Pastry Pets sources
Everything in Pastry Pets comes from veterinary organizations, government agencies, universities and breed registries. Here's the full list.
Veterinary organization
- 2021 AAHA Nutrition and Weight Management Guidelines, American Animal Hospital Association
Nutritional assessment and weight management for dogs. - American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (includes the Nutrition specialty), ACVIM
Board-certified veterinary specialists, including veterinary nutritionists. - AKC Canine Health Foundation, AKC Canine Health Foundation
Funds canine health research; breed health resources. - Apple (toxic and non-toxic plants), ASPCA
Apple stems, leaves and seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides. - Cherry (toxic and non-toxic plants), ASPCA
Cherry plant parts and pits. - People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets, ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center
Alcohol, yeast dough, chocolate, caffeine, citrus, coconut, dairy, grapes, nuts, raw eggs, salt and xylitol. - Lemon (toxic and non-toxic plants), ASPCA
Citrus peels and plant material: essential oils and psoralens. - Stevia (toxic and non-toxic plants), ASPCA
Stevia is listed as non-toxic to dogs. - Back to School Pet Toxins & Safety Tips, ASPCApro
Large amounts of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and their effect on sodium and potassium. - Household hazards, American Veterinary Medical Association
Foods that can harm dogs and what to have ready when you call about a poisoning. - Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, OFA
Breed health screening databases. - Pet Nutrition Alliance, Pet Nutrition Alliance
Nutrition tools for owners and clinics. - Calculating Calories Based on Pet Needs, Pet Nutrition Alliance
RER = 70 x (body weight in kg)^0.75, and that MER estimates can be off by up to 50% for an individual dog.
Licensing body
- American Association of Veterinary State Boards, AAVSB
The association of U.S. and Canadian veterinary licensing boards. - Public resources, AAVSB
Information for the public about veterinary licensing.
Breed registry
- Most Popular Dog Breeds of 2025, American Kennel Club
The 2025 registration ranking used for our first 20 breeds. - Dog Breeds, American Kennel Club
Breed standards, groups and sizes. - Dog Health, American Kennel Club
Owner articles on dog health.
Emergency line
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, ASPCA
24/7 animal poison line, (888) 426-4435. A consultation fee may apply. - Pet Poison Helpline, Pet Poison Helpline
24/7 animal poison line, (855) 764-7661. $99 per incident, follow-up calls included (as stated on its site Oct 22 2026). - Alcohol, Pet Poison Helpline
Drinks, liquor-filled candies and raw yeast dough. - Caffeine, Pet Poison Helpline
Coffee grounds and beans, tea bags, energy drinks and supplements. - Cherry, Pet Poison Helpline
Cherry pits, stems and leaves; swallowed whole pits. - Chocolate, Pet Poison Helpline
Chocolate poisoning in dogs. - Bread Dough, Pet Poison Helpline
Raw yeast dough. - Grapes, Pet Poison Helpline
Grape poisoning in dogs. - Macadamia Nuts, Pet Poison Helpline
Macadamia nut poisoning. - Mycotoxins (moldy food), Pet Poison Helpline
Moldy bread, cheese, nuts and compost. - Raisins, Pet Poison Helpline
Raisin poisoning in dogs. - Salt, Pet Poison Helpline
Salt dough ornaments, homemade play dough and salt water. - Nutmeg and Cinnamon Toxicity, Pet Poison Helpline
How much nutmeg or cinnamon becomes a problem, and cinnamon powder and oil. - Xylitol, Pet Poison Helpline
Xylitol poisoning in dogs.
Government agency
- 21 CFR 169.175, Vanilla extract (standard of identity), Legal Information Institute (U.S. Code of Federal Regulations text)
Vanilla extract must contain at least 35% ethyl alcohol by volume. - FDA Investigation into Potential Link between Certain Diets and Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy, U.S. Food and Drug Administration
FDA's ongoing look at grain-free diets and heart disease in dogs. - Handling Flour Safely: What You Need to Know, U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Raw flour can carry harmful bacteria; cooking is the reliable kill step. - Potentially Dangerous Items for Your Pet, U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Foods FDA flags for pets, including raw yeast dough, alcohol, fatty foods and fruit pits. - FDA Investigates Animal Illnesses Linked to Jerky Pet Treats, U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Illnesses linked to jerky treats, including sweet potato jerky. - How to Report a Pet Food Complaint, U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Reporting a problem with a pet food or treat. - Paws Off Xylitol; It's Dangerous for Dogs, U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Why xylitol harms dogs, products that may contain it, and its other names (birch sugar, wood sugar).
Reference manual
- Garlic and Onion Toxicosis in Animals, Merck Veterinary Manual
Onion and garlic damage to red blood cells, including powders and cooked forms. - Chocolate Toxicosis in Animals, Merck Veterinary Manual
Theobromine and caffeine content by chocolate type, and the doses linked to signs in dogs. - Bread Dough Toxicosis in Animals, Merck Veterinary Manual
Raw yeast dough: stomach expansion and alcohol from fermentation. - Grape, Raisin, and Tamarind Toxicosis in Dogs, Merck Veterinary Manual
Tartaric acid, kidney injury, and why no safe amount is known. - Macadamia Nut Toxicosis in Dogs, Merck Veterinary Manual
Signs, timing and amounts linked to macadamia nut poisoning. - Daily Maintenance Energy Requirements for Dogs and Cats, Merck Veterinary Manual
Maintenance energy factors (x RER) for adult dogs and puppies. - Tremorgenic Neuromycotoxicosis in Dogs, Merck Veterinary Manual
Molds on walnuts, peanuts, dairy and food waste that cause tremors and seizures. - Pancreatitis and Other Disorders of the Pancreas in Dogs, Merck Veterinary Manual
Table scraps and other unsuitable food as a pancreatitis risk factor; breeds with higher prevalence. - Xylitol Toxicosis in Dogs, Merck Veterinary Manual
Doses linked to low blood sugar and liver injury, and timing of signs.
Breed Registry
- Dachshund History: The Badger Dog's Fascinating Past, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Origin and purpose. - Facts About the Golden Retriever That You May Not Know, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Origin and purpose; Coat and energy; Nutrition and weight; Fun fact; Pastry and ingredients notes. - Breed page (height, weight, life expectancy), American Kennel Club
Height, weight and life expectancy. - Is the Cane Corso a Good Fit for You?, American Kennel Club
AKC: frequent mental and physical activity; coat colors. - Official Standard of the Cane Corso, American Kennel Club
AKC standard: breed history, coat texture and colors. - Is the Pomeranian the Right Breed for Your Lifestyle?, American Kennel Club
AKC breed article: size, activity needs and grooming. Cited for: Origin and purpose; Coat and energy; Nutrition and weight. - Boxer History: From Hunter's Assistant to Goofy Sparring Pal in the US, American Kennel Club
AKC breed history article. Cited for: Origin and purpose; Fun fact. - Breed page (height, weight, life expectancy), American Kennel Club
Height, weight and life expectancy. - Breed page (height, weight, life expectancy), American Kennel Club
Added in the Oct 22 2026 fact-check. - Rottweiler Facts You May Not Know, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Origin and purpose; Fun fact. - Bulldog Facts You May Not Know, American Kennel Club
Bull-baiting origin and the 1835 ban; the university mascot fun fact. - Is the Golden Retriever the Right Dog Breed for You?, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Coat and energy; Health watch. - Official Standard of the Poodle, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Coat and energy; Nutrition and weight. - Facts About the Yorkshire Terrier That You May Not Know, American Kennel Club
Origin, coat care, and the Smoky fun fact. - German Shepherd Dog vs. Belgian Malinois: Similarities and Differences, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Origin and purpose; Nutrition and weight. - Rottweiler History: From Working Dog to Sporting, Therapy Dog, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Origin and purpose; Fun fact. - Is the Dachshund a Good Fit For You?, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Origin and purpose; Coat and energy. - Official Standard of the Miniature Schnauzer, American Kennel Club
Official AKC breed standard: size, coat and colors. Cited for: Coat and energy; Nutrition and weight. - Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Facts You May Not Know, American Kennel Club
Companion breed, coat colors, friendly with people and other pets (gives 1995 for AKC recognition). - Official Standard of the Bernese Mountain Dog, American Kennel Club
Official AKC breed standard: size, coat and colors. Cited for: Origin and purpose; Coat and energy; Nutrition and weight. - German Shorthaired Pointer Facts You May Not Know, American Kennel Club
Breed origin, high exercise needs, bloat caution (no activity an hour before and after eating), quick learner, and the webbed-feet fun fact. - Beagle History: From Ancient Small Pack-Hounds to Snoopy, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Origin and purpose. - Official Standard for the Bulldog, American Kennel Club
AKC standard: coat texture and colors. - Is the Bulldog a Good Fit for You?, American Kennel Club
AKC: laid-back, short walks ideal, 40-50 lb, food and moisture trapped in wrinkles, overheating. - Beagle Facts You May Not Know, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Pastry and ingredients notes. - Breed page (height, weight, life expectancy), American Kennel Club
Height, weight and life expectancy. - Breed page (height, weight, life expectancy), American Kennel Club
Height, weight and life expectancy. - How Long Do Dogs Live?, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Health watch. Older AKC article. - Official Standard of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, American Kennel Club
AKC standard: coat and colors; 10-12 in; males not over 30 lb, females not over 28 lb. - Is the Australian Shepherd the Right Dog Breed for You?, American Kennel Club
AKC: very high energy, a job is a must, dog sports such as agility; 40-65 lb; 12-15 years. - Is the Poodle a Good Fit for You?, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Origin and purpose; Coat and energy; Nutrition and weight; Health watch; Pastry and ingredients notes. - Breed page (height, weight, life expectancy), American Kennel Club
Height, weight and life expectancy. - Official Standard of the French Bulldog, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Coat and energy; Nutrition and weight; Pastry and ingredients notes. - Is the French Bulldog the Right Dog Breed for You?, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Coat and energy; Nutrition and weight; Health watch; Pastry and ingredients notes. - Is a German Shepherd Dog the Right Breed for Your Lifestyle?, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Origin and purpose; Coat and energy. - Breed page (height, weight, life expectancy), American Kennel Club
Height, weight and life expectancy. - Breed page (height, weight, life expectancy), American Kennel Club
Height, weight and life expectancy. - Facts About the Doberman Pinscher That You May Not Know, American Kennel Club
Origin, daily exercise needs, and the World War II Marine Corps fun fact. - Everything about the breed, Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde (SV) e.V. (German Shepherd breed club, Germany)
Cited for: Origin and purpose; Nutrition and weight; Health watch. German breed club, not AKC. Its 10-12 year life expectancy is not an AKC figure (see verify_todo). - Facts About the German Shepherd Dog That You May Not Know, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Origin and purpose; Coat and energy; Fun fact. - Toy Group Health Testing Requirements, American Kennel Club
AKC Toy Group health testing requirements, including Cavalier kneecap checks. - Pomeranian Dog Breed Information, American Kennel Club
AKC breed information page (its stats panel did not render for the researchers). Cited for: Origin and purpose. - Official Standard of the Pomeranian, American Kennel Club
Official AKC breed standard: size, coat and colors. Cited for: Origin and purpose; Coat and energy; Nutrition and weight; Pastry and ingredients. - Cane Corso Facts You May Not Know, American Kennel Club
Near-extinction and revival, and the "roo-roo" fun fact. - Labrador Retriever History: From Water Dogs to Beloved Companions, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Origin and purpose. - Toy Group Breed Standards (April 30, 2026), American Kennel Club
Cited for: Origin and purpose. - Miniature Schnauzer History: From Fearless Barnyard Ratter to Charming Companion, American Kennel Club
AKC breed history article. Cited for: Origin and purpose; Fun fact. - Breed page (height, weight, life expectancy), American Kennel Club
Added in the Oct 22 2026 fact-check. - Official Standard of the Boxer, American Kennel Club
Official AKC breed standard: size, coat and colors. Cited for: Origin and purpose; Coat and energy; Nutrition and weight. - Get to Know the Retriever Breeds of the Sporting Group, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Origin and purpose. - Official Standard of the Australian Shepherd, American Kennel Club
AKC standard: coat and colors; preferred heights 20-23 in (male) and 18-21 in (female). - Official Standard of the Rottweiler, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Coat and energy; Nutrition and weight. - Breed page (height, weight, life expectancy), American Kennel Club
Added in the Oct 22 2026 fact-check. - Breed page (height, weight, life expectancy), American Kennel Club
Added in the Oct 22 2026 fact-check. - Official Standard of the Dachshund, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Coat and energy; Nutrition and weight. - Dachshund Facts You May Not Know, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Health watch; Fun fact. - Is the Labrador Retriever the Right Dog Breed for You?, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Coat and energy; Health watch. - Miniature Schnauzer Facts You May Not Know, American Kennel Club
AKC fun-facts article. Cited for: Origin and purpose; Coat and energy. - Breed page (height, weight, life expectancy), American Kennel Club
Added in the Oct 22 2026 fact-check. - Is the German Shorthaired Pointer a Good Fit for You?, American Kennel Club
AKC: very high energy; best for active owners. - Official Standard for the Labrador Retriever, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Coat and energy; Nutrition and weight. - Australian Shepherd History: Behind the Breed's Herding Heritage, American Kennel Club
American ranch origin, British herding ancestry, AKC recognition in 1991, breed carries MDR1. - Official Standard of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, American Kennel Club
AKC standard: 13-18 lb, 12-13 in, coat must not be trimmed. - Bernese Mountain Dog - Dog Breed Information, American Kennel Club
AKC breed information page (its stats panel did not render for the researchers). Cited for: Origin and purpose. - The Bon Vivant: How the French Bulldog Became the Most Popular Dog in the U.S., American Kennel Club
Cited for: Origin and purpose; Fun fact. - Cavalier King Charles Spaniel History: From Revived Hunting Dog to Popular Companion, American Kennel Club
Royal comforter-spaniel roots, 1920s revival, AKC recognition in 1996, and the 1926 Eldridge prize. - Get to Know the Bully Breeds of the Non-Sporting and Terrier Groups, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Origin and purpose. - Official Standard for the German Shorthaired Pointer, American Kennel Club
AKC standard: versatile gun dog, coat texture and colors. - Breed page (height, weight, life expectancy), American Kennel Club
Added in the Oct 22 2026 fact-check. - Official Standard of the Doberman Pinscher, American Kennel Club
AKC standard: coat and colors; heights 26-28 in (male) and 24-26 in (female). - Breed page (height, weight, life expectancy), American Kennel Club
Added in the Oct 22 2026 fact-check. - Is the Boxer the Right Dog Breed for Your Lifestyle?, American Kennel Club
AKC breed article: size, activity needs and grooming. Cited for: Coat and energy; Nutrition and weight; Pastry and ingredients. - List of Breeds by Group, American Kennel Club
AKC list of breeds by group. Cited for: Origin and purpose. - Is the Rottweiler a Good Fit for You?, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Origin and purpose; Coat and energy; Nutrition and weight. - What Are the Working Dog Breeds? Meet the Working Group, American Kennel Club
AKC overview of the Working Group, including breed origins. - Breed page (height, weight, life expectancy), American Kennel Club
Added in the Oct 22 2026 fact-check. - Is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel a Good Fit for You?, American Kennel Club
AKC: adaptable, moderate energy; keep leashed or fenced. - FCI-Standard No. 101: French Bulldog (German-language edition, valid standard published 10.08.2023), Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)
Cited for: Origin and purpose. German-language edition of the FCI standard (valid standard published 10.08.2023). - Golden Retriever History: Behind the Breed's 'Unfashionable' Past, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Origin and purpose. - Official Standard for the Golden Retriever, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Coat and energy; Nutrition and weight. - Is the Yorkshire Terrier the Right Breed for Your Lifestyle?, American Kennel Club
AKC: high energy, average height about 8 in, 11-15 year life expectancy. - Facts About the Labrador Retriever That You May Not Know, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Origin and purpose; Fun fact. - Breed page (height, weight, life expectancy), American Kennel Club
Height, weight and life expectancy. - Is the Miniature Schnauzer the Right Breed for Your Lifestyle?, American Kennel Club
AKC breed article: size, activity needs and grooming. Cited for: Coat and energy. - Poodle History: From Water Retriever to Versatile Companion, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Origin and purpose; Fun fact. - Official Standard for the Beagle, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Coat and energy; Nutrition and weight. - Official Standard of the Yorkshire Terrier, American Kennel Club
AKC standard: 7 lb maximum, steel blue and tan coat. - Breed Weight Chart, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Nutrition and weight. - Is the Pembroke Welsh Corgi a Good Fit for You?, American Kennel Club
AKC: origin, long walks or a slow jog, coat and shedding. - Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie) Dog Breed Information, American Kennel Club
AKC breed page: breed origin and description (fact panel not read). - FCI-Standard N° 343: Cane Corso Italiano (Italian Cane Corso), valid standard published 25.09.2023, Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)
Italian (FCI) standard: origin in southern Italy and Roman molosser roots; source of the 45-50 kg male and 40-45 kg female weights. - Official Standard of the German Shepherd Dog, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Coat and energy; Nutrition and weight. - Is the Beagle a Good Fit for You?, American Kennel Club
Cited for: Origin and purpose; Coat and energy; Nutrition and weight. - Is the Doberman Pinscher the Right Breed for Your Lifestyle?, American Kennel Club
AKC: high-to-medium energy, 60-100 lb, large-breed puppy, low-maintenance coat. - Facts About the Australian Shepherd That You May Not Know, American Kennel Club
Origin, coat care, two-colored eyes, and the Hyper Hank fun fact. - Boxer Dog Breed Information, American Kennel Club
AKC breed information page (its stats panel did not render for the researchers). Cited for: Origin and purpose; Coat and energy. - Is the Bernese Mountain Dog a Good Fit for You?, American Kennel Club
AKC breed article: size, activity needs and grooming. Cited for: Coat and energy; Nutrition and weight; Health watch.
Other
- Hyperlipidemia, American Miniature Schnauzer Club (AKC parent club)
AKC parent club page on hyperlipidemia in the breed. Cited for: Health watch; Pastry and ingredients. - National Beagle Club of America breeder health testing statement (AKC Marketplace), National Beagle Club of America (AKC parent breed club)
Cited for: Health watch. - Bleeding Disorders of Dogs, Merck Veterinary Manual (Dog Owners edition)
von Willebrand disease most common in breeds including the Doberman. - CHIC, German Shorthaired Pointer Club of America (AKC parent breed club)
Breed club health program: required cone degeneration DNA test and hip and elbow screening. - Defining the Cavalier, American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club (AKC parent breed club)
Breed club: breed description and coat; says most Cavaliers live into double digits. - PWC FAQS, Pembroke Welsh Corgi Club of America (AKC parent club)
Breed club FAQ: puppy feeding and lifespan estimates. - Health & Genetics Program, United States Australian Shepherd Association (AKC parent club)
Breed club health program: MDR1, HSF4 hereditary cataract and Collie eye anomaly tests. - Congenital and Inherited Cerebellar Disorders in Dogs and Cats, Merck Veterinary Manual
Chiari-like malformation and syringomyelia commonly reported in Cavaliers; signs. - Meet the French Bulldog! Congratulations on your new French Bulldog puppy!, French Bull Dog Club of America (AKC parent club), flier hosted by AKC
Cited for: Origin and purpose; Coat and energy; Health watch; Pastry and ingredients notes. AKC parent club flier hosted by AKC. - Gastric Dilation and Volvulus in Small Animals, Merck Veterinary Manual
Cited for: Nutrition and weight; Health watch; Pastry and ingredients notes. - About the Breed, National Beagle Club of America (AKC parent breed club)
Cited for: Origin and purpose; Nutrition and weight; Pastry and ingredients notes. - Nutrition, American Miniature Schnauzer Club (AKC parent club)
AKC parent club nutrition advice: fat level, meals, table scraps, overweight risks. Cited for: Nutrition and weight; Pastry and ingredients. - Health and Genetics, Pembroke Welsh Corgi Club of America (AKC parent club)
Breed club health page: true dwarf breed, 12-15 year lifespan, vWD testing. - Health and Genetics, National Beagle Club of America (AKC parent breed club)
Cited for: Health watch. - Canine Degenerative Myelopathy and Genetic Testing in Pembroke Welsh Corgis, Pembroke Welsh Corgi Club of America (article by Jerold S. Bell, DVM, Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine)
Breed club article (Jerold S. Bell, DVM) on DM genetic testing: just over half test at risk; few develop disease. - Degenerative Diseases of the Spinal Column and Cord in Animals, Merck Veterinary Manual
Cited for: Health watch. - Health, Cane Corso Association of America (AKC parent breed club)
Breed club health page: hip dysplasia fairly common, eyelid problems, epilepsy, nutrition and obesity for hips, two meals a day and no vigorous exercise for two hours after eating. - Hearts, American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club (AKC parent breed club)
Breed club heart health page on mitral valve disease. - A Bulldog!, Bulldog Club of America (AKC parent breed club), flier hosted by AKC
Breed club: gentle temperament, moderate leash walks, feeding schedule, obesity from overeating and too little exercise, air conditioning, screw tails. - Congratulations on your new German Shorthaired Pointer!, German Shorthaired Pointer Club of America (AKC parent breed club), flier hosted by AKC
Breed club: origin mix, complete-food feeding advice without scraps or add-ons, keeping GSPs lean and well-muscled, performance diets. - Table: Heritable Conformational Conditions Resulting in Canine Osteoarthritis, Merck Veterinary Manual
Cited for: Health watch. - History of the Miniature Schnauzer, American Miniature Schnauzer Club (AKC parent club)
AKC parent club breed history. Cited for: Origin and purpose. - FAQs, American Miniature Schnauzer Club (AKC parent club)
AKC parent club FAQ: typical weight within the standard and grooming schedule. Cited for: Coat and energy; Nutrition and weight. - The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Breed Guide (Revised 2011), American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club (AKC parent breed club), Judges' Education Committee; hosted by AKC
Breed club judges' guide (revised 2011): the Eldridge prize at Crufts. - Is the Cane Corso Right for Me?, Cane Corso Association of America (AKC parent breed club)
Breed club: 10-12 year life expectancy, exercise suggestion, relatively large meals. - Poodle Club of America new puppy guide (Congratulates you on your new Poodle Puppy!), Poodle Club of America (AKC parent breed club)
Cited for: Nutrition and weight; Health watch. - Health, Doberman Pinscher Club of America (AKC parent club)
Breed club health page: heart screening (echocardiogram and Holter), vWD carriers, wobbler, yearly thyroid tests. - Urolithiasis in Dogs, Merck Veterinary Manual
English Bulldogs and cystine and urate (SLC2A9) urinary stones; diet as part of veterinary management. - Breed History, Doberman Pinscher Club of America (AKC parent club)
Breed club history: Apolda, Thuringia, and Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann. - All About Miniature Schnauzers, American Miniature Schnauzer Club (AKC parent club)
AKC parent club overview: temperament and exercise needs. Cited for: Origin and purpose; Coat and energy. - Congratulations on your new Pembroke Welsh Corgi! (breed club flier), Pembroke Welsh Corgi Club of America (AKC parent club), flier hosted by AKC
Breed club flier: origin, exercise, strict weight advice (no scraps or bonus treats), and the 1934 Kennel Club fun fact. - An Introduction to the Pomeranian (breed club flier), American Pomeranian Club (AKC parent club), flier hosted by AKC
American Pomeranian Club (AKC parent club) flier, hosted by AKC: origin, feeding cautions, knees, teeth and hair loss. Cited for: Origin and purpose; Coat and energy; Nutrition and weight; Health watch; Fun fact; Pastry and ingredients. - Feeding Practices in Small Animals, Merck Veterinary Manual
Cited for: Nutrition and weight; Pastry and ingredients notes. - AKC Canine Health Foundation + CHIC, Cane Corso Association of America (AKC parent breed club)
Breed club CHIC requirements: hip, elbow, heart and kneecap screening; DSRA and NCL DNA tests. - Canine Health Topics, American Miniature Schnauzer Club (AKC parent club)
AKC parent club list of breed health topics (pancreatitis, cataracts). Cited for: Health watch. - Frequently Asked Questions, Cane Corso Association of America (AKC parent breed club)
Breed club FAQ: first U.S. Corso in 1988 and full AKC recognition in 2010. - Your Yorkshire Terrier (breed club brochure), Yorkshire Terrier Club of America (AKC parent club), brochure hosted by AKC
Breed club brochure: ratting origin, puppy low blood sugar and feeding frequency, kneecap and Legg-Calve-Perthes concerns. - Health, Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America (AKC parent club)
Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America health page: life span and cancer. Cited for: Health watch. - Puppy health recommendations (breed club health statement; no formal title on the document), American Miniature Schnauzer Club (AKC parent club), statement hosted by AKC Marketplace
AKC parent club puppy health statement, hosted by AKC Marketplace (no formal title): PRA type B DNA test and puppy eye exam. Cited for: Health watch. - SM, American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club (AKC parent breed club)
Breed club page on syringomyelia. - Congenital and Inherited Spinal Cord Disorders in Dogs and Cats, Merck Veterinary Manual
Hemivertebrae noted as inherited in GSPs. - Congratulations! You Now Have a New Miniature Schnauzer (breed club flier), American Miniature Schnauzer Club (AKC parent club), flier hosted by AKC
AKC parent club new-owner flier, hosted by AKC: lower-fat food. Cited for: Nutrition and weight; Pastry and ingredients. - The Australian Shepherd, United States Australian Shepherd Association (AKC parent club)
Breed club: origin, coat, daily exercise needs, male 50-65 lb and female 40-55 lb. - Bone Tumors in Dogs and Cats, Merck Veterinary Manual
Cited for: Health watch. - Acquired Heart and Blood Vessel Disorders in Dogs, Merck Veterinary Manual (Dog Owners edition)
Dilated cardiomyopathy in Dobermans: gene mutation, collapse or sudden death in up to 20%. - Congratulations on Your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club (AKC parent breed club), flier hosted by AKC
Breed club flier: 1996 AKC recognition, juvenile cataracts and dry eye, kneecap checks before breeding. - An Introduction to the Dachshund, Dachshund Club of America (AKC parent breed club)
Cited for: Origin and purpose; Nutrition and weight; Health watch; Pastry and ingredients notes. - Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency in Dogs and Cats, Merck Veterinary Manual
Cited for: Nutrition and weight; Health watch; Pastry and ingredients notes. - Addison Disease (Hypoadrenocorticism) in Animals, Merck Veterinary Manual
Cited for: Health watch. - Congenital and Inherited Disorders of the Digestive System of Dogs, Merck Veterinary Manual (Dog Owners edition)
Copper-associated liver disease in Doberman Pinschers; low-copper diets. - Patellar Luxation in Dogs and Cats, Merck Veterinary Manual
Cited for: Health watch. - Congratulations on your new Berner puppy! (breed club flier, 2014), Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America (AKC parent club), flier hosted by AKC
Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America (AKC parent club) flier (2014), hosted by AKC: origin, weights, growth, feeding and health. Cited for: Origin and purpose; Coat and energy; Nutrition and weight; Health watch; Fun fact; Pastry and ingredients. - Rottweiler Breed Health, American Rottweiler Club (AKC parent breed club)
Cited for: Health watch; Pastry and ingredients notes. - Pancreatitis in Dogs and Cats, Merck Veterinary Manual
Cited for: Health watch; Pastry and ingredients notes. - Stenosis of the Semilunar Valves in Animals, Merck Veterinary Manual
Cited for: Health watch. - Congratulations on Your New Boxer! (breed club flier), American Boxer Club (AKC parent club), flier hosted by AKC
American Boxer Club (AKC parent club) flier, hosted by AKC: weights, food, supplements, heart and cancer notes. Cited for: Coat and energy; Nutrition and weight; Health watch; Pastry and ingredients. - The Cane Corso, Cane Corso Association of America (AKC parent breed club), flier hosted by AKC
Breed club: maturity to about 3 years, avoid overfeeding puppies, limit forced exercise until 18 months. - Hypothyroidism in Animals, Merck Veterinary Manual
Cited for: Nutrition and weight; Health watch. - Congenital and Inherited Anomalies of the Liver in Animals, Merck Veterinary Manual
Congenital liver shunts more common in toy breeds including Yorkies; diet in non-surgical management.
Professional Association
- Body Condition Score (dog and cat charts, 2013), World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA); copy hosted by The Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center
WSAVA 9-point body condition score chart (copy hosted by The Ohio State University). Cited for: Origin and purpose; Nutrition and weight. - Hip Dysplasia, Orthopedic Foundation for Animals
Cited for: Nutrition and weight; Health watch; Pastry and ingredients notes. - Elbow Dysplasia, Orthopedic Foundation for Animals
Cited for: Nutrition and weight; Health watch. - Degenerative Myelopathy, Orthopedic Foundation for Animals
Cited for: Health watch. - Creating A Nutritional Plan, Pet Nutrition Alliance
Cited for: Nutrition and weight. - Calorie Ranges for an Average Healthy Adult Dog in Ideal Body Condition (updated July 2020), World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) Global Nutrition Committee
WSAVA calorie ranges for healthy adult dogs by body weight (guidance only). Cited for: Origin and purpose; Nutrition and weight; Pastry and ingredients. - 2021 AAHA Nutrition and Weight Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats, American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)
AAHA 2021 nutrition and weight management guidelines: body and muscle condition scoring at every exam. Cited for: Nutrition and weight. - Legg-Calve-Perthes, Orthopedic Foundation for Animals
Cited for: Health watch.
Peer-Reviewed
- Frequency and distribution of 152 genetic disease variants in over 100,000 mixed breed and purebred dogs, PLOS Genetics (Donner J, Anderson H, Davison S, et al., 2018)
Peer-reviewed DNA screening study of 83,220 mixed-breed and 18,102 purebred dogs (2018). Cited for: Origin and purpose; Health watch; Fun fact; Pastry and ingredients. - Beagles kept as companion animals in the UK - demography, disorders and mortality (2025; doi:10.1186/s40575-024-00140-9), Companion Animal Health and Genetics (O'Neill DG, Schiksnis MR, Brodbelt DC, et al.)
Cited for: Nutrition and weight; Health watch; Pastry and ingredients notes. - Prevalence of disorders recorded in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels attending primary-care veterinary practices in England, Canine Genetics and Epidemiology (Summers JF et al., 2015; VetCompass)
VetCompass study of UK Cavaliers: 30.9% heart murmur, 20.6% eye disorders, median maximum weight 10.5 kg. - Nationwide genetic testing towards eliminating Lafora disease from Miniature Wirehaired Dachshunds in the United Kingdom (2018; doi:10.1186/s40575-018-0058-8), Canine Genetics and Epidemiology (Ahonen S, Seath I, Rusbridge C, et al.)
Cited for: Health watch. - Prevalence of gastrointestinal tract lesions in 73 brachycephalic dogs with upper respiratory syndrome, Journal of Small Animal Practice (Poncet et al., 2005); copy hosted on a Cornell University server
Cited for: Health watch; Pastry and ingredients notes. Copy hosted on a Cornell University server. - Yorkshire Terriers under primary veterinary care in the UK - demography and disorders (doi:10.1186/s40575-025-00145-y), Companion Animal Health and Genetics (O'Neill DG, Witkowska SD, Brodbelt DC, Church DB, Engdahl KS, 2025; Royal Veterinary College VetCompass)
VetCompass study of UK Yorkies (2025): dental disease 21.1%, overweight 3.72%, kneecap dislocation 3.42%, median weight 5.06 kg. - MIA3 Splice Defect in Cane Corso Dogs with Dental-Skeletal-Retinal Anomaly (DSRA), Genes (MDPI) (Christen M et al., 2021)
Peer-reviewed study linking DSRA in Cane Corsos to a MIA3 gene variant. - Cohort profile: The Golden Retriever Lifetime Study (GRLS), PLOS ONE (Labadie et al., 2022); Morris Animal Foundation Golden Retriever Lifetime Study
Cited for: Health watch. - Prevalence of neurological disorders in French bulldog: a retrospective study of 343 cases (2002-2016), BMC Veterinary Research (Mayousse et al., 2017)
Cited for: Health watch. - ACVIM consensus guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of myxomatous mitral valve disease in dogs, Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM consensus statement; Keene BW et al., 2019)
ACVIM consensus guidelines: Cavalier predisposition to MMVD; sodium from treats in advanced disease. - French Bulldogs differ to other dogs in the UK in propensity for many common disorders: a VetCompass study, Canine Medicine and Genetics (O'Neill et al., 2021; Royal Veterinary College VetCompass)
Cited for: Nutrition and weight; Health watch. - Effects of diet restriction on life span and age-related changes in dogs, Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 2002 (PubMed record)
Cited for: Nutrition and weight; Health watch; Pastry and ingredients notes. PubMed record. - Longevity of companion dog breeds: those at risk from early death, Scientific Reports (McMillan KM et al., 2024)
Peer-reviewed UK longevity study of more than 580,000 dogs (2024): crossbred vs purebred median life span. Cited for: Health watch. - English Bulldogs in the UK: a VetCompass study of their disorder predispositions and protections, Canine Medicine and Genetics (VetCompass, Royal Veterinary College; 2022)
VetCompass study of English Bulldogs in the UK: BOAS, skin fold dermatitis, cherry eye, dry eye, entropion odds; median adult weight 25.55 kg. - DachsLife 2015: an investigation of lifestyle associations with the risk of intervertebral disc disease in Dachshunds (2016; doi:10.1186/s40575-016-0039-8), Canine Genetics and Epidemiology (Packer RMA, Seath IJ, O'Neill DG, De Decker S, Volk HA)
Cited for: Nutrition and weight; Health watch. - Taurine deficiency and dilated cardiomyopathy in golden retrievers fed commercial diets, PLOS ONE (Kaplan et al., 2018); University of California eScholarship copy
Cited for: Nutrition and weight; Health watch; Pastry and ingredients notes. University of California eScholarship copy. - Incidence and risk factors for heat-related illness (heatstroke) in UK dogs under primary veterinary care in 2016, Scientific Reports (Hall EJ, Carter AJ, O'Neill DG, 2020)
UK heat-related illness study: Bulldogs and flat-faced dogs at higher odds; heavier dogs at higher odds. - Rottweilers under primary veterinary care in the UK: demography, mortality and disorders (2017; doi:10.1186/s40575-017-0051-7), Canine Genetics and Epidemiology (O'Neill DG, Seah WY, Church DB, Brodbelt DC, et al.)
Cited for: Nutrition and weight; Health watch. - Demography and disorders of the French Bulldog population under primary veterinary care in the UK in 2013, Canine Genetics and Epidemiology (O'Neill et al., 2018; Royal Veterinary College VetCompass)
Cited for: Nutrition and weight; Health watch. - Labrador retrievers under primary veterinary care in the UK: demography, mortality and disorders, Canine Genetics and Epidemiology (McGreevy et al., 2018); Royal Veterinary College repository copy
Cited for: Nutrition and weight; Health watch. Royal Veterinary College repository copy. - Prevalence of Disorders Recorded in Dogs Attending Primary-Care Veterinary Practices in England, PLOS ONE (O'Neill DG, Church DB, McGreevy PD, Thomson PC, Brodbelt DC, 2014; Royal Veterinary College VetCompass)
Peer-reviewed VetCompass study of disorders in dogs at primary-care clinics in England (2014). Cited for: Nutrition and weight; Health watch; Pastry and ingredients.
University
- No simple way of predicting breathing difficulties in pugs, French bulldogs and bulldogs from external features, University of Cambridge
Cited for: Nutrition and weight. - Frequency, breed predisposition and demographic risk factors for overweight status in dogs in the UK (RVC news release), Royal Veterinary College VetCompass (reporting Pegram et al. 2021, J Small Anim Pract, doi:10.1111/jsap.13325)
Cited for: Nutrition and weight; Health watch; Pastry and ingredients notes. RVC news release reporting Pegram et al. 2021, J Small Anim Pract. - Genetic variant may help explain why Labradors are prone to obesity, University of Cambridge
Cited for: Nutrition and weight; Health watch; Pastry and ingredients notes. - Purebred dogs not always at higher risk for genetic disorders, study finds, University of California, Davis (news release on Bellumori TP et al., Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 2013)
UC Davis news release on a 2013 JAVMA study of 27,254 dogs with inherited disorders (mixed vs purebred). Cited for: Health watch; Pastry and ingredients. - Confused About What to Feed Your Large Breed Puppy? New Rules May Help!, Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine (Petfoodology)
Cited for: Nutrition and weight. - Growth Guide: Keeping your Puppy on the Right Track, Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine (Petfoodology)
Cited for: Nutrition and weight; Pastry and ingredients notes. - Demography and disorders of German Shepherds under primary veterinary care in the UK, Royal Veterinary College (VetCompass), summarizing O'Neill et al., Canine Genetics and Epidemiology 2017
Cited for: Nutrition and weight; Health watch; Pastry and ingredients notes. RVC news summary of O'Neill et al., Canine Genetics and Epidemiology 2017. - Yorkshire Terriers under primary veterinary care in the UK - demography and disorders (infographic), Royal Veterinary College (VetCompass)
RVC infographic summarizing the 2025 VetCompass Yorkie study. - Epidemiology of periodontal disease in dogs in the UK primary-care veterinary setting (RVC news release), Royal Veterinary College VetCompass (reporting O'Neill et al. 2021, J Small Anim Pract, doi:10.1111/jsap.13405)
Cited for: Health watch. RVC news release reporting O'Neill et al. 2021, J Small Anim Pract. - MDR1 in Dogs, Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory
MDR1 drug sensitivity; mutation frequency of about 50% in Australian Shepherds. - Epidemiology of Cranial Cruciate Ligament Disease Diagnosis in Dogs Attending Primary-Care Veterinary Practices in England (RVC news release), Royal Veterinary College VetCompass (reporting Taylor-Brown FE et al. 2015, Veterinary Surgery)
Cited for: Health watch; Pastry and ingredients notes. RVC news release reporting Taylor-Brown et al. 2015, Veterinary Surgery. - Grain-Free Diets: Big on Marketing, Small on Truth, Tufts Petfoodology (Cummings School)
Grain allergies are rare; no reliable evidence grains are harmful. - Petfoodology, Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Clinical Nutrition Service
Evidence-based pet nutrition articles from board-certified veterinary nutritionists. - Does an Apple a Day Keep the Vet Away? Harmful vs Healthy Foods for Pets, Tufts Petfoodology (Cummings School)
The 10% treat rule and calories for apples, bananas, blueberries, carrots, green beans and strawberries.
Peer-Reviewed Study
- Comprehensive diagnosis and management of Musladin-Lueke Syndrome in a Beagle in Japan, Journal of Veterinary Medical Science
Added in the Oct 22 2026 fact-check. - DachsLife 2015: an investigation of lifestyle associations with the risk of intervertebral disc disease in Dachshunds, Canine Genetics and Epidemiology
Added in the Oct 22 2026 fact-check.
Written by VanillaGoods from the cited sources. Not reviewed by a veterinarian. Not a substitute for veterinary advice.