Home » Articles posted by Anna Weber (Page 9)

New Year’s Resolutions for You and Your Dog in 2017

With 2016 coming to an end, it is time to reflect upon the past year with an eye toward the future.  What change can you make in 2017 that will positively impact your life?  Better yet, what changes can you make in 2017 that will pawsitively impact your dog’s life?  The following are a few suggestions dog-and-owner New Year’s resolutions. Exercise More More than 50% of household dogs in America are obese, as well as 70% of Americans.  Besides helping to maintain a healthy weight, there are numerous benefits of daily exercise.  These include enhanced mood, better canine behavior, improved sleep, and a reduced risk of developing disease.  Incorporating just 5 – 10 more minutes of exercise per day can make a big difference in both you and your dog’s lives! Get Outside your Comfort Zone As the saying goes:  nothing ventured, nothing gained.  Getting outside your personal comfort zone...
Continue reading »

Best Winter Clothing for Dogs

A common misconception is that dogs don’t require additional protection in the winter due to their fur coats.  While this is true for breeds with thick double coats such as Siberian Huskies and Malamutes, small dogs or those with short coats require an extra layer for trips outdoors.  The best winter clothing for dogs is described here. Boots Paws are especially sensitive this time of year due to ice, snow, cold temperatures, and salt.  If your dog continually hobbles on 3 legs during walks, boots might be the answer. Pawz, $11.69/12 boots These utilitarian dog boots are perfect for the pup that isn’t fussy.  Simply slip these reusable rubber boots over your dog’s paws for instant protection from ice, snow, salt, and cold. Hi-Toppers, $59.99/4 boots Keeping your dog safe and warm is important, but can be difficult when roads are icy.  Hi-Toppers provide superior traction for your dog’s feet,...
Continue reading »

How to Prevent Your Dog from Being Lost or Stolen

Every dog owner’s worst nightmare is to have a beloved pup be lost or stolen.  However, in many cases there are ways to prevent these occurrences.  The following are tips for decreasing the chances of your dog being lost or stolen. Never Leave Your Pet Unattended One of the main reasons dogs are lost or stolen is because they were left without supervision.  If you have a fenced-in yard, your dog may find a way to climb over, dig under, or even go through a fence; especially if something intriguing is on the other side.  Electronic fences can malfunction, and tie-outs can break.  A dog left alone in a yard can also be tempting for thieves, particularly if your dog is a rare or expensive breed.  If dog fighting is common in your area, any breed of dog may be at risk. Commonly, people leave their dogs in their car;...
Continue reading »

Combined Dog and Cat Feeding Station

In a multi-pet, multi-species household, a common frustration is keeping meal time separate.  After all, can you blame your dog for being interested in the meaty, odorous food your kitty receives?  This problem is especially hard for families that are unable to supervise breakfast, lunch, and dinner.  Additionally, certain pets may have special dietary needs, such as prescription foods or limited portion sizes.  However, a combined dog and cat feeding station can be hard to find  For every pet owner who has ever proclaimed, “there has to be a better way!” the good news is that now, there is. WonderBowl Selective Pet Feeder, (Dont forget to use Ebates coupon) With the WonderBowl, you can avoid the problem of your dog stealing your cat’s food and vise versa entirely.  This smart bowl has a mechanical lid that only opens when the animal wearing a specialized collar comes near.  The infrared technology...
Continue reading »

Jobs for Dogs: Providing Boredom-Busting Activities for your Pet

Dogs behave best when their emotional, physical, and mental needs are fully met.  Many dogs require a job to perform, one which fulfills their original purpose.  For instance, if you own a sled dog breed, your pet will be happiest being given an opportunity to pull.  Specific jobs for all types of dogs are described here. Herding Dogs If your dog is an Australian Shepherd, Border Collie, German Shepherd Dog, Old English Sheepdog, or another breed from the herding group; chances are it has supreme herding skills.  These dogs excel at chasing animals, cars, or kids in an attempt to create order in their doggy brains.  One way to fulfill this need for your pet is to visit an area that is overrun with geese (with the property owner’s permission, of course).  Allow your pet to round up the geese, either off-leash or with the help a check-cord. Companion Dogs...
Continue reading »

Common Reasons Owners Rehome Their Dogs

The number of dogs relinquished to animal shelters or rehomed through sites such as Craigslist is staggering.  Even worse, many of the dogs that do get adopted wind up bouncing from home to home until one sticks.  Many adopters have unrealistic expectations regarding canine ownership.  Listed here are the most common reasons owners rehome their pets. Breed Specific Legislation Unfortunately, many areas in the United States, Canada, and Europe do not allow certain breeds, primarily pit bulls.  Commonly, people bring home pit bulls without considering future plans of relocating.  Then, when it comes time to move, they are unable to find housing that allows pitties, or the breed is banned entirely from the community.  Before adopting a dog, make sure the breed is compatible with any relocations you are intending to make in the next 10 – 15 years. Too Much Work Another reason dogs are relinquished is because the...
Continue reading »

Dog Training 101: Teaching Your Dog Recall

Teaching your dog recall (i.e. to come when called) is one of the most important lessons your pet can learn.  A rock solid recall can literally mean the difference between life and death, particularly if your dog escapes the house or breaks free of his collar.  Tips for teaching recall are described here. Low Distraction The first step is to start training your dog in a low-distraction area, such as a spare bedroom.  Do not attempt recall in the yard or at the park until your dog has mastered coming when called in the house.  Place a leash on your pet, ask your dog to sit, and then walk backwards (still holding the leash), while saying “come” and holding a treat.  When your dog reaches you, give your pet profuse praise. Make Recall Fun Once your dog has learned the meaning of “come,” take to the outdoors and turn recall...
Continue reading »

Is a Chinese Crested Dog Right for You?

Little dogs are all the rage this year, especially for apartment-dwellers or those who are not athletically inclined.  A toy breed that once was nearly extinct, the popularity of Chinese Crested dogs has continued to grow.  Is a Chinese Crested right for you? Temperament Chinese Crested dogs are affectionate, loving animals due to their history as a companion breed.  They are loyal and alert, yet also spirited and playful.  Due to their tendency to form strong bonds with their owners, Chinese Crested dogs can be prone to separation anxiety and may struggle with time alone. Size, Coloring, and Upkeep There are two types of Chinese Crested dogs:  Powderpuff and Hairless.  The Powderpuff variety has long, soft hair that can sometimes be high maintenance.  The Hairless version can either be completely hairless from head to tail, or be “hairy hairless” with hair on face, tail, and legs.  Hairless dogs require skincare...
Continue reading »

A New Dog in the House: Beyond the Introduction

If you are adding a new dog or long-term visitor to the household, there is much more to harmonious living beyond the initial introduction.  Even if resident pets tolerate the newcomer, there are additional steps the owner must take in order to ensure peaceful coexistence. Start Small One of the worst mistakes a dog owner can make is to assume that since the initial introduction went well there will be smooth sailing thereafter.  While this may be the case for some dogs, in reality there are many pets that will display some jealousy, resource guarding, or general brattiness.  It is always better to be on the safe side and start small.  Praise your dogs whenever they are behaving well, even if simply sitting on the couch next to one another. Expect a Few Scuffles The main way that dogs interact with one another is through assertion of hierarchy.  In the...
Continue reading »

Holiday Gift Guide for Dog and Owner

Let the countdown begin.  As of today, you have 25 days to get your presents purchased, wrapped, and safely placed beneath the tree.  While 25 days may seem like a lot of time, Christmas is approaching faster than you think!  Listed here are gift ideas for the dogs – and dog owners – on your holiday shopping list! The first this you want to do is sign up for Ebates. You will find that most online stores offer real cash back through this service. They even have a browser button that will light up if the site your on offers money back. It is as easy as clicking a button. For Dogs Prey Drive Treats, $5 – $10 Does your dog alert you to every rabbit or squirrel within the vicinity?  Provide your dog an extra special high-value reward by gifting treats made of its favorite small animal.  For instance,...
Continue reading »