Ask Dr. Paola - Diet, Vulvoplasty & Aggression (December 1, 2025)

Welcome to our "Ask Dr. Paola" series, where every Monday we bring expert advice straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to help our readers better understand their dog's health and well-being.

Whether you're a new pet parent or a seasoned dog lover, Dr. Paola is here to provide answers to your most pressing questions. From nutrition tips and preventive care to troubleshooting common behavioral issues, Dr. Paola is ready to offer insights that will keep your furry friend happy and healthy. Stay tuned for expert guidance on a range of topics that matter most to you and your dog, so you can make informed decisions and provide the best possible care for your canine companion. ‎Have‎ a ‎question? Send it in here!

I Need Help with My Dog's Diet!

"Hi Dr. Paola!

Can my dog, Oliver, stay on hydrolyzed dog food for his whole life?"- Carole

Hi Carole,

Yes, most dogs can safely remain on a hydrolyzed protein diet for life when it has been prescribed for a confirmed or strongly suspected food allergy. A hydrolyzed diet is simply a therapeutic food in which the proteins have been broken down into very small fragments through a controlled enzymatic process. When protein molecules are reduced to these tiny units, the immune system is far less likely to recognize them as allergens. It is similar to taking a large puzzle apart into pieces so small that the body can no longer identify the original picture. This makes hydrolyzed diets highly effective for managing confirmed or strongly suspected adverse food reactions.

These diets are complete and balanced, so dogs like Oliver can safely eat them long term when needed. They meet all nutritional requirements for adult maintenance and are designed to support healthy digestion and skin. Many dogs remain on hydrolyzed food for years with an excellent quality of life. As long as Oliver maintains a steady weight, has a healthy coat, and shows normal digestive and skin signs, he can continue this diet throughout his life. If any changes appear, a veterinary evaluation ensures the diet continues to meet his nutritional and medical needs.

Kind regards,

- Dr. Paola

Help! My Dog Has a Recessed Vulva!

"Ella has a recessed vulva. The vet that discovered it sedated her and pulled it out, leaving her bruised and uncomfortable. Unfortunately, the vulva has retracted again, and I am reluctant to take her to another vet. How serious is a recessed vulva? I clean that area daily with antimicrobial and antifungal wipes." - Sandy

Hi Sandy,

A recessed vulva can predispose a dog to recurrent skin fold infections and sometimes urinary tract inflammation because the natural moisture and limited airflow in that tucked area create an ideal environment for yeast and bacteria. This anatomical conformation is a risk factor rather than an emergency. The condition itself is not life-threatening, but it can become uncomfortable if infections develop, so gentle ongoing care is important. Your daily cleaning helps reduce debris and surface microbes, although it cannot fully prevent deeper irritation if the skin remains chronically folded.

The exam Ella previously experienced sounds distressing, and it is understandable that you feel hesitant. A typical evaluation should not require forceful manipulation or leave bruising. Most dogs can be assessed with a calm hands-on exam, and sedation is usually reserved for cases where the dog is extremely anxious or painful. When recurrent infections or urinary signs begin to appear despite careful hygiene, a vulvoplasty, also called episioplasty, should be considered. This procedure removes excess skin so the vulva sits in a more natural, exposed position, reducing moisture accumulation and improving long-term comfort. If Ella remains comfortable and her skin stays healthy, the condition is not urgent. If redness, odor, or repeated infections occur, then a veterinary visit is important so treatment decisions can be based on her clinical signs and exam findings.

Good luck,

- Dr. Paola

Help! My Dog Was Aggressive Towards a Puppy!

"Today, a friend of mine brought her puppy over, but my 3‑year‑old Beagle dog didn’t really like that puppy when it got close to him. My dog Eddie tried to bite the dog! Thankfully, he didn't get him, but it was close, and we had to separate them. He's been around dogs many times and never done this before. What could be the issue?"  - Pat

Hi Pat,

Dogs often react differently to puppies because their behavior can be unpredictable and very high energy, which can feel intrusive to an adult dog that values personal space. Even well-socialized dogs may correct or snap at a puppy that rushes toward them too quickly. This is much like the way an adult dog offers a quick reminder to a youngster that personal space matters, and that a small correction can turn into a stronger reaction when the adult feels crowded or unable to move away. Stressors such as fatigue, pain, resource guarding, or a recent negative experience can also lower a dog’s tolerance, so it is worth watching for any subtle changes in your Beagle’s comfort or mobility that might have influenced his reaction.

Eddie’s history of friendly interactions is reassuring, and a single incident does not necessarily indicate a serious behavior problem. It does mean he needs more controlled introductions with puppies, with space to move away and time to observe at a comfortable pace. Many adult dogs prefer calm, polite greetings rather than sudden close contact, and guiding the interaction can help prevent another close call. If you notice repeated tension with other dogs or any changes that suggest discomfort, a veterinary exam or a certified trainer experienced in positive reinforcement methods can help assess whether pain, stress, or fear contributed to his response. I hope this helps!

- Dr. Paola