Tail Wagging Treats Understanding Organic Dog Diets

Dog Tail Signs: What That Wagging Means

You can understand a lot about your canine companion from his dog tail signs. That wagging or thumping on the carpet? You know your pup is feeling great. That feeling of dread when you walk through the front door and that same tail is tucked low? That tail tells you something has been destroyed by a bored pup while you were away. Whether you consider yourself fluent in wag or you're still learning how to decode dog tail language, read on to learn more about how your pet communicates.

Spotting the Signs: A Guide to Dog Tail Language

A dog's tail originally evolved to help him stay balanced, like a tightrope walker's pole. It serves as a counterweight to the front part of his body when he's making a high-speed turn while hunting and helps keep him from falling off narrow walkways.

Now that a dog hunt generally involves finding the last piece of kibble that fell behind the bowl, that wagging tail is largely thought of as a communication device. Here are five key things the placement of a dog's tail can tell you, according to the Center for Shelter Dogs at Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine.

1. Circular swish: A dog whose tail is swishing back and forth or in a circular motion is one happy and relaxed pup.
2. Lowered or tucked tail: A dog who is frightened or feeling submissive will often lower or tuck his tail between his hind legs.
3. Tail wagging stiffly: A dog who is excited may wag his tail stiffly while jumping, spinning or sticking his rump in the air. His excitement may be from a positive source like an upcoming walk or a negative source like an intimidating stranger.
4. Tail held horizontally: A tail held straight out indicates a dog who is attentive and alert or perhaps curious about something nearby. Traditional hunting dog breeds like pointers or setters also hold their tails out straight when they point at an animal or object.
5. Sudden tail raise: When a dog moves his tail from a down position to a vertical or raised position, it could indicate he is feeling aggressive.

Reading Wag Speed

The speed of a dog's wagging tail might also give you an indication of his mood, Psychology Today reports.

1. Quick wag: A short wag usually happens during greetings when a dog is feeling tentative.
2. Big, broad wag: This indicates a friendly dog who is not threatening anyone.
3. Slow, reluctant wag: This might indicate a dog who is feeling anxious. Other signs of anxiety include avoiding eye contact, refusing food or ignoring what's happening around him.
4. Tiny, high-speed wag: A tail that moves in short, vibrating bursts can be a sign a dog is about to run or fight. Be careful!

Dog Tail Language Barriers

Some dogs wag with long, expressive tails, but what about dogs with small, stumpy tails or no tails at all? A truncated tail may make it more difficult for dogs to communicate with their pet parents and with other dogs, writes Psychology Today. An observational study of more than 400 dogs greeting each other off-leash in a dog park showed a higher number of aggressive incidents involving dogs with short tails. This doesn't mean that your corgi will inherently pick more fights than your shepherd mix, but it could be something to watch out for. Overall, the study found that only 12 percent of dog park incidents resulted in any kind of aggression. That's a sign that dog communication has a pretty high success rate.

The tale of the tail? Dog tail signs help pups communicate not only with us, but also with other dogs. Knowing the meaning of how a dog is using his tail can go a long way to showing you how your pet is feeling.

Contributor Bio

Kara Murphy

Kara Murphy is a freelance writer and pet parent who lives in Erie, Pa. She has a goldendoodle named Maddie.

Organic Dog Biscuit Cookbook (Revised Edition): Over 100 Tail-Wagging Treats

For many the family dog is way more than just a pet, its a member of the family. So its no surprise that special care is given to finding the right food for them. As people become more concerned about the preservatives and additives in their own food, they are also worrying about what their dogs eat.But what about the treats that dogs so love? Well, the Bubba Rose Biscuit Company has created the most delightful and useful cookbook to aid in this matter THE ORGANIC DOG BISCUIT COOKBOOK. This fully revised and updated edition offers over 100 tail-wagging recipes.The charming hardcover cookbook is divided into six chapters and includes resources, a recipe index and a sidebar index. In addition, there is an introduction section that details the helpful tools of the trade youll need to prepare the recipes (simple items youll probably already have on hand), as well as substitutions, storage tips, and much more beneficial advice.Heres an example of one of the various chapters. Chapter 1 (Forget-Me-Nots) offers a unique recipe for each month of the year making it a special time for your four-legged fur baby. For instants, while the humans are enjoying Halloween candy your dog can enjoy Pumpkin Bites.The recipes are simple and easy to prepare. Many of the recipes contain only a few ingredients and can be prepared and ready for tasting within an hour. While the main ingredients include such items as oat flour or brown rice flour, most can be found in the specialty/organic aisle of your grocery store.Snickerdoodles was the first recipe I decided to try. After purchasing the oat flour and brown rice flour, I had the other five ingredients (cinnamon, egg, honey, vanilla, and water) already on hand. The recipe was quick and easy to fix. When the treats cooled, I offered a taste to our three English Shepherds. They sniffed, tentatively tasted and then devoured the treats. They love the new treats and I love the fact that they good for them and contain no additives or preservatives. In fact, the treats looks so good you might be tempted to try one yourself. Since they are made with all natural ingredients that you normally cook with, why not?THE ORGANIC DOG BISCUIT COOKBOOK is beautifully designed with 224 pages. There are no color photos of the finished treats, but charming dog illustrations throughout the book. With a handy bookmarker attached, youll never lose your place when making treats for your four-legged babies. This helpful and informative cookbook is a must-have for dog lovers.FTC Full Disclosure - This book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

10 Best Treats for Dogs With Pancreatitis: A Tail-Wagging Guide

Hello, dog lovers! If your furry friend is dealing with pancreatitis, you know how important it is to choose their treats carefully. Pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas, means your dog needs a diet low in fat but still full of flavor and nutrition. To help you navigate this challenging condition, weve scoured the canine culinary world for the best treats that are safe, healthy, and delicious for dogs with pancreatitis.

Key Takeaways for Quick Sniffers:

• Low-Fat is Key: Look for treats with low fat content, ideally under 10%.
• Quality Proteins: Choose treats with high-quality, easily digestible proteins.
• Avoid Artificial Additives: Say no to treats with artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
• Vegetable-Based Options: Consider treats made from vegetables, which are naturally low in fat.
• Hydration Helps: Treats that boost hydration, like freeze-dried fruits, can be beneficial.

Chart of Champions: Top Treats for Pancreatitis Pooches

The Scoop on Each Treat

Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Gentle Snackers: These are formulated for dogs with digestive issues and are super gentle on the stomach.

Hills Prescription Diet Original Dog Treats: A great companion to prescription diets, these treats support your dogs health without aggravating pancreatitis.

Charlee Bear Grain Free Crunch: With no grains and low fat, these are ideal for sensitive stomachs and weight management.

Fruitables Skinny Minis: Delicious and safe for dogs with dietary restrictions, offering a burst of flavor with every bite.

Hills Grain Free Dog Treats: Focus on flavor without the added grains, making them easier to digest for dogs with pancreatitis.

Covetrus Nutrisential Lean Treats: These treats are not just low in fat but are also perfect for keeping your dog motivated during training sessions.

Blue Buffalo Health Bars: Packed with natural ingredients and added benefits, these treats are a healthier crunchy option.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Savory Roasters: Made with real meat and minimal ingredients, these treats are both healthy and hearty.

Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Minnows: Offering high-quality protein with the added benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, these are great for your dogs coat and skin.

Afreschi Turkey Tendon: These natural chews help keep your dogs teeth clean while providing a satisfying, low-fat snack.

Conclusion

Choosing the right treats for a dog with pancreatitis can be a balancing act, but its crucial for their health and happiness. By focusing on low-fat, high-quality ingredients and avoiding artificial additives, you can provide your pooch with snacks that are not only safe but also incredibly satisfying. Remember, always consult your vet before making dietary changes, especially for dogs with health issues. Heres to happy, healthy snacking!

Interview with a Veterinary Nutrition Expert

Q: What makes pancreatitis in dogs a particularly challenging condition to manage through diet?

A: Pancreatitis is like walking on a nutritional tightrope. The pancreas plays a pivotal role in digesting fats, so when its inflamed, processing even normal amounts of fat can cause discomfort and flare-ups. The challenge lies in formulating a diet thats low enough in fats to prevent aggravating the pancreas, yet still meets all the nutritional needs of a dog. Additionally, each dog may react differently to certain foods, requiring personalized diet plans.

Q: Can you highlight the importance of low-fat treats in a pancreatitis diet?

A: Low-fat treats arent just a preference; theyre a necessity. In pancreatitis, fat is the enemy that can trigger painful episodes. Providing low-fat treats ensures that were not unknowingly causing harm while rewarding our pets. Its about finding that balance where the treat is both enjoyable for the dog and safe for their condition. This often means relying on treats that are specially formulated to be low in fat but rich in other nutrients, ensuring the dog still gets a satisfying snack without the risk.

Q: How do the recommended treats help manage pancreatitis while still engaging a dogs taste buds?

A: Its all about creativity and understanding canine nutrition. Manufacturers of these treats often use ingredients that are naturally low in fat but high in flavor. For example, hydrolyzed proteins provide a safe protein source without the fat, and ingredients like pumpkin and apple offer a sweet, satisfying crunch. Each treat is designed to be more than just a snack; its a carefully balanced supplement to their diet that dogs genuinely enjoy. The variety available also means dogs can enjoy different flavors and textures without their owners worrying about pancreatitis flare-ups.

Q: With the emphasis on low-fat and high-quality ingredients, how can pet owners ensure theyre choosing the right treats?

A: Pet owners should become label detectives. Understanding the nutritional information on treat packaging is crucial. Look for treats with clearly marked low-fat content, but also be mindful of other ingredients. Avoid anything with artificial additives or unnamed meat by-products, as these can sometimes cause digestive upset. High-quality treats will often list real meat, vegetables, or fruits as their primary ingredients. Consulting with a veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist can also provide guidance tailored to their dogs specific health needs.

Q: Are there any homemade treat options for dogs with pancreatitis, or is it safer to stick with store-bought options?

A: Homemade treats can be a fantastic option, provided you have the right recipes and guidance. Using lean meats like turkey breast, low-fat cottage cheese, or vegetables like carrots and green beans, pet owners can create treats that are both safe and appealing. The advantage of homemade treats is the ability to control exactly what goes into them, ensuring they are as low in fat as possible. However, its crucial to consult with a veterinarian or a nutrition expert to ensure these homemade treats meet the nutritional requirements without risking the dogs health. Remember, moderation is key, even with the safest ingredients.

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