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:

infographic by https://autodetailersnearme.com

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.