The most common cause of tracheobronchitis (kennel cough) in dogs. This bacterial illness frequently occurs when dogs congregate in large numbers at shows, in boarding kennels, etc. There is a subcutaneous vaccination and an intra-nasal preventative. One of these should be given twice yearly to dogs that are exposed to situations in which the infection may be present. The intra-nasal version produces immunity more quickly but the injectable version probably lasts longer.Brachycephalic Breeds
Short-faced breeds, like the Bulldog, Pekingese, Pug, Boston Terrier, Boxer, Shih Tzu, etc. Many brachycephalic dogs are inefficient panters, making them more likely to suffer heat-related stress than other dogs. Anesthetic risk is higher than usual in Brachycephalic breeds, although extra precautions are readily managed by most Veteranarians.
Borreliosis
A tick-borne bacterial disease affecting both humans and animals, commonly known as Lyme disease,Breed Club
A group of dog fanciers, licensed by the American Kennel Club or other national canine registry to hold dog shows and events for their particular breed . These clubs represent the breeds interests, educate the public on responsible breeding and usually handle breed rescue efforts.Breed Standard
A detailed description of the perfect example of a breed. It specifies every aspect of the dog's physical appearance, and ideal temperament. The AKC website contains breed standards for all registered breeds . In a conformation dog show, each dog is judged, not against other dogs in the ring, but against the breed standard,Brindle Color
A color of a dogs coat with a mix of brown, grey or tan, as a "Brindle Boxer".Brisket
The front of a dog's chest between the forelegs.Brood Dog
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Cadaver Dogs
Dogs that are trained to detect human remains, even long after death and despite burial or attempted concealment. Cadaver dogs are able to distinguish between human remains, animal remains, and a wide range of other odors.<
Canine Cognitive Dysfunction
A common, recognizable condition in senior dogs, characterized by behavioral changes and a decline of cognitive abilities. It is not normal aging and it cannot be attributed to other medical conditions or diseases. CDS is often referred to as "Doggie Alzheimers" or "old dog syndrome". Anipryl, a drug originally developed to treat Alzheimer's Disease in humans is sometimes helpful in treating CDS.
Cataracts
Clouding and loss of transparency of the lens of the eye. Cataracts can be genetic or the result of an injury or Diabetes,Cherry Eye
The term often used to describe protrusion of the tear gland associated with the third eyelid in the corner of a dogs eye. This occurs due to weakness in the gland's normal attachment. It's thought to be an inherited abnormality in several breeds of dogs, including the English Bulldog, Cocker Spaniel, Lhasa Apso, and Shar Pei. Treatment involves surgically replacing the gland into its normal position and attaching it with sutures. Since this gland is responsible for producing about a third of the tear volume to the surface of the eye, removal of the gland is not recommended.Chocolate toxicity
Chocolate contains the compound, theobromine, that, in sufficient quantities, is poisonous to dogs. Depending on the amount of chocolate ingested compared to a dog's weight, it can cause severe diahrrea and even death. If you suspect that your dog has eaten chocolClicker Training
A training method with positive reinforcement that uses the sound of a small clicker to tell the dog that correct behavior will be rewarded. The reward can be a treat, praise, pat or something the dog enjoys.with a . will pay off with a treat. In clicker training, when a trainer tells a dog what to do, and when the dog acts correctly, the action is spound of click, and pay off with a treat. The treat may be food, a pat, praise, or anything else the learner enjoys. If the learner makes a mistake all you do is wait and let them try again. ate, especially if it's a small dog, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Conformation
When a dog's characteristics match or come close to the official list of ideal characteristics for it's breed, it "conforms" to the breed standards. Depending on the breed, the standard describes the ideal color, markings, length, texture, etc. of the coat, facial features and expression, allowable height, weight, proportion and body structure, gait, and overall appearance. Standards for many breeds also list faults, undesireable features, and features that should be penalized, At a show, each dog is judged by it's conformation to breed standards.Congenital
A condition that is present at birth, either inherited or the result of an event associated with a pregnancy.Coprophagia
The eating of feces...Gross, but really a common behavior in young dogs that they'll eventually outgrow.Coronavirus
The Coronavirus can cause diarrhea, but it might not cause illness on its own, If it occurs along with parvovirus, it greatly increases the severity of the parvo. Ask yoiur veteranarians about a coronavirus vaccine.Cropping
Cutting or trimming of a dogs outer ears to form correct ears according to the breed standard.Cyst
An abnormal fluid filled lump or sack-like fluid filled growth that's usually harmless.
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Dam
The mother of a litter.Dermatitis
Inflammation of the skin.Dewclaw
A tiny, useless, fifth claw, located on the inner part of the leg, just above the other toes. These are routinely removed shortly after birth in many sporting dogs to prevent future injury from a torn dewclaw.Dewormer
A product to treat intestinal worm infestation in dogs and puppies. Dewormers are poisonous to the worms, and the wrong dosage can make a dog sick. See a veterinarian for diagnosis and an oral deworming medication.
Diabetes Mellitus (See Type 1 Diabetes)
A metabolic disease caused by failure of the pancreas to produce insulin, a hormone that allows blood sugar to be used up by the cell that require it. Chronic use of corticosteroids to treat another illness may predispose a dog to Type 1 diabetes.Distemper
Canine distemper is a viral disease that causes a severe and often fatal systemic illness. It can affect dogs of any age, though unvaccinated puppies are at greatest risk. In some dogs a transient fever, sometimes accompanied by loss of appetite or mild depression are early signs that go undiagnosed . The mortality rate from severe infections is very high. Good vaccination practices played a big part in reducing cases of distemper, but it is still present around the world and continued vigilance is necessary to prevent a resurgence. Distemper is also fatal in raccoons, skunks, and ferretsDocking
When pups are only a few days old, removing part of the tail to achieve the correct length according to breed standards.Double Coat
Many breeds have a double coat.... An flat or curly, rougher outer coat plus a softer undercoat that provides additional insulation.
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Ear Infection
Caused by over-production of wax in response to irritation. The moisture of the wax promotes bacterial growth and infection. A dogs with an ear infection will scratch and rub it's ears on the floor or furniture, or shake it's head. If an infection reaches the middle ear, the dog may tilt it's head or loose it's balance. Most ear infections can be cured by a veterinary cleaning followed by medication at home.
Ear Mites
Small parasitic insects that live in a dog's ear canal, causing a discharge from the ears, scratching, head tilt and head shaking. Veterinary treament is necessary.Elbow Dysplasia
Degenerative joint disease of the elbow in growing dogs. Elbow dysplasia is an inherited disease which primarily affects intermediate and large breed dogs. The symptoms range from occasional, intermittent lameness in some affected dogs to severe, crippling disease in othersEntropion Eyelid
Eyelid turns inward causing lashes to irritate the surface of the eye. This condition must be corrected surgically.Epilepsy / Epileptic Seizure
A chronic condition characterized by recurrent seizures. A seizure is caused by a kind of an electrical storm in the brain. Abnormal electrical activity inhibits the coordinated use of muscles.and causes the involuntary contraction of muscles. Canine Epilepsy is either Idiopathic Epilepsy (also known as Primary or True Epilepsy). or Acquired Epilepsy (also known as Secondary Epilepsy.Idiopathic Epilepsy has no demonstrable cause and there are no positive diagnostic findings that will confirm a diagnosis. It's a case of ruling out every other possibility. The first seizure in a dog with Idiopathic Epilepsy usually occurs between the ages of 6 months and 5 years. Acquired Epilepsy refers to seizures for which a cause can be determined. It could be due to injury to the brain, a brain tumor or a blow to the head; due to an endocrine or hormonal disorder, liver or kidney failure; caused by a toxic substance such as lead, arsenic, organophosphates, , strychnine, tetanus, etc; or due to an infectious disease such as distemper, encephalitis, etc.
Estrus
In a female dog, this is also known as the heat period or heat cycle. The average heat cycle lasts about 3 weeks. During the first stage, there is swelling of and bleeding from the vulva. She will not be receptive to a male dog. although male dogs will be very persistent During the second stage, which lasts from 7 to 21 days, the female will accept a male and pregnancy can occur. She is most fertile on the 12th to the 14th day. During the final stage, which lasts about 7 days, as she goes out of heat, she will be less willing to breed. Seven months is the average times between cycles.Euthanasia
Humanely ending the life of an animal. Euthanasia, often referred to as "putting an animal to sleep", It is sometimes the only possible relief from pain and suffering in a severely injured or gravely ill pet. When all quality of life is gone with no hope of recovery for a failing elderly pet, euthanasia is the final act of love.
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Fading Puppy Syndrome
An apparently normal puppy gradually weakens and dies within a week or two of birth. Not a specific disorder, but generally due to infectious causes.False Pregnancy
False pregnancy symptoms are normal in dogs that have an estrus(heat period) and are not bred, It is not usually necessary to treat the symptoms of a false pregnancy but they can be very close to those of a real pregnancy.Fibrosarcoma
A malignant tumor in connective tissue.Field Trial
Competition for hunting breeds - dogs in the Sporting Group and Hounds. Dogs are judged on their abilities in the field, based upon the hunting characteristics of the breeds involved. Depeding on the breed they are judged on skills such as finding small game by scent or by sight, flushing, pointing, retrieving, etc.Fleas
Tiny insects that live on a dog's skin. Flea bites cause intense itching that can result in severe skin infection. Consult your veterinarian for a flea preventative.Flea Dip
A solution made to kill fleas, applied to an animal and not rinsed off, so it will have a residual actionFly-Snapping
Repeated snapping at non-existent flying things can be associated with ear infections. Sometimes it's simply a behavior problem or a habit caused by boredom that can be alleiviiated behavioral modification techniques,
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Gait
The way a dog moves. - it's walking patternGastric Dilatation
See " Bloat ""Gentle Leader
A type of halter worn on a dog's head that allows humane control over a hard-to-control dog or a dog that pulls. It gives the owner control of a dominant dog without a harsh correction. One loop goes over the dogs nose and another loop goes under the chin and buckles at the back of the head. Although it looks similar to a muzzle, it's not. A dog wearing a Gentle Leader can open its mouth, pant, drink, and eat. According to the manufacturer, it's designed to work with a dog's instincts. The nose loop corrects in much the same way a wolf pack leader grasps a subordinate wolf by the muzzle.The pressure at the back of the neck from the second loop simulates how a mother dog handles her puppies. It maintains control of a dog by bringing its nose down, therefore breaking its forward momentum. The result is usually a calmer, more focused dog.Giardia
A parasite that attaches to the intestinal lining, destroying tissue and preventing the absorption of nutrients. If your dog has more than one of these symptoms - : diarrhea, weight loss, depression, decreased appetite, vomiting, dull coat, flaky skin - take a small stool sample to your veterinarian to be checked under a microscope for Giardia.Glucosamine
A compound that works to stimulate joint function and repair, easing osteoarthritis pain and repairing joints that have been damaged by the disease.
Group
Dog registries like the AKC, list dogs in groups. The AKC has 7 groups - Sporting, Non-Sporting, Hounds, Working, Herding, Terriers, and Toys.
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Handler
A person who trains, conditions, and presents a dog in show competition. Owners who handle their own dogs in the show ring are owner-handlers.Halti Collar
"See Gentle Leader"
Haw
The third eyelid at the inner corner of a dog's eye. The haw lubricates and protects the eye. It can be seen in Basset Hounds, Bloodhounds, St. Bernards and other droopy-eyed dogs, but its barely noticable in most breeds.Heat Cycle/In Heat
See "Estrus"Heartworm
A parasitic worm that lives and reproduces in the chambers of a dog's heart.. Microscopic, immature worms circulate in the blood and are taken in by mosquitoes that bite the animal. They mature in the mouth of a mosquito and infect another unprotected animal bitten by the same mosquito. Heartworm disease causes damage to the pulmonary arteries and eventually leads to heart failure. There are several ways to test for heartworms. Treatment is by IV medication and requires hospitalization. You can prevent heartworm and protect your dog from this dreaded disease with a simple once a month medication.Hematoma
A lump or swelling caused by a localized collection of blood, Dogs can get large hematomas inside floppy ears from repeated violent head shaking due to an ear infection.Herding Group
Dogs that were originally bred to herd sheep, cattle and other livestock. Collies, German Shepherds, Shetland Sheepdogs, Bouviar des Flandres, Corgis and others belong to the herding group.Hernia
An abnormal protrusion of internal organs through a weak spot in the abdomional wall, in the naval or in the groin area.Hip Evaluations
Programs that are designed to detect Hip Dysplasia. Diagnostic tests are part of thr Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) OFA evaluations that inform breeders of hip dysplasia in a dog's ancestry.Hip dysplasia
An abnormality of the hip joint in which the head of the femur does not fit properly into its pelvic joint socket. Dogs with hip dysplasia appear to have normal hips at birth and develop the condition, during the first two years of life. It's sometimes possible to identify the condition with x-rays as early as 3 to 4 months of age .It is often progressive, causing inflammation, pain, and arthritis in one or both hips. The condition may range from mild to severe and can be aggravated by strenuous exercise. Hip dysplasia can occur in most breeds, but it is predominant in larger dogs. This it's an inherited condition, not all affected dogs will develop the degree of dysplasia as their parent's. Dogs with no genetic predisposition do not develop hip dysplasia.Hip Sublaxation
Luxation, partial dislocation, dislocation mean about the same thing. The most common cause in young dogs is hip dysplasia.Hock
Part of a dog's anatomy - the bones that form the ankle/heel of a dog.
Hookworm
Intestinal parasites that attach to the inside of a dog's intestinal wall. This extremely common parasite, seen in the many puppies, can cause diarrhea, vomiting, bloody stools, anemia and even death. A veterinarian can detect hookworm infestation in a stool sample An oral medication will eradicate hookworms.
Hot Spots
Hot spots are also known as "acute moist pyoderma". TThis is just, sort of like They start because something irritates a dog's skin. The response is itching and inflammation. The dog then rubs and licks the area and oozing sores and skin infection can develop. . Common causes are allergies, fleas, mosquito or tick bites, burrs and mats. Summer heat contributes to the irritation. Prevent hot spots by using flea and tick protection and medication to control the itching of allergies. Treat hot spots with astringents . and antiseptic solutions. Infections may need antibiotic treatment.Hound Group
An AKC group that includes Bloodhounds, Bassett, Beagles, Black and Tan Coonhounds, Afghan Hounds and many more. Scent hounds hunt by scent. Sight hounds look for their prey by sight.
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Immunization
The process protecting an animal against a certain disease by creating an immunity with a vaccination. Immunity from vaccination only lasts for a limited amount of time and usually must be repeated annually.
Incontinence
See "Urinary Incontinence"
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There are no "J" listings
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Kennel Cough
About 80% to 90% of the cases of kennel cough are associated with a bacterial infection caused by Bordetella. The other 10% to 20% of cases are caused by a variety of other infectious agents, mostly viral. Kennel cough often makes owners think that their dog has something caught in his throat. It can lead to pneumonia or more serious disease.
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Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis can be fatal if the liver or kidneys are severely damaged. It is passed by inhaling or ingesting bacteria shed in other dogs' urine. Symptoms: fever, depression, stiffness of muscles, loss of appetite, blood in feces, and vomitus. This serious disease can be prevented by routine annual vaccination.Lick Granuloma
A raised, often infected and ulcerated area on a dog's foot or lower leg caused by incessant licking and/or chewing. Treatment consists of corticosteroid injections, mixed topicals, or antibiotics. An Elizabethan collar will allow the area to heal. This behavior can be compared to nail-biting in humans. For dogs who resume licking after treatment is discontinued, prescription drugs commonly used by people to reduce stress or treat obsessive/compulsive disorder might be needed.
Liver Color
A color seen in of a dog's coat - the deep, dark reddish brown of an English Springer Spaniel.Lure Coursing
A humane sport which attempts to imitate the coursing (hunting by sight)of a rabbit or hare by sighthounds but without the rabbit or hare. The
hounds chase an artificial lure, usually a white kitchen garbage bag, or sometimes tanned rabbit skins, or fake fur strips.Lyme Disease (Borrelia) Bacterin
Lyme Disease is caused by a bacteria which is transmitted by ticks. The most common symptoms in dogs are fever and sudden lameness in one or more legs. Lyme disease is more common in some areas of the US than in others. Depending on where you live, it might be necessary to have your dog vaccinated against Lyme Disease
Lymphoma
Or, “lymphosarcoma,” is a highly malignant, rapidly growing tumor of the lymph system. Lymphoma may occur anywhere there is lymph tissue.... virtually every organ in the body.
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Malignant
A process that invades nearby tissues. Usually synonymous with cancer, a tumor that grows rapidly and spreads to other areas.Mange - demodectic mange
A skin disease caused by the demodex mite and characterized by hair loss on the head, face, neck, shoulders and the front of the forelegs. This type of mange sometimes resists treatment.Mange - sarcoptic mange
A skin disease caused by mites, usually seen on a dog's belly and inner thighs. It's characterized by extreme itching, hair loss, and secondary infection. If not treated, it spreads easilyMast Cell Tumor
A nodular growth, usually on the skin, which involves cells containing large amounts of histamines. Mast cell tumors in dogs are often malignant.Mastitis
Inflammation of the mammary glands, usually due to bacterial infection.Match Show
An informal conformation dog show at which no championship points are awarded.Megaesophagus
Megaesophagus is basically an enlarged or stretched esophagus. The muscles in the esophagus that should push food along do not work properly. Since a dog’s esophagus runs parallel to the floor, whatever the dog eats or drinks stays in the esophagus, creating pouches or pockets. Food and water then remain there until the dog regurgitates or vomits. Though rare, Megaesophagus can affect any breed or size of dog. Megaesophagus may be congenital(present at birth) or it can be secondary to other disorders such as myasthenia gravis or hypothyroidism. It can sometimes be treated sucessfully with medication, special diets and feeding in an upright postition.Meningitis
Inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, the meninges. Meningitis can be caused by bacteria, by a virus, by fungi or by a chemical toxin. The most common form of meningitis diagnosed in dogs is steroid responsive meningitis. Symtoms include fever, cervical pain, a stiff short-strided gait and reluctance to walk. It does not respond well to antibiotics, but improves rapidly with Prednisone . Once the dog seems to be back to normal, the dosage of Prednisone can be tapered of and eventually stopped. Relapses can occur, however, and It's not unusual to have to go back on the starting dose. The overall prognosis for this condition is good, with most dogs either recovering completely or at least having manageable disease.Merle
A color seen in of a dog's coat - Bluish gray coloring with flecks of black, as in a "blue-merle" Collie Microchips as identification
A very tiny microchip is inserted under the skin, as a permanent form of identification which can be read using a special scanner. Ask your veterinarian if they have this sevice available.Miticide
An agent that kills mitesMucous Membranes
Tissue that lines body passages and body cavities which are exposed to the air, such as inside the mouth or nose, and around the eyes. Changes in mucous membranes are sometimes a sign of health problems. In a dehydrated animal Mucous membranes are abnormlly dry if an animal is dehydrated, pale if an animal is anemic or in shock, yellowish when the liver malfunctions.Musher
Someone who drives a dog sled teamMuzzle
The front section of a dog's jaw; the portion of the skull in the front of the brain. Dogs have a variety of muzzle types - Short-faced breeds like the Pug or Bulldog have a Brachycephalic, or stubby muzzle. Salukis, Greyhounds and similar long-faced breeds have a Dolichocephalic , or wedge-shaped muzzle. Blunt muzzles, Square muzzles; Pinched muzzles; Snipy muzzles; Tapering muzzles.... are some of the terms used to describe other muzzle types.Muzzle
A device intended to stop a dog from opening it's mouth to prevent biting or fighting is also called a muzzle. Dog muzzles made of leather or some type of strapping can be purchased at a pet shop. Aimed primarily at potentially vicious dogs, some cities have laws requiring owners to muzzle their dog when walking them on public thorougfares. In an emergency, to prevent an injured dog from biting, use a roll of gauze, a necktie, a scarf or similar material to make a muzzle. Wrap it around the dog's mouth, cross the two ends under the chin. then bring them around to the back of the head and behind the ears to tie them.Myasthenia Gravis
A neuromuscular disease characterized by exteme muscle weakness. It can be congenital (more common in ceratain breeds), or acquired. Acquired MG is an autoimmune disease which affects the the eyes, facial muscles, esophagus and limbs. Acquired MG often causes Megaesophagus.top
