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Dog questions, answered

10,460 answers about dogs

From a puppy’s first feeding schedule to a senior dog’s comfort care, dog owners ask it all — this page gathers the dog library of KinsLe Answers in one place. Browse by topic below, from feeding and training to health, grooming, safety and travel. Every answer is original, written by KinsLe, and tied to a real KinsLe feature.

Dogs — KinsLe Answers

Health & Vet Care

927 answers in Health & Vet Care — page 39 of 39

Is the discharge from my dog's eyes something to worry about?

A small amount of clear discharge or morning eye goop is usually normal, but thick yellow or green discharge, redness, squinting, or pawing at the eyes deserves a vet visit. Don't use leftover eye drops or human products unless your vet says so — eyes are delicate and the wrong drop can make things worse. KinsLe's Pet…

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What are the signs of an ear infection in dogs?

Watch for head shaking, scratching at the ear, redness, a yeasty or sour smell, dark discharge, or your dog tilting her head to one side. Ear infections are uncomfortable and can have several causes, so a vet should look inside the ear rather than guessing at home. Jot down when symptoms started in KinsLe's Pet…

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How do I clean my dog's ears safely?

Use a vet-recommended ear cleaner, fill the ear canal gently, massage the base, and let your dog shake before wiping the outer ear with cotton or gauze. Never push cotton swabs deep into the canal — you can pack debris down or injure the ear. KinsLe's Care Teams make it easy to put ear cleaning on a shared schedule so…

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Do dental chews actually help my dog's teeth?

The right chews can help scrub away some plaque as your dog gnaws, especially products carrying veterinary dental approval seals. They work best as a supplement to brushing, not a replacement, and you should supervise chewing and pick a size appropriate for your dog. If you are unsure which chew is safe for your dog…

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My dog's breath smells terrible — is that normal?

A little doggy breath is common, but a sudden foul smell can point to dental disease, trapped food, or something else your vet should check. Look for red or bleeding gums, pawing at the mouth, or reluctance to chew, and book a dental exam if you spot them. With KinsLe's Pet Passport, you can bring a tidy history of…

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How often should I brush my dog's teeth?

Daily brushing is the gold standard, but even a few times a week with a dog-safe toothpaste makes a real difference against plaque and tartar. Start slowly, let your dog lick the toothpaste first, and keep sessions short and positive so it becomes routine instead of a wrestling match. KinsLe's Care Teams let you…

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How often do dogs need deworming?

Puppies are dewormed on a frequent early schedule because worms are so common in young dogs, while adults are usually treated based on lifestyle, exposure, and stool testing at checkups. If your dog hunts, frequents dog parks, or eats things off the ground, mention it — your vet may suggest a different plan. KinsLe's…

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What is heartworm and does my dog need prevention?

Heartworm is a serious parasite spread by mosquito bites that can damage a dog's heart and lungs over time. Because mosquitoes are nearly everywhere, most vets recommend ongoing prevention for dogs, along with periodic testing. Keep test results and prevention history together in KinsLe's Pet Passport so nothing gets…

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How should I check my dog for ticks after a walk?

Run your hands slowly over your dog's whole body, feeling for small bumps, and look closely around the ears, neck, armpits, belly, and between the toes. If you find a tick, remove it with fine-tipped tweezers close to the skin and clean the area, then watch for unusual tiredness or appetite loss in the following…

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How do I keep fleas off my dog?

Consistent, year-round prevention recommended by your vet is the most reliable approach, since fleas can survive indoors even in cooler months. Regular vacuuming, washing bedding, and checking your dog's coat — especially around the neck and tail base — help you catch problems early. Ask Kimmy in KinsLe a follow-up…

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When is the best age to neuter my male dog?

There's no single perfect age — it varies with breed and size, and larger dogs are sometimes neutered a bit later than small ones. Your vet can weigh the health and behavior considerations for your individual dog and recommend a window. You can ask KinsLe's Kimmy a follow-up question and get an answer drawn from the…

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Should I spay my female dog?

Spaying prevents unwanted litters and eliminates heat cycles, and it can lower the risk of certain reproductive health problems your vet can explain. The right timing depends on your dog's breed, size, and health, so it's worth a real conversation with your veterinarian before deciding. After the procedure, you can…

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What's the difference between core and non-core vaccines?

Core vaccines protect against widespread, serious diseases every dog is at risk for, like rabies and distemper. Non-core vaccines, such as those for Lyme disease or canine flu, are added based on where you live and how your dog spends time. Your vet can help you decide which extras make sense, and KinsLe's Pet…

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How often does my dog need vaccinations?

Puppies get a series of shots in their first months, and adult dogs typically need booster vaccines on a schedule your vet sets based on the vaccine type, your dog's lifestyle, and local rules. Rabies is usually required by law, while others depend on exposure risk. KinsLe's Pet Passport keeps your dog's vaccine…

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