Click to Skip Ahead Uromastyx Diet in the Wild Uromastyx Diet Under Human Care Feeding Guide Additional Tips for Optimal Health As a wildlife enthusiast‚ there’s nothing more captivating than observing the unique eating habits of different species. Maybe that sounds geeky‚ but observing nature is endlessly fascinating‚ even if it’s in your pets! One such fascinating reptile is the Uromastyx lizard‚ known for its herbivorous diet and specialized digestive mechanisms. In this informative guide‚ we will explore the eating habits of Uromastyx lizards‚ both in the wild and under human care. We will delve into their dietary preferences‚ feeding schedule‚ digestive mechanisms‚ special dietary considerations‚ and tips for ensuring their optimal health. Uromastyx Diet in the Wild Uromastyx lizards are native to the Arabian Peninsula‚ Northern Africa‚ and parts of Southwest Asia. In their natural habitats‚ they often feed on low growing vegetation such as grasses‚ herbs‚ cacti‚ and succulent foliage. They also enjoy a varied diet consisting of fruits‚ flowers‚ leaves‚ stems and‚ occasionally‚ insects. In some cases‚ they will also consume small amounts of animal matter such as bird eggs‚ lizards‚ and small rodents. Image Credit: I Wayan Sumatika‚ Shutterstock Uromastyx Diet Under Human Care Uromastyx are able to eat a variety of healthy foods that are common staples in most home. The diet should consist mainly of vegetables and herbs‚ supplemented with small amounts of fruits‚ flowers‚ and leafy greens. Additionally‚ some Uromastyx owners will also offer mealworms or wax worms as an occasional treat. A Guide to Feeding Uromastyx Lizards Foods to Feed a Uromastyx Leafy Greens: Uromastyx lizards benefit from a variety of leafy greens‚ such as collard greens‚ dandelion greens‚ mustard greens‚ kale‚ and spinach. These provide essential nutrients like calcium‚ vitamin A‚ and fiber. Flowers: Edible flowers like hibiscus‚ rose petals‚ and nasturtiums can be offered as occasional treats‚ enriching the lizard’s diet. Vegetables: Include a mix of vegetables such as bell peppers‚ carrots‚ squash‚ and zucchini to provide additional nutrients and variety. Seeds: Incorporate seeds such as millet‚ flax seeds‚ and chia seeds in small quantities. These offer healthy fats and act as a source of enrichment. Image Credit: Nikoletta Lia Muhari‚ Shutterstock Foods to Avoid in Large Amounts Animal Protein: It is crucial to avoid offering animal-based proteins like  meat‚ or dairy products in large amounts. Uromastyx lizards are not designed to digest these foods and may experience digestive issues if given such items. High-Fat Foods: Limit fatty foods as they can lead to weight gain and health problems. Avoid items like avocados‚ nuts‚ and seeds high in fat content. Frequency Just like us humans‚ Uromastyx lizards benefit from regular meals. To keep your scaly friend in optimal health‚ feed your young Uromastyx twice a day – once in the morning and again in the evening. This routine ensures they have a steady supply of nutrients throughout the day‚ helping them stay active and healthy. Older Uromastyx can be fed less often. Quantity When it comes to feeding your Uromastyx‚ size does matter! A good rule of thumb is to provide an amount of food that is roughly equal to the size of your lizard’s head. Overfeeding can lead to health problems such as obesity and digestive issues‚ so it’s always better to err on the side of caution. Remember‚ it’s not just about the quantity but also the quality of food that counts! Duration Uromastyx lizards are quick eaters. They typically finish their meal within 15–30 minutes. It’s essential to remove any uneaten food after this time period to maintain cleanliness and prevent the growth of bacteria in their habitat. Regular cleaning also helps to avoid attracting pests and keeps your Uromastyx’s home a safe and comfortable place. Image Credit: Naaman Abreu‚ Shutterstock Digestive System Understanding the Uromastyx lizard’s digestive system is essential to ensure their optimal health and prevent complications. Here’s an overview of their unique digestive system: Hindgut Fermentation Uromastyx lizards possess a specialized hindgut that serves as a fermentation chamber. It allows them to break down complex plant fibers and extract maximum nutrition from their diet‚ similar to a horse. Calcium Metabolism These lizards require ample calcium for proper bone development and overall health. Supplement their diet with calcium-rich foods such as calcium dusted on greens or calcium-rich reptile-specific supplements. Water Consumption Uromastyx lizards have evolved to obtain most of their water requirements from the vegetation they consume. However‚ they still benefit from regular access to fresh water for hydration purposes. Special Dietary Considerations To ensure the optimal health of Uromastyx lizards‚ consider the following dietary considerations: UVB Lighting Provide appropriate UVB lighting to facilitate vitamin D3 synthesis‚ which aids in calcium absorption. This is crucial for maintaining healthy bones and preventing metabolic bone disease. Image Credit: Dan_Koleska‚ Shutterstock Dental Health Uromastyx lizards have specialized dental structures adapted for grinding plant material. To promote dental health‚ offer a variety of textured foods‚ including tough greens and occasional fibrous treats like edible cacti. Gut Loading and Supplementation If utilizing feeder insects as an occasional treat‚ make sure to gut load them with nutritious vegetables for at least 24 hours before offering them to the lizard. Supplementation In addition to a well-balanced diet‚ Uromastyx lizards may benefit from vitamin and mineral supplements. Calcium and vitamin D3 are particularly important for their bone health. Consult with a reptile veterinarian or herpetologist to determine the appropriate supplementation regimen for your Uromastyx lizard. Temperature and Humidity Uromastyx lizards are adapted to arid environments and require specific temperature and humidity conditions for proper digestion and overall health. Ensure that their enclosure provides a temperature gradient‚ with a basking spot around 100-110°F (38-43°C) and a cooler side around 80–90°F (27–32°C). Maintain a relative humidity level of around 30–40%. Preparing and Serving Food To ensure the optimal health and nutrition of Uromastyx lizards‚ it is important to properly prepare and serve their food: Freshness: Offer fresh food daily to avoid spoilage and maximize nutrient content. Remove any uneaten food promptly to maintain cleanliness and prevent potential health issues. Variety: Incorporate a diverse range of vegetables and greens into the lizard’s diet to provide a wide array of nutrients and stimulate natural foraging behaviors. Chopping and Shredding: Uromastyx lizards have small mouths and may struggle to consume large pieces of food. Chop or shred vegetables and greens into appropriately sized pieces to facilitate easy eating. Presentation: Offer food in shallow dishes or on flat surfaces to allow easy access for the lizard. This mimics their natural foraging behavior and encourages active feeding. Additional Tips for Optimal Uromastyx Health To promote the overall well-being of Uromastyx lizards‚ consider the following tips: Environmental Enrichment: Provide a stimulating environment with hiding spots‚ climbing structures‚ and different textures for the lizard to explore. This helps prevent boredom and stimulates natural behaviors. Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Schedule regular visits with a reptile veterinarian for health check-ups and to address any concerns regarding the lizard’s diet or overall well-being. Observation and Monitoring: Observe your Uromastyx lizard’s eating habits‚ body condition‚ and droppings regularly. Any significant changes or abnormalities should be noted and promptly addressed. Image Credit: Danny Ye‚ Shutterstock Conclusion Understanding the eating habits of Uromastyx lizards is crucial for their optimal health and well-being‚ whether in the wild or under human care. By providing a balanced and varied diet‚ replicating their natural feeding behaviors‚ and considering their specialized digestive mechanisms‚ you can ensure a long and healthy life for these fascinating reptiles. Sources https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/uromastyx https://www.cascadekennels.com/uromastyx-care/#:~:text=Collard%20greens%2C%20mustard%20greens%2C%20turnip‚iceberg%20lettuce%20or%20celery%20tops. https://azeah.com/lizards/basic-care-uromastyx   Featured Image Credit: Sean McVey‚ Shutterstock The post What Do Uromastyx Eat? Vet-Reviewed Nutritional Info appeared first on Pet Keen.

Are you curious about Samoyed dogs? These fluffy white creatures are not only stunning to look at but also hardworking and cheerful. With their regal and captivating appearance‚ Samoyeds are a sight to behold. Even though they might not be the most popular breed‚ you will definitely be mesmerized by their stunning white fur‚ black nose‚ and upturned mouth. If you’re considering getting a Samoyed for your family or just want to learn more about them‚ we’ve put together a list of 11 fascinating facts about these lovely canines that will surely satisfy your curiosity. The 11 Incredible Samoyed Facts 1. Samoyeds Originated in Siberia The Samoyed is an impressive working dog breed with roots in Siberia. The Nenets people‚ formerly known as Samoyed or Yurak‚ used these animals as sled dogs and for herding their reindeer. This breed was officially recognized by the AKC in 1906. Image Credit: Zanna PesninaS‚ hutterstock 2. Samoyeds Are Famous for Their “Sammie Smile” Have you ever heard of the “Sammie Smile”? If you’re familiar with the Samoyed breed‚ you probably know exactly what we’re talking about. These furry pups have a way of looking like they’re grinning from ear to ear‚ which only enhances their irresistible charm. It’s no wonder why so many families choose to welcome a Samoyed into their homes. Samoyeds always seem to have a smile on their face‚ but there’s a reason for that. This breed was bred to have black lips and a curve at the corners of their mouths. The American Kennel Club (AKC) confirms this in their breed standard.1 However‚ this physical trait has a practical purpose—it prevents Samoyeds from drooling. In the frigid Siberian temperatures‚ drool would freeze and form icicles on the dogs’ mouths and thick fur. 3. Samoyeds Are Relatively Odorless If you’re looking for a dog that won’t leave your house smelling like a kennel‚ the Samoyed is definitely the way to go! These pups are practically odorless‚ which is a huge plus. However‚ just like any other dog‚ they should be groomed regularly to keep their coat free of mats and tangles. Otherwise‚ dirt and debris can get trapped‚ creating an unpleasant odor. So‚ while you may not need to bathe them as often as other breeds‚ give them plenty of brushings! Image Credit: Studio Peace‚ Shutterstock 4. A Samoyed Named Maya is a YouTube Star Maya the Samoyed‚ also known as the Maya Polar Bear‚ is a true social media superstar! With an impressive following on both Instagram and YouTube‚ Maya and her mother have captured viewers’ hearts worldwide. They have created some seriously soothing ASMR (autonomous sensory meridian response) videos perfect for those needing relaxation. Watch as Maya chows down on various delicious treats‚ creating the most satisfying crunchy sounds that will surely put a smile on your face! 5. Samoyeds Can Tolerate the Cold Have you ever complained about feeling cold? Well‚ imagine living in Oymyakon‚ a Siberian town where temperatures can plummet to a bone-chilling minus 60 °F! It’s hard to fathom how anyone could survive in such extreme conditions. However‚ Samoyed dogs have a secret weapon—their dense white coat! The density of their fur provides an excellent defense against almost all the elements. In cold weather‚ you might even see them sleeping with their fluffy tails draped over their faces to keep warm. Image Credit: Audrius Vizbaras‚ Pixabay 6. Queen Alexandra Was a Big Fan of Samoyeds Dogs have been cherished companions throughout history‚ bringing joy to both average citizens and royalty alike. Queen Elizabeth II had her loyal Corgis‚ King Charles II adored his Spaniels‚ and the ancient Chinese Emperors treasured their Pekingese. Queen Alexandra of the United Kingdom was a true dog lover. One breed that captured her heart was the Samoyed‚ which she received as a gift from the Czar of Russia. Her affection for the breed only grew stronger with time. She went above and beyond to spread awareness about these adorable animals. 7. Samoyeds and Wolves Are Closely Related As a spitz breed‚ the Samoyed dog is closely related to wolves. They have distinct features like curly tails and fox-like faces‚ similar to other breeds like Akitas‚ Shiba Inus‚ and Chow Chows. In 2011‚ scientists discovered a fossil of a dog that was 33‚000 years old‚ known as the “Altai dog.” This dog was a hybrid of a dog and a wolf‚ but DNA testing revealed that it was more dog than wolf. The Samoyed is the one that is most closely related to this ancient hybrid. Image Credit: Nik Tsvetkov‚ Shutterstock 8. Samoyeds For Allergy Sufferers If you’ve ever spent time with a Sammie‚ you’re probably no stranger to their shedding habits. But here’s a surprising fact—despite their furry nature‚ Samoyeds are often said to make excellent pets for people with allergies. Sure‚ they may be heavy shedders‚ but they are anecdotally thought to produce less dander than other pooches. However‚ this isn’t backed up by scientific research which suggests that there’s no difference in the amount of allergen shed by breeds thought to be hypoallergenic versus those that are not. It is best to consult your allergist and to spend time with the individual dog you plan to adopt to find out if you are allergic to them. 9. Samoyeds Can Be Found in Colors Other Than White Samoyeds can actually come in a variety of colors. It’s not just the classic bright white coat that you usually see. They can also have silver-tipped white‚ cream or biscuit coats. But pure white fur has become the standard in most parts of the world. Image Credit: А-r-e-s‚ Pixabay 10. Samoyeds Groom Themselves Similarly to Cats Samoyeds are absolutely adorable with their lush‚ double coats. It’s easy to assume that their pure-white fluffy coat would get dirty quickly‚ but you’ll be pleasantly surprised to know these cuties are fantastic groomers that diligently self-groom. However‚ if you have a Samoyed in your life‚ it’s still important to do your part in keeping their fur looking beautiful. Their dense coats require regular brushing and combing‚ but it’s all worth it for the love and companionship these furry friends bring. 11. Samoyeds Have Visited the Poles Samoyeds are special animals known for their thick‚ fluffy coats and adventurous personalities. They are particularly well-suited for living in extremely cold climates. Interestingly‚ Samoyeds were the preferred breeds for companionship and work during expeditions to the North and South Poles. Samoyeds have been a part of Antarctic expeditions since the 19th century‚ brought along by explorers like Norwegian Fridtjof Nansen and Englishman Robert Scott. These canines can survive in frigid temperatures‚ have the energy to work tirelessly‚ and be trainable for new jobs. To this day‚ some Samoyeds even continue to take trips to these places! Image Credit: chek89645040878‚ Pixabay Conclusion The Samoyed is a beautiful and smart choice if you’re looking for a furry friend who will bring joy and companionship into your home. They have an innate desire to be helpful and enjoy being given tasks. However‚ remember that they have high energy levels and require a fair amount of attention‚ care and exercise. Despite these needs‚ Samoyeds are highly sought after for their loving and loyal nature. But always prepare for the responsibility before welcoming one into your family Sources https://www.oldsams.info/common/articles/1903_mrskilburnscottssamoyeds.html https://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/resources/samoyed/ https://www.britannica.com/animal/Samoyed https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/samoyed-history-arctic-working-sled-dogs/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3680143/#:~:text=For%20homes%20with%20detectable%20dog‚all%2C%20p%20%3E%200.05). https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna43946524 Featured Image Credit: Sofia Dudova‚ Shutterstock The post 11 Incredible Samoyed Facts (Vet-Approved) appeared first on Pet Keen.

Click to Skip Ahead What Is Marzipan? Why Is Marzipan Not Good for Dogs? What If Your Dog Eats Some Marzipan? What Human Foods Are Safe to Give as Treats? FAQ As dog parents‚ we love spoiling our pups‚ which we typically do with toys‚ walks‚ playtime‚ and cuddles. Also‚ finding them tasty treats that make them happy can make us happy in return. So‚ if you’ve been enjoying a piece of marzipan and are wondering if you can share it with your dog‚ know that while marzipan isn’t toxic‚ it’s not a healthy option for dogs‚ so it’s not recommended. Here‚ we explain why and what better treat options are available for your dog. What Exactly Is Marzipan? Marzipan is typically made with just three ingredients: ground almonds‚ confectioners’ sugar‚ and egg whites. It is more popular in parts of Europe than in most other areas of the world. Various countries have traditions around marzipan‚ and it is traditionally dyed and shaped into little sculptures. For example‚ marzipan is shaped into candy and coated with chocolate in France. In Germany‚ pink marzipan pigs are made specially for New Year’s Eve. Marzipan is made by grinding blanched and skinless almonds and combining them with sugar‚ egg whites‚ and sometimes almond extract‚ to kick that almond flavor into high gear! After everything is combined‚ it becomes a smooth and pliable dough that can be easily shaped and molded. Image Credit: HandmadePictures‚ Shutterstock Why Is Marzipan Not Good for Dogs? Marzipan is a sweet treat‚ which is partly why your dog shouldn’t be given any. While almonds do have nutritional benefits for humans‚ marzipan isn’t healthy for dogs because it’s too high in fat and sugar. Sweet Almonds Almonds have nutritional benefits but are also high in fat‚ so if they’re consumed too often‚ it can lead to obesity. They can also cause upset stomach‚ which can lead to: Vomiting Diarrhea Lack of appetite Drinking less water Lethargy Dogs excessively gulping and licking at the air and their chops There’s also the risk of a flare-up of pancreatitis‚ which can be quite serious if left untreated. While Marzipan is usually made with sweet almonds which are fine it is important to remember that bitter almonds contain high levels of cyanide which can be toxic to our pets. Image Credit: t_watanabe‚ Pixabay Sugar Too much sugar in a dog’s diet can potentially lead to obesity‚ pancreatitis‚ and gastrointestinal upset. A dog’s digestive system isn’t accustomed to sugar and has difficulty processing it‚ and marzipan contains a large amount of sugar. If the marzipan is made with the artificial sweetener xylitol‚ it’s toxic to dogs and must be avoided! Additional Ingredients It is possible that other ingredients are added to marzipan to make it delicious for humans but some of this could be toxic to your dog. These include chocolate‚ raisins‚ grapes and macadamia nuts. What If Your Dog Eats Some Marzipan? If your dog ate a little piece of plain marzipan‚ they will likely be fine beyond experiencing a bit of stomach upset. Marzipan is not toxic and shouldn’t cause any serious harm‚ especially if your dog only ate a small amount. Make sure you check for other harmful ingredients such as chocolate‚ xylitol‚ raisins‚ grapes or macadamia nuts. If they ate a large amount or the marzipan had some ingredients toxic for dogs‚ you should ask your vet for their advice. Image Credit: SeventyFour‚ Shutterstock What Human Foods Are Safe to Give as Treats? Food high in fats‚ sugar‚ and carbohydrates isn’t recommended for dogs. You can give your dog any of the following‚ albeit in moderation: Blueberries Bell peppers Carrots Green beans Pumpkin Watermelon Chicken (cooked‚ plain‚ with no seasonings) Peanut butter (no added ingredients like salt‚ sugar or xylitol) All these foods should be considered treats and only given to your dog in moderation. Anything that you feed your dog should be plain with no added seasonings. Remember‚ certain human foods are highly toxic to dogs‚ such as xylitol‚ onions‚ and garlic‚ which are frequently used in seasonings and as ingredients in other foods. Speak with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s diet and what is safe to feed them. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Can Dogs Eat Almonds? Almonds aren’t the greatest snacks for dogs. Beyond the high fat that can lead to health issues‚ almonds are also a choking risk or can sometimes cause an intestinal blockage. They are frequently sold salted and seasoned with species that can include onion and garlic powder‚ which is also bad for dogs. What Kinds of Almonds Are Dangerous to Dogs? The worst almonds—for humans and dogs—are bitter almonds. These are not available in the U.S. because they are illegal to sell to consumers. Bitter almonds have a toxin that turns into cyanide when the body breaks it down. A dog suffering from cyanide poisoning will show the following signs: Rapid breathing Difficulty breathing Excessive drooling Convulsions Collapse Avoid bitter almonds‚ and always take your dog to your vet or the closest emergency clinic if they eat something toxic. Image Credit: kuvona‚ Shutterstock Can Dogs Eat Treats Made With Almond Flour? This is technically safe‚ though it depends on the other ingredients. That said‚ almond flour still has the high-fat issue that regular almonds have. If your dog has a small treat that contains almond flour and nothing else bad for dogs‚ it’s okay but not necessarily recommended. Is Almond Milk Safe for Dogs? A small amount of almond milk on rare occasions should be okay. However‚ manufactured almond milk tends to contain added sugar‚ which can lead to an upset stomach and weight gain over time. Almond milk tends to be less fatty compared to whole almonds‚ but it’s still not recommended for dogs. Conclusion Marzipan should only be eaten by humans. It isn’t toxic to dogs in most cases‚ but if they eat too much they can develop vomiting and diarrhea. So‚ keep your marzipan out of your dog’s reach‚ and the same can be said for any other sugary and fatty treats. Consult your vet before you add something new to your dog’s diet‚ and ask for advice about healthier alternatives. Sources https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3793392/ https://www.msdvetmanual.com/toxicology/cyanide-poisoning/cyanide-poisoning-in-animals https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/endocrine/c_dg_xylitol_toxicity https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poison/onion/ https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poison/garlic/ Featured Image Credit: Gayvoronskaya_Yana‚ Shutterstock The post Can Dogs Eat Marzipan? Vet-Approved Facts &; FAQ appeared first on Pet Keen.

Hamsters are partial to munching on bits of fruits and veggies‚ but there are certain food items that should always be avoided. Onions‚ for example‚ should never be fed to hamsters because they can make them very unwell. Read on to find out why hamsters cannot eat onions and to learn more about safe and unsafe foods for hamsters. Why Can’t Hamsters Eat Onions? Just because hamsters eat a variety of vegetables‚ doesn’t mean every kind is safe. The reason onions are not safe for hamsters is that they contain compounds that turn into disulfides‚ which can result in a condition called hemolytic anemia—the destruction of the red blood cells. For the same reason‚ hamsters should not eat garlic‚ spring/green onions‚ shallots‚ leeks‚ or chives. What Is a Suitable Hamster Diet? Hamsters are omnivorous animals that require a diet consisting of quality hamster pellets (you can buy these in pet stores or online)‚ fresh leafy greens and vegetables‚ with some fruit in moderation. When picking hamster pellets‚ avoid colorful‚ muesli-type mixes‚ as these tend to encourage pickiness‚ meaning the hamster won’t get all the nutrients they need. As for fruits and vegetables‚ be careful not to go overboard because‚ in large amounts‚ these can cause an upset stomach. About half a tablespoon per day should be just about right. To add variety‚ you can cut a few fruits and veggies into tiny pieces and make a cute mini hamster salad! You can also give your hamster some fiber-packed timothy hay to nibble on as a supplement‚ as well as something to dig and burrow in. Care should be taken to ensure that the diet is balanced and varied so the hamster gets a good mix of nutrients‚ and you can treat them to protein-filled snacks in small amounts now and again‚ like mealworms‚ grasshoppers‚ crickets‚ tofu‚ lean chicken‚ or boiled eggs. Sunflower seeds are also common treats‚ but be careful as they are deceptively high in fat. Clean water should be on offer at all times. Image Credit: RaquelVizcaino‚ Shutterstock Which Vegetables Can Hamsters Eat? Though onions and other members of the allium family are off the menu for hammies‚ they can still indulge in a huge range of safe veggies and greens. Here’s a list for your convenience: Asparagus Cauliflower Broccoli Carrots Bok choy Spinach Chicory Cress Bell pepper Dandelion Clover Swiss chard Kale Basil Parsley Zucchini Pumpkin Collard greens Corn Squash Romaine lettuce Note: It’s wise to give veggies a wash before you feed them to your hamster‚ and don’t forget to only offer them in small quantities to prevent an upset tummy. Rotate veggies and greens for variety and balance. Image Credit: mordilla-net‚ Pixabay Which Fruits Are Safe? Plenty! Again‚ remember to feed fruits in moderation because‚ while they’re a great source of vitamins and minerals‚ they are also high in natural sugars. Fruit in large quantities opens your hamster up to developing health issues. In small amounts and as part of a varied diet‚ the following fruits are safe: Apples Pears Papaya Bananas Cranberries Blueberries Blackberries Raspberries Grapes Kiwis Mangos Melons Peaches Strawberries Plums Note: Remove any seeds‚ pits‚ stones‚ rinds‚ stems‚ or leaves before offering any of these to your hamster. Credit: PiotrLukasik‚ Shutterstock Which Foods Are Unsafe? As is the case with allium family vegetables like onions‚ a number of other fruits‚ vegetables‚ and miscellaneous foods are unsafe for hamsters. Some are toxic while others are likely to cause digestive upset. These include: Onions Leeks Garlic Chives Spring onions Uncooked kidney beans Raw‚ green potato Eggplant Hot peppers Rhubarb leaves Tomato plants Chocolate Iceberg lettuce Citrus fruits Fruit seeds‚ stones‚ pits‚ rinds‚ or leaves Spicy‚ sugary‚ or salty foods Packaged meats Bitter almonds Whole celery stalks (choking hazard) Salted peanuts Image Credit: Shutterbug75‚ Pixabay Final Thoughts Never feed onions or any other allium family member to your hamster because it could damage their red blood cells. Instead‚ stick with safe vegetables and greens like broccoli‚ Swiss chard‚ basil‚ and Bok choy. Making sure your hamster enjoys a varied diet is essential to keeping them as healthy and content as possible. Sources https://www.merckvetmanual.com/toxicology/food-hazards/allium-spp-toxicosis-in-animals https://www.petmd.com/exotic/nutrition/evr_ex_hm_what-can-hamsters-eat https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/small-pets/your-hamsters-diet https://www.rspca.org.uk/documents/1494939/0/ https://be.chewy.com/what-can-hamsters-eat/ https://www.msdvetmanual.com/toxicology/food-hazards/allium-spp-toxicosis-in-animals Featured Image Credit: Bukhta Yurii‚ Shutterstock The post Can Hamsters Eat Onions? Vet Approved Nutrition Advice appeared first on Pet Keen.

Many adjectives can be used to describe the regal Shar Pei: serene‚ calm‚ independent‚ fearless‚ and loyal‚ just to name a few. In the eyes of their owners‚ the qualities of this unique dog are (almost!) infinite. Here’s another one: Shar Pei are laid back dogs that don’t require much exercise. They are content with a daily 30-minute walk or even a short Frisbee session in the backyard! Furthermore‚ you don’t need to live in a castle to welcome one of these magnificently wrinkled dogs into your life: A Shar Pei will easily adapt to life in an apartment or a small house. Read on as we discuss all this breed’s exercise requirements and provide you with great tips for keeping your Shar Pei in tip-top shape! Do Shar Pei Need a Large Amount of Exercise? The answer is no. That said‚ while Shar Pei are not high-energy pups like Border Collies or Labrador Retrievers‚ they still require exercise to maintain their health and prevent boredom-related behavior problems. Additionally‚ it’s important to note that this breed tends to be slightly overweight‚ which can lead to a few health issues as they age‚ like arthritis. Regular exercise helps keep them fit and prevents these problems. How Much Exercise Is Enough for a Shar Pei? Adult Shar Pei do not require much exercise daily—a leisurely daily walk of around 30 minutes will make this breed happy. Puppies have more energy and may need shorter‚ more frequent walks and playtime. However‚ be aware that Shar Pei are not physically suited to overly vigorous exercise and can overheat easily. Are Shar Pei Good Running Partners? Shar Pei are not ideal running companions. They have a unique build with facial conformations such as a short nose and other anatomical changes‚ which can make them prone to overheating. They are best suited for leisurely walks and moderate play sessions rather than high-intensity activities like running or strenuous hikes. That said‚ the Shar Pei is also a fairly adaptable breed‚ meaning they can do well with an active owner. Image Credit: Pixel Shot‚ Shutterstock What Are Fun Exercises for Your Shar Pei? If you want to keep your independent Shar Pei engaged and entertained during exercise‚ pick activities like agility training‚ rally‚ tracking‚ obedience classes‚ and puzzle toys. These should do wonders for your furry friend’s mind and body. Tailoring Exercise to Your Shar Pei’s Needs The exercise requirements of Shar Pei may vary from one dog to another. Here are a few factors to consider when tailoring an exercise routine for your Shar Pei. Age You should adjust the exercise routine of your Shar Pei as they age. Puppies are tiny balls of energy and require more playtime and shorter walks. Adult Shar Pei have moderate energy levels and can manage slightly longer walks‚ while senior Shar Pei may need gentler playtime and shorter walks to cope with their aging joints. Health The health of your Shar Pei plays a significant role in determining their exercise needs. If your dog has underlying health issues‚ such as hip dysplasia or breathing problems‚ you should seek advice from your vet so they can help you develop a suitable exercise plan for your pup. In some cases‚ swimming can be an excellent low-impact exercise option for Shar Pei with joint issues. Image Credit: Martyna Nysk‚ Shutterstock Temperament Each Shar Pei has their own unique personality. Some may be more active and playful‚ while others may lean toward a more laid back lifestyle. Pay attention to your dog’s preferences‚ and adjust their exercise routine accordingly. If your Shar Pei loves fetch‚ incorporate it into their daily routine. If they prefer sniffing around during walks‚ let them explore at their own pace. Weather Weather conditions can impact your Shar Pei’s exercise routine. These dogs are sensitive to extreme heat due to their facial conformation (brachycephalic)‚ which can make them prone to overheating. On hot days‚ opt for early morning or late evening walks when the temperature is cooler. Conversely‚ in cold weather‚ consider providing your Shar Pei with a doggy sweater to keep them warm during walks. 3 Tips to Keep Your Shar Pei in Top-Notch Shape Here are three tips to help you care for your beloved Shar Pei. 1. Choose a Diet Adapted to the Needs of Your Pup Nutrition is the cornerstone of your Shar Pei’s health. Since these dogs tend to gain weight quite easily‚ though‚ you must control the size of their portions and offer them a diet adapted to their age and activity level. Avoid giving them too many treats‚ especially if your Shar Pei is the couch potato type! 2. Take Care of Their Wrinkled Skin Image Credit: VP Photo Studio‚ Shutterstock Those adorable wrinkles on your Shar Pei’s face are part of what makes them so unique. However‚ these wrinkles can also trap moisture and dirt‚ leading to skin infections and dermatitis. Clean and dry your Shar Pei’s skin folds regularly to prevent such problems. Be gentle‚ and use a dog-safe hypoallergenic wipe or solution recommended by your veterinarian. 3. Make Sure to Socialize Them Early Shar Pei are generally known for their independent nature‚ though they still need socialization to thrive. Since they tend to be wary of strangers and other dogs‚ it is essential to start their socialization as early as possible to avoid dominance problems later. Therefore‚ you should engage your Shar Pei puppy in regular social activities as soon as possible‚ such as frequent contact with other friendly canine companions and visits to the dog park. Final Thoughts The Shar Pei is not the most energetic pup out there! That doesn’t mean you can let them laze around all day‚ of course. But since a leisurely walk of less than an hour is usually more than enough to meet their exercise needs‚ you’ll have plenty of time to snuggle up on the couch to watch your favorite series together! Sources https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/dog-breeds/chinese-shar-pei https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/shar-pei Featured Image Credit: David Raihelgauz‚ Shutterstock The post How Much Exercise Does a Shar Pei Need? Vet Approved Advice appeared first on Pet Keen.

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