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 …

Barkbox Subscription Box Review

Subscriptions boxes are a wonderful way to try out new products, such as different treats and toys, and something that you and your dog can look forward to. We first started trying out Barkbox over a year ago and it’s something that my Boston terrier, Nickel, has happily dove into. My family and I have …

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 …

How to Help Your Dog Overcome Noise Phobia

Does your dog flee to the bathtub every time the sky darkens with a summer storm? Or shake uncontrollably with every bang from fireworks on the fourth of July? If so, you’re not alone. Noise phobia is a serious problem that can lead to a sharp decline in your pooch’s quality of life, especially if …

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 …

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 …

13 Things You Should Know About the Toy Poodle

If you love intelligent, hypoallergenic dogs then you’re going to fall head over heels for the Toy Poodle. Compact, clever, and adorably affectionate, the Toy Poodle is the ideal companion for those living in apartments, though he is truly adaptable to living in all kinds of homes and spaces. But what exactly is the Toy …

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 …

Your Dog Just Ingested Rat Poison – What Should You Do Next?

It’s a frightening situation to be in, and one that still sticks out in my mind. I had just finished taking my dogs out for their pre-bedtime potty break. We were headed up the stairs to our townhome when my chihuahua dove into the bushes. I could hear him eating something and pulled him back. …

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 …

Brachycephalic Syndrome In Dogs And How to Deal With It

As an owner of a dog with brachycephalic syndrome, I wanted to learn as much as possible about the potential side effects in order to best care for my dog. My Boston Terrier, Nickel, struggles with many of the symptoms of the brachycephalic syndrome and I’m excited to share the many tips and tricks we’ve …

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 …

3 Reasons Why Your Dog Smells Bad (and What You Can Do)

The sense of smell of dogs is strong, which is why sniff time is incredibly important for them. And unfortunately, for some dogs, it’s also the other way around. Some dog breeds don’t have foul odor. Breeds like the Alaskan Malamute and Maltese smell pleasant by nature. Then there’s your dog. Wherever you go, he …

7 Signs your Dog May be Depressed and What You Can Do About It

In the not-so-distant past, people didn’t think dogs were capable of much feeling. They relegated canines to farm dog status, not taking much stock in their pups’ thoughts, feelings, and emotions. People rarely considered the idea that their dog may be depressed. If your dog seems depressed, read on to find out what common signs …

Is it Safe to Fly with your Dog?

My youngest pup, Fela, travels with me often.  She enjoys an adventure as much as I do, especially when there’s a chance of swimming or hiking involved.  When it came time to fly in the cargo hold of an airplane for the first time, I was concerned about whether flying was safe for her.  Before …

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 …

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 …

How to Choose the Best Training Treat Pouch

We are advocates of positive dog training techniques.  Teaching your dog using force-free, scientific and positive methods has been shown to be much more effective and kinder than harsh and aversive techniques and it also helps to create a stronger, happier and more trusting relationship between you and your dog. Food rewards can be great …

22 Essential Items to Get Before Bringing Home Your New Puppy

When you are bringing a new puppy or rescue dog home it can be difficult not to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of products available on the pet store shelves.  Often you can come home with a car full of items, half of which you never even use. We hope that this article gives …

How to Enjoy a Safe Outdoor BBQ Party With Your Dog

With warmer weather fast approaching, it’ll soon be time for fun outdoor BBQs. And while you should certainly invite Fido to join you for the party, an outdoor cookout could be a little dangerous for a curious (or always-hungry) canine unless you’re careful. Here are some things to keep in mind to make your BBQ …

Best Dog Training Equipment Reviewed

Looking for the best dog training equipment? Even if you have the most well-behaved dog on the planet, it can benefit them to have some basic training.  Not only can it be great brain food, helping them to stay stimulated and entertained, but it can also greatly increase the bond between you and your dog. …

The Best Dog Chews

The dog chew market is BIG business.  There are lots of great chew toys out there but it can be hard to know what the best thing to give to your dog is. What is safe, what is good for them nutritionally, what is best for their tummy and your purse?  In this article, we …

18 Incredible Dog Related Careers

When we think of a career working with animals we often think of low paid jobs or years of hard study.  It is true that some careers working with animals are not the best paid, but who needs lots of money when you are doing something so vocational, that you love and that is so …

How to Potty Train Your Dog – Without A Crate

When we brought our Alaskan shepherd —the name for a mix of the Alaskan malamute and German shepherd breeds—puppy home at eight weeks old, I thought it would be easy to potty train her. The breeder had told me she already went to the door when she needed to go out. I figured she would …

Dog Obesity Is More Common Than You Think: Tips for Helping Your Dog Lose Weight

What is the most common killer of dogs?  Would you be surprised to know that it is obesity-related problems? The Statistics Are Concerning Just look at the statistics and there can be no denying this worldwide trend.  The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) reports that, in 2017, an estimated 56% of dogs in North …

16 Tips for Helping Your Dog Cope with a Hot Summer

It can be really exciting when the warm weather comes around and it may seem like there could be nothing better than getting out to enjoy a long walk and some warm sun with your dog.  Often people forget that it can actually be quite a risky time for your pup if you don’t help …

How to Choose the Best Dog Harness

Looking for the best dog harnesses? You are going through your list of To Dos for your new puppy/adopted dog and you are feeling overwhelmed.  You have the collar and leash right at the top of the list but then someone asks you if you have a harness. You thought that a collar was enough. …

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 …

Best Dog Leash – 9 Common Dog Leash Options to Consider

When you first get a dog all the gear you have to buy can be a bit overwhelming.  You will get lots of different advice and be exposed to so many different brands and choices.  What to go for? Choosing the best dog leash is no exception.  There are all different sizes, patterns and styles. …

Can Dogs Detect Cancer?

It might sound like something from a science fiction novel but there is now strong scientific evidence to show that our dogs can actually detect human cancers.  This fantastic ability is now being honed by dog trainers and clinical researchers with the hope that this will enable cancers to be discovered in the early stages, …

My Dog is a Digger: Why do They do it and How to Prevent / Stop Digging?

Are you super proud of your beautiful green lawn and pretty plant borders?  Have you introduced a new puppy or rescue dog to your family? Have you discovered that your dog has an obsession with digging and now your once well-manicured lawn has turned into a potholed mess? It can be incredibly frustrating but at …

Boston Terrier Breed Information – 14 Facts about Boston Terriers

You’ve probably never heard the phrase “as American as apple pie” applied to a dog before. Maybe that’s because you’ve never met a Boston Terrier. The Boston Terrier, an all-American dog, is instantly recognized by its unique black-and-white coat, the breed’s distinctive markings and large eyes. If you’re considering adopting one of this special breed, …

Dog Parks: The Good, The Bad and the Ugly

In principle, dog parks sound like a fantastic idea.  A secure area where your dog can blow of steam whilst having a great time playing with other doggy friends.  It also means you get to socialise with other dog owners that you get to know in the dog park and don’t have to go walking …

My Dog Got Sprayed By a Skunk- What To Do Next?

If you’re like me, you’ve put your dog in many outdoor situations. Sometimes, dogs come back with a few burrs on them, other times they come back with something far worse. Last summer, I drove from Minnesota to Nebraska with my dog, Luna to see my sister-in-law in Lincoln. Quick fact: there are more skunks …

My Dog Destroys Everything: 10 Ways to Stop Destructive Behavior

If you your dog is a tail-wagging shredding machine, don’t despair. You can save your home (and your shoes) by understanding the root of the problem and by taking small steps to help your dog overcome it. Dogs rarely destroy things out of spite. It’s tempting to take the annihilation of your favorite jacket personally, …

Eurasier Dog Breed Information: 11 Facts to know

Hailing from Germany, these dogs have only been around for a few decades. The Eurasier dog is a medium-sized dog breed that is known for their prick ears and thick fur coat. Known for being good-natured, they make excellent companions as they form strong bonds with their humans. Unlike some other dogs of the Spitz …

Best Dog Backpack – How to Choose the Best Dog Hiking Pack

Whether you are peak bound or park bound, the best dog backpack can be very handy for you and your dog. With the advancements in our own back strapped rigs comes also the advancement in packs for our dogs. Your dog’s back is a finely tuned structure. It requires ergonomic structuring that differs vastly from your …

18 Dog First Aid Kit Essential Items

Dogs make fabulous adventure partners — they are resilient, rugged, and up for anything. But that doesn’t mean that accidents, mishaps, and illnesses won’t occur. If you share your home with a dog, you can prepare for minor and major emergencies with a bit of knowledge and a well-stocked dog first aid kit. Here are …

Have a Resource Guarding Dog? 10 Tips to Help

Does your dog have issues with resource guarding? Here are 10 tips for how to deal with resource guarding in dogs. We will show you what is the most appropriate dog training to help your dog overcome its guarding behavior.  1. What is Resource Guarding? Resource Guarding is a guarding behavior shown by your dog …

Why Does My Dog Eat Poop and What Can I Do About It?

What is Coprophagy? Coprophagy is a strange word, but it basically means “to eat poop”! While poop eating is a very disgusting habit to our eyes, there are various reasons for coprophagy or eating poop in dogs, and some of them are even natural and instinctive! Eating poop is a common behavior among wild canides, …

6 Tips for Hiking With Your Dog

As an avid dog admirer and nature goer, I spend a lot of time on the trail with my furry partner. No matter the trail, a day out with my dog is a day well spent. Through the years, the trail has taught us some good lessons and pushed both of us to our physical …

Dog Teeth Cleaning and Dog Dental Care Guide

Just like humans, your dog needs regular dog dental care and dog teeth cleaning. A buildup of tartar or plaque can cause tooth decay, bad breath, sometimes called “halitosis”, or gum disease, a type of dog dental disease. Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly is the best option. But there are other things you can do …

6 Things To Remember When Travelling With Your Dog

My wife and I consider our dog, Schlumpf, to be a substitute for the human children we will never have. That means that wherever we go, Schlumpf goes too. We don’t believe in going away on holiday and leaving the dog in a kennel. Whenever we go somewhere on holiday – whether it’s somewhere here …

15 Ways to Keep Your Dog Safe and Warm in the Winter

Annie, my dog, and I are gearing up for a winter season in the Italian Alps.  Whilst I arrange snow shovels and snow tyres for myself, I am also making sure I have all the right gear to ensure Annie has a great time too. If you have a dog, it can be wonderful to …

Why Does My Dog Lick Me? 6 Reasons Why

Ever since my wife and I became dog owners I have been wondering: why does my dog lick me? When my wife and I got our Maltese puppy, Schlumpf, back in 2013, he couldn’t stop licking me. At the time, I was overwhelmed to be a first-time dog owner, and since Schlumpf is primarily a …