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!

Help! My Dog Licks Other Dogs Pee!

“Hi Dr. Paola!

I have a 2-year-old Chawinnee called Little Boy. Recently, he started licking other dogs’ pee, and then he pees on the spots himself and licks that up too. What could be the cause? “– Crystal

Hi Crystal,

This behavior, although unpleasant to witness, is actually quite common among dogs. When your two-year-old Chawinnee licks other dogs’ urine, or his own after marking, he is using his vomeronasal or Jacobson’s organ, a special sensory structure located on the roof of his mouth. This organ allows dogs to detect pheromones and chemical signals that convey information about another dog’s sex, hormonal status, and even emotional state. In simple terms, he is “reading messages” left by other dogs, much like scrolling through social media updates.

In a young, otherwise healthy dog, this behavior is usually normal and related to curiosity, social communication, or even mating instincts if he is intact. Occasionally, dogs may develop an increased interest in urine if they are experiencing greater thirst or changes in urination patterns, which can be associated with metabolic diseases such as diabetes mellitus or early kidney issues. These conditions are uncommon at his age but not impossible, as congenital or genetic factors can occasionally cause early onset.

If Little Boy seems well otherwise, with normal energy, appetite, and drinking habits, the behavior is likely harmless. Still, if you ever notice that he drinks or urinates more than usual, or if his general demeanor changes, it would be sensible to schedule a veterinary checkup with a urinalysis and basic bloodwork. Providing him with more enrichment and mental stimulation can also help redirect his curiosity toward more appropriate activities.
Best,

– Dr. Paola

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Help! I Don’t Know What Nail Clippers to Use!

“What would you suggest is a good pair of nail clippers to use?“ – Donna

Donna, the best nail trimmer really depends on both your dog’s size and your comfort level using the tool. For small breeds or dogs with delicate nails, guillotine-style trimmers often work best because they provide precise, gentle cuts with minimal pressure. Larger dogs with thicker nails usually need a plier-style trimmer, which gives more strength and control, similar to using garden shears for thicker stems rather than delicate scissors for flowers. Pet parents who feel uneasy about cutting can also consider a rotary grinder, which gradually sands the nail instead of slicing it, making it a safer choice for dogs with dark nails where the quick is hard to see.

Some trimmers now include features that make the process easier and safer. Built-in LED lights can illuminate the nail to help you see the quick more clearly, while stoppers or quick guards act as a guide to prevent cutting too short, though they should not replace careful visual checks. A few advanced models even include quick detectors that use small sensors to alert you before reaching the sensitive area of the nail. The ideal choice is one that feels comfortable in your hand, stays sharp, and makes the experience as calm and positive as possible for your dog.

Good luck!

– Dr. Paola

Help! What is the Best Food for a German Shepherd?

“I am getting a German Shepherd pup in 8 weeks, and I want to give him the best food. I’m looking at Sunday’s air-dried food, which has human-grade meat vs the dry kibble brand Royal Canin. Your advice is appreciated. Thank you,”  – Peter

Hi Peter,

It’s wonderful that you’re preparing so thoughtfully for your German Shepherd puppy. Nutrition plays a vital role in helping large-breed puppies grow strong, balanced, and healthy. While I cannot endorse a specific brand, I do tend to favor fresh, minimally processed foods whenever possible, so you might want to consider exploring these kinds of options as part of your research.

Large-breed puppies, typically those expected to weigh more than 23 kilograms as adults, need a diet that promotes steady growth rather than rapid weight gain. This means careful control of calories, protein, calcium, and phosphorus to support bone development and protect the joints from early stress. Look for diets labeled specifically for “large-breed puppies” or “growth of large-size dogs,” and always ensure they meet complete and balanced standards such as AAFCO or FEDIAF.

An ideal large-breed puppy formula will have a calcium-to-phosphorus ratio between about 1.1:1 and 1.4:1, moderate fat and energy levels to prevent overgrowth, and high-quality protein to build lean muscle. These formulas are designed to provide all essential nutrients, so there’s no need to add supplements, which can easily disrupt the delicate nutrient balance if used incorrectly. Feeding smaller, more frequent meals, three to four times daily at first, then gradually moving to two, helps maintain consistent energy levels and supports healthy digestion. Always use your puppy’s body condition as your guide; you should feel his ribs easily without them being visible.

The brand itself is less important than the formulation’s nutritional balance. Diets labeled for “all life stages” often exceed the mineral and calorie levels needed for controlled large-breed growth, which research has linked to orthopedic problems later in life. By choosing a well-balanced, large-breed puppy formula and maintaining a lean, steady growth rate, you’ll be giving your German Shepherd the best possible start for strong bones, resilient joints, and a healthy, active life. I hope this helps!

– Dr. Paola