Ask Dr. Paola - Bumps, Snuggles & Food Motivation (November 17, 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!

Why Do Dogs Have Bumps Under Their Whiskers?

"Hi Dr. Paola!

My toddler was looking at our dog, Rosa, the other day, and asked me why she has 'a bump' under her chin, which is like a big dog mole with a whiskers coming out of it. She's always had it — but I couldn't really answer why dogs have them, so I thought I'd ask! ? "- Nicole

Hi Nicole!

What a wonderful and observant question from your toddler. That little “bump” under Rosa’s chin is most likely one of her vibrissal follicles, which are the specialized structures that hold her whiskers (vibrissae). These whiskers are not ordinary hairs; they are deeply embedded in the skin, surrounded by blood-filled sinus tissues and sensory nerves that help dogs detect even the slightest air movement or changes in nearby surfaces. In many breeds, you can feel or see these small raised areas where the whiskers grow, especially around the muzzle, eyes, and chin.

Think of whiskers as Rosa’s way of “feeling the world,” much like how we use our fingertips. They give her valuable spatial information that helps her navigate her surroundings and assess distances, even in dim light. The small prominence under her chin is perfectly normal and a sign of her highly developed sensory system. Unless the area ever becomes inflamed, causes discomfort, changes shape, or develops discharge, it is simply part of her natural anatomy and nothing to worry about. If you ever notice that the area becomes red, swollen, or tender to the touch, that could suggest irritation or infection of the follicle, in which case a veterinary check would be sensible. Otherwise, Rosa’s “dog mole with whiskers” is simply one of her charming and functional features, a small reminder of how wonderfully adapted dogs are to exploring the world through touch and movement, and of why daily mental stimulation and enrichment are essential for keeping our pups happy and balanced.

Best wishes,

- Dr. Paola

My Dog is Suddenly Snuggly - Should I Be Worried?

"Hi Dr. Paola,

Vicky is an 8-year-old chihuahua, and she's usually very independent, but recently, she's been super snuggly. She is eating as normal, same level of activity, but just enjoys being around us more... it's a bit weird though, because she's never been like this. Should I worry, or just enjoy it? " - Angelica

Hi Angelica!

It sounds like Vicky is showing a lovely, affectionate side of her personality, and in many cases, that kind of behavioral change often reflects emotional growth or increased attachment. As dogs mature, they frequently become more people-oriented and seek comfort and security from their family. At eight years old, a Chihuahua is considered middle-aged, and it’s quite normal for their emotional needs to evolve. Much like people as they age who value companionship more deeply, dogs may begin to appreciate closeness in ways they didn’t when they were younger and more independent.

That said, it is always wise to stay observant. Even subtle behavioral shifts can occasionally indicate that a dog is feeling less comfortable physically. Conditions such as mild joint stiffness, changes in vision or hearing, or early hormonal fluctuations can make a dog seek reassurance and warmth. Since Vicky’s appetite, activity, and overall demeanor remain unchanged, this new cuddly behavior most likely reflects a normal emotional adjustment rather than illness. Still, during her next wellness visit, it would be good to mention this change so your veterinarian can ensure everything is in perfect order. For now, enjoy those extra snuggles; they’re her way of showing trust and affection, a lovely reminder of how secure she feels with her family. Enjoy her!

Best,

- Dr. Paola

Help! Can I Stop My Dog From Being So Food Motivated?

"Yellow is a yellow lab who loves to eat (no surprises there). Is there any way to stop a lab from being food-motivated all the time, aside from feeding him every time he asks (which we don't do)?"  - Hugh

Hi Hugh!

You’re right, Labradors are famously food-motivated, and that trait is deeply rooted in their genetics. Studies have shown that many Labs carry a variation in the POMC gene, which is linked to a reduced ability to regulate appetite. This means their brains don’t receive the “I’m full” signal as effectively as in other breeds, so they remain interested in food long after they’ve eaten. It’s not just greed; it’s biology.

While you can’t change that underlying drive, you can channel it productively. Structured mealtimes, measured portions, and the use of slow feeders or food-dispensing toys can help satisfy Yellow’s need to work for food while preventing overeating. Incorporating training sessions that use part of his daily ration as rewards turns his love of food into a learning advantage, reinforcing good manners and impulse control. Avoid free feeding or responding to begging, as consistency teaches him that food comes from calm behavior, not constant asking.

In short, you can’t stop a Lab from being food motivated, but you can guide that motivation toward enrichment and healthy routines. It’s one of their most useful traits when managed well; after all, their eagerness to earn food is exactly what makes Labs such trainable, eager-to-please companions. So use this wisely!

- Dr. Paola