Best Dog Food For German Shepherds

Okay, so we should preface this article by saying that there is not a one size fits all best dog food – period!  Every dog is different with what they will like and do well on. Of course, there are certain requirements that some dogs will have.  Puppies need a food that contains the right …

White German Shepherd: 10 Things You Might Not Know

White German Shepherds have been given a hard time of it in history.  They were once regarded as being a problematic mutation and not as sought after or highly regarded as their darker colored relatives.  Perceptions have changed, but there are still some common assumptions people make about these dogs that are not true. Despite …

The Long Haired Chihuahua: 10 Things You Might Not Know

Many people make the mistake of thinking that a Chihuahua will be a perfect lap dog that will enjoy just sitting on your knee and being carried and cuddled all day.  This breed is actually super intelligent, often very spunky, and they need plenty of training and stimulation to make sure that they don’t start …

Heartworm in Dogs: What It Is and What to Do

If your dog doesn’t want to do any physical activity with you, you may think of the obvious reason for his rebellious behavior: he’s lazy. You can try inviting him to go for out a walk in the upcoming days if you want. But if he still says no, it seems like he really is …

How to Make Your Dog Look Forward to Bath Time

Calming music for his anxiety. Bath towels and scrubs. Your dog sitting properly beside you on the bathroom. These three elements paint the picture of a dog who’s about to be given a bath by a caring dog owner. Seems like a pretty picture, right? But once you open your faucet and your dog hears …

16 Things You Should Know about the English Mastiff

There are many words you could use to describe the English Mastiff, and most of them have to do with size: humongous, gargantuan, immense, and colossal all come to mind. But that obvious physical feature is just the start of what you need to know about the this breed if you’re looking to add one …

What Are Desensitization and Counterconditioning and Why Are They Helpful?

Counterconditioning and desensitization are two terms that can be baffling if you are just entering the world of dog training and behavior but, if you are dealing with a nervous or fearful dog, they are ones that it is important to gain an understanding of as they can be very powerful tools, especially when used …

Compulsive Behavior in Dogs:  Some Examples and How to Manage Them

Compulsive behaviors in dogs are more common than you might think.  Sometimes you may actually be inadvertently encouraging these behaviors to develop in your own dog.  Sometimes there may be a medical reason that needs to be addressed, other times it is about management and training, or simply just making sure that your dog has …

Why Punishment Should be Avoided When Training Your Dog

The dog training world can be a passionate and widely divisive one.   Broadly speaking, there are two main types of training. Those that rely on using force-free, positive reinforcement techniques, and those that rely on aversives techniques and punishment (sometimes used alongside some positive training too admittedly). In this article, we hope to help you …

What is Target Training and Why Can It Be Useful?

Target training, sometimes also referred to as a ‘hand touch’, or ‘hand target’, or just as a “touch”, is something that might initially seem like an odd thing to teach your dog, but it can actually have a lot of really useful practical applications.  Generally, most trainers recommend starting by teaching your dog to touch …

How to Remove Pet Urine Stains and Odors – The Ultimate Guide

If you have a new puppy or adopted dog, it is more than likely that there could be a few accidents that occur in the house.  While it is important to work on a consistent toilet training regime, with lots of opportunities to get outside and huge praise and rewards when they successfully go there, …

Holiday Arrangements: Dog Kennels vs Home Boarding vs Pet Sitting

While it is lovely to be able to holiday with your dog, realistically, this is not always possible for everyone.  Perhaps you are planning a trip abroad, or maybe you are attending a family event that dogs are not allowed to be at.  Sometimes it may be a work commitment or even a family emergency. …

Is Dog Daycare Right for My Dog and How Do You Find a Good One?

Dog daycare facilities are becoming increasingly popular places for dogs to go during the day while their owners are at work.  While a well-run daycare can be a great place for a sociable dog to spend the day, if the facility if poorly run or the dog is not keen on spending time in a …

How to Choose the Best Exercise for Your Dog

While walks to the nearby dog park are never a bad thing, sometimes dogs need more of a challenge. Doesn’t matter if you have a dog who loves water or one who can run for miles –choosing the right sport for him is essential to make sure he stays fit, has fun and doesn’t get …

10 Dog Friendly Things to do Along the Oregon Coast

Ocean waves crash against rocky shorelines. Sandy beaches expose seashells of varying colors, shapes and sizes. White gulls hover over waves and wade through shallow tidal pools. A highway twists and turns for more than 360 miles north and south. Picnic areas, campgrounds, lighthouses, hiking trails and small communities abound along this stretch of road, …

Can Acupuncture be Beneficial For Your Dog?

Acupuncture, the insertion of needles into certain pressure points on the body to stimulate healing, is an alternative therapy that is growing in popularity as a complementary treatment for dogs and other pets.   This form of treatment still courts criticism from some in the field of medicine, but it’s proponents suggest that it is a …

8 Ways to Exercise Your Dog Without Going for a Walk

Regular dog walks are very important for your dog, both physically and mentally.  Sometimes a dog may need more than just a couple of regular walks a day to keep them from becoming bored. Sometimes other options for exercise may be required for a variety of other reasons too.  These could include your dog recovering …

22 Tips for a Stress-Free House Move For Your Dog

We all know that moving house can be a stressful time, it is important to remember that it can be an equally stressful time for our four-legged family members too.  By doing some advanced planning, being organised on the day, and following a few simple steps once you are into your new pad, you can …

How to Find a Good Dog Walker

If you are considering adopting a dog if you work full-time or have other commitments that mean that you are away from the house for longer periods then it is important that you always put your dog’s needs and well-being at the forefront of your mind.  Leaving them for the long durations on their own …

Submissive Urination: What It Is and How to Help Your Dog Overcome It

Picture this: an adorable dog bed has finally arrived! What you do after the delivery guy left it on your front porch is yell out your dog’s name. “Baby Booooy!” you say. Upon hearing this, your dog, Baby Boy, happily rushes to you. But as soon as he notices the package that’s beside you, you …

10 Backyard Toys that will Keep Your Dog More Fit

Did you know that an estimated 56% of dogs in the United States are either overweight or obese? According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, this is a serious health threat — reducing life expectancy, and increasing the risk of skin disorders, chronic inflammation, and orthopedic strain. One of the best ways to keep …

7 Products That Make Loose Leash Walking Easy

Loose leash walking is one of the most common behaviour issues that dog trainers are asked to help with.  It can be stressful, and sometimes even dangerous, for the owner when taking a strong dog a walk that is pulling on the leash all the time.  It can also be a problem for your dog. …

How to Tell if My Dog is in Pain

Dogs are notoriously stoic creatures.  It is not uncommon for a dog to be suffering from a prolonged ailment and even the most doting of owner may not realise.  Many dog owners are looking for the obvious signs like crying or whimpering, but often there can be a much more subtle set of signs that …

Pancreatitis: What is it and How Can You Help Your Dog Manage It?

Pancreatitis can be an awful condition.  It can cause major discomfort and pain for your dog and it is extremely distressing to watch this as an owner.  In extreme or persistent cases, there is a risk of death. This is why, if you spot the symptoms of the condition, it is important that you seek …

How to Care For Dogs Recovering From Surgery or an Injury

The time following surgery for your dog can be confusing and distressing for you both.  Depending on what the surgery was, there will be different requirements in terms of wound care, recovery and rest time, and the medications or supportive therapies they may need post-surgery.  This guide offers some practical general guidance, but make sure …

11 Things You Should Know about the Bichon Frise

1995 was the year when the Bichon Frise first stepped foot in America. And since then, people can’t help but be fascinated by this breed of dog. And since then, it wasn’t only the Americans who were smitten with him. Just about everybody around the world were hooked. By simply looking at the Bichon Frise, …

What is the Optimal Level of Magnesium for Your Dog?

Having and keeping our dogs healthy and happy is high up on our list as pet owners. There are many ways that we go about achieving this. Finding the best dog food, for our specific dog, is one of them. But one of the things we don’t necessarily think about is the vital minerals and …

25 Dog Friendly Places and Spaces in Colorado

Colorado, its capital, Denver, and the city of Colorado Springs rank high in pet-friendliness. Unleashed dog parks abound, greenways offer delightful walking paths, and your furry friend is welcome in many human-occupied areas. The Rocky Mountains offer a scenic backdrop to much of Colorado and provide a variety of activities for people and their pets …

Why is My Dog Having Seizures and Should I Worry?

One of the most frightening moments as a dog parent is noticing strange behavior and distress in our dogs and not knowing the cause. Especially in the case of seizures, it is often difficult to determine when a seizure is benign or a sign of an underlying dangerous health disorder. According to an article by …

A High Energy Dog Owner’s Survival Guide

Working dog breeds are popular pets today, but they have always been bred to work tirelessly alongside humans. Hunting dogs are bred to live for the hunt. Herding dogs are bred to think for themselves, or obey the commands of their masters, while they run up and down hills gathering livestock. Sled dogs are bred …

11 Things You Should Know About Sibling Puppies

When you see a litter of puppies it can be very difficult to choose just one. How can you pick between all of those adorable puppies? Maybe, you think, just maybe I’ll take two. Wait! You may want to rethink this because as cute as they are, sibling puppies present their own array of challenges. …

This Might Be Why Your Dog Doesn’t Sleep Through The Night

A couple weeks ago, I’d just settled my toddler down for the night (for the third time) and dropped, exhausted, into my own bed. Sleep claimed me quickly, but an hour later a soft whine jolted me awake. I was about to check on my toddler when I heard the sound again and realized it …

How to Make a Dog Blanket Without Sewing

Nothing feels more amazing then cuddling up on the couch with a soft blanket. We snuggle ourselves in, get comfortable, and embrace that familiar sense of safety and security. We aren’t the only ones who like to get our snuggle on. Our dogs do too! Dogs like to feel at home just like we do, …

6 Tips for Managing the Spring Shed

We’ve all been there. The dog hair just keeps piling up, and you can’t seem to stop it. Shedding is a natural event that most dogs experience, especially during seasonal changes. Spring, when the temperatures begin to warm up, tends to be the most vicious of all the shedding. The accumulation of dog hair during …

DIY Dog Momentos: Best Ways to Remember Your Pets

It’s natural to want to keep our furry friends with us forever — they make us smile, jump with excitement (even though we just saw them five minutes ago), and comfort us during times of grief — but the unfortunate reality is that we are only given a short time with them. Luckily, there are …

What You Need to Get Started in Dog Agility Training

Are you looking for an amazing activity that you can do with your favorite canine? Agility training is a great way to build a stronger dog between you and your dog, plus it’s fabulous exercise, great for solving behavioral problems, and a whole lot of fun. You don’t need to be an expert dog handler …

13 Things You Should Know About the Beagle Bull

Sweet, loyal and distinctive looking, a Beagle Bull is a mix between the pitbull terrier and beagle. They can be such sweet and wonderful animals to have in the family. While not recognized officially as a purebred, its popularity has been growing among breeders. Beagle Bulls can also be found at many rescue organizations due …

Pug Breed Information – 14 Things to Know

Very few dog breeds have a motto, but the Pug dog is so unique that having their own motto definitely makes sense. And here it is: multum in parvo – a Latin phrase that translates to “a lot in a little.” That’s a very fitting description for the Pug dog that is both incredibly cute …

11 Things You Should Know About the Cock-a-Mo

Finding the perfect family pet can be difficult. My family has always been lucky.  Throughout my life we have had four completely different dogs, ranging in size and personality.  Our current dog is named Obie and he is a cock-a-mo. With his huge grin, constantly wagging tail and beautiful fur, we fell in love with …

How to Safely Walk Your Dog at Night

When the winter months arrive it can sometimes be difficult to avoid taking your dog out for a walk after dark.  It can be much more tricky in terms of visibility, road safety and keeping track of your dog’s movements.  Here are a number of pointers for walking your dog safely in the dark. Sometimes …

The Best Dog Footwear – Boots, Shoes and Socks for Your Fur Baby

We’ve all seen celebs trot out their pooches in designer label outfits complete with matching booties. So as a pet parent, you may be wondering: Do dogs really need boots? The short answer is yes. Like our own footwear, dog boots offer protection to our canine companion’s paws. So what is the best dog footwear? …

Dog Coughing? What It Means and What to Do

Dog coughing? Don’t panic.  Occasional coughing in dogs or a small cough is generally not something to worry about and even something more persistent will not always be serious and can often be very easily managed if prompt treatment is received. At the same time, dog owners should not ignore a serious cough and it …

50 Most Popular Dog Breeds in the World

Wondering which are the most popular dog breeds in the world? This list of the 50 most popular dog breeds is one of the most comprehensive out there. What makes some dog breeds popular? Sometimes, dogs are popular despite having some health or other issues. Studies of dog choices reveal that breeds seem to be …

Why Sniff Time Is so Important to Your Dog

So often when we go out with our dog it is a brisk walk down the street or to the park where we then play fetch with a ball or let them run around with some other dogs.  If your dog stops to sniff, I am sure we have all been guilty of feeling frustrated …

Is Playing With a Ball Thrower Good For Your Dog?

Ball throwers are a very popular dog toy.  A lot of dog owners will take their dog to the park and let them burn off some steam by playing with their beloved ball.  It can save the owner from having to pick up a muddy, wet, saliva-covered ball, it saves your back and it can …

How to Secure Your Dog in the Car

How excited does YOUR dog get when you ask if he/she wants to go for a ride? Many dogs simply love the car-riding experience (some don’t; they’re nervous or frightened, but there are ways to get past that). The sights! The smells! What’s not to like? As a dog owner, you should be aware of …

When to use Dog Muzzles and How to Get Your Dog Used to Wearing a Muzzle

I owned and ran a specialist dog shop in Edinburgh in Scotland for ten years and muzzles were frequently discussed but often in embarrassed, secretive tones or, if a dog was wearing a dog muzzle, other dog owners would dramatically retreat out of the shop in a hurried fashion. There are a lot of unfair …

How to Choose the Best Dog Bed: 12 Different Types of Dog Beds

Adopting a new dog or getting a new puppy?  Surprised by the number of dog bed styles there are out there?  No wonder! It can be overwhelming enough welcoming a new dog into the family, never mind contending with all the different things to buy and opinions from fellow dog owners.  Every dog is different …

How to Choose the Best Dog Bowl: 10 Types of Dog Bowls

You have just got a new dog and you head to the pet store to buy a few essentials.  You head to the aisle with the dog bowls. Who would think that something as seemingly simple as a dog bowl could turn up so many questions? There are hundreds of different dog bowl options. Which …