Health & Safety

Health & Safety — Prevention, safety, and vet-backed guidance | PawSmart

Keeping your dog healthy and safe, from everyday prevention to the gear that protects them. These guides cover vaccinations, parasite prevention, dental care, vet-visit timing, insurance, and warm- and cold-weather safety — grounded in mainstream veterinary guidance, with your vet always the final word.

Health & Safety Embark vs. Wisdom Panel: Which Dog DNA Test Is Actually Worth It? The two tests worth buying — but the differences that matter aren't the ones the marketing pushes. What independent research says about accuracy, and how to choose without wasting money. Health & Safety How to Clean Your Dog's Ears at Home (And How Often You Really Should) No study has ever set an ideal ear-cleaning schedule — and over-cleaning causes the very irritation owners fear. When to clean, how to do it safely, and what never goes in a dog's ear. Health & Safety Is Ice Water Bad for Dogs? The Bloat Myth, Examined The viral warning that ice water gives dogs bloat traces to one 2010 scare story — not a study. Here's what the evidence actually shows, the real (much smaller) risks of ice, and how to cool a hot dog safely. Health & Safety How Hot Is Too Hot to Walk a Dog? The Pavement Rule, Examined The 7-second pavement test and the 125°F asphalt chart get repeated every summer — but the numbers trace to human-skin research, not dogs. Here's what's solid, what's guesswork, and how to keep paws safe. Health & Safety Best Dog Shampoo for Itchy & Sensitive Skin (2026) Scratching, flakes and hot spots? The right shampoo soothes without stripping — our 2026 picks, the ingredients that matter, and the signs it's time to call the vet instead. Health & Safety Puppy Diarrhea and Vomiting: What to Do and When to Call the Vet Puppy diarrhea or vomiting? Learn the common causes, the red-flag signs that mean call the vet now, and safe at-home care for a mild single upset. Health & Safety How to Trim Your Dog's Nails at Home (Without the Stress) A calm, step-by-step guide to trimming your dog's nails at home: how to avoid the quick, clippers vs grinders, what to do if you nick it, and how often to trim. Health & Safety Foods Dogs Can't Eat: The Toxic Food List Every Owner Needs (2026) A clear, vet-informed list of foods dogs can't eat — chocolate, xylitol, grapes, onions and more — why each is dangerous, and exactly what to do if your dog ate something toxic. Health & Safety When Can Puppies Go Outside? Vaccination and Safety Timeline (2026) When can puppies go outside safely? A clear look at the balance between disease risk and the socialization window, safe ways to explore early, and places to avoid. Health & Safety Best Dog Sunscreen for 2026 (Vet-Safe Picks for Sunny Days) Yes, dogs can get sunburned. The best dog sunscreens protect noses, ears and bellies without dangerous zinc. Our top vet-safe picks for 2026 and how to apply them. Health & Safety Best Dog Cooling Gear for Summer 2026 (Vests, Mats & More) Keep your dog safe in the heat with the best dog cooling gear for summer 2026 — cooling vests, mats, bandanas and collapsible bowls. Our top picks and how to spot overheating. Health & Safety Best Dog Car Seat Covers for 2026 (Protect Your Car & Your Dog) Keep your car clean and your dog secure with the best dog car seat covers for 2026 — waterproof, non-slip and safety-conscious options. Health & Safety Best Dog Toothbrushes & Dental Chews for 2026 (Fresh Breath, Healthy Gums) Dental disease is one of the most common dog health problems. The best dog toothbrushes and dental chews for 2026, plus a simple routine that actually works. Health & Safety Best Calming Aids for Anxious Dogs (2026): What Actually Helps Anxious, stressed, or scared of storms and fireworks? Here are the best calming aids for dogs in 2026 — what works, what to skip, and when to call your vet. Health & Safety Best Dog Life Jackets for Summer Water Safety (2026) Even strong swimmers can get into trouble in open water. Here are the best dog life jackets for 2026, what to look for, and how to keep your dog safe around water. Health & Safety Best Dog Travel Gear for Safe Road Trips (2026) Planning a road trip with your dog? Here's the best dog travel gear for 2026 — crash-tested harnesses, crates, seat covers and more — plus how to keep your dog safe in the car. Health & Safety Is Pet Insurance Worth It in 2026? An Honest Breakdown Pet insurance can save you thousands — or be a waste of money. Here's how to decide, and what to look for in a policy. Health & Safety Best Dog DNA Tests in 2026: Breed, Health & Traits Decoded Curious what's in your rescue mix? A dog DNA test reveals breed makeup and screens for health risks. Here are the best. Health & Safety Puppy Vaccination Schedule: What Your Dog Needs and When A clear overview of core and optional puppy vaccinations, the typical timeline, and why your vet's schedule is the one to follow. Health & Safety Fleas, Ticks & Worms: A New Dog Owner's Prevention Guide Parasites are common, preventable, and sometimes dangerous. Here's how flea, tick, and worm prevention works and what to discuss with your vet. Health & Safety How Often Should You Take Your Dog to the Vet? From puppy visits to senior check-ups, here's a general guide to how often dogs need to see the vet at each life stage. Health & Safety Dog Dental Care: How to Keep Your Dog's Teeth Healthy Dental disease is one of the most common (and overlooked) dog health problems. Here's how to keep your dog's teeth and gums healthy.