Search Data Reveals Top Canine Mental Health Disorders In The UK
07.11.21 November 07, 2021 Health

Search Data Reveals Top Canine Mental Health Disorders In The UK

What we search for online can reveal quite a lot about us, and if you’re a dog owner, your search history might disclose a thing or two about your furry friend too. Many of us consult ‘Doctor Google’ to find out about our own health conditions, so it’s no surprise that more and more of us are going online to learn about our pets’ health issues. And we’re not just talking about physical health. Growing mental health awareness seems to have translated into the world of pets too, with many dog owners turning to the web for information on how to care for their dog’s mental health and wellbeing. Here at Lords & Labradors, we’ve looked at online search trends to find out which mental health conditions people in the UK are looking up the most. In this blog post, you’ll discover the findings of our research, along with tips on supporting your canine friend’s wellbeing.    Separation Anxiety Is The Number One Concern Separation anxiety in dogs seems to be the canine mental health issue that we’re most concerned about as a nation, with the term ‘dog separation anxiety’ being searched 8,100 times a month on average. General anxiety is also a cause for concern, with the term ‘dog anxiety’ getting 4,400 searches on average a month. While this subject can often crop up among dog owners anyway - particularly with breeds that are prone to separation anxiety, such as Labrador Retrievers, Border Collies and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels - the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions will no doubt have had an impact on people’s interest in this topic. As people return to work and education, and resume more of their usual social activities, it’s likely that many pet owners will be concerned about how their dog will cope with increased alone time. Worried about this issue? Common behavioural signs of separation anxiety include  Destroying furniture or other household items Increased howling, barking or whining Toileting problems Trembling Repetitive behaviour   There are a variety of ways you can support a dog struggling with separation anxiety. It may help to give them a snuggly toy for comfort or a mentally-stimulating toy to keep them engaged when you’re not there. You should also ensure that your dog gets plenty of exercise and the opportunity to go to the toilet before you leave so they can relax while you’re gone. You could also hire a dog sitter to keep your dog company, or you might decide to consult a vet or clinical animal behaviour specialist for advice or guidance.    Canine Dementia Is Another Big Area Of Interest With dogs living longer than ever before, canine dementia - officially known as Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome, is becoming more prevalent. On average, the term ‘dog dementia’ is searched online 4,400 per month and ‘dog Alzheimer’s’ gets 260 monthly searches. Much like Alzheimer’s in humans, in dogs the condition affects the ageing brain and can lead to memory problems, confusion, disorientation and anxiety.  Worried about this issue? Common Symptoms of canine dementia: Disorientation or confusion Lack of response to usual commands Changes in activity levels  Vocalising more than usual Eating more or less than usual  Increased sleeping during the day More frequent night waking Changes in toileting behaviours If you notice any of the above symptoms please contact your vet.    Autism On Dog Owners’ Radar  ‘Dog autism’ gets around 2,900 searches a month on average. While it may not be an official diagnosis in veterinary practice, the growing awareness of autism in humans may have some dog owners questioning whether or not their pet behaviours might be typical of autism spectrum disorder.  Worried about this issue? While your dog may not be given a diagnosis of autism, it’s important to be aware of unusual communication or social behaviours or inappropriate reactions to stimuli, and you should be sure to seek professional support or advice if you have concerns.    Depression And Dogs Every month, approximately 1,900 searches for the term ‘dog depression’ are performed using Google. If you’re wondering if dogs can actually become depressed, the answer is yes. While their condition may not be as complicated as depression in people, dogs sadly can experience a form of depression and display symptoms such as reduced interest in exercise and play, lethargy, decreased appetite and behavioural changes.  Worried about this issue? If your dog seems down, you should ask yourself the following questions: Has your dog’s life changed in any way recently? Is your dog getting adequate exercise? Is your dog being mentally stimulated? Does your dog have the opportunity to play? Does your dog get enough quality time with you? Does your dog have any other physical or behavioural problems that may need to be investigated? Once you’ve asked yourself these questions, you should be able to identify what you need to do to improve your dog’s mood. For example, you might find out that your dog needs more exercise, increased physical contact with you or more boredom-busting activities. You might also decide that your dog needs to be examined by a vet to rule out physical health problems.   Other Canine Mental Health Concerns A number of other search terms related to mental health conditions came up in our research, including ‘dog PTSD’ with 880 searches per month on average, ‘dog adhd’ with 720, ‘dog phobias’ with 720, ‘dog OCD’ with 590, ‘dog eating disorder’ with 40 and ‘dog psychosis’ with 20.  If you have concerns about your dog’s mental health, it’s important to seek advice from a vet or qualified clinical animal behaviourist.    Top 5 Tips To Boost Your Dog’s Mental Wellbeing 1. Exercise  Exercise is vital to your dog’s physical and mental wellbeing. How much physical activity your dog needs every day will depend on the breed and age of your four-legged friend. For example, while Bichon Frise, Yorkshire Terriers and Maltese dogs may be ok with just 30 minutes exercise plus play time a day, a Whippet, English Bulldog or Cocker Spaniel may need an hour or more of exercise a day. Other dogs, like Golden Retrievers, Dalmatians and German Shepherds, meanwhile, need in excess of two hours of physical activity a day to stay well. You can exercise your dog in a number of different ways. In addition to walking them daily, you could play ball games, go running with your dog or make them work for their food with fun feeding toys.   2. Mental Enrichment Just like people, dogs can get bored so it’s important to keep them stimulated to help maintain their mental wellbeing. There are plenty of engaging and interactive toys that you could try out with your pooch, from dog puzzles, to snuffle mats, to activity balls. You should also spend time chatting to your dog and try to keep them mentally astute by teaching them new tricks from time to time.    3. Physical Touch Tactile communication is very important to dogs. You can help enhance your dog’s wellbeing, develop their sense of security and trust, and cement your bond with them by spending time petting, grooming and snuggling with your furry pal.    4. Nosework Nosework is an activity that allows your dog to tap into their natural hunting instinct. There are plenty of nosework games you can play that will give your dog the chance to problem solve while doing something they love - sniffing. For example, you could hide food in another part of the room and command that they ‘find it’ or you could hide food in one of your hands and present your dog with two closed fists and ask them ‘which hand?’    5. Body Language  Pay attention to your dog’s body language to find out what they’re trying to tell you. If you make a conscious effort to do this, you’re likely to better understand signs that they’re becoming stressed, anxious, scared or sad. Avoiding eye contact can be a sign of anxiety, for example, while growling or tucking their tails in can indicate that your dog is fearful, and if your dog is feeling vulnerable, they might roll on their backs more than usual. 

By Laura Rudd

Read more

What we search for online can reveal quite a lot about us, and if you’re a dog owner, your search history might disclose a thing or two about your furry friend too. Many of us consult ‘Doctor Google’ to find out about our own health conditions, so it’s no surprise that more and more of us are going online to learn about our pets’ health issues. And we’re not just talking about physical health. Growing mental health awareness seems to have translated into the world of pets too, with many dog owners turning to the web for information on how to care for their dog’s mental health and wellbeing.

Here at Lords & Labradors, we’ve looked at online search trends to find out which mental health conditions people in the UK are looking up the most. In this blog post, you’ll discover the findings of our research, along with tips on supporting your canine friend’s wellbeing. 

Canine mental health disorders

 

Separation Anxiety Is The Number One Concern

Separation anxiety in dogs seems to be the canine mental health issue that we’re most concerned about as a nation, with the term ‘dog separation anxiety’ being searched 8,100 times a month on average. General anxiety is also a cause for concern, with the term ‘dog anxiety’ getting 4,400 searches on average a month.

While this subject can often crop up among dog owners anyway - particularly with breeds that are prone to separation anxiety, such as Labrador Retrievers, Border Collies and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels - the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions will no doubt have had an impact on people’s interest in this topic. As people return to work and education, and resume more of their usual social activities, it’s likely that many pet owners will be concerned about how their dog will cope with increased alone time.

Worried about this issue? Common behavioural signs of separation anxiety include 

  • Destroying furniture or other household items
  • Increased howling, barking or whining
  • Toileting problems
  • Trembling
  • Repetitive behaviour  

There are a variety of ways you can support a dog struggling with separation anxiety. It may help to give them a snuggly toy for comfort or a mentally-stimulating toy to keep them engaged when you’re not there. You should also ensure that your dog gets plenty of exercise and the opportunity to go to the toilet before you leave so they can relax while you’re gone. You could also hire a dog sitter to keep your dog company, or you might decide to consult a vet or clinical animal behaviour specialist for advice or guidance. 

 

Canine Dementia Is Another Big Area Of Interest

With dogs living longer than ever before, canine dementia - officially known as Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome, is becoming more prevalent. On average, the term ‘dog dementia’ is searched online 4,400 per month and ‘dog Alzheimer’s’ gets 260 monthly searches. Much like Alzheimer’s in humans, in dogs the condition affects the ageing brain and can lead to memory problems, confusion, disorientation and anxiety. 

Worried about this issue? Common Symptoms of canine dementia:

  • Disorientation or confusion
  • Lack of response to usual commands
  • Changes in activity levels 
  • Vocalising more than usual
  • Eating more or less than usual 
  • Increased sleeping during the day
  • More frequent night waking
  • Changes in toileting behaviours

If you notice any of the above symptoms please contact your vet. 

 

Autism On Dog Owners’ Radar 

‘Dog autism’ gets around 2,900 searches a month on average. While it may not be an official diagnosis in veterinary practice, the growing awareness of autism in humans may have some dog owners questioning whether or not their pet behaviours might be typical of autism spectrum disorder. 

Worried about this issue? While your dog may not be given a diagnosis of autism, it’s important to be aware of unusual communication or social behaviours or inappropriate reactions to stimuli, and you should be sure to seek professional support or advice if you have concerns. 

 

Depression And Dogs

Every month, approximately 1,900 searches for the term ‘dog depression’ are performed using Google. If you’re wondering if dogs can actually become depressed, the answer is yes. While their condition may not be as complicated as depression in people, dogs sadly can experience a form of depression and display symptoms such as reduced interest in exercise and play, lethargy, decreased appetite and behavioural changes. 

Worried about this issue? If your dog seems down, you should ask yourself the following questions:

  • Has your dog’s life changed in any way recently?
  • Is your dog getting adequate exercise?
  • Is your dog being mentally stimulated?
  • Does your dog have the opportunity to play?
  • Does your dog get enough quality time with you?
  • Does your dog have any other physical or behavioural problems that may need to be investigated?

Once you’ve asked yourself these questions, you should be able to identify what you need to do to improve your dog’s mood. For example, you might find out that your dog needs more exercise, increased physical contact with you or more boredom-busting activities. You might also decide that your dog needs to be examined by a vet to rule out physical health problems.

 

Other Canine Mental Health Concerns

A number of other search terms related to mental health conditions came up in our research, including ‘dog PTSD’ with 880 searches per month on average, ‘dog adhd’ with 720, ‘dog phobias’ with 720, ‘dog OCD’ with 590, ‘dog eating disorder’ with 40 and ‘dog psychosis’ with 20. 

If you have concerns about your dog’s mental health, it’s important to seek advice from a vet or qualified clinical animal behaviourist. 

 

Top 5 Tips To Boost Your Dog’s Mental Wellbeing

1. Exercise 

Exercise is vital to your dog’s physical and mental wellbeing. How much physical activity your dog needs every day will depend on the breed and age of your four-legged friend. For example, while Bichon Frise, Yorkshire Terriers and Maltese dogs may be ok with just 30 minutes exercise plus play time a day, a Whippet, English Bulldog or Cocker Spaniel may need an hour or more of exercise a day. Other dogs, like Golden Retrievers, Dalmatians and German Shepherds, meanwhile, need in excess of two hours of physical activity a day to stay well. You can exercise your dog in a number of different ways. In addition to walking them daily, you could play ball games, go running with your dog or make them work for their food with fun feeding toys.

Dog exercising

 

2. Mental Enrichment

Just like people, dogs can get bored so it’s important to keep them stimulated to help maintain their mental wellbeing. There are plenty of engaging and interactive toys that you could try out with your pooch, from dog puzzles, to snuffle mats, to activity balls. You should also spend time chatting to your dog and try to keep them mentally astute by teaching them new tricks from time to time. 

Dog Mental Enrichment

 

3. Physical Touch

Tactile communication is very important to dogs. You can help enhance your dog’s wellbeing, develop their sense of security and trust, and cement your bond with them by spending time petting, grooming and snuggling with your furry pal. 

Dog Physical Touch

 

4. Nosework

Nosework is an activity that allows your dog to tap into their natural hunting instinct. There are plenty of nosework games you can play that will give your dog the chance to problem solve while doing something they love - sniffing. For example, you could hide food in another part of the room and command that they ‘find it’ or you could hide food in one of your hands and present your dog with two closed fists and ask them ‘which hand?’ 

Dog nosework

 

5. Body Language 

Pay attention to your dog’s body language to find out what they’re trying to tell you. If you make a conscious effort to do this, you’re likely to better understand signs that they’re becoming stressed, anxious, scared or sad. Avoiding eye contact can be a sign of anxiety, for example, while growling or tucking their tails in can indicate that your dog is fearful, and if your dog is feeling vulnerable, they might roll on their backs more than usual. 

Dog body language

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Shampoos are often best used in conjunction with other treatments. Flea Sprays: Flea sprays can be applied directly to your cat’s fur and provide immediate relief. They are particularly useful for treating areas of your home where fleas may be hiding. Flea Removal for Kittens Kittens are more sensitive to flea treatments than adult cats, so it’s important to use products that are specifically designed for their age and weight. Here are some tips for flea removal for kittens: Manual Removal: For very young kittens (under 8 weeks old), it’s often safest to remove fleas manually using a flea comb. Gently comb through the kitten’s fur, dipping the comb in soapy water to kill any fleas you catch. Mild Flea Shampoos: If your kitten is old enough (usually over 8 weeks), you can use a mild flea shampoo that is safe for kittens. Be sure to follow the product’s instructions carefully and rinse thoroughly. Consult Your Veterinarian: Always consult your veterinarian before using any flea treatments on kittens. They can recommend the safest and most effective products for your kitten’s specific needs. Treat Your Home Environment Fleas don’t just live on your cat—they can infest your home as well. To prevent re-infestation, it’s important to treat your home environment: Vacuum Regularly: Vacuum your carpets, rugs, furniture, and pet bedding frequently to remove fleas, eggs, and larvae. Be sure to empty the vacuum bag or canister immediately after use to prevent fleas from escaping. Wash Bedding: Wash your cat’s bedding, as well as any other fabric items your cat frequently uses, in hot water to kill fleas and their eggs. Use Household Flea Sprays: Apply flea sprays to carpets, rugs, and upholstery to kill any remaining fleas and prevent them from returning. Consider Flea Foggers: In severe infestations, you may need to use a flea fogger (or “flea bomb”) to treat your entire home. These products release an insecticide that kills fleas throughout the house, but be sure to follow the instructions carefully and remove pets from the area during treatment. Monitor and Re-Treat as Needed After treating your cat and home, it’s important to monitor the situation closely. Fleas can be persistent, and it may take a few weeks to completely eliminate them. Continue to check your cat for fleas regularly and be prepared to re-treat if necessary. Most flea treatments for cats should be applied monthly to provide ongoing protection. Preventing Future Flea Infestations Once you’ve successfully gotten rid of fleas, taking steps to prevent future infestations is crucial: Regular Flea Treatment: Keep your cat on a regular flea treatment regimen, especially during warmer months when fleas are more active. Regular Grooming: Brush your cat regularly and check for any signs of fleas or flea dirt. Maintain a Clean Home: Continue to vacuum and wash bedding regularly to keep your home flea-free. Caring for a cat with fleas can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can quickly and effectively eliminate the infestation and prevent it from returning. By choosing the best flea treatment for cats, following a thorough flea removal process for kittens, and maintaining a clean environment, you’ll ensure your cat stays comfortable and flea-free. At Lords & Labradors, we offer a range of premium flea treatments and grooming products designed to keep your cat healthy and happy. Explore our collection today to find the perfect solution for your pet’s needs.  

    By Laura Rudd

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  • Bathing Your Dog at Home
    29.08.24 August 29, 2024 Health

    Bathing Your Dog at Home

    Bathing your dog at home can be a rewarding experience that strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend. However, it can also be a daunting task if you’re unsure about the best approach. Ensuring that your dog’s coat and skin are clean and healthy is essential for their health & well-being. In this guide, we explore everything you need to know about bathing for dogs, including how to bathe a dog effectively, the best techniques, and tips for choosing the right shampoo for your dog’s specific needs. Why is Regular Bathing Important? Regular bathing is not just about keeping your dog looking and smelling fresh. It’s also vital for maintaining healthy skin and coat. Bathing removes dirt, debris, and excess oils that can accumulate on your dog’s skin, preventing issues such as irritation, infections, and matting. Additionally, regular baths can help you spot any unusual lumps, bumps, or skin conditions that may require veterinary attention. How Often Should You Bathe Your Dog? The frequency of bathing depends on several factors, including your dog’s breed, coat type, lifestyle, and any underlying skin conditions. Generally, most dogs should be bathed every 4 to 6 weeks. However, dogs with oily coats, such as Basset Hounds, may need more frequent baths, while breeds with water-resistant coats, such as Golden Retrievers, can go longer between baths. If your dog has a specific skin condition, your veterinarian may recommend a more tailored bathing schedule. It’s important to avoid over-bathing, as this can strip the skin of natural oils and lead to dryness or irritation. How to Bathe a Dog: Step-by-Step Guide Bathing a dog at home doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With the right preparation and approach, you can make bath time enjoyable for both you and your pet. Gather Your Supplies Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary supplies on hand: Dog-specific shampoo: Choose a shampoo that is appropriate for your dog’s coat type and skin condition. Avoid using human shampoos, as they are not formulated for a dog’s pH balance and can cause irritation. Conditioner: If your dog has a long or thick coat, a conditioner can help detangle and soften their fur. Brush: A good brushing before the bath will help remove loose fur, dirt, and tangles, making the bathing process easier. Non-slip mat: Place a non-slip mat in the bath or shower to prevent your dog from slipping and feeling insecure. Towels: Have several towels on hand for drying your dog. Our bamboo drying mitts and coats are particularly effective at absorbing moisture. Cup or shower head: Use a cup or detachable shower head to rinse your dog thoroughly. Treats: Keep some treats nearby to reward your dog for good behaviour during the bath. Brush Your Dog’s Coat Before getting your dog wet, give them a thorough brushing. This helps to remove any loose hair, dirt, and mats. Brushing is especially important for long-haired breeds, as it prevents tangles from becoming worse when wet. Mats can trap moisture and lead to skin infections, so it’s important to address them before bathing. Prepare the Bath Fill the bath or sink with lukewarm water. The water should be comfortably warm—not too hot or cold—as dogs have sensitive skin. Make sure the water level is not too high; it should reach just below your dog’s chest. If you’re bathing a small dog, a sink may be more manageable than a full bath. Wet Your Dog Thoroughly Start by gently wetting your dog’s coat with water. Use a cup or a handheld shower head to wet the fur, starting from the neck and working your way down to the tail. Avoid getting water in your dog’s ears, eyes, and nose, as this can cause discomfort and potential infections. If necessary, you can place a cotton ball in each ear to prevent water from entering. Shampoo Your Dog Apply the dog shampoo by lathering it in your hands first, then gently massaging it into your dog’s coat. Focus on areas that tend to get dirty, such as the paws, tummy, and under the tail. Be sure to work the shampoo into a rich lather, but avoid scrubbing too harshly, as this can irritate the skin. When choosing a shampoo, opt for one that is specifically designed for dogs. There are many types available, including shampoos for sensitive skin, flea control, and coat conditioning. If your dog has a skin condition, your vet may recommend a medicated shampoo. Rinse Thoroughly Rinsing is one of the most important steps in the bathing process. Any leftover shampoo residue can cause skin irritation, so it’s crucial to rinse your dog thoroughly. Use lukewarm water and continue rinsing until the water runs clear. Pay special attention to areas where soap tends to accumulate, such as under the arms and around the neck. Condition (Optional) If your dog has a long or thick coat, you may want to use a conditioner to help detangle and soften the fur. Apply the conditioner as directed on the bottle, then rinse it out thoroughly. As with shampoo, it’s important to ensure all the product is removed to avoid irritation. Dry Your Dog After rinsing, gently squeeze out excess water from your dog’s coat. Use towels or drying mitts to pat your dog dry, starting with the head and working your way down the body. For dogs with long hair, you may need to use a drying coat to get them as dry as possible. Some dogs may benefit from a blow dryer on a low, cool setting, but be sure to keep the dryer at a safe distance to avoid overheating. Reward Your Dog Bathing can be a stressful experience for some dogs, so it’s important to reward them afterward. Offer treats, praise, and playtime to reinforce positive behaviour and help your dog associate bath time with good things. Choosing the Right Shampoo for Your Dog Selecting the right shampoo is crucial for maintaining your dog’s coat and skin health. Here are a few tips for choosing the best shampoo for your dog: Skin Type: If your dog has sensitive skin, choose a hypoallergenic or oatmeal-based shampoo. For dogs with dry skin, look for moisturising shampoos with ingredients like aloe vera or coconut oil. Coat Type: Some shampoos are formulated specifically for certain coat types, such as curly, long, or short coats. Choose a shampoo that enhances the natural texture and shine of your dog’s fur. Medicated Shampoos: If your dog has a skin condition such as dermatitis or allergies, your vet may recommend a medicated shampoo. These shampoos contain active ingredients that help treat specific skin issues. Bathing your dog at home can be a straightforward and enjoyable process when done correctly. By following the steps outlined above and choosing the right products, you can keep your dog’s coat and skin healthy, clean, and free of irritants. Regular bathing not only improves your dog’s hygiene but also strengthens the bond between you and your pet. At Lords & Labradors, we offer a range of premium dog grooming products, including shampoos, conditioners, and grooming tools, to make bath time a breeze. Explore our collection today to find everything you need to keep your dog looking and feeling their best.  

    By Laura Rudd

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