Adopting a rescue dog is a rewarding experience but also comes with its own set of challenges. Understanding your new pet’s adjustment period is crucial for a smooth transition and successful bonding. The 3-3-3 rule is a helpful guideline that outlines the milestones your rescue dog might experience within 3 days, 3 weeks, and 3 months after coming home from the shelter. Initially, the dog may be nervous, anxious, or scared as they acclimate to their new environment. The first three days are typically marked by the most upheaval for your new canine companion; however, after three weeks, they w ..read more

Dogs are very social beings and form strong relationships with their favorite friends and caregivers. Although family pets establish relationships with the whole family, they typically have a favorite person they prefer to hang out with. Dogs choose their favorite person based on who spends the most time with them, plays with them, provides their care, offers affection, and creates positive associations. Additionally, a dog’s breed, personality, and early-life socialization with humans can impact whom they choose to bond with. Keep reading to learn more about how dogs are attracted to their fa ..read more

Creating a dog-friendly backyard on a budget can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little creativity and planning, anyone can create a safe and fun space for their furry friend to enjoy without breaking the bank. There are many affordable options available that can transform a backyard into a dog-friendly haven. Important steps in creating a dog-friendly backyard is to ensure that the space is safe for your pet, protection from the elements, and provides opportunities for exercise and play. By incorporating these elements into the backyard design, pet owners can crea ..read more

Trying to care for a limping dog at home can be a challenge. A limping dog is always a concern and should not be ignored. This is especially true if your dog starts to hobble around on three legs or needs help to stand up or climb stairs. The first thing to do to care for your limping dog is examine each paw and leg for minor injuries. If possible, use first aid to stop any bleeding or swelling. Next, restrict your dog’s movements and make your pooch as comfortable as possible by adding extra blankets and pillows to a bed on the floor. Then call your Vet for instructions and advice. If your do ..read more

The abundance of different kinds of dog food that is available today can seem overwhelming. How can you tell what your dog will like best? Most owners either rely on dog food recommendations from their vets or trainers or do their own research regarding nutrition and quality. But how will you know if your dog will like the taste of the food you pick? Most dogs generally like their food if they are hungry and if it smells good to them. If their food has a quality meat source and is not spoiled, they will usually like it. Dogs have good noses and will sniff their food first to determine if it wi ..read more

Wouldn’t it be nice if your dog would use a litter box just like a cat? Think of all the early morning and late night walks you could skip! In fact, some folks opt for adopting a cat instead of a dog just for that reason. But if you are indeed a dog lover, you will figure out how to deal with this. The primary reason dogs don’t want to use litter boxes is that dogs do not bury their poops to hide it, containers are too confining, and dogs like to mark their territory. Dogs like to meander around and find the right spot, which means you can’t get out of that walk! However, there are some ways t ..read more

Dogs and cats are often characterized in cartoons and childrens books as mortal enemies. They are often shown as running, chasing, or trying to outwit the other. And yet, in real life they can actually learn to live together in the right circumstance. Most dogs, however, do not seem to be overly fond of cats and typically bark or chase after them. It is hard to guess what dogs think of cats.  But they most likely see them as curious creatures and possible prey.  Unless a dog was raised with a cat, it is unlikely that a dog thinks of a cat as a friend or member of his pack. A dog who ..read more

Dogs love to taste things, and one of the things they may want to taste is you! Does your dog try nibbling on your fingers, clothing, or ears? This may seem worrisome if you are concerned that he may try to bite you. But nibbling, also known as cobbling, is usually not something to be worried about. Dogs often nibble on us to show affection, respect, or to try to get our attention. Your dog may also be trying to socialize and groom you as a loving act learned from his mother and littermates. Nibbling with the front teeth is a normal canine behavior within a close-knit pack. Keep reading to lea ..read more