dogs
Browse articles in dogs on Designer Mixes

Best Dog Breeds for Seniors: Low Maintenance and Calm Companions
Choosing the right dog as a senior is a little like choosing the right pair of walking shoes. Comfort matters, the fit matters, and the “best” option is the one that supports your daily life, not the one that looks good on paper. The good news is that many dog breeds are naturally calm,...
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Dog Stuffy Nose: Causes, Home Care, and When to See the Vet
A stuffy nose in dogs can look a lot like it does in people: noisy breathing, sneezing, pawing at the face, and less interest in food because smell is tied to appetite. Many cases are mild and temporary, especially when caused by minor irritation or an uncomplicated respiratory bug. Still,...
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Dog in Heat: Signs, Timeline, and How to Care for Her
When a female dog goes into heat, it can feel confusing at first, especially if it is your first time caring for an intact (not spayed) pup. You may notice new behaviors, a swollen vulva, or light bleeding and wonder what is normal and what is not. In this guide, I will walk you through the signs...
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Seizures in Dogs: Causes, What to Do, When to See a Vet
Few things are as frightening as watching your dog have a seizure. The good news is that with prompt, calm first aid and the right veterinary support, many dogs do well. That said, prognosis depends heavily on the underlying cause and how severe the episodes are. In this guide, I will walk you...
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Kennel Cough in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery Time
Hearing your dog cough can be unsettling, especially when it sounds harsh or honking. Kennel cough is one of the most common reasons dogs develop a sudden cough, and the good news is that most healthy dogs recover well with the right care. In this guide, I will walk you through the symptoms to...
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Labradoodle: Traits, Temperament, Care, and What to Know Before You Bring One Home
Starting your morning right sets the tone for the entire day. I often tell new dog owners that small, consistent habits compound into remarkable results over time. The same idea applies to life with a Labradoodle. When you understand their needs up front and build simple routines for exercise,...
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Which Fruits Are Safe for Dogs? A Practical Guide for Pet Parents
Starting with a smart plan sets the tone for the day. I often remind pet parents I work with that small, consistent choices add up over time. The same is true for our dogs: the treats we offer regularly can meaningfully influence digestion, weight, and overall health. Fruit can be a wholesome treat...
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What To Feed a Vomiting Dog (And When to Call the Vet)
Watching your dog vomit can be unsettling, and it is completely normal to wonder what to do next. In many mild cases, the stomach simply needs a short reset, followed by gentle foods that are easy to digest and unlikely to irritate the gut. In other cases, vomiting is a warning sign that needs...
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How Do You Know When To Put a Dog Down?
Few decisions feel heavier than wondering if it is time to say goodbye to a beloved dog. If you are reading this, you are likely trying to do the most loving thing while hoping for clarity. I often remind families that this decision is not about giving up. It is about preventing suffering when...
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What Vegetables Are Safe for Dogs to Eat?
Starting your morning right sets the tone for the entire day. I tell my patients the same thing about their dogs, too. Small, consistent choices like adding a spoonful of the right veggie can support digestion, weight management, and overall vitality over time. The key is knowing which vegetables...
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18 Signs Your Dog May Be Dying (And What to Do Next)
If you’re here, you’re probably scared and something feels wrong right now. Noticing changes in an older or seriously ill dog can feel overwhelming and confusing, especially when you don’t know whether what you’re seeing is an emergency or something that can wait. I want to say this gently...
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Chiweenie: A Warm, Practical Guide to This Chihuahua–Dachshund Mix
A Chiweenie is a mixed-breed dog created by crossing a Chihuahua with a Dachshund. People love Chiweenies for their big personality in a small package: they are often affectionate, alert, and deeply loyal to their favorite humans. Like all mixes, no two Chiweenies are exactly alike, but...
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Cockapoo
There is a reason the Cockapoo has been a longtime favorite among families, first-time dog owners, and people who simply want a cheerful companion. This Cocker Spaniel and Poodle mix often combines a people-loving personality with an adaptable size and a coat that many owners find easier to live...
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Yorkipoo
A Yorkipoo is a mixed-breed dog created by pairing a Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie) with a Poodle, typically a Toy Poodle or Miniature Poodle. Because the Poodle parent can vary in size and genetics are always a bit of a wildcard, Yorkipoos can look and feel quite different from one dog to the next. In...
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How I Crate Trained My Dog
When I brought home Ollie, my Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, he was small enough to fit in the crook of my elbow and curious enough to follow me everywhere. Like many new puppy parents, I wanted him to feel safe, sleep well, and learn healthy habits from the start. Crate training was my way of...
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Chorkie
A Chorkie is a small mixed-breed dog typically created by pairing a Chihuahua with a Yorkshire Terrier. People are often drawn to Chorkies for their compact size, expressive faces, and lively personalities. Like all mixes, though, there is no single guaranteed look or temperament. A Chorkie can...
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Jackapoo
The Jackapoo is a mixed-breed dog most often created by crossing a Jack Russell Terrier with a Poodle (usually a Miniature Poodle, sometimes a Toy or Standard). People are drawn to Jackapoos for their lively personality, bright intelligence, and often lower-shedding coat compared with many terrier...
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Shihpoo
A Shihpoo is a popular “designer mix” created by crossing a Shih Tzu with a Poodle (most often a Toy or Miniature Poodle). The result is typically a small companion dog known for a sweet personality, a cute teddy bear look, and a coat that can range from wavy to curly. Because the Shihpoo is a...
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Pomchi
The Pomchi is a popular designer mix that blends the spirited Pomeranian with the bold, devoted Chihuahua. Many Pomchis are tiny, bright-eyed, and full of personality, which helps explain why they have become such a sought-after companion in apartments and smaller homes. Because this mix often...
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Schnoodle
A Schnoodle is a cross between a Schnauzer and a Poodle , and it is easy to see why this mix has become such a favorite. Many families are drawn to the Schnoodle’s bright expression, people-focused personality, and coat options that can be lower-shedding than some other breeds. Like all...
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