Whether you’re picking up essentials or treating your furry friend to some new toys, a trip to the pet store can be an enjoyable outing for both you and your companion. However, there are a few things to consider before leashing up your pup and heading out the door. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth visit! Consider your animal’s personality Before leashing up your furry friend and heading out the door, take a moment to consider their temperament and behaviour. Not all animals are suited for the bustling environment of a pet store. If your furry companion becomes anxious or agitated in crow ..read more

There are very few things that can bring us joy the way our furry friends can! That feeling of happiness and love when they greet you at the door is unmatched. Dogs have a way to make us smile, and it’s our duty to ensure their happiness and well-being.    So, what makes a dog happy?      Quality Time  Just like humans, dogs enjoy attention and companionship. Spending quality time with your furry friend is a great way to boost their happiness. Engage in interactive play, go for leisurely walks, or simply cuddle on the couch. Try different activities to see what th ..read more

Guest blog by Dr Emmanuel Fontaine, Scientific Communications Veterinarian at Royal Canin North America  Every dog parent dreams of sharing a unique, unbreakable bond with their furry companion. But nurturing that special connection begins the moment you bring your puppy home. By starting on the right foot, you lay the foundation for a lifetime of love, trust, and companionship. To achieve this harmonious partnership, we must dive into three essential rules for cultivating a healthy relationship with your puppy. Each rule will provide invaluable insights into the world of puppy parenting ..read more

Trimming your canine companion’s nails can be nerve-wracking for both you and your furry friend… but the good news is it doesn’t need to be!  We have some tips to help you get prepared, and to keep the experience positive. Watch this video for some tips to make trimming your dog’s dark nails a safe and paw-sitive experience.  The post Keep it paw-sitive: Trimming your dog’s black nails appeared first on Ontario SPCA and Humane Society ..read more

Guest blog by Dr Emmanuel Fontaine, Scientific Communications Veterinarian at Royal Canin North America  Bringing home a new puppy is a thrilling experience, marking the beginning of an unforgettable bond between you and your furry friend. But amid the excitement, it’s crucial to set the stage for a harmonious relationship by preparing your home for your pup’s arrival. In this guide, we take a fresh look at the 7 essential steps to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your puppy. From selecting the perfect bowls to establishing a healthy diet, our blog will provide you with valuabl ..read more

Do you feel like your dog isn’t listening when you call their name? If you’re having difficulty getting your dog to respond when you call them, this blog is for you!   Why your dog may not be responding  First, it’s important to consider what may be impacting your dog’s recall. Here are a few considerations:  The environment is too exciting: Whatever is most exciting in your environment will grab your dog’s attention. For example, if there’s a dog across the street from you, that dog is more exciting than you are.   Being off leash too soon: If you haven’t practi ..read more

Many adult dogs are not fully house-trained for a variety of reasons, including their family’s lack of commitment or training knowledge, illness, or the dog’s prior history. Fortunately, adult dogs, even those who’ve had a disadvantaged start in life, can learn an appropriate time and place to go! By following the 10 steps below, you’ll be well on your way to having a house-trained adult dog.  Step 1. Supervise your dog inside  How thoroughly and consistently you watch your dog when they are inside will determine how successful you are at preventing accidents, and how quickly your do ..read more

You may think at times, “my dog knows better,” but the truth is, unless you’ve taught them and they’ve practiced the training in an environment or circumstance you’re attempting to work in, they don’t know! Today we’re sharing positive training techniques to modify five common canine behaviours.  Important note: Your dog’s behaviour is trying to communicate something and it’s important to take the time to learn what that is. From there, focus on teaching what behaviours you’d like to see, rather than punishing behaviours you don’t want.  Jumping up  If your dog is jumping up and ..read more

It’s the end of the day. You think your dog has had a full day of playtime and activities, and now you’re ready to sit on the couch and relax… but your dog still has a ton of energy! What gives? It turns out you may be missing out on a few simple things to help manage that energy.  What causes my dog to have excessive energy at the end of the day?  Like humans, dogs need mental stimulation, as well as physical exercise to reduce energy levels. If you’re noticing excessive energy from your dog at the end of the day, it could be because you’re satisfying the physical needs of your dog ..read more

Does size matter when caring for the nutritional needs of your puppy? Dogs have the widest range of body size of any mammal, and these differences greatly impact the type of nutrition they need!   In this video, our friends at Royal Canin break down how dog breed can impact your dog’s nutritional needs. Watch for helpful information you need to know about your puppy’s growth and nutrition!  Did you know?  Small dogs can reach maturity at around 10 months of age, whereas large breeds can take up to 15 months to reach maturity.  The mouths and jaws can be very differen ..read more