J-B Pet Supplies Blog Posts

  A Brief History of Dogs Dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) are descendants of wolves and were domesticated by humans thousands of years ago. Their origins trace back to Eurasia , with evidence suggesting that early domestication occurred between 20,000 and 40,000 years ago . How Dogs Evolved from Wolves Early Domestication (~40,000 – 20,000 years ago) Ancient humans and wolves interacted, likely due to scavenging behavior. Tamer wolves, those less aggressive toward humans, were more tolerated and eventually integrated into human camps. Over time, these wolves evolved into a distinct species, becoming early domestic dogs. Mutual Benefit (~15,000 years ago) Early humans selected for friendly and useful traits in dogs. Dogs assisted in hunting , guarding , and companionship . The bond strengthened as dogs adapted to human life. Divergence into Different Breeds (~10,000 years ago) As agriculture and settlements developed, dogs were selectively bred for specific roles: Guard dogs (e.g., ...

  Taurine and Dogs - What does Taurine do for Dogs? What is Taurine? Taurine is an essential amino acid-like compound found naturally in animal-based proteins. It plays a vital role in several bodily functions, including heart health, vision, reproduction, and muscle function . Unlike cats, which require taurine in their diet, most dogs can synthesize taurine from other amino acids like methionine and cysteine . However, some dogs may not produce enough, leading to taurine deficiency and potential health risks. Why Do Dogs Need Taurine? Taurine is crucial for several key functions in a dog's body: 🫀 Heart Health Taurine supports normal cardiac function and helps prevent dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) , a serious heart disease that weakens the heart muscle. Taurine deficiency has been linked to diet-associated DCM , particularly in dogs eating grain-free or plant-heavy diets. 👁️ Eye Health Taurine is vital for maintaining retinal health and vision . A deficiency can lead to prog...

  The Best Proteins for Cats and Why Wet or Raw Diets Are Ideal Introduction As cat owners, we want our feline companions to thrive, and one of the most critical factors for their well-being is their diet. Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they require a diet rich in animal-based proteins to meet their nutritional needs. Choosing the right proteins and understanding the benefits of wet or raw diets can significantly enhance your cat’s health, ensuring they live a long, vibrant life. Why Protein is Essential for Cats Cats’ evolutionary history as hunters has shaped their dietary requirements. Unlike omnivores or herbivores, cats depend on animal proteins as their primary source of nutrients. This reliance stems from their need for specific amino acids, such as taurine and arginine, that are abundant in animal tissues but scarce or absent in plant-based foods. Taurine : Essential for heart health, vision, and reproduction. Taurine deficiency can lead to severe health problems...