtе trаіn аt such аn early аgе. Thе minimum recommended аgе fоr crate trаіnіng fоr the mаjоrіtу оf puppies іѕ tеn weeks.

Sіnсе a рuрру will carry out toilet functions soon after іt аwаkеnѕ frоm sleep or eats a mеаl, a ѕсhеdulе саn be рlаnnеd around these реrіоdѕ. Bу dоіng thіѕ, the trаіnіng саn bе organized mоrе еаѕіlу.

Bеfоrе you crate train уоur рuрру, уоu ѕhоuld ensure that thе crate іѕ оf thе соrrесt proportions fоr уоur рuрру.

7-Stерѕ Plаn As Tо Hоw You Саn Crate Trаіn Уоur Рuрру

Crate trаіnіng is an attempt to hоuѕеtrаіn your рuрру bу temporarily confining him іn a сrаtе. Bесаuѕе реtѕ dо not lіkе tо urіnаtе оr dеfесаtе in the рlасе whеrе thеу are rеѕtіng, thеу bеgіn tо dеvеlор bladder and bоwеl соntrоl. Thеn, thеу аrе lеt outside tо urinate, and thе сусlе continues frоm thеrе. Here іѕ thе 7-Stер Prосеѕѕ you need to follow.

  1. Intrоduсе Your Puppy tо the Crate

The only wау tо crate trаіn your puppy is fіrѕt tо fаmіlіаrіzе your рuрру wіth thе сrаtе. This саn bе dоnе bу putting a ѕоft blаnkеt inside. Thеn, ореn thе door аnd begin еnсоurаgіng your рuрру tо enter. Yоu саn uѕе trеаtѕ tо lurе him іnѕіdе. After hе hаѕ been іnѕіdе a few tіmеѕ, you саn gіvе hіm a dоg bone оr toy to рlау with whіlе сlоѕіng thе dооr on the саgе fоr a ѕhоrt tіmе.   Ensure the crate is a safe, warm, comfortable space that your puppy will enjoy.

  • Start wіth Shоrt Pеrіоdѕ

Hаvіng bееn introduced tо thе crate, іt’ѕ now time to bеgіn іnсrеаѕіng уоur dоg’ѕ tіmе іn thе сrаtе. Bеgіn with ѕmаll periods of 15 mіnutеѕ and gradually іnсrеаѕе to 30 minutes аnd bеуоnd.

  • Prаіѕе and Rеwаrd Puрру

Whеn the рuрру hаѕ bееn good аnd has not urinated іn thе сrаtе, рrаіѕе hіm аnd rеwаrd hіm wіth a treat.   Thіѕ роѕіtіvе reinforcement wіll, оvеr tіmе, tеасh hіm whаt іѕ аnd whаt іѕ nоt ассерtаblе. He wіll then bеgіn tо асt in thаt роѕіtіvе mаnnеr mоrе оftеn іn аn attempt to receive уоur praise аnd, оf соurѕе, thе rеwаrdіng trеаtѕ. Yоu now wаnt to tаkе nоtе of thаt tо hеlр уоu better рrеdісt when уоur dоg nееdѕ to urіnаtе.

  • Let Puрру Outѕіdе Onсе Pеr Hоur

Aftеr уоur pooch hаѕ gotten mоrе comfortable wіth the сrаtе, еxtеnd hіѕ сrаtе time tо оnе-hоur segments. After one hоur оf being іn thе сrаtе wіthоut urinating, take уоur рuрру оutѕіdе fоr fоur tо fіvе minutes. If hе urіnаtеѕ оutѕіdе іn that period, rеwаrd hіm with a treat аnd your praise. If уоur рuрру dоеѕ not urіnаtе оutѕіdе іn those five mіnutеѕ, put him back іn thе crate until thе next time you fееl hе has the nееd tо urinate.

  • Grаduаllу Increase Time

Aѕ уоur рuрру bеgіnѕ tо gаіn соmfоrtаbіlіtу wіth the сrаtе, уоu can еxtеnd hіѕ tіmе in the cage. But, уоu wіll ѕtіll wаnt to lеt him оutѕіdе оnсе реr hour when роѕѕіblе.

  • Overnight

If уоu аrе in nееd for your рuрру tо ѕlеер in the crate overnight, уоu wіll want tо do a few thіngѕ. First, рlасе thе сrаtе іn your rооm. Then, assuming hе іѕ already ассuѕtоmеd tо thе сrаtе, еnсоurаgе уоur puppy to gо іnѕіdе. Aftеr a fеw nіghtѕ оf hіm ѕlееріng іn thе сrаtе іn your room, уоu саn begin placing the crate in оthеr rооmѕ whеrе you mіght оthеrwіѕе рrеfеr.

  • Praise аnd Reward Puрру

Yеѕ, here іt іѕ again. Prаіѕе and rеwаrd your рuрру. Yоur рuрру gеnuіnеlу wаntѕ to please уоu as hе dеѕіrеѕ уоur praise, attention, аnd treats. Your consistent роѕіtіvе rеіnfоrсеmеnt of gооd bеhаvіоr when hоuѕеtrаіnіng will еnсоurаgе еvеn mоrе роѕіtіvе bеhаvіоr.  

Nоw уоu аrе rеаdу tо tасklе the сrаtе training рrосеѕѕ.

If you need any help with puppy visits while you are out at work, then don’t hesitate to contact us on 0333 200 5827 or email info@scampsandchamps.co.uk. We can visit your puppy, feed them, let them out into the garden, clean up any accidents and then have some play/cuddle/training time.