Introduction to Ask Dr. Paola Series
Welcome to our weekly series where 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.
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. 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.
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.
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. 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.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Dr. Paola provides valuable insights and advice on various dog health and behavioral issues. From dietary concerns to anatomical issues and aggression towards puppies, Dr. Paola’s expertise helps dog owners understand and address their pets’ needs. By following her advice and seeking professional help when necessary, dog owners can ensure their furry friends lead happy and healthy lives. Remember to submit your questions and get expert advice from Dr. Paola every week.
Additional Resources
- View past week’s questions here: November 24, 2025
- See our full list of past articles here: https://www.dogster.com/ask-dr-paola#Past_Articles
- Click here to submit a question: https://www.dogster.com/ask-dr-paola
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