Buddy Sensitive Skin

Question
QUESTION: Dear Delores,  I just want to thank you again for your helpful hints.  I really do appreciate you taking the time to respond to my questions.  This is an update on Buddy with a question or two!  

Buddy is like a different dog, very comfortable and more relaxed and he seems happier and healthier too.  I did the generic Aveeno soak for 3 days and the vinegar dip for 3 days. But started him on Nzymes on the 11th about a week ago.  The first few days, some relief but still itched a lot. Comfort for periods of times and then was scratching like crazy.  After 3 days of the Nzymes he became a different dogs.  No more itching or licking at all, I stopped the oatmeal soaks and vinegar dips.  

I did switch his food to Canidae food, canned and kibble (he loves it and is so excited at each meal time :)  The can says for firm stools to mix 25% canned to 74% kibble.  I am mixing  about 3 1/2 ounces canned to about 1/4 cup of kibble twice a day as to keep his stools from being way too soft. I also feed him pieces of Canidae treats!  I would switch to all canned as you suggest if I can get his stools to stay firm.  Do you have any suggestions to keeping a firm stool with just canned food?  

I have used the Malaseb medicated shampoo recommended by Nzymes on him twice.  It doesn't seem to bother him at all and he doesn't seem to itch.  I didn't use the Selsun Blue I bought at all, Hubby will be happy to use it. I will take our own shampoo to the groomer next time as he always seems to itch more after that visit.  

I am considering filtered water do you think this is necessary? Or will it be of any help?

I am happy with Buddy's outcome at this point,   I know it is hard to tell what did it for him.  I'm happy to see a much happier and less stressed dog at this point.  I will continue the Nzymes until it is gone I only used the treats and ox-e drops at this point. When I run out of them I may see how he does without the Nzymes and decide from there if we should give it another try.   

Well you wanted me to let you know so I am.  Thank you again for helping Buddy be as comfortable as he possibly can be.  I know he is happy and he thanks you too, woof woof!! Wags his tail!

Keep up the great work,  You are a true blessing!  I will continue to read your questions and answers as I find them very interesting and knowledgeable.

Best Regards,
Sharon

ANSWER: I'm glad Buddy is improving.

I personally only use Spring water for my dogs.  The reason is no fluoride in Spring Water and mounting evidence is suggesting fluoridated water may well be the reason for the epidemic of thyroid disease in dogs.

With the Canidae, I'd go with whatever agrees with Buddy.
Best of luck,
Delores

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Delores,  Thanks so much for all your help. I will try only spring water!  Buddy is doing great now.  I'm wondering if there is anything we can do about his barking, lol he is a barker....at the littlest of sounds, other dogs and people.  Other than doggie school do you recommend anything else first? He is 2 years old. He doesn't bark at dogs when we are walking down the street, but when they walk by the house, forget it!  I squirt him with a water bottle and that stops him usually, just like the kitty, the water bottle works great!  Thanks, Sharon

Answer
My dogs both bark at the same things.  I let them bark "briefly" and then it's "enough, already" :)

The water bottle is a good tool - just make sure it's a "spray" and not a stream of water that could hit his eyes.  Stand between Buddy and the window/door..say NO firmly but quietly and then spritz.
And move towards him..as if you're herding him back...saying NO!

I do strongly recommend training and dogs generally enjoy the classes and it reinforces your role as pack leader.  They like learning and it's stimulating for them.

And Sharon, once you give a command..never give up.  Hang in with it until he obeys.  Be calm - be patient but persistent.
And write anytime :)
Delores