6 Ways To Take Dog Training To The Next Level

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Dog training can be an incredibly rewarding and beneficial experience for both the dog and the owner. It takes dedication, consistency, patience, and guidance to achieve successful results in any type of canine training program.

Benefits Of Training Your Dog

Training your dog will not only help them become better behaved and obedient, but it can also provide a variety of physical and mental benefits. Training helps to keep their minds engaged and active so they can learn new commands and behavior. Dog training can also strengthen the bond between you and your pet as it promotes trust, understanding, and communication, and even strengthens the immune system. There could also be a commercial aspect like they will be able to participate in dog performance shows and competitions or even become therapy dogs.

If you are looking to take your dog training to the next level, here are 6 ways to do just that:

1) Invest in High-Quality Training Equipment

Using high-quality equipment is essential when it comes to effective dog training. Investing in professional tools such as leashes, harnesses, collars, and clickers can make all the difference in helping you teach your pup better behavior, faster.

2) Implement Positive Reinforcement Techniques

Positive reinforcement is one of the most important aspects of any successful dog training program. By rewarding your dog for desirable behavior, you can encourage them to continue repeating good behaviors. Treats and praise are great ways to reward your pup, while also building up a strong bond between the two of you.

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3) Be Consistent

Consistency is key when it comes to successful training. Having clear expectations and setting boundaries for your pup will help ensure that they understand what is expected of them on a daily basis. Being consistent with commands and providing positive reinforcement when commands are followed will help reinforce lessons learned during each training session.

4) Teach Commands in Short Sessions

Short, but frequent sessions are ideal for teaching new commands. Doing multiple short sessions throughout the day as opposed to one longer session will keep your pup engaged and motivated. Breaking up commands into shorter, manageable chunks can also help your pup retain the information better.

5) Make Training Fun

Turning training time into playtime is a great way to keep your pup interested and excited about learning new things. Incorporating games like fetch or tug-of-war are fun ways to teach your dog basic commands while reinforcing good behavior in a positive manner.

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6) Socialize Your Dog

Proper socialization is essential for any well-rounded dog. Taking them to parks, doggy events, or doggy daycare not only helps strengthen their obedience skills but also allows them to interact with other dogs safely and build important life skills such as problem-solving and impulse control.

There You Have It

By following these 6 tips, you can take your dog training to the next level and help create a strong bond between you and your pup as you continue working together. Whether you are new to canine training or just looking for some fresh ideas, these tips will help you reach success with your pup in a positive way!

Three Things Nobody Told You About Owning A Pet

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There are certain things that people don’t tell you about owning a pet. It takes a lot of dedication for someone to own a pet, and you’ve got to be committed to making them a part of your family. We know that you have probably only thought about the easy side of owning a pet, but you’ve got to know about some of the harder sides so that you don’t get completely blindsided. In this article, we’re going to be taking a look at three of the things that nobody told you about owning a pet, so keep reading down below if you would like to find out more.

They Cost A Lot Of Money

The first thing that you need to know is that they cost a lot of money. They need somewhere to sleep, they need food, insurance for their health and so much more. All of this can add up to quite a fair chunk each month, and it can be tough to keep up. If you have never really thought about the costs associated with owning a pet, then you need to look into them in more detail so that you fully understand what you are taking on.

If you don’t think that you are in the financial position to take care of a pet, then you shouldn’t get one just yet. You can always get one down the line, so it’s not as though you’re never going to get your little friend.

Sometimes They Get Sick

Sometimes pets get sick, just like humans, and you have to take them to the vet to get checked out. Sometimes this can be heartbreaking, especially if it’s a long term condition that requires them to need oxygen for pets for example. Pets are not just for times when they are healthy and it’s convenient for you, they are for always. You’ve got to be willing to stick by your pet no matter what, so if you’re not ready for this type of commitment, don’t get a pet.

They Need A Lot Of Attention

The last thing that we’re going to say is that they need a lot of attention, depending on the pet that you get. Dogs for example are super sociable, and they love to be affectionate, spending time with you. Of course, there are other, more low maintenance pets that don’t require anywhere near as much attention, so if you’re pushed for time or you don’t have that much time to spare at home, perhaps you should consider one of these. 

We hope that you have found this article helpful, and now see some of the things that nobody told you about owning a pet. It might not be the exact experience that you had envisioned if you are not prepared for the reality of what is to come, but at least now you have a good idea of what to expect! We wish you the best of luck, and hope that if you do get a pet, they fit into your family with ease. 

How to Keep Your House and Yard Clean When You Have a Dog

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Having a dog is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have. They bring joy, companionship, and unconditional love into our lives. But, let’s be honest, they also bring dirt, hair, and pesky chewing habits that can make it difficult to keep our homes as clean as we’d like.

Fortunately, there are some things we can do to make cohabitating with our furry friends a little easier on ourselves. In this blog post, we’ll share some of our top tips for keeping your house and yard clean when you have a dog.

Why Does it Matter?

If you're a dog owner, you know that dogs can be messy. They track in mud and dirt, shed fur everywhere, and have occasional accidents. All that mess can make it seem like having a clean house and yard is an impossible dream. But when you are someone that is house proud, you may start to get really stressed out about the idea of it always being messy due to your furry friend.

However, it doesn’t have to be. Just because you’re sharing your home with your pet, it doesn’t mean it has to suffer. Let’s take a look at the key things you can do to keep your home and yard tidy when you have a dog.

1. Invest in a Good Vacuum Cleaner

If you have hardwood floors or tile, you’ll want to vacuum at least once a week to keep the dirt and hair from building up. If you have carpets, you may need to vacuum more often. A handheld attachment will help you get in all the nooks and crannies where hair tends to collect. Vacuuming daily (or even multiple times a day) is a must if you want to keep pet hair under control. It’s the best way to keep things super clean.

2. Bathe Your Dog Regularly

This will help cut down on the amount of hair and dirt tracked into your home. How often you need to bathe your pup depends on their breed and how much time they spend outside. Some dogs only need a bath every few months, while others may need one every week or two. Regular grooming will also help reduce shedding.

3. Keep Them Well-Groomed

As we mentioned, a well-groomed dog is less likely to shed and will tracking in less dirt and mud. Be sure to brush them regularly and give them baths as needed. Not only that, but when your dog’s nails are too long, they can cause scratches on your floors or furniture. Plus, it’s just more comfortable for your pup if their nails aren’t dragging along the ground when they walk!

4. Set up an Outside Only Zone

Designate an area of your house (preferably near the door) as the “outside only” zone for your pet. This is where you should keep their food and water dishes, bedding, toys, and so on. It’s also where you should wipe their feet when they come inside so that dirt isn’t tracked throughout your home. Also, after your dog comes in from outside, take a moment to wipe their paws with a towel or baby wipes to keep the clean.

5. Make Sure Your Yard is Well-Maintained

Next, you’re going to want to cut the grass regularly and pick up after your pet so that your yard is tidy and presentable (not to mention safe for other people and animals). You can also hire someone like Poop Scoop to take care of it for you. But be sure to do it on walks too. No one likes walking behind someone who doesn't pick up after their dog. Always carry doggie bags when you walk your pup and use them whenever they do their business.

6. Invest in Some Pet-Friendly Cleaning Products

Not all cleaning products are safe for use around pets—some can even be toxic if ingested by your furry friend. Look for cleaning products that are specifically designed for use around pets (you can usually find these in the pet aisle at your local grocery store). This will be great for your home and for them!

7. Create a Cleaning Schedule (and Stick to it)

Trying to keep on top of everything can be overwhelming—but if you break things down into smaller tasks that you complete on a regular basis, it won’t seem so daunting. Assign specific tasks to specific days of the week. You know that you need to vacuum regularly, but there can be more for you to do.

8. Keep Them Off the Furniture

Dogs are notorious for jumping on furniture and leaving hair behind. To keep your furniture clean, train your dog to stay off of it or keep them in certain areas of the house with pet barriers. Not only that, but placing mats at all your exterior doors will help catch mud and dirt before it gets into your home too.

9. Clean up Accidents Immediately

Dogs have accidents—it's just a fact of life. The key is to clean them up right away so they don't become permanent stains on your flooring or furniture. Blot the with paper towels first then use a cleaner made specifically for pet stains and follow the instructions on the bottle. Over time they will grow out of this, but it’s good to stay on top of it when they are puppies.

10. Have Patience!

Training your dog takes time and patience but it will be worth it in the long run when you have a well-behaved pup who doesn't make too much of a mess. If you need to, think about taking them to classes. You may find that this helps to keep everything in order around the home too.

Having Your Home and Your Dog in Harmony

Dogs can be messy but with these ten tips, you can keep your home clean while still being a responsible pet owner! It doesn’t have to be one of the other, you can definitely enjoy both. It’s all about being intentional and ensuring that you are proactive in keeping things clean and organized. What other tips do you have for keeping your home clean with a four-legged friend? Share them in the comments below!

4 Fun Things To Do With Your Furry Friend This Fall

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Spending quality time together will strengthen your relationship with your dog and help them to trust you more. So, if you want, you can take your dog with you on a road trip. You know what's best for your dog and how they act, so figure out how you can spend the most quality time with them.

Here are some things you can do with your dog:

Throw a party for your furry friends.

Does your dog enjoy interacting with pups? If that's the case, you should throw a party for dog friends. If you have fellow citizens or friends who regularly bring their dogs to the park, you will undoubtedly be familiar with your dog's friends.

Most of the time, dogs like to hang out with other dogs their own age and energy level. It's important to remember that older dogs lack the patience needed to deal with hyperactive puppies. You are your dog's best judge of taste, so only invite guests who are sure to be well received.

You'll need a few things to set up the playdate, like snacks and games. Therefore, it is important to select the best food for your dog and amass a collection of amusing toys for your dog that everyone can enjoy. Because of the extensive selection of toys, not only will the dogs be able to socialize with one another, but you will also have more time to engage in conversation with the human guests at your party.=

Go hiking together

If you and your dog are looking for a great way to get some exercise and spend time in nature, consider going on a hike. Watching a dog enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of nature with its best friend is a rejuvenating experience.

The following items are recommended to bring on a hike with your dog:

• First aid kit
• Pet-friendly bug spray
• Poo Bags
• Dog boots designed for rough terrain
• Leash - and make sure your dog has a gps dog collar!
• A portable water bowl as well as clean water

Outdoor Dining

There are a lot of restaurants out there that are pet-friendly and have outdoor seating areas. If you want to make the most of the beautiful day, you should think about having lunch or dinner outside with your dog. Don't forget to bring your dog's favorite chew toys and treats. However, many eateries that welcome canines also provide special dog menus with options like grilled chicken tenders, hamburger patties, and even filet mignon at the fancier venues.

All of these eateries provide a bowl of fresh, clean water for your dog to drink. And if you want to improve your experience at the restaurant, have more fun, and savor every second of it, consider feeding and exercising your dog before you go. If you want to prevent them from getting bored, bring along some of their favorite toys.

Instead, you could take your dog on a picnic. When the weather is nice in the warmer months, taking your dog out for dinner can be a lot of fun for both of you.

Dog park

You should definitely take your friendly and outgoing dog to the park so that they can socialize, hang out with their canine pals, and play some fun games with other furry friends. The dog park is a great place to take your dog, but if you aren't properly prepared, it could turn into a nightmare. If you're planning on taking your active dog to a dog park, you should think carefully about whether or not it will enjoy it, especially if it's an off-leash park. Dogs in these settings should ideally be well-mannered and friendly.

Taking Your Dog Away With You On Holiday

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It isn't unheard of to take your pet on vacation with you, in fact, it has become increasingly popular. With the cost of living rising, it can be expensive to pay for your trip and your pet's boarding or sitter. Taking your pet with you also eradicates the issue of missing them or feeling lonely. Take a look below to find out how it’s possible to take your dog on vacation with you. 

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Pet-Friendly Destinations 

You might not believe this but some hotels accept dogs, and they even offer specialist suites for you and your furry friends. Of course, you will need to pay extra for this, but if the costs work out better than paying for them to be boarded then why not? You might have to rethink certain destinations, especially if you are trying to work your way through a travel list. When the time comes to search for your next vacation, be sure to double-check if your accommodation accepts pets. 

Travel Options (keyword)

How are you going to get to your destination of choice? If you are taking your pet with you, it might be a good idea to stay local and try out a staycation. These have become increasingly popular over the last couple of years due to Covid-19. Your dog might not feel comfortable traveling long distances, and they might also be fearful on airplanes. It can take some re-jiggling but it is always possible to take them with you no matter where you go. If you are driving to your vacation then you might want to use dog car seat covers to avoid any scratches or mess ruining your car. 

Take Creature Comforts

Next, you should think about taking some things that will make your dog feel reassured, comfortable, and happy. When you take your dog on vacation, they will encounter a brand new environment that they aren’t familiar with. As such, it’s always going to be important to help them feel a little more relaxed. Otherwise, you might notice significant issues with their behavior and problems with their mood. For instance, you could find that they are lethargic. Their favorite toys and treats should both be packed in your suitcase ready for the trip ahead. 

Ensure Your Dog Is Insured

Finally, it’s important to guarantee that your dog is insured if you are going on vacation. The right insurance will protect you from any issues that you can have while you are away with your animal. Don’t forget that they can get sick due to changes in climate or even from swimming in the wrong water. They could even get injured. The costs of a problem like this are typically designed to be unmanageable. As such, it is in your best interest to get the best protection possible for your furry friend. Do be aware that prices differ. As such, you should shop around the market to find the best deal. 

We hope this helps you understand some of the key points that you need to consider before you take your pup away. 

Road Trips With Rover: Keeping a Clean Car When You Have a Dog!

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Taking your dog out for a drive is possibly one of their favorite things to do. They quickly learn that when it’s time to jump in the car that they’re off on an adventure with their human friend, most likely to the best walking spots or dog parks in town. But keeping your car clean can be a struggle when your furry friend is often in and out--here are some tips for keeping on top of things. 

Keep a spare towel in the back

After particularly wet or muddy walks, towel drying your dog and wiping off as much mud as possible before they get back in will save you a job when it comes to cleaning your car!

Keep them contained

This is important for their safety, as well as preventing your car from getting messy. Where you contain your dog in the car will depend on their temperament, your preference, the length of journey etc. For example, some very excitable dogs may need to be confined to a crate in the trunk to keep them settled and out of mischief. Other dogs might do well sitting in the back, if you buy them a bed specifically for the car they can sit in there and you can clip their harness onto a dog seatbelt. Some dogs love sitting up in the front and even sticking their head out of the window. If this is your preference then you could buy a cover that completely goes over the seat to protect from mud and scratches, with a blanket on top which you can throw in the wash when needed. Again, a doggy seatbelt will keep them in their place. 

Vacuum well

Regardless of what else you do, you’ll need to regularly vacuum your car when you travel with your dog to prevent the buildup of hair, dander and mud from paws. The infographic below explains the best way to go about it:

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What To Do If Your Dog Is Hyperactive

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Generally, dogs are pretty active animals. Even the ‘lazy’ breeds will need to be walked regularly to get their daily exercise in. However, you might have a dog that’s hyperactive. This means they are constantly running around, barking, and requiring constant attention. Now, this might be normal - depending on the breed and age of your dog - or it could be something to bring up at the next vet visit. Either way, it helps to learn how to calm down your dog when it’s being a bit too hyper. 

Give them their physical exercise

A lot of dogs aren’t so much hyperactive as they are being forced to live inactive lives. This happens when you have a breed that’s highly active, but the owner thinks only one small walk a day is required. In reality, some breeds need to be walked a few times per day to use up all their energy. Letting your dog run around a field for an hour or so will ensure they tire themselves out and have less energy for the rest of the day. So, they will be more docile when you get back home. 

Train their brain

Likewise, training your dog’s brain will also help them deal with this excessive energy. Sometimes, walking them won’t have the desired effect as they just don’t tire out. This happens with some breeds that are literally bred to run around loads - like sheepdogs. So, giving them mental tasks to challenge their brain will be a good solution. Teach them new tricks or habits that force them to think. Games that make them sniff things out or search for things around the house can also be really clever. There are loads of ways you can train your dog’s brain, and they will all help you calm them down. In essence, you’re trying to get them to focus on a set task, which stops them from running around creating loads of noise!

Feed them calming treats

There are different supplements on the market that are shown to help dogs calm down and be more relaxed. But, you can also find calming treats for dogs that give them some added nourishment, while also calming them down. Look for snacks or treats that include natural ingredients and things like chamomile or valerian root. Both of these things are shown to calm the dog down and promote relaxation. The reason you give it to them in treat form is that you ensure your dog isn’t being pumped full of needless medications or supplements with added unnatural ingredients. 

Try these ideas and see how they affect your dog. Are they showing signs of calming down, or do you still struggle to see any changes? If the latter is true, then it’s worth visiting the vet and explaining the situation. It might transpire that your dog has a medical condition, or the vet can provide you with some other ideas that will help you calm your dog down. Remember, active dogs are normal, but if they become so hyperactive that it has a negative impact on your day, you should try to calm them down.

How To Give Your Dog The Best Life Ever

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Every pet owner is different, but we all want to give our dogs the best possible lives. After all, our furry friends enhance our lives on a daily basis and deserve to be rewarded for the joy they bring.

When you use the following tips for guidance your pup will be a healthy and happy being for years to come.

Make the home a welcoming environment

If you are about to get a dog, you must ensure that the pup is welcomed into the family setting by all. For starters, a comfortable dog bed will be vital while your pet should also have enough space to embrace around the home and in the garden. If you have other pets, it will be necessary to think about issues like introducing cats to dogs. By creating a positive home environment for all parties at the very start, it will set the perfect platform to build upon. Your dog will be far less likely to show signs of anxiety or troubles with adjusting to their life.

Respond quickly to health scares

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A healthy pup is a happy pup. Your dog will let you know if they are feeling discomfort, but you must be receptive to the symptoms. Having the right dog insurance coverage in place will allow you to act quickly by seeking professional treatment. In some cases, your pup may need surgery or other forms of support. At other times, though, it may simply require a dietary change or upgrade. Either way, allowing your pup to suffer in silence is simply not an option.

Include your pup in family experiences

Does your dog know what Christmas is? No. but they can still pick up on the sense of excitement felt throughout the home. Including them in the festivities with suitable gifts will make the celebrations feel extra special for all the family. Similarly, taking the dog on camping trips and other domestic vacations can work wonders. Of course, there will be some situations where the pip can’t be included. But when they can, you should show an eagerness to make it happen. Spending magical moments together is the best gift of all.

Keep them mentally engaged

Dogs require a lot of mental stimulation. Finding mentally challenging games that make them work for their food is a great starting point. Daily walks are another feature where you can make a major impact. Dogs need a combination of new destinations and their favorite routes. Provide the winning blend of these two things and you should notice that your pet pooch is far happier. Above all else, it ensures that they will receive the love and attention they deserve.

Employ a regular grooming routine

Dogs may love to get muddy and dirty. However, they still need regular cleaning and pet care rituals. Sending your pup to the groomer can be a monthly treat that ensures their coat is kept in perfect condition. Nail clipping will be vital too. When supported by daily home treatments to promote healthy teeth and reduce their smells, success is assured. It’s great news for pet owners and even better news for the pup. Start the process early on, your pet will quickly adapt to the situation. And, of course, it will promote a lifetime of health and happiness.

Some Of The Biggest Blunders We See Pet Owners Make

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Bringing a pet into your family can be one of the best decisions you ever make. Pets can bring so much love and warmth to your home. However, you do need to be careful when bringing a pet into your home. Your pet relies on you for love, attention, care, shelter, and food, so you need to do your best for them. With that being said, let’s take a look at some of the common mistakes pet owners make so that you can avoid making them.

• Purchasing from any old pet store - There is only one place to begin, and this is by failing to consider your choice of pet store carefully. We have a tendency to assume that all pet stores are the same, but this is simply not the case. You want to make sure that your pet enjoys food and products of the highest standard. Because of this, we would recommend you look for a holistic pet store that sells natural products.
• Going too far afield - Generally it is best not to go too far out in order to find your new pooch. In fact, it’s definitely a good idea to try and keep it as local as you possibly can. You can do that easily enough, by searching for English bulldog puppies for sale near me if you are looking for bulldogs for example. And it will mean that you are keeping it local as much as possible.
• Not training your pet early - Training your pet early is important. If you leave it until your pet is older, your pet will have already developed bad habits. This will make it incredibly difficult for you to undo these bad habits. It is also important to make sure that you are consistent when it comes to training your pet. Otherwise, your pet is only going to end up getting confused.
• Overlooking the suitability of the pet for your family - Aside from the errors that we have seen so far, another common mistake that a lot of pet owners make is overlooking whether or not the animal in question is going to be right for their family. Simply picking a pet because it is cute is not a good enough reason. You need to make sure that your lifestyle will be right for the pet, ensuring they get the care and attention they require.
• Not protecting the family home and belongings - Your pet can affect the family home and any belongings you have considerably, so it’s really important to make sure that you are avoiding the mistakes of not protecting all those things. It’s best if you can get some pet car seat covers, for example, to help protect the car - and possibly a throw for the sofa in the home, too.
• Cutting matted hair - Last but not least, one of the most common mistakes that we see pet owners make is cutting hair that has become thickly matted. Mats are difficult to comb out or brush, so often pet owners will decide to take matters into their own hands, cutting the mat out with scissors. This is an error. The reason for this is because it is very hard to figure out where the mat ends and the ear begins, meaning it is easy for you to end up cutting your cat or dog’s ear, which is the last thing you want. 

So there you have it: some of the different blunders that we see pet owners make. We hope that this helps to steer you in the right direction when it comes to purchasing a pet and looking after them properly. If you have any questions about your pet, the best thing to do is to get in touch with your vet and they will be able to help you and point you in the right direction.