Greetings, dog lovers! 🌞

This Week's Dog-Centric News and Tips are in: 

• Do Dogs Get Grumpy? Yes, So Here’s How to Cheer Them Up

• What Is the Best Way to Clean a Dog’s Teeth?

• Thread: Guidance Needed - A member is planning to have a puppy

• Video: Just a dog enjoying the slide

Bark Bulletin of the Week

Join some of the most buzzing discussions on our forum!

HEARTWARMING STORIES

Dutch swimmer Sharon van Rouwendaal just won gold in the 10km swim, dedicating her victory to her beloved pup Rio, who passed away in May. Named after her 2016 Olympic win, Rio was more than just a pet - he was Sharon's biggest supporter!

When Rio crossed the rainbow bridge, Sharon almost gave up swimming. But inspired by her furry friend's memory, she got a paw tattoo and swam her heart out in his honor.

Now Sharon's made history as the most decorated Olympic marathon swimmer ever. Looks like Rio's still cheering her on from above! 🏊‍♀️🐾

Remember, our four-legged friends may not be with us forever, but their love sure makes a lasting splash in our lives! 💖

DOG BEHAVIOUR

Do Dogs Get Grumpy? Yes, So Here’s How to Cheer Them Up

Ever wonder if your furry friend can wake up on the wrong side of the doggy bed? Well, it turns out our canine companions can totally get grumpy!

First things first, the expert Renee Rhoades confirms that dogs can indeed feel irritable.

Just like us, pups might get cranky from lack of sleep, hunger, or even the summer heat. I mean, imagine wearing a fur coat 24/7 in August - yikes!

But here's the important part: if your pooch is suddenly extra grouchy, it might be more than just a bad mood. It could be a sign they're not feeling their best.

Older dogs, for example, might get more irritable due to physical discomfort. And those adorable squishy-faced breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs?

Their breathing difficulties might make them a bit more prone to grumpiness.

So, how can we turn that doggy frown upside down?

Rhoades suggests paying close attention to your pup's body language and daily routine.

Notice your usually bouncy buddy is moving slower or avoiding touch? It might be time for a vet visit. And remember, we should never punish our pets for being grumpy - instead, we need to figure out what's bugging them!

Here are some tips to keep your furry friend happy:

1. Keep an eye out for changes in behavior or body language

2. Make sure they're getting enough sleep and exercise

3. Stick to a routine - dogs love predictability!

4. In hot weather, keep them cool with plenty of water and shade

5. Regular vet check-ups can catch any health issues early

Remember, even the goodest boys and girls have their off days. So next time your dog gives you the canine cold shoulder, show them some extra love and patience.

Source: TheWildest

Playful Picks

1. Wait for it…

2. It’s an illusion

@officialwillygooddog

Fake news right here😂 #fakenews #funny #waitforit #dogsoftiktok

3. Just a dog enjoying the slide

@pubity

I can't believe Autumn tried to use it a 3RD time 🤣🛝 #RoadTo15Million #Pubity (Stephanie Lawlor via ViralHog)

What Is the Best Way to Clean a Dog’s Teeth?

Did you know that over 80% of dogs age three and up have periodontal disease?

That's enough to make any pup parent howl!

But don't worry, we're here to help you keep those canine canines sparkling clean and your furry friend's breath fresh as a daisy (or at least as fresh as dog breath can be)!

Let's start with the top dog of dental care - brushing those pearly whites! Here's the step-by-step guide to turn your pup into a tooth-brushing champ:

1. Gear up: Get dog-specific toothpaste (human stuff is a big no-no!) and a doggy toothbrush. There are even finger brushes if your pup is extra wiggly!

2. Practice makes pawfect: Get your furry friend used to you touching their mouth. Gentle pets and lots of praise go a long way!

3. Taste test: Find a toothpaste flavor your pup loves. Chicken? Beef? Peanut butter? The options are endless!

4. Brush up: Start slow and be gentle. Circular motions are the way to go!

5. Build that routine: Aim for a minute of brushing daily. Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is good dental hygiene!

But what if your stubborn pooch says "no way" to the toothbrush? Don't throw in the towel just yet! There are other tricks up our sleeves:

• Dental Treats and Chews: Think of these as tasty gym sessions for your pup's teeth! They're great for scrubbing away plaque, but make sure your furry friend takes their time. We don't want any gulping or tummy troubles!

• Water Additives: Sneaky but sweet! These little helpers fight bacteria while your pup stays hydrated. There are even tasteless options for picky drinkers. Just keep an eye on that water bowl to make sure your dog's still lapping it up!

• Dental Sprays and Gels: It's like a spa day for your dog's mouth! These enzyme-packed products work their magic right on the teeth and gums. Try applying after dinner for best results.

• Dental Powders: Sprinkle a little magic on your pup's food! These powders are bacteria's worst nightmare and can help keep those pearly whites shining.

• Dental Diets: Crunch time! These special kibbles are designed to give your dog's teeth a workout while they eat. Just remember, your pup needs to actually chew them to get the benefits. You can find these at your local pet store or ask your vet about prescription options.

Now, let's talk about the warning signs. Watch out for these red flags:

• Bad breath (beyond the usual doggy smell)

• Yellowed or discolored teeth

• Swollen or bleeding gums

• Difficulty eating or dropping food

• Excessive drooling or face rubbing

Spot any of these? Time to book a date with the doggy dentist.

Remember, prevention is the name of the game! Regular at-home care and yearly professional cleanings can save you and your pup from more serious (and wallet-draining) dental issues down the road.

And here's a fun fact: did you know that small breeds are more prone to dental issues? It's true! So pay even more attention to such breeds.

Source: TheWildest

Quiz Answers

False

You might have heard that offering your hand to a strange dog is the way to go, but hold on a second! The expert Guillermo Roa, a professional dog trainer, has some important advice for us.

While we humans love a friendly handshake, dogs don't quite see it the same way. Believe it or not, sticking out your hand could actually be seen as a threat in the canine world. Not exactly the first impression we're going for!

So, what's the best approach? Patience is key. Let the dog come to you if they're feeling sociable. Remember, we don't know this dog's background or training, so it's best to err on the side of caution.

If you do need to greet a new dog, here are some tips:

1. Approach from the side, not head-on

2. Avoid direct eye contact, which can be intimidating for dogs

That’s it for this edition of Dog Forum’s newsletter.

Please let me know what you think about this release in the poll below (Feel free to leave any recommendations. I take into consideration every comment).