Latest news with #DanO'Neill
Newsweek
2 days ago
- Health
- Newsweek
If You're Squeamish—Avoid These Dog Breeds
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Dog owners can expect any breed to have bathroom accidents; it comes with the territory. However, those who are squeamish might want to avoid these six dog breeds that new research discovered are more susceptible to diarrhea. The study, published June 11 in PLOS One by Dan O'Neill from the United Kingdom's Royal Veterinary College and colleagues, analyzed veterinarian health records of over 2,250,000 dogs from 2019, revealing that about one in 12 dogs in the U.K. were diagnosed with acute diarrhea that year, or about 8.18 percent. The authors labeled this diagnosis as one of the most common clinical conditions in dogs viewed by primary veterinarians. Like humans, dogs can experience sudden loose or watery stools after food items and water pass too quickly through their gastrointestinal tract, an article from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine reported. Diarrhea can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks, affecting any breed. Six dog breeds—Maltese, Miniature Poodle, Cavapoo, German Shepherd, Yorkshire Terrier, and Cockapoo—were found to have the "highest annual incidence risk for acute diarrhea" when compared to crossbreeds. These dogs were significantly more likely to be diagnosed with diarrhea than generic crossbreeds. Meanwhile, Jack Russell terriers and Chihuahuas are less likely to be diagnosed with diarrhea. However, a dog's diet, exercise habits and an owner's likelihood of bringing their canine to the vet could affect whether those breeds have higher or lower predispositions to diarrhea, the authors wrote. A stock image of a small white and brown dog going to the bathroom outside in the grass. A stock image of a small white and brown dog going to the bathroom outside in the grass. Wavetop/Getty Images The study also found that age plays a role in the odds of a dog being diagnosed with acute diarrhea. The risk increases in dogs aged three and under, as well as adult dogs 9 years and older. The authors speculate that young, curious dogs scavenge and eat items they are not supposed to, leading to unpleasant accidents. While the older dogs with diarrhea could be due to an increase in medications or supplements they might need to take. The complications of aging. As time passes, dogs with diarrhea could experience dehydration. A dog's diarrhea could be a symptom of other health issues, which could require veterinary attention. Two-thirds of the appointments resulted in another diagnosis for the dog. This included 44 percent experiencing vomiting, 28 percent with a reduced appetite and 24 percent of dogs were lethargic, the study found. About 29 percent of all cases were classified as hemorrhagic, or bloody diarrhea. On the bright side, 80 percent of the canine owners who went to the vet for their dog's diarrhea did not require a second appointment. The study found most veterinarians treated diarrhea with probiotics, about 59 percent, dietary management (43 percent), antibiosis (38 percent), and maropitant (24 percent). The amount of antibiotics in treatment used raised concerns about "unnecessary antibiotic therapy" for acute diarrhea, as the authors stated that there have been years of recommendations to avoid high antibiotic use. Unnecessary use of antibiotics can lead to side effects, disrupt a dog's microbiome and could contribute to antibiotic resistance, an article from Visbiome Vet reported.
Scottish Sun
2 days ago
- Health
- Scottish Sun
The six dog breeds most likely to get DIARRHOEA revealed by scientists – and why Jack Russells evade dreaded ‘poonami'
There may even be a "genetic element to the condition," the study said COCKA-POO! The six dog breeds most likely to get DIARRHOEA revealed by scientists – and why Jack Russells evade dreaded 'poonami' SCIENTISTS have revealed the six dog breeds most likely to suffer from diarrhoea. It turns out some pups are unfortunately more susceptible than others. Advertisement 5 A Cockapoo, sometimes called a Spoodle or Cockadoodle, is a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle Credit: Getty 5 Maltese pups are one of the dogs believed to be more susceptible to diarrhoea Credit: Getty 5 According to researchers, the Jack Russell Terrier and Chihuahua are less likely to experience the messy condition Credit: Getty Roughly one in every 12 dogs in the UK will be diagnosed with diarrhoea each year, according to a new study. The study, published today in the journal PLOS One, revealed that the following dog breeds are most at risk of a "dreaded poonami": Maltese Miniature Poodle Cavapoo German Shepherd Yorkshire Terrier Cockapoo There may even be a "genetic element to the condition," the study said. That means there's something within the genes of these six breeds that makes them more likely to get diarrhoea than others. Advertisement With a pool of about 2.25million dogs, lead author Dan O'Neill, of the Royal Veterinary College, UK, and his colleagues, discovered that there were two breed least likely to suffer. According to researchers, the Jack Russell Terrier and Chihuahua are less likely to experience the messy condition. The researchers note that it is the diets and exercise habits of different breeds may influence this. The study relied on data from vets around the country. Advertisement So the researchers added that the different likelihoods of owners taking their dog to the vet in the first place could have skewed the results. Dogs prefer EVs to fuel-powered cars with heart rates revealing exactly how your pet feels on drive, study shows The condition is most common in dogs under three years old or older than nine years, the study said. Young pups that often eat things they shouldn't may also have digestive issues, while older dogs may experience it as a complication of ageing. More than 80 per cent of suffering pups get better after one trip to the vets, the researchers also found, suggesting the condition is short-lived. Advertisement 'Experiencing the dreaded 'poonami' with your dog is one of those events any dog owner fears," Dr. O'Neill said in a statement. "This new study shows that diarrhoea events are very common in dogs but that owners should not panic. "No matter how bad the deluge, most dogs will recover in a few days after veterinary treatment.' 5 Miniature or Toy poodles are also common sufferers Credit: Getty Advertisement
The Irish Sun
2 days ago
- Health
- The Irish Sun
The six dog breeds most likely to get DIARRHOEA revealed by scientists – and why Jack Russells evade dreaded ‘poonami'
SCIENTISTS have revealed the six dog breeds most likely to suffer from diarrhoea. It turns out some pups are unfortunately more susceptible than others. Advertisement 5 A Cockapoo, sometimes called a Spoodle or Cockadoodle, is a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle Credit: Getty 5 Maltese pups are one of the dogs believed to be more susceptible to diarrhoea Credit: Getty 5 According to researchers, the Jack Russell Terrier and Chihuahua are less likely to experience the messy condition Credit: Getty Roughly one in every 12 dogs in the UK will be diagnosed with diarrhoea each year, according to a new The study, published today in the journal PLOS One, revealed that the following dog breeds are most at risk of a "dreaded poonami": Maltese Miniature Poodle Cavapoo German Shepherd Yorkshire Terrier Cockapoo There may even be a "genetic element to the condition," the study said. READ MORE ON PETS That means there's something within the genes of these six breeds that makes them more likely to get diarrhoea than others. Advertisement With a pool of about 2.25million dogs, lead author Dan O'Neill, of the Royal Veterinary College, UK, and his colleagues, discovered that there were two breed least likely to suffer. According to researchers, the Jack Russell Terrier and Chihuahua are less likely to experience the messy condition. The researchers note that it is the diets and exercise habits of different breeds may influence this. Most read in Science The study relied on data from vets around the country. Advertisement So the researchers added that the different likelihoods of owners taking their dog to the vet in the first place could have skewed the results. Dogs prefer EVs to fuel-powered cars with heart rates revealing exactly how your pet feels on drive, study shows The condition is most common in dogs under three years old or older than nine years, the study said. Young pups that often eat things they shouldn't may also have digestive issues, while older dogs may experience it as a complication of ageing. More than 80 per cent of suffering pups get better after one trip to the vets, the researchers also found, suggesting the condition is short-lived. Advertisement 'Experiencing the dreaded 'poonami' with your dog is one of those events any dog owner fears," Dr. O'Neill said in a statement. "This new study shows that diarrhoea events are very common in dogs but that owners should not panic. "No matter how bad the deluge, most dogs will recover in a few days after veterinary treatment.' 5 Miniature or Toy poodles are also common sufferers Credit: Getty Advertisement 5 Out of a pool of about 2.25million dogs, German Shepherds were also revealed to experience the digestive condition more frequently than other breeds Credit: Getty
Daily Mail
22-04-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Is YOUR dog suffering from anxiety? Top trainer LOUISE GLAZEBROOK reveals the hidden signs that your pet is stressed based on its breed
Britain's dogs are more anxious than ever, with vets revealing a shocking tenfold increase over the past decade in the number on 'Puppy Prozac', otherwise known as the human antidepressant fluoxetine. Dr Dan O'Neill, an associate professor at the Royal Veterinary College, found that nearly one in 500 dogs were taking fluoxetine for behaviour such as whining, barking or chewing furniture. A similar study in 2013 found that only one in 10,000 dogs were on the drug. From depressed Dachshunds to panicking Pomeranians, life can be miserable for our mutts. A 2022 poll by the Guide Dogs charity found nearly three out of four dogs display signs of anxiety or depression. And now that Britain is home to a record 13million pooches, the problem is pressing. This is why leading dog behaviourist Louise Glazebrook, author of Everything Your Puppy Wants You To Know, has launched The Anxious Dog Course, a six-week online programme with pre-recorded lessons and live support to help owners transform anxious pets into calmer companions. 'While medication can be crucial for some dogs, this is not required for the majority of my clients,' she says. 'There can be many causes for stressed dogs. 'As owners we have to figure out what, why, how – and then we can create kind solutions. Covid saw a rise in ownership, which led to a rise in people choosing unsuitable dogs for their lifestyle and badly bred ones.' It's asking for trouble to pick a pet without considering their needs – for example, treating working dogs like lapdogs, or expecting breeds that need hours of exercise to be happy with a trot around the block. A major factor in the rise of canine anxiety, says Louise, is that 'we expect dogs to fit into our lives, dragging them to shops and cafes when they'd rather be running outside or sleeping at home'. If your dog barks, won't sit still, pants or jumps up at you when you go to certain places, stop taking them there, as Louise says these are 'clear signs of anxiety'. But while a dog's stress signals might be obvious to an expert, research shows nearly 90 per cent of owners fail to recognise basic symptoms such as lip-licking and yawning. Anxious pets are more prone to illness and have shorter lifespans as well as being more likely to show destructive and aggressive behaviour. Instead of rushing to the vet for a pharmaceutical cure, Louise says understanding your dog's behaviour can help spot early signs of anxiety. Here she explains the ways stress manifests itself in some of our most popular breeds. Border Collies Stressed Collies are prone to compulsive staring and 'fly snapping', where they appear to bite in mid-air. They may also chase shadows or reflections, or engage in obsessive tail chasing and excessive barking. 'As highly intelligent and active herding and working dogs, Border Collies need ample mental and physical stimulation,' explains Louise. 'When forced into environments that contradict their instincts, they may chase cars or try to herd bikes. It's a sign they need proper outlets. Originally bred to work and round up animals for hours, it's essential to engage them in agility and field training, puzzles and frequent walks.' Find out more at French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs These are affectionate breeds but susceptible to skin allergies, hot spots and itchiness, which can cause stress. 'Skin allergies make interactions painful, so if people constantly touch a sore spot, the dog may begin associating humans with discomfort.' Signs of stress include panting, pacing and excessive licking. Addressing allergies rather than relying on immuno-suppressants is crucial for the dog's wellbeing. Dachshunds These are prone to separation anxiety and can become frustrated by lack of stimulation. 'Dachshunds were bred to go down holes hunting for badgers,' says Louise. 'Dachshund is German for 'badger hound'. Treating them like lapdogs leads to dissatisfaction.' They may express anxiety through excessive barking, trembling or, when stressed by other dogs, rolling on to their backs. This is often a sign of intimidation, especially if on a lead, rather than an invitation for a belly rub. 'They thrive on companionship, a consistent routine, and activities such as playing hide and seek games with treats.' Cocker and Springer Spaniels Energetic and affectionate, Spaniels may develop anxiety if not given direction and provided with outlets. 'Working Cocker Spaniels, in particular, are bred without an off switch,' says Louise. 'Without sufficient stimulation, they become frantic and hyper-alert. 'Using scent work, swimming and 'find it' games are crucial. Lobbing a ball repeatedly will not just ruin their joints in the long term, but turn them into demanding adrenaline junkies. Instead, throw balls into long grass so they have to sniff it out, which helps them relax.' There are different kinds of Spaniel, and figuring out what yours was bred to do is imperative. A Springer Spaniel is not the same as a Cavalier King Charles, which has only moderate exercise needs – up to an hour daily – but is prone to separation anxiety. Cockapoos This mixed breed is derived from two different working dogs, which means they require plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Signs of stress include destructive behaviour, excessive barking and pacing. Training games that you play with your dog, edible chews that last at least 30 minutes (and not the nylon ones) and a daily routine can prevent anxiety. Staffordshire Bull Terriers Stressed Staffies exhibit compulsive behaviour, hyperactivity, inability to pay attention to commands, tail chasing and 'surface licking' of furniture and floors. They are a sociable breed and need a few outings a day to let off steam, play with toys and enjoy interactive games with you. Scent games like treat-finding offer essential stimulation. Staffies are prone to separation anxiety, with vet charity PDSA cautioning that 'no dog should be left alone for more than four hours, but Staffies may struggle with even shorter periods'. German Shepherds Like the Border Collie this is a highly intelligent working dog designed to guard, jump and run. When their needs aren't met, German Shepherds can become hyperactive, pace and drink excessively. 'They may become overly vocal and physical – using lunging, jumping up at, pulling on the lead to try to access what they need which is input, training, and human interaction,' says Louise. Exercise is vital. 'Shepherds suffer with hip issues and this pain often goes undiagnosed, increasing anxiety and lowering their tolerance.' Labrador Retrievers Labradors are friendly and easygoing, but they experience stress from boredom, lack of exercise or separation anxiety. Signs include excessive chewing, whining and restlessness. Provide plenty of outings for sniffing, visit new locations for walks, and supply mental stimulation and toys. Miniature Schnauzers Lively and characterful, Schnauzers were originally bred as rat-catchers and guard dogs. When stressed, they may become reactive and chase everything. Signs may include straining at the lead to get away and barking at everything from people to other dogs. They may panic when left alone. Focus on making your dog feel secure at home but don't be tempted to use crates if they dislike being in one. Despite their small size, they require significant exercise, ideally two walks daily. TOP TIPS TO REDUCED YOUR PET'S ANXIETY Regular Exercise The right amount of activity helps release pent-up energy and reduces stress. If your dog was bred to pull sleighs in the snow, a lap around the park isn't going to cut it. We need to think of the dog rather than ourselves. Mental Stimulation Puzzle toys, scent games and training exercises keep their minds engaged. Consistent Routine Dogs thrive on routine, so feeding, walks and bedtime should stick to a regime. Safe Spaces Creating a quiet, comfortable space where yours can retreat is vital. This can vary for each dog. Look at where they gravitate to. Creating An Exit Plan Help them escape tricky situations with people or other dogs, as this can prevent anxiety from escalating into reactivity, such as barking and lunging. If your dog is showing signs of feeling unsure, walk away with them or let them hide behind your legs. Dogs need us to understand them, help them and be their voice.
