10 Proven Tips to Stop Puppy Nipping & Biting Behavior
Are you struggling to deal with your furry friend’s nipping and biting behavior? Don’t worry; you’re not alone. This common issue is faced by many puppy owners of all ages and breeds, and it’s essential to nip it in the bud before it becomes a lifelong habit. In this article, we’ll discuss ten proven tips to stop puppy nipping and biting and provide insights into what causes this behavior.
What causes Puppy Nipping & Biting?
Before diving into the tips, let’s understand some of the causes of puppy nipping and biting behavior. Puppies explore their surroundings with their mouth, and it’s their natural instinct to play-bite. This behavior is common among puppies and is a part of their socialization process. Puppies also nip and bite when they’re teething or feeling anxious, scared, or over-stimulated. Finally, puppies learn “bite-inhibition” from nipping and biting and how to moderate the strength of their bite.
10 Proven Tips to Stop Puppy Nipping & Biting Behavior
- Socialize your puppy: Introduce your puppy to other dogs and people in a controlled and safe environment. Socialization helps your puppy learn to interact with others and control its biting behavior.
- Provide toys and chewable items that are allowed: Puppies love to chew and providing them with appropriate chew toys can redirect their biting behavior. Make sure to provide chew toys that are safe and appropriate for their age and size.
- Consistent training: Consistency is key when it comes to training your puppy. Use positive reinforcement to reward good behavior and discourage nipping and biting.
- Provide enough exercise and playtime: Puppies need plenty of exercise and playtime to release their energy. A tired puppy is less likely to nip and bite.
- Teach “no bite” command: Teach your puppy the “no biting” command using a firm and authoritative voice. Reinforce this command by stopping playtime or withdrawing attention when your puppy nips or bites.
- Use taste deterrents: Apply a bitter taste deterrent to your hands or furniture to discourage your puppy from nipping and biting.
- Redirect their behavior: Redirect your puppy’s nipping and biting behavior by offering them an appropriate chew toy or moving away from them
- Provide a safe and calm environment: Puppies feel anxious and stressed when exposed to chaotic or stressful environments. Make sure to provide them with a calm and safe environment.
- Seek professional help: If your puppy’s nipping and biting behavior persists, seek help from a professional trainer or a veterinarian.
- Be patient and consistent: Remember, training your puppy takes time and patience. Be consistent with your training and provide positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior. It is also important to remain calm and patient when dealing with your puppy’s nipping and biting behavior. Yelling or getting angry can create fear and anxiety in your puppy, making the problem worse.
In conclusion, puppy nipping and biting behavior is common among puppies. They use their mouth to explore and play and that is how they learn about their world. It can be managed with consistent training and socialization and requires an understanding of the causes and a commitment to consistent training and positive reinforcement. Additionally, managing puppy nipping and biting will take effort, patience, consistency, and an understanding of its causes. Follow the ten proven tips mentioned in this article, and you’ll be well on your way to managing your puppy’s behavior effectively. As your puppy grows, their behavior will change, and new challenges may arise. However, with the right approach, you can overcome these challenges and continue to reinforce positive behavior in your furry friend.
What is Counter Conditioning Dog Training?
Does your pet turn into an anxious mess whenever you bring out the vacuum cleaner? Loud noises? People? Dogs? Is your pet terrified of your hairdryer? Unfortunately, this irrational fear is a common issue that many pet parents face.
So, if you’re looking to modify your pet’s behavior to make them less anxious and fearful around a stimulus, counter-conditioning is an excellent training method you should consider. It is usually used in conjunction with Desensitization.
Let’s take a closer look at what this training technique entails and how counter-conditioning can benefit you and your pet.
Counter-conditioning, also known as reciprocal inhibition, is a form of classical conditioning — a type of unconscious learning discovered by Ivan Pavlov. Remember Pavlov’s dog?
This training technique helps change the pet’s attitude, underlying feelings, and emotional response to a particular stimulus or trigger. There are many and may include people, other animals, noises, and machinery, among other things. Think about the ones in your own home and neighborhood. Some dogs are not bothered by them but more times than not most dogs have something that they are triggered by.
Counter-conditioning is often used in conjunction with response substitution, wherein positive reinforcement techniques are used to modify the pet’s behavior. It is also used with desensitization, a method in which you expose your pet to the concerned stimulus but at a much lower level to reduce the likelihood of a response.
As a professional dog trainer using only positive reinforcement methods, I like to use high-value, yummy treats to counter-condition the dogs I train who are struggling with these triggers. I like to tell my clients, “Treats Train Trust” when it comes to counter-conditioning.
Compared to negative reinforcement techniques that can further aggravate your pet’s fear and anxiety and might even make them afraid of you, or even redirect back on you, counter-conditioning is a safer and more effective training method.
To start a counter-conditioning program, you will need to identify the stimuli or trigger that is causing the negative response in your dog.
With counter-conditioning, you are altering your pet’s trauma and stress response without resorting to negative reinforcement techniques. You are introducing a positive stimulus paired with the trigger or event and teaching them the event, ie the dog, noise, truck, car, bicycle, scooter, is actually a positive or good thing.
For example, if your pet shows signs of anxiety during fireworks or thunder, you can pair the sounds and sight of those things with their favorite toys or treats to change their emotional state from stressed and anxious to positive, calm, and relaxed.
Counter-conditioning offers a multitude of benefits.
This training technique helps replace negative emotions such as anxiety and fear with acceptable ones. It helps your pet associate the stimulus with positive things instead of fearful or aggressive behaviors.
Dogs learn in two ways; one is by doing things like, ‘sit’, ‘down’, ‘shake’, etc and secondly they also learn by association, good or bad.
Think about when you take the leash out, typically the dog becomes very excited because they know they are going for a walk. Additionally, when you put on your tennis shoes or when the car keys come out, the dog ‘associates’ these events as positive, but not always. Such as if the only time the leash comes out is when you take the dog to the vet to get a shot, the leash could become a negative association and hence the dog runs for the hills every time they see the leash.
Counter-Conditioning also helps achieve the desired emotional state, which can be quite helpful in treating fear and anxiety. With time and proper training, you will notice that your pet remains calm or even becomes ecstatic at the sight of what was once a scary stimulus.
Just make sure to feed them treats only after they show a reaction — otherwise, your pet will associate the food and think that the stimulus is near, which could cause them to be more scared and alert.
Counter-conditioning is a technique that requires you to be alert and aware of your pet’s triggers and reactions. Pay attention to what triggers your dog and how they respond to that trigger. Some dogs pull away, lunge, bark, growl, cower or completely shut down.
If you suspect that exposure to a certain object, person, or animal could backtrack the progress your pet has made so far, try to eliminate it before your pet can locate the issue.
Slow and steady wins the race! Repetitive exposure to their triggers without being able to recover can cause your pet to feel overwhelmed. It is called trigger stacking and can worsen your pet’s fear.
However, if you’re confident in your pet’s training, you may instruct them to “stay” and slowly walk around the stimulus to show them that it’s harmless. Remember to follow it up with treats.
Counter-conditioning is a technique that focuses on getting the pet to like something it previously feared, or at least tolerate it. You should consult with a Professional Dog Trainer or Animal Behaviorist to help with this type of training. Keep in mind that this a more advanced type of training typically takes some time to show the desired results. But with time, patience, practice, and consistency, you will have a happy, fear-free pet in no time!
Top 10 Puzzle Toys for Dogs
Dogs are smart, curious creatures. Whenever they feel bored, they start exploring things around them, and I am sure you don’t like the trouble that comes with their house exploring session. It is best to keep them busy in learning activities.
We ignore the fact that mental stimulation for dogs is as important as physical activities. Dog puzzle toys are great for mental activities. You can hide treats or small toys between the puzzles. Your dog will feel excited to solve the puzzle and find the hidden items. You can adjust the difficulty level of the toy according to your dog’s skills. It will be great fun to explore and find the treat or toy as their reward for solving it correctly. Puzzle toys provide the best opportunity for mental exercise and help with developmental skills. So many dog toys are available in the market, and I have explored, experienced and researched countless options. Here are top 10 dog puzzle toys from which you can pick your favorite ones to spoil your furry friend positively.
Nina Ottoson’s dog smart is the level one puzzle toy. It is comparatively easier and will prepare your pup for the next difficult levels. Your dog will enjoy the rewarding game that is great for their mental exercise.
The puzzle has nine compartments covered with removable bones. Fill any partition with his favorite treat and cover all the compartments with bone lids. Let your dog learn to remove all those lids to find his treat. It is perfect for keeping him entertained and mentally active.
Key Features:
· Suitable for all breeds and sizes
· Safe material
· Easy to clean
The IQ treat ball is customizable and a fun way for your dog to learn and play at the same time. Fill the ball with treats and set the difficulty level according to your dog’s skills. He will learn to roll the ball to make the treat fall out of it. The most amazing thing about this toy is that it comes in two sizes which are ideal for smaller and larger dogs. It also encourages slow eating, which is good for your dog’s health.
Key Features:
· Two sizes available
· Adjustable difficulty level
· Easy to use
· Easy to clean
Hyper pet lick mat also helps to treat dog anxiety with mental and physical stimulation. Repetitive licking improves endorphins and is a perfect alternative to slow feeding bowls. It is specially designed to support portion control while serving treats or wet food to your dog. A licking mat is also great for pets’ dental care as it scraps their tongue and keeps their breath fresh. Your dog will never get bored of this amazing treat lick mat.
Key Features:
· Dishwasher safe
· Portion control design
· 90 days warranty
Dogs have the instinct to chase and catch their prey. The Kong rubber treats dispensing toy provides them with the best opportunity to chase, catch and chew. It is one of the top puzzle dog toys for their mental, emotional, and behavioral well-being. It solves so many problems like separation anxiety, barking, digging, crate training and promotes positive behavior. This fetch toy is also a great way to provide your dog with the necessary exercise to keep him fit and healthy. You can freeze the stuffed Kong rubber toy before giving it to your dog to make it more challenging and fun.
Key Features:
· Easy to clean
· Dishwasher safe
· High-quality material
Nina Ottosson slider toy is a level 3 puzzle and a great choice for hyperactive dogs. It will keep your dog busy for a long period. It has 35 slider compartments. Put dog treats in one or multiple compartments and slide the lids back to hide them. Let your dog explore and find the treat while doing physical and mental exercise.
The feature that makes Nina Ottosson treat puzzle one of the best puzzle toys is that it has no removable parts, so there is no choking hazard to your beloved pup.
Key Features:
- Safe material
- Easy to clean
- No choking hazard
This is another amazing puzzle toy for your dog, a level 2 puzzle that consists of a combination of multiple steps. It is perfect for keeping your dog entertained. It has three types of treat hiding compartments that make it extra challenging for your smart furry friend. Flip, slide and open different compartments to hide the treat. It will challenge your dog’s skills while having fun and finding the reward hidden in the puzzles. It encourages your dog to spend his time and energy in a positive activity rather than showing destructive behavior.
Key Features:
· 3 types of puzzles in one toy
· Easy to clean
· Safe material
AWOOF Pet Snuffle Mat is a unique mat ideal for mental and physical stimulation. You can hide a treat or small toys on the mat, and your dog will love to snuffle and find his reward. It improves your dog’s smelling skills and keeps him physically fit. Its bottom is made with high-quality non-slippery material that prevents the pup from moving. It is designed to be shrunk into a smaller size. You can easily carry it while travelling or hand it anywhere when not in use.
Key Features:
· Non-slip design
· Travel friendly
· High-quality material
Rongbuk treat dispenser consists of ten moving treat blocks and fourteen holes. Load the dispenser with your dog’s favourite treat and let him have fun for a long time. It is great to improve his cognitive skills and keep him active. It increases their learning capacity and keeps them occupied in a creative and enjoyable way. Rongbuk treats puzzle toy is great for any breed and size of the dog. It improves their decision-making abilities and makes them smarter.
Key Features:
· Non-detachable plastic slider
· Durable
· Colorful design
· Easy to clean
Outward Hound feeder slows down your dog’s eating speed by up to ten times and solves many issues like obesity, bloating and regurgitation that comes with fast eating in dogs. The slow feeding bowl is made with high-quality and non-slippery material. Your dog will definitely enjoy the food hunt through its ridge patterns. It is perfect for both wet and dry food.
Key Features:
· Dishwasher safe
· Non-slippery material
· Perfect for raw, dry and wet food
If you want to introduce your pet to puzzle games for the first time, start with Nina Ottosson treat Puzzle. It is easier and great for beginners. It consists of nine compartments. Hide the treats in those compartments and cover them with the pegs. Pegs have holes through which your dog can smell the food and tries to find it. This toy is a combination of plastic and wood, making it durable and attractive for your beloved pooch.
Key Features:
· Great for beginners
· Food safe material
· Easy to clean
· Long-lasting
Obesity in Dogs
Obesity in dogs is a growing concern and a major health issue affecting a significant number of pets. It is estimated that over 50% of dogs in the United States are overweight or obese. This is harmful to their health and can reduce their lifespan and quality of life.
The word obesity means excessive fat or excessive weight, and obesity in dogs refers to the extra fat on their body. Obesity can be the root cause of many serious diseases in dogs, and eventually, it can shorten your dog’s life. One of the most common reasons for obesity is its intake of more calories than it burns. However, there are numerous other causes for the rising rate of obesity in dogs.
Causes of obesity in dogs
There are many factors that can cause obesity in dogs. One primary cause is overfeeding and lack of exercise. Dogs, like humans, require a balanced diet and regular physical activity to maintain a healthy weight. Feeding your dog table scraps and unhealthy treats, as well as skipping exercise sessions can lead to weight gain and eventual obesity.
- Age is a big element. With increasing age, many dogs face joint problems and become less active than before, which can cause an increase in their weight. If you don’t involve your dog in outdoor activities that help burn those extra calories, they can become obese.
- Just like humans, some dogs are also genetically prone to gaining weight.
A physical injury, like a torn ACL or arthritis, which your dog can’t walk or play for a long time, can cause obesity
health risks associated with obesity in dogs
Obesity in dogs can lead to numerous health problems, including joint problems, breathing difficulties, and increased risk of certain cancers and diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and liver disease. Obesity can also cause or worsen arthritis, which can cause pain and mobility problems. Additionally, obese dogs are more likely to experience respiratory problems, as extra fat in the chest and neck can put pressure on their airways.
signs to look for
You can detect the change in your dogs physical condition and behavior that tell if your dog is becoming overweight. You will notice:
- Tiredness
- Ribs are visible due to extra fat
- Bigger face
- Heavy breathing
- Laziness
- Saggy abdomen
managing your dog's weight / prevention & treatment
To prevent or manage obesity in your dog, it’s important to monitor their food intake and provide regular physical activity. A healthy diet and exercise plan should be tailored to your dog’s individual needs based on its age, breed, health, and level of activity.
Start by feeding your dog a balanced, high-quality dog food that meets its nutritional needs. Portion control is also important, and feeding your dog the recommended amount of food based on their weight will help prevent overeating. Avoid feeding your dog unhealthy high caloric treats.
In addition to a healthy diet, regular exercise is key to maintaining a healthy weight. This can include daily walks, runs, playing fetch, or chasing the flirt stick/pole. Start slow, beginning with 15-20 minutes and working your way up to 30 minutes of physical activity each day for your dog. Again, keep in mind your dog’s age, breed, and health condition. If your dog is already overweight or obese, it’s important to consult your veterinarian for a weight loss plan. A gradual weight loss program is recommended as a sudden loss can be harmful to your dog’s health. Your veterinarian can do blood tests on your dog and then recommend a specific diet and exercise plan tailored to your dog’s individual needs.
- Help get your dog more physically active. More exercise and long walks will burn more fat.
- Change their diet. Go for the options that have less fat and more fiber.
- Make a diet plan. Work with your vet to devise a plan that is perfect for your dog. Serve them small portions many times per day instead of two large meals.
- Cut down and/or eliminate any unnecessary treats.
final thoughts
Obesity in dogs is a growing concern and can have serious health consequences. By monitoring your dog’s diet and providing regular exercise, you can help prevent or manage obesity and keep your pet healthy and happy. Remember to consult with your veterinarian if you have concerns about your dog’s weight. They can provide personalized recommendations and support to help your dog achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
In addition to diet and exercise, there are other ways to help prevent or manage obesity in dogs. Here are a few tips:
- Incorporate interactive toys to help with your dog’s diet, such as a slow feeder bowl or a kong. Interactive toys can help your dog stay active and mentally stimulated while also helping to control their weight. Consider toys that dispense food or treats, as well as puzzle toys that encourage your dog to play and think.
- Provide plenty of water: Drinking plenty of water is essential for maintaining a healthy weight in dogs. Ensure your dog has access to fresh, clean water at all times.
- Monitor your dog’s progress: regular weigh-ins and body condition scores can help you monitor your dog’s progress and ensure they are losing weight at a safe and healthy rate.
In conclusion, obesity in dogs is a serious issue that can have serious health consequences. By making simple changes to your dog’s diet and lifestyle, you can help prevent or manage obesity and ensure your pet stays healthy and happy. However, if you have concerns about your dog’s weight, it is important to consult your veterinarian for personalized recommendations and support. With a little bit of effort, time, and consistency, you can help your dog achieve and maintain a healthy weight for life.
Top 10 Health Benefits of Using CBD for your Dogs
CBD, also known as cannabidiol, is one of marijuana’s two main active components. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the other component. When a person uses marijuana, it is THC that causes them to become high, whereas CDB is a non- psychoactive components that provides some amazing health benefits not only for humans but for your four-legged friend.
Like many other people, you must be confused about the properties of CBD and how it can treat your canine companion. Well! CBD is gaining attention for all the right reasons. It helps them in a variety of ways, and I’m here to explain everything and tell you about the top ten health benefits of using CBD for your dogs.
1. CBD Keeps your Dog's skin healthy.
CBD oils help to keep their skin healthy. Some dogs develop the skin disease psoriasis due to inflammation. The anti-inflammatory and immune regulatory properties of CBD help to treat rare diseases like Psoriasis. Moreover, your dog can get allergies or rashes on his skin if he scratches a lot. Their skin becomes dry, which causes deterioration and microdermabrasion. CBD minimizes the itchiness, hence preventing your dog from scratching and making the condition worse.
With newborns, the new things like unusual sounds, and potentially many visitors, can be hard for your dog to cope with the newborn baby.
2. it aids in the treatment of diabetes.
Your dog can get rid of many symptoms that are related to diabetes by using CBD oils. CBD helps your dog to control their appetite that leads to their weight managmenet. Some dogs can not control their blood sugar level, while others may have less insulin sensitivity. It maintains the blood sugar level and makes their immune system better. CBD also helps to lower pancreatic damage. According to studies, CBD has proven to be excellent in improving insulin sensitivity.
3. it helps fight cancer.
CBD can do wonders when it comes to its benefits on cancer patient dogs. Some vets claim that it even helped the dogs that were at the last stage and dying from cancer. It prevents the cancerous cells from producing energy. AS a result, they can’t grow and affect more areas of the body. Moreover, CBD also makes their immune system strong. In this way, their body can fight and get rid of cancer completely. CBD also relieves your dog from the discomfort and severe pain caused by cancer.
4. it helps the dog facing joint and bone problems
Just like humans, aging affects the health of our canine companions. As your dog grows older, you will see some changes in his physical condition. He may feel difficulty walking and running like before.
CBD can be the solution for his problems. It supports the connective tissues and increases joint flexibility. It is also beneficial for keeping the bones strong. So, if your dog is in his elderly years and unable to walk or climb the stairs properly, Start using CBBD oils and make him able to walk again.
5. it helps to deal with anxiety.
Stress is a very common issue in our furry friends. They get scared of thunderstorms and other loud noises. Changing their routine can also cause stress in dogs. They notice even slight modifications and become stressed over small changes. For example, shifting to a new place or going out for vacation can make them anxious. Separation anxiety is another common form of stress in dogs. They become hyper and tense if separated from their loved ones. Some dogs have so much energy that it can result in destructive behaviors. CBD has a relaxing effect on the nerves. It also helps to keep their emotions balanced. It calms them down and helps to cope with anxiety.
6. it treats epilepsy and seizures.
Seizures, whether idiopathic or symptomatic, affect a large number of dogs. Traditional seizure treatment has numerous negative effects on our little puppies. CBD can help to minimize seizure activity. Try CBD to reduce the intensity of seizures, If your dog is not showing any signs of recovery from the traditional treatment.
7. it maintains heart health
CBD has so many positive effects on a dog’s heart. It helps to relieve them from stress and anxiety that has a direct impact on their heart. Moreover, CBD enhances cardiac function in dogs that are suffering from arrhythmia. Many heart issues also come with age. CBD helps to deal with them by lowering the blood pressure of their body.
8. reduces nausea and vomiting.
Stomach problems are not the only reason for vomiting. Your dog can face nausea and vomiting due to many underlying health conditions or strong medicines. This is the most amazing health benefit of CBD for dogs. It helps to reduce vomiting and any kind of nausea.
9. it treats various kinds of infections.
CBD is also supportive of treating different infections in dogs. Most dogs get ear infections that can lead to severe pain, vision problems, and even facial paralysis if not treated properly on time. CBD slows down the growth of various kinds of bacteria. It eliminates the root cause of infection. But ensure to diagnose the infection by talking to your vet before using any CBD oil.
10. it reduces chronic pain.
Dogs are our best friends, and none of us wants to see them in pain. Some dogs never take pills, no matter how many techniques we try to make them swallow them. If your dog is in discomfort due to some disease or injury. CBD is a great solution for you. It helps to reduce severe pain that can’t be treated by any other medicine. Moreover, if your dog is suffering from serious health conditions, other traditional pain killers may cause complexities for him. CBD will help to relieve him from pain without any side effects on his health.
Final thoughts
The health benefits of CBD do not end here. There are so many other conditions in which you can take help from CBD oils to treat your dog. Vets are still researching and finding the new positive effects of CBD every day. So, if you think it can help you, consult your vet and start using it from today to save your dog from unwanted situations and pain.
How to Prepare your Dog for a Newborn Baby
Are you worried about your furry family member’s behavior when the newborn arrives? If yes, how would you prepare your four-legged friend to change their routine and unusual sights, sounds, and smells that the newborn will bring?
This article will help you learn how to prepare your dog to meet the newborn baby.
Critical considerations about dog behavior
1. It can be hard for your dog to cope with a newborn
When a newborn arrives it might bring about unexpected changes and experiences in your companion’s lifestyle. A newborn in your family means your pet gets less attention than usual. And they may be left alone for longer periods of time than before.
With newborns, the new things like unusual sounds, and potentially many visitors, can be hard for your dog to cope with the newborn baby.
2. Proper dog training
If your baby is not expected for a few days, prepare your dog to adjust to the changes they will encounter. Polish your dog commands like sit, settle, down, drop it, good dog and leave it to sharpen their mind when you are caring for the baby and unable to give them full attention, such as when feeding or bathing the baby.
If your pet is an expert in these behaviors, they will feel more confident and comfortable around the baby.
3. Move your dog's sleeping spot
Place your dog’s bed in the new location one month before the newborn arrival. It will help them to adjust to a new place.
4. allow your dog to wander through the baby's room
Keep in mind that when your pet and baby have the same room together, let your dog examine the newborn furniture and note everything for the baby’s use.
5. change exerccise routine
If your furry companion has an exercise and playing routine, change the pattern to learn flexibility.
6. big reveal
When the baby is born, send home an article of cloth or blanket that carries your and baby scent, so that your dog gets used to the smell of newborn and allow them to sniff the cloths as much as they want and use command “Good dog.”
7. give some treats
When a newborn arrives home from the hospital, let the dog greet, smell, and sniff him, speak calmly and cheerfully, and give your dog some treats. It will help change your furry fellow behavior that this new addition is only a good thing.
Obviously, do not allow your companion to play with the baby as he is not a toy.
8. good quality recording
It’s crucial to help your dog meet with young children and babies often. Where access to children is not possible and then uses good quality recordings of children playing and babies crying.
Final thoughts
Introducing your dog to the newborn in a positive way will change your dog’s behavior towards the baby. Guide your dog with different kinds of helpful behaviors to assist them to fit into their new life as your newborn grows which will be an excellent way to build the bond between your dog and newborn baby.
10 Tips & Tricks to Groom Your Puppy for the First Time
A puppy’s first pet grooming session is essential for pet parents, almost similar to parents taking their kids for their first haircut. Grooming is part and parcel of every dog’s life, regardless of the size of the dog or his coat.
Here are some critical 10 tips & tricks to groom your puppy for the first time;
Tip#1 Groomer introduction to puppy
When your puppy first needs to be groomed, groomers should start by slowly introducing themselves to the puppy. The groomers can gain trust by cuddling the puppy and speaking in a soft voice, enabling the puppy to regard grooming as a fun and enjoyable experience.
Tip#2 Familiarize and desensitize your puppy to the grooming process
The sound of grooming tools like trimmers, nail grinders etc., can be intimidating for little puppies. If your puppy doesn’t take well to a particular grooming tool, focus on desensitizing your dog towards its sound and existence. Remember to use lots of TLC (tender love and care).
Tip#3 Keep it short and super positive
If the first grooming experience ends up including a bath, nail trim, fur trim, ear clean, and blow-dry, your puppy might end up hating the process for life. Keep the grooming process short and minimal the first time, and make sure to reward your pup with lots of treats for being calm and accepting.
Tip#4 Proper schedule planned
The general rule of grooming puppies should be over 16 weeks old, as fresher puppies are pretty easy to train new process. Follow these recommended services to first-time groom your pup:
- Puppy dental care and use soft fiber tooth brush
- Light hair brush
- Light trim the hairs around the face, be aware that eyes of your pups do not hurt
Tip#5 Don't cut the nails too short
Unlike humans, dogs have a blood vessel that runs down into the nail. It is known as a ‘quick.’ If it gets trimmed, the nail bleeds, hurting the dog. Several pups shy away from nail trimming when something like this happens. If it ends up happening with you and your pup, seek first aid treatment but don’t make a big deal out of it.
Tip#6 Introduce brushing to pups
When you come across something unique and unknown, it can be a challenge for any person, especially a puppy. Therefore, getting them used to the feel of the brush against their fur before their first time with groomers is a wonderful idea. Treats is a great way to create a positive association to brushing.
Tip#7 Massage
Massage is touching the dogs body specific points during massage process. Like brushing when your dog is comfortable with people who touch their body parts and paws, he/she is not in shock when the groomer touches his paws during nail trimming and your companion really enjoy it.
Tip#8 Water familiarized to puppy
Always keep in mind that your puppy must be used to water feelings and sounds. You can do so by giving your pup a quick bath in warm shallow water before the groomer’s appointment to help prevent fear.
Tip# 9 When in doubt, leave it to the professionals
Long coated dogs may get matted quickly. It is tricky to groom a matted coat for the first time. If you have no prior experience in it, take your puppy to the groomer’s salon for a quick trim. They will make the entire process a little less daunting for your pup.
Tip#10 Guide the owners
The better the owner knows the process, the better the grooming process will be. He must know which grooming instrument is used for his pet fur and hairs. Educate the pup parents or owners that grooming is the best chance to introduce him to his new beloved furry fellow.
Final thoughts
According to experts:
“If you provide a pleasant experience for your pet, they will see the grooming salon as their loving place away from home and will be happy to go there.”
Make sure to follow these 10 tips & tricks to groom your puppy for the first time. Woof Woof!!!
Top Dog-Friendly Places in Boerne, Texas
Texas is well-known as a destination for family vacations, but did you know it’s also a great place to bring your four-legged friends? From cities to coastal beaches, mountains, and deserts, Texas gives a vast choice of vacation experiences. Boerne has a number of dog-friendly attractions that will keep you and your buddy entertained. To assist you in planning a paw-some trip to Boerne, Texas, we’ve created a list of dog-friendly places. Here are some of our personal faves.
The Cibolo Farmers Market is located on the grounds of the historic Herff Farm, which is a beautiful place to walk around with friends and family. Dogs can accompany you on your walk because friendly dogs are accepted at the market.
Those seeking dog-friendly activities around San Antonio might visit the Cibolo Nature Center in Boerne, Texas. Friendly leashed dogs are invited to join their owners as they explore defined trails, educational gardens, farm grounds, and dog-friendly special events.
Joshua Springs Park and Preserve spans over 400 acres and features an enclosed dog park for small and big dogs, as well as pathways for walking, bicycling, running, and hiking, a playground, fishing, and wildlife viewing blinds.
Fetch & Friskers Barkery serves freshly baked, all-natural snacks prepared in-store. This one-of-a-kind shop also provides a wide range of items not seen anywhere in the area, such as personalized bedding and carriers, dog and cat bowls, leashes, collars, and toys graded from low to high chewer. There are quick ID badges, bespoke gift baskets, and gift cards, condolence gifts, and human gifts, and other items.
Pet’s Barn is a pet supplies manufacturing and shop situated in El Paso, Texas. Pet’s Barn, a locally owned and run business, is dedicated to selling pet supplies, dog food, and pet treats.
The Old No. 9 Trail runs through the heart of Boerne, following a portion of what was formerly a traveling route used by people to cross Texas Hill. The vast route is dog-friendly and wheelchair-accessible. Trail facilities include a dog drinking fountain at the Blanco Street rest station, as well as drinking fountains at each trail start and the halfway point.
There is a dog park at River Road Park in Bellefonte! The park is completely enclosed and has separate spaces for large and small dogs, as well as seats.
The river is the main attraction at this park, which is located 13 miles east of Boerne off Texas. The park has four miles of frontage along the chilly river; while dogs are not permitted on the swimming beach, they are welcome to explore the rest of the river.
Dodging Duck is a pet-friendly restaurant in Boerne that serves really nice meals in a pleasant ambiance with friendly service. This lively restaurant welcomes dogs and has great food as well as specialty brews. If you want to spend some quality time with your dog, this is the place to go.
Cibolo Creek Brewing is a family-owned and operated Brew Pub in the heartland of Boerne, Texas. Cibolo Creek Brewing Company, a kid-friendly brewery with specialty brews and casual meals, is a fantastic spot to spend time with your dog. The staff is incredibly dog friendly and will even bring your pet a doggie bowl of water.
In Boerne, Little Gretel is a pet-friendly restaurant. Little Gretel is a relaxed European-style restaurant that provides a range of tasty dishes. Pets are invited to accompany you to one of their pet-friendly outside tables while you dine.
Wood-fired pizza was served in a rustic, wood-paneled home with beer on tap and garden dining. Outside in the backyard, you are welcome to dine with your pet. With more restaurants than ever embracing man’s best friend, it’s crucial for pet owners to be aware of the rules—which is why pets must be leashed.
Boerne Grill is a pet-friendly eating establishment where you may bring your furry companions. It has a laid-back pleasant ambiance, incredibly friendly service, and superb fresh cuisine. They offer a fantastic outside area where you and your dog may spend time together.
A fenced-in dog park, a covered patio, a playground, and a basketball court, as well as a live music stage and a dance floor, are all available at The Dog & Pony. The Dog and Pony Tavern is a locally owned and run pub and grill that is open all year. The Dog and Pony Tavern, which was recently rebuilt, boasts a diverse menu that includes Soups, salads, grilled sandwiches, lobster rolls, and steak are all available!
With a full bar, TVs, a terrace, and live music, this laid-back eatery specializes in pizza and sandwiches. It is a wonderful spot to spend your time if you have a pet.
A fishing pier, boat dock, BBQs, and picnic tables, as well as a butterfly garden, are available at this park on Boerne Lake. You may walk or jog around the lake on a hiking route. Dogs are permitted, but they must be kept on a leash. Unquestionably a must-see, family, and dog-friendly destination!
Check out if you’re planning a road trip in Texas with your dog. Check out Random Beer Garden if you’re planning a road trip with your dog in Texas. Random Beer Garden is anything but random! Craft beers are the name of the game in Boerne, TX, and your dog is welcome to this dog.
Whether you enjoy visiting Tractor Supply (TSC) or not, bringing your dog with you makes the experience more enjoyable. With the recent growth of dog-friendly establishments, many people are concerned about Tractor Supply’s dog policy. Do they accept dogs? They absolutely do! Tractor Supply Co. welcomes friendly, leashed pets.
Home Depot is one of several hardware businesses that will gladly accept your dog. With its broad aisles, there’s plenty of room for leashed dogs to join you on a home repair mission.
Top 5 Benefits of Microchipping your Dog
Whether you have just started puppy training or are the proud owner of an older dog, there are many reasons to consider microchipping your pet. Microchips are placed under your pet’s skin using a special device at your veterinarian’s office, shelter or rescue. This chip is approximately the size of a grain of rice and is used for identification purposes. While there are many reasons to get your pet microchipped, here are the top 5 benefits of microchipping your dog.
1- PERMANENT FORMS OF IDENTIFICATION
While collars and ID tags can be lost, microchips serve as a permanent form of identification. Once implanted, the device will remain with your pet for the rest of their life. Microchips are usually placed between your dog’s shoulder blades. However, they can sometimes migrate after placement. If you’d like to check the location of your pet’s microchip, you can always have your veterinarian scan your dog at their yearly wellness appointment.
2- can help reunite lost pets
Microchips are essential for keeping your pet safe if they become lost or separated from you. Veterinary offices and animal shelters will scan lost pets for microchips so they can get in touch with the pet’s owner. A study examining the number of lost dogs reunited with their owners found that dogs with registered microchips were twice as likely to be returned home.
For this reunification tool to work, you must make sure you register your pet’s microchip with the microchip company. When your veterinarian implants the microchip, they will give you the microchip number and instructions for registering your dog. The microchip company will keep your contact information on file in case it is ever needed. If you move or change your phone numbers, always make sure to contact the microchip company to update your information.
3- CAN BE USED TO PROVE OWNERSHIP
In the unfortunate event that your dog is stolen, microchips are a great way to prove ownership. They can also be a way to sort out any accidental mixups at the groomer or doggy daycare. While your pet’s physical features or other external identifiers can be altered, a microchip cannot be tampered with. Microchip companies put many security measures in place to make sure only the dog’s owner can change the contact information for the microchip.
5- the process is safe and relatively pain-free
Microchipping is a quick and safe procedure. Your veterinarian, as well as shelters and rescues will use a special device to insert the microchip under your dog’s skin. This procedure can be done at a routine wellness visit or during one of your dogs visits. The process is quick and relatively pain-free. Your dog will only feel a slight poke, similar to a vaccine shot.
5- Protects your personal information
When it comes to your pet’s microchip, your personal information is safe! The only information that is stored on the chip is the identification number. A veterinarian or animal shelter will use this reference number to contact the microchip company and report the pet as lost or stolen. Only the microchip company has access to your personal information to ensure your information remains secure.
Final Thoughts
Microchipping is a great way to help keep your dog safe throughout their life. Make sure you register the chip as soon as possible and always keep your contact information up to date. If you have any additional questions about microchips or dog training, please let us know!
Woof Woof!
Does Your Dog Have Separation Anxiety?
Over the last year, many pet owners have spent an unusual amount of time at home with their dogs. As your household begins to go back to work and school, your dog may be experiencing some anxiety around your sudden schedule change. Separation anxiety is a common behavioral concern in dogs. Luckily, there are some steps you can take to ease your dog’s stress and create a smooth transition.
What is Separation Anxiety?
Separation anxiety in dogs is defined as extreme distress when your dog is left alone. Many dogs express mild signs of anxiety, such as whimpering or barking when their owner leaves. However, separation anxiety typically involves more extreme behavior. Separation anxiety is often comparable to a panic attack. Not only is this emotionally distressing for the dog, but it can also lead to destructive behavior and physical harm.
What causes separation anxiety?
There are many causes of separation anxiety in dogs. In some cases, the behavior results from a traumatic event when the dog was left alone. However, the most common cause of separation anxiety is a sudden change in the dog’s daily life or routine. For many pet owners who are returning to the office, this is a serious concern.
Common Signs of Separation Anxiety
If you suspect your dog is experiencing separation anxiety, here are some common signs to look for.
- Excessive howling or barking
- Destructive behavior (chewing on crate or doors)
- Attempts to break out of their crate or enclosure
- Excessive drooling or panting
- Pooping or peeing in the house or crate
What Can You Do to Help Your Dog’s Anxiety?
Practice Alone time
If your dog has become accustomed to spending their entire day with you, it is essential to prepare them for alone time. You can start with putting your dog in their crate or a room by themselves for a short period of time. As your dog gets more comfortable, you will slowly increase the amount of time they spend on their own.
Use High-Value Treats and Toys
It’s essential to make the time your dog spends alone a positive experience. An easy way to do this is to incorporate high-value treats or toys into your leaving routine. If your dog knows they will get a special reward when you leave, it creates a positive association and gives them something to look forward to. A great way to do this is with a treat-filled Kong.
Exercise and play time
When your dog has pent-up energy, it can increase their anxiety levels. Before leaving your dog, make sure they have plenty of time to exercise and release that energy. Tired dogs are more likely to settle and rest while you are away.
Speak with a professional
In severe cases of separation anxiety, your dog may require medication or other therapeutic aids. Even if you are using an over-the-counter product, like CBD, it is always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian before incorporating these products into your pet’s routine.
A professional dog trainer is another excellent resource when dealing with behavioral issues. They can help you incorporate different training techniques and address the cause of your dog’s behavior.
Final thoughts
We all want to reduce stress in our pets’ lives. With the right tools, you can make sure your dog stays happy and safe while you are away! If you are heading back to work, make sure you understand the signs of separation anxiety.