10 foods to help express dogs anal glands naturally
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10 foods to help express dogs anal glands naturally

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The Pet Health Hub by YuMOVE

Keep your pet active and happy with expert advice from the UK's no.1 vet-recommended joint supplement brand* - your go-to source for mobility, health and wellbeing tips.

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6 min read

Dog constipation: What do I need to know?

Constipation isn’t a diagnosis – it’s a symptom. And the cause matters. Before you try anything at home, it’s worth understanding what might be going on.

4 min read

Dog food allergies

This guide explores dog food allergies, what can cause them, and how to support your dog if you're concerned about their diet.

4 min read

Common dog illnesses and health issues

We all want our dogs to stay healthy, but even with the best care, common dog illnesses can sometimes crop up. Some issues are easy to spot, while others appear with subtle signs. Knowing what to look for can make all the difference. This guide covers some of the common dog ailments, their causes, and how to prevent them. Understanding the facts is key, whether you have a playful puppy or a senior dog. It helps keep them happy and healthy. Most common dog health issues and illnesses As dog owners, keeping our pets healthy is a top priority. Dogs bring us joy, but they can face health challenges. Here are the top 10 health issues affecting dogs today, based on a recent study: Gum disease (12.5%) Plaque build-up causes pain, tooth loss, and bad breath Ear infections (7.3%) Bacteria or allergies can lead to head shaking and discharge Obesity (7.1%) Excess weight stresses joints and raises disease risk Overgrown nails (5.5%) Long nails cause discomfort and mobility issues Anal sac impaction (4.8%) Scooting and licking signal blocked anal sacs Diarrhoea (3.8%) Often from diet changes, scavenging or infections; watch for dehydration Vomiting (3.1%) Can be mild or a sign of illness needing vet care Lameness (2.7%) Limping or stiffness may signal injury or arthritis Arthritis (2.3%) Joint pain and reduced movement, increasingly prevalent in older dogs. Skin issues and allergies Redness, itching, or flaky skin from allergies or parasites Health topic Common issues Possible causes Treatment & support Jump to Find out more Dental Gum disease. Tooth decay and fractures. Tartar build-up. Plaque build-up.   Regular cleaning and brushing at home. Dental vet check-ups. Dental issues in dogs Silent signs of dental discomfort in dogs   Is your dog prone to poor dental health?   How healthy are your dog’s teeth? Skin issues and allergies Parasitic infections (including flea allergies and mange)Environmentalallergies.Foodsensitivities. Flea bites. Pollen, grass, mould or cleaning products. Certain proteins or carbohydrate sources, wheat grain and soy. Additives. Mite bites. Flea treatment. Paw wipes. Sensitive shampoo. Dietary changes – speak to your vet. Supplement support. Medication. Skin issues & allergies in dogs Dog Food Allergies   Dog skin allergies   Can dogs get hayfever? Digestion Diarrhoea and vomiting. Food intolerance. Pancreatitis. Sudden food changes.  Infections - bacteria and viruses. Eating something that disagrees with them or something they shouldn’t. Intolerance to certain foods. Fatty foods.   Dietary changes. Medication. Supplement support. Vet-approved diet.   Stomach, digestion and diet issues in dogs How to help your dog’s sensitive stomach   Stomach problems in dogs: Symptoms, causes and treatments   How to support your dog’s digestion   Joints Arthritis. Hip and elbow dysplasia. Stiffness and slowing down. Muscle loss. Ageing. Illness. Medication. Exercise and weight control. Physiotherapy. Supplement support. Surgery.   Joint & musculoskeletal issues in dogs Stiff joints in dogs: why your dog's joints hurt & caring for them   How to help a dog with arthritis at home   Muscle atrophy in dogs Eyes, ears and nails Infections. Sight loss. Cataracts. Conjunctivitis. Dry eyes. Long nails. Ingrown nails. Infections caused by bacteria, yeast, or allergies. Ageing. Irregular cutting. Medication. Supplement support. Regular trimming.   Other common physical issues in dogs When and how to clean your dog's ears   How to take care of your dog’s eyes   How to cut dog nails     About dog health issues Now that we've covered the top 10 dog diseases, let’s dive deeper. Each section covers causes, symptoms and treatments. We’ll start with dog dental health. Dental issues in dogs Dog oral health plays a big role in overall wellbeing. Yet many owners don’t realise there's a problem until it becomes painful or advanced. Here are the most common dental issues in dogs and how to manage them. Gum disease Also called Gingival Disease, this is one of the most common dog illnesses. Plaque builds up first. It can lead to sore gums, tooth loss, and infections that spread beyond the mouth. Signs include bad breath, red gums, and trouble eating.Regular brushing and dental check-ups help prevent it. Tooth decay and fractures Dogs can crack teeth by chewing hard toys, stones, or bones. Decay may also set in if plaque isn’t removed. Watch for signs like drooling, chewing on one side, or avoiding food. Treatment may mean tooth removal or repair by a vet. Tartar build-up If plaque isn’t cleaned away, it hardens into tartar. This sits on the teeth and under the gums causing irritation and infection. A vet may need to carry out a professional clean under anaesthetic. Retained baby teeth In some breeds, baby teeth don’t fall out as they should. This can lead to crowding, decay and discomfort. Common in small breeds, extraction under general anesthetic may be needed. For more on healthy dog teeth, visit our guide: How healthy are your dog’s teeth. You can also read our article on Do dogs get tooth pain? for signs to watch for and how to help. [pet-profile-banner-wellness] Skin issues & allergies in dogs Dogs often have skin allergies, but the signs aren’t always clear. Pests, diet and more can cause skin issues. The good news? Many problems can be managed or prevented once you know the cause.

4 min read

What to give a dog with an upset stomach

We've all been there – that moment of panic when you're digging through your pockets for a spare poo bag after your pup surprises you with an unexpected runny mess on your morning walk! Joking aside, it can be a worry when your dog has an upset tummy, and you want to help them as quickly as possible. That’s why, in this guide, we share our top tips on how to care for a dog with an upset stomach, so you can help them feel better and get them back to their usual happy self! How to tell my dog has an upset stomach?  Just like us, dogs can get an upset tummy when something's not quite right in their digestive system. Signs vary depending on how bad the tummy upset is but could include:  Soft or slimy poop or diarrhoea Vomiting Listlessness Loss of appetite Drooling Restlessness High temperature Increased need to poop Trembling or shivering Belching, wind, gas or excessive tummy noises Straining to go to the toilet (especially if poop is watery) Your pup may also have stomach pain if they cry when you pick them up. Causes of upset stomachs in dogs Lots of thing can cause stomach problems in dogs. These include eating things they shouldn’t have, a sudden change of diet, stress or eating human food that’s not safe for dogs.   Other potential causes for a dog’s upset stomach include: Food allergies: Some dogs are intolerant to certain food allergens – some examples include beef, chicken and certain carbohydrates. Allergies or reactions to medications Stress: When the body goes into hyper-alert, it can affect the tummy. Eating too fast: Lots of dogs gobble up their food at warp speed. To prevent this, try using a slow feeder. Bacteria, viruses or parasites Medical issues: Serious conditions like liver or kidney disease, stomach ulcers, pancreatitis, inflammatory bowel disease and cancer can cause stomach upsets. Poisoning: As dogs are notorious scavengers, poisoning in dogs can cause severe stomach upsets. One possible cause of tummy upsets is gastroenteritis (inflammation/irritation in the stomach and intestines). In many cases, the symptoms clear up within a day or two. But if they carry on or you have any concerns, you should speak to your vet for advice. How to help a dog with an upset stomach If your dog is off their food, it’s important to do your best to keep them hydrated. A low sodium bone broth can help entice them to drink if they seem uninterested. Feed a bland diet in small amounts every few hours to avoid overloading the digestive system.  Allow your dog to rest and take them out to the garden as often as they need to avoid accidents in the home. Once your dog’s tummy improves, gradually reintroduce their usual food in small amounts, if you have tried something different whilst they are unwell.  What food to give a dog with an upset stomach? If you’re unsure what to give a dog with an upset stomach, it’s best to try and stick to their regular food, as any change can cause further digestive upset. That said, some dogs do well with small amounts of plain, boiled, skinless chicken off the bone. To reduce the change for your dog, you could also add a little chicken to a small portion of their usual food to encourage them to eat. Scrambled eggs and plain boiled rice are another option. Probiotics for dogs can also help restore gut flora, so can be a useful addition once your dog is eating. If you’re unsure what to feed your dog when they have a stomach upset, your vet will have diet suggestions – often ones developed to support your dog’s tummy. When to see a vet  If you were wondering, ‘Why is my dog’s poo soft?’ and when you need to call a vet, here’s the answer. If your dog is vomiting, passing blood, has slimy stools or seems unwell in themselves, it’s sensible to contact your vet for advice as soon as possible. How will the vet help? Depending on the severity of your dog’s tummy upset, the vet will check vital signs like temperature and hydration status, blood pressure, heart rate and gum colour (a poorly dog has pale gums). The vet may suggest electrolytes, probiotics, medications and a suitable diet.  How to help prevent upset stomachs To help reduce the change of your pup from getting an upset stomach in the future, try these tips:  Introduce new foods and treats slowly Feed a daily probiotic for dogs Use a slow feeder to stop your dog guzzling their meal Check for and remove toxic plants and chemicals in the house and garden Watch your dog closely on walks to stop them picking up nasties in the undergrowth The Takeaway At some point, your pup will likely get an upset tummy – it happens! The key is catching it early before it gets serious. Start with a bland diet, make sure they’re staying hydrated, and keep an eye on their energy levels. If things don’t improve within 24-48 hours or if you have any concerns, it’s a good idea to check in with your vet for advice. To help keep your dog in tip-top condition discover YuMOVE's health guides for expert advice on pet care.

4 min read

Why is my dog’s stomach gurgling?

Hearing rumbles and gurgles from your dog's stomach can be surprising – and sometimes a little worrying. But in most cases, it’s nothing to be concerned about. If you've ever found yourself wondering, "Why is my dog's stomach gurgling?", you're definitely not alone. The official name for these tummy noises is borborygmi (pronounced bore-bore-IG-mai). Let’s take a closer look at what these sounds mean, and when it might be worth checking in with your vet.  What are stomach gurgles? Stomach gurgles are usually the sounds of air and fluids moving through your dog’s digestive system. These noises can range from soft rumbles to louder gurgles. Most of the time, they’re completely normal and simply show that digestion is ticking along as it should. If the gurgling becomes louder, more frequent or doesn’t settle, it could suggest something more going on. If you're ever unsure, it’s always a good idea to speak to your vet. If your dog’s tummy makes noises while they’re sleeping, it’s usually nothing to worry about – just digestion continuing as normal. What causes a dog’s stomach to gurgle? There are lots of reasons why your dog’s stomach might be making noises. Some of the most common include: Normal digestion: Just like in humans, a dog’s digestive system naturally makes noises as it processes food. Hunger: An empty tummy can cause louder gurgling, as stomach acids and gases move around. Eating too quickly: Dogs who gulp down their meals often swallow extra air, which can lead to gurgles and gas. Snacking on something unsuitable: If your dog tucks into something they shouldn’t – like rubbish or spoiled food – it can unsettle their tummy for a little while and leave them feeling a bit off-colour. Food intolerance: Some dogs are sensitive to certain ingredients in their diet. This can lead to gurgling and other signs of a sensitive stomach in dogs. Upset stomach or gastroenteritis: Viral or bacterial infections – or any gastrointestinal inflammation – can also cause gurgling, often alongside other signs that your dog isn’t feeling their usual self. My dog’s stomach is gurgling and they won’t eat If your dog's stomach is gurgling and they’re off their food, there could be a few reasons behind it. They might have a temporary upset tummy or feel a little nauseous. If the behaviour carries on for more than a day, or if you have any other concerns, it’s a good idea to check in with your vet to rule out anything more serious. My dog’s stomach is gurgling and they’re eating grass When a dog has a gurgling stomach and starts eating grass, it might be their way of trying to settle their tummy. Grass-eating can sometimes help dogs when they’re feeling a bit nauseous. It’s normal for dogs to nibble on grass now and then, but if they’re doing it regularly alongside a gurgling stomach, it could be a sign that something’s not quite right. It’s worth having a chat with your vet for peace of mind.  My dog has bad gas and a gurgling stomach  Bad gas and a gurgling tummy can happen for a few reasons. It might be linked to your dog’s diet, eating too quickly, or simply having a naturally sensitive tummy. A little bit of gas now and then is perfectly normal. But if your dog has a lot of gas alongside frequent gurgling, it could suggest a sensitive stomach or a food intolerance. If you’re unsure, it might be worth a quick call to your vet. How can I support my dog’s gurgling stomach?  As you’ve learnt, gurgling is usually nothing to worry about, but there are a few simple steps you can take at home to help support your dog’s digestion. If your dog’s stomach is making more noise than usual, you might want to try: Smaller, more frequent meals – Instead of two larger meals, offeringsmaller portions throughout the day can help mean their stomach isn't empty for as long. Slow feeder bowl – A slow feeder can help slow down mealtimes, which should help reduce the amount of air your dog swallows while eating. Probiotics – Adding probiotics to your dog’s diet can help balance their gut bacteria and support healthy digestion. Looking for more ideas? Take a look at our guide on how to support your dog’s digestion. When should I see a vet? If your dog’s tummy is making noises but they seem happy and well otherwise, it’s usually fine to keep an eye on things for 24 hours. In most cases, the sounds settle on their own. However, if you notice any of the following signs, it’s a good idea to check in with your vet: Diarrhea Vomiting Reduced appetite Low energy Excessive drooling Blood in the stool   Understanding your dog’s digestive noises Most of the time, those tummy rumbles are simply digestion at work. But it’s worth paying attention if your dog seems a little out of sorts in other ways. Trust your gut – and theirs. A quick check-in with your vet can offer peace of mind and help keep your dog feeling their best. For more tips on supporting your dog’s digestion, take a look at our dog digestion blogs for expert advice and helpful articles.

6 min read

Your guide to YuMOVE – which products work best together?

Exploring YuMOVE? This guide breaks down what each supplement does – and how to combine them with confidence.

4 min read

Why does your dog have fishy breath?

Find out what's behind your dog's bad breath, and what to do about it!

3 min read

How often should a puppy poop?

Read on to explore puppy digestion tips and what you need to know about their pooing habits.

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