To communicate with each other, dogs use body language and guttural sounds, such as barks and growls. When they first meet, dogs use their body language to assess where each ranks in the pack order. Signs of dominance and confidence are a stiff body, head and ears up, hackles up and tail up. Signs of submission and respect are a lowering of the body, the head, the ears and the tail.

Because dogs instinctively know and understand these body signals, it only makes sense that we humans would be able to communicate with them better if we can learn how to imitate the ways in which they communicate with each other.

For example, dogs do not instinctively know the words that come most naturally to us. If two dogs meet and neither shows respect to the other, they will issue warning growls. This again is a language that dogs already understand. They do not instinctively know “Spot, don’t come any closer.”

That’s why experts say behavioral training is so important-and that lasting training isn’t about treats and physical punishment. It’s about understanding the way your dog thinks and communicates in a way that establishes the owner as “top dog.”

“Dogs are pack animals,” stated Liam Crowe, Bark Busters’ president, CEO and master trainer. “They have a specific way of interacting, which includes an instinctual manner of communication. Learning how to communicate effectively with your dog in a language he understands is the first step toward establishing leadership and control.”

So, while Spot and Rover might learn the meaning of a few words, they will learn more quickly if we communicate using their language. Once we communicate clearly with them by using a language they already know, then we can start to teach them some of our own language.

Learning canine is not hard. It takes practice, however, because it is not instinctive for us. If you watch Rover and Spot talk to their friends and then to strangers, you will begin to see certain patterns of communication. We learn how they meet each other, how they greet each other, and how they call one another to follow. We see how they let each other know when they are uncomfortable with someone getting into their space.

Using a dog’s own language to communicate with them is the quickest, most effective way of getting through to him. Thus, when we are trying to train our dogs, it just makes common sense to teach them in a language they already understand.

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When it comes to medical conditions in dogs, prevention is always better than cure. Conditions such as stroke can have an adverse affect on the brain and the dog’s overall functionality. A well informed dog owner is able to best care for their dog before, during, and after a medical incident. They may prevent the condition from even occurring in the first place if they have adequate knowledge. This is why it is important that the pet’s owner understands just what stroke is, how it can affect their pet, the signs and symptoms of the condition, as well as how to prevent stroke from occurring in their dog.

What is Stroke in Dogs?

Dog stroke occurs when the blood flow to the brain of the dog is hindered by an arterial blockage or when a clot forms in the dog and prevents blood from flowing to the brain. Blood carries vital oxygen and nutrients to the dog’s brain, so when the flow is poor or it has stopped this can result in the dog experiencing some form of temporary or permanent brain damage.

A dog with brain damage will then have reduced motor skills. The dog may find it difficult to walk, wag its tail, run, jump, fetch a ball, or even bark. Basically, any form of movement that the dog carried out before having a stroke may be reduced after the stroke has occurred.

How Does Stroke Effect Dogs Long-term?

When a dog has a stroke it usually suffers from some form of brain damage. This may be either short or long term and can vary in severity. The reality is that once a dog has suffered from a stroke then there is no way to reverse the damage that has been done. This is why prevention is better than cure.

Yes, the dog may regain some of its motor function after having suffered a stroke. But the likelihood of them regaining all of their skills and being the same as they were before the stroke occurred is highly unlikely. However this does not mean a dog that has suffered from a stroke cannot live a happy and fulfilling life.

Signs and Symptoms of Stroke

When a dog has a stroke it can appear to be lethargic, confused and depressed. The dog may turn its head the wrong way when called, tilt its head, or even lose its balance. In extreme cases, dogs may even move in circular motion, lose bowel and bladder control, and have seizures.

If the pet owner notices any of these signs it is vital that they take their dog to the vet and immediately seek assistance, as stroke can be fatal.

Dog Stroke Prevention

The best way to prevent stroke is to make sure that the dog leads a happy, healthy life. Regular exercise and a nutritional diet that is balanced will help to ensure this. In addition, it is recommended that the pet owner give their dog a natural product that increases the blood flow in the dog’s body and is known to reduce artery blockages and vessel obstructions. A safe alternative to aspirin is suggested (dog health professionals often recommend Petsprin), which contains nattokinase, an enzyme that contains anti-clotting properties.

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