Author: Alex Valentino

When pet owners decide that it’s the right time to adopt a dog, they usually only have their pet supplies in mind. Doggy bed, water dish, and chew toys are often the main things you reach for at the store. Although all that is needed, it is only part of what you need to do to really make your home comfortable for your dog. The following list details some of the ways you can begin making your home your pet’s home as well.

Give Them Space

Dogs, especially puppies, have a plethora of energy, and so you’ll most likely see them running around your house quite often. However, according to Preventive Vet, they will need a space of their own as well. Space where they can lay down, play with their toys, and feel an overall sense of safety is a must. Usually, they’ll pick their own little corner of the house, but if you want to have a designated area, here are some great choices. Small openings under your stairs are areas that often hold spaces where your dog can rest without being in the way of foot traffic. An open closet also makes a great place for a dog to snuggle up. It’s dark enough that they can get some shut-eye and away from your daily foot traffic.

Keep the Place Clean

Yes, dogs can be a messy bunch, but that does not mean they should live in a dirty home. Dogs have a very sensitive nose that will pick up on dust-bunnies and other clumps of dirt within the home. Often, this leads to health risks, such as respiratory issues. You can maintain your home by doing some simple things. Wash their bedding on a regular basis. Their food and water bowls should be refreshed and washed once or twice a day. Dispose of uneaten food that could attract pests. Insight Pest Solutions, suggests putting away food and taking out trash to keep cockroaches away.

Provide a Window Seat

What a dog can’t see they will most likely bark at—loudly. One of the misconceptions about barking dogs is that they only bark at people outside. Although this is true, it is much worse when a dog can only hear the footsteps and chattering; this drives them crazy. Adding a window seat for your dog can allow them to keep an eye on things outside. This is not only a great way to deter would-be thieves, but it also allows dogs to get sunshine and not feel so closed off from the world. 

If you’re reading this, then you genuinely want what’s best for your dog. It doesn’t have to be a huge, detailed plan of attack to create a loving and comfortable home for your dog. Simply adhere to the list above, and your dog will immediately feel right at home.

Now that your dog is comfortable in the house, here are some tips to puppy-proof your backyard.

Nobody wants to leave their dog behind when they’re going on vacation, but many places that don’t warrant bringing your dog along. If you’re going to be doing a lot of sightseeing or going on lots of adventures, your dog probably wouldn’t be having a good time anyway. You also might want to save your dog from having to experience the stress of air travel. As you plan your vacation, think about ways that you can pamper your dog while you’re gone. You can turn this into an exciting week for both you and your pet.

Take Them to a Pet Resort

There is likely a business in your area that would allow you to board your dog in comfort for the time that you are gone. There are great businesses that will take wonderful care of your pet. In 2015, sales for grooming and pet boarding totaled over $5.2 billion. Look for a location that is going to let your dog out to play frequently and have them socialize with other animals. Some pet resorts also provide grooming and take dogs out for walks so that they can get some much-needed exercise and stimulation.

Hire a Pet Sitter

Some pets like to stay in their own home while you are gone, and that is ok. You can’t safely leave your pet alone all week without having someone check in on them occasionally. Hire a pet sitter to either come by a few times a day, or you can have your pet sitter stay at the house with your dog. A good pet sitter won’t just make sure your dog has food and hasn’t made a mess, they will also spend quality time with them. Some will even provide other services to give your home an occupied look. You’ll feel better knowing that your dog is where they feel most comfortable, which is in the home that they typically share with you when you’re in town.

Buy New Toys Before You Go

Your dog is going to miss you a lot less if they have new things to keep themselves busy. Head to the pet store and pick out some toys that you know your dog is going to love. Stock up on some treats and maybe even a new bed. The week will fly by in the mind of your dog.

You shouldn’t feel guilty when you want to get away for a few days. As long as you make sure that your dog is going to be taken care of, you’ll be able to unwind and enjoy your vacation. Make sure that you’re choosing someone or someplace that is reliable and loves animals, and both you and your dog will have a great time when you’re away.

If you decide to take your dog with you, check out these tips to help manage a car trip!

Dogs simply love the outdoors. Are you looking for ways to keep your puppy safe in your yard? Your backyard is your darling puppy’s playground. Pups roll around on the ground, nuzzle the garden plants and dig in the dirt. All of this is done in harmless fun, but sometimes your canine’s pastimes aren’t truly harmless. There may be many hidden dangers in your yard that could affect your puppy’s health. Read on to learn some ways you can protect your pet by making your backyard puppy-proof.

Build a Fence

Building a fence is one of the most important things you can do to keep your puppy safe while it is playing in your backyard. Having a fence defines the puppy’s boundaries and keeps it contained. Keeping your puppy contained will prevent it from running into the street and getting hit by cars. Depending on what is on the outskirts of your property, a fence can also prevent your dog from running into places such as wooded areas where there are ticks or from trespassing into the next yard, which could upset your neighbor. When dogs wander off into strange territory, they may eat things that are bad for them, including dangerous plants or even poison. Some people dislike dogs so much they will deliberately do them harm. Stray dogs are also picked up by animal control.

When choosing a fence, it is important to know which type is best for you and your dog. There are many kinds of fences, including wired electric fences, wireless electric fences, wooden fences, chain link fences, and others. Be sure to do your research in advance of your purchase. Electric fences can be dangerous if you do not select the proper voltage type. The most important thing is to keep your dog away from dangers by creating boundaries around your property.

Take Care of the Lawn

It is important to take care of your lawn, not just for your property’s aesthetics, but also for the health of your dog. There are potentially many hazards in your yard than could affect your pet’s health. One important way you can take care of your lawn is to maintain the proper height of your grass and trim the bushes. Overgrown grass is a favorite hiding place for ticks and other pests. Be sure to use flea and tick prevention treatments on your dog.

An unkempt lawn might also harbor other insects or rodents. These pests can live within the grass and bushes, and they can burrow holes in your yard. When your dog sees a hole in the ground, it will be triggered to dig further. This can disturb a nest and cause injury to the dog.

You may decide to use a pesticide to prevent these unwanted guests. In that case, be sure to do more research and choose a pesticide that will not harm your dog. You may also have trees just beyond the edge of your yard on municipal property. If so, stay abreast of when these trees are treated with pesticides. Usually, the town will leave a note, but it does not always remain posted. The pesticides used on trees can sometimes be harmful to dogs.

Taking care of your lawn also includes cleaning up toys. Many families have pool toys or small children’s toys that a dog can easily play with or chew. If a dog eats plastic or certain other materials toys are made from, it can cause damage to the intestines. Your dog could also choke on a toy if it is small enough.

Lastly, when you cut your grass, it is better to do it when your dog is not around. Dogs like to chase lawnmowers, and this can be quite dangerous. When you are finished, do not leave the lawnmower or any of its parts lying around. Taking care of your lawn includes making sure there are no tools left in the yard. A properly maintained lawn equals a happy puppy.

Remove Any Hazardous Plants

Removing hazardous plants is important for your puppy’s safety. Some plants will merely make a dog sick, but others are so toxic they can be life-threatening. How do you know which plants are safe and which aren’t? This can be a tricky thing. If you have a garden, were you aware that tulips, hyacinths, and irises are toxic?

There are also many others to beware of. You need to take an inventory of your yard. Make sure you are conscious of all the plants in it. This includes those in your garden and the ones scattered around that appear to be harmless bushes or weeds. Remember to look for plants that may be leaning into your yard from a neighboring property. They can sometimes grow through a fence or hang over it. It may take some time to identify all the types of plants you have, but this step is most of the work. The local branch of your state horticultural service can probably be of assistance.

Once you’ve identified them, check to determine if any are dangerous. Those should be eliminated immediately. Be sure to remove them from the root so they don’t grow back, and remember to pick up residual leaves that have fallen during the extraction. The best way to be sure you have removed all dangerous plants properly is to hire a landscaper. If there are any plants that you are unsure of, ask your vet for more guidance.

Now that you’re aware of these ways you can keep your puppy safe while it plays in your backyard, don’t forget that there are still many other things you can do. Ask your veterinarian for more information and suggestions on what you can do to protect your dog. Whether you choose a fence or make any of the other changes to accommodate the needs of your pet, it can be a little expensive and time-consuming. Just remember that it will be worth it to know your dog is safe.

Moving is hard on people, and it can be tough on pets too. To make sure that your dog tolerates the move and settles in well, invest in a special bed for them if they don’t already have one. Dog carriers are also a great tool to use when moving with pets.

Before the Move

Your house will likely get messy before you move, and towers of boxes will be unsettling for your dog. Consider setting aside one room as the box-collection room and keep your dog out of it. My Moving Reviews recommends making sure that your dog gets as much or more attention than before you started moving. If possible, consider taking the dog for a walk around your new neighborhood so that they can get familiar with the sights and scents.

During the Move

If you’re moving within the same city and don’t need to drive a long distance to get to your new place, consider taking your dog to the groomers or a boarding facility on the day the truck arrives. This will be particularly helpful if you can send them somewhere they love to go. If you’re moving over a long distance, invest in a dog car seat or harness and use food to make riding in the car a time for treats.

Welcome Home

Get your belongings moved, set up the dog’s bed and carrier in a comfortable spot that’s similar to where it was in your old place, and bring your dog home into their new space. If your dog will have easy access to your new yard, walk the space with them the first few trips and give plenty of praise when your dog uses their new bathroom. If you have crate-trained your pet, remember that dog carriers are safe havens and places of safety. As On the Move Moving and Storage points out, it can be hard to know how quickly your dog will adapt to their new home. It’s best to settle them in one room, and let them explore. Keep in mind that all doors to the outside should be closed when you let your dog out of the carrier. When your dog has explored all rooms of the house, you can walk the yard with them.

Your dog will probably adjust to your new home before you get everything unpacked. Be sure to use the crate for the first few days, and keep a close eye on them so that they don’t attempt to make the new place theirs by marking.
If your dog is still a little stressed, consider treating them to a doggie-spa day!

Traveling with your dog might seem like an easy thing to do on paper, but the reality is often quite different. It’s important to make sure that your pup is comfortable and safe in order for the trip to go smoothly. Read on to learn how you can help your four-legged friend adjust to traveling on the road.

Handling Anxiety

If your dog has separation anxiety, taking him along on road trips will seem like a no-brainer. However, dogs who get anxious or fearful when left alone can be just as apprehensive when contained inside a moving vehicle. The issue is exacerbated if your pet’s only previous car experience has involved visits to the vet.

To help Fido acclimate, take him on a few short car trips around the neighborhood before packing him up for a grand adventure. You can help to ease the transition by providing him with a puzzle treat (like a frozen Kong filled with treats) to keep him occupied at first. If he learns to associate the automobile with fun and delicious things, he’ll be less likely to feel anxious.

Keep the Puppy Contained

Your dog should always be kept in a contained area during car travel. Remember that distracted driving is a common cause of car accidents, and as much as you may not want to admit it, few things are more distracting than a dog in your lap. Invest in a gate to separate the front seat from the back, or bring along a crate or kennel if your vehicle is large enough to accommodate it. You might feel guilty at first, but your pet will learn to deal with the situation. There will be plenty of time for cuddles once you’ve reached your destination.

Staying Hydrated

Professionals advise withholding food from your dog for 12 hours prior to travel in order to reduce the risk of nausea. Depending on the length of your trip, this may not be feasible, but the point is well taken. Stick to smaller meals while on the road, if possible, and always make sure he has access to fresh water as needed. Collapsible water bowls or hanging water bottles are good investments if you plan on taking many trips with your dog. If nausea is a recurring issue, talk to your vet about treatment options.

Traveling with your dog can be a rewarding experience for both you and your dog, but it’s important to take steps to be prepared beforehand. The important thing to remember is that while your dog is definitely part of the family, he is also a separate species with a specific set of needs. As long as these needs are met, your canine friend will make a delightful traveling companion.

As puppies embark into the social realm with other dogs, animals, and people, they must learn how to conduct themselves. It’s your responsibility to teach them these things while they are young so they can act properly as they get older. Take a look at these three valuable behaviors you should teach your pup to remain safe in various situations.

1. Leash Training

Large dogs that pull can cause serious injuries. Even small dogs should know how to walk on a leash. Leash training requires constant and positive reinforcement. Arm yourself with treats. Train your pup to respond to a particular sound or command by looking at you or moving towards you. Reward him when he does. Start with a loose leash, and when your puppy pulls it tight, stop, make the sound; reward him and start over when he responds correctly. Use this same method in different environments. Make sure to change directions during each session. Ultimately, with repetition, your puppy will learn to walk beside you with a slack leash. There are a few variations; all involve encouragement and rewards for learning to follow your movements and not allowing tension on the leash.

2. No Biting

Dogs have no hands and communicate naturally through their mouths. Observe them as they interact with each other, and they lick, mouth, snap and play-bite. Your puppy may tug on your hand or nip to get your attention. You must teach your dog at an early age that biting you or others is unacceptable behavior. Dog bites are considered a common type of personal injury but can have massive consequences for you and your dog. 

Many states have adopted a no-tolerance policy for dog bites, and one infraction could leave your pup vulnerable to extreme restrictions (muzzling, double leashing, etc.) and you subject to fines. First, do not even engage with your puppy in play-biting behaviors. Use a bite deterrent if necessary. Rebuke your puppy from biting with a consistent and firm one-word command. Discourage aggressive tendencies such as growing and snarling. Socialize your puppy early, exposing him or her to various situations and different people. If your dog exhibits aggression towards people, a very serious problem, consider using a basket muzzle and obtaining guidance from a professional trainer.

3. Coming When Called

Of utmost importance is that your dog is automatically responsive to your voice commands, especially when you ask her to come. Use a one-word command to indicate come here. You can utilize a few different methods, but the idea is to encourage your dog to come to you when you issue your command. This may be by you walking backward to stimulate following or a highly desired incentive once your pup reaches you. You can use a leash as positive reinforcement in the early stages to tug your pup towards you if she ignores your command. Avoid repeating the command because it loses meaning. 

Start training indoors in a highly controlled setting, and then move outdoors where there are more distractions. Most trainers recommend that you also teach a hand signal. Keys to successfully training your pup to come to you when called are an incentive in the form of treats, motivation or purpose, and never punishing her when she does reach you.

Training your puppy ASAP to walk politely on a leash, to be civil, and to come when called are all things that are essential to keep him safe and limit your liability for unexpected damages. Keep training sessions short and fun and trust your pup’s ability and willingness to learn.