We love our dog trainers. After all, how else could we bring the woofs to all the dog-friendly places? But they’ve got a ruff gig. So we asked them: If you as a dog trainer could anonymously put one uncensored piece of advice out into the universe to make your life easier, what would it be? Here’s what they said. 1. For pup’s sake, do your homework assignments. Pet parents who don’t practice between training sessions were a Great Dane-sized gripe among trainers in our survey. “My clients never did this even when I told them to,” one trainer lamented. Repetition is key to mastering new skills f ..read more

Training your dog effectively often hinges on the approach you choose. Among the myriad options, positive reinforcement stands supreme for service dog training, training your family pet and almost every dog-training situation in-between. Rooted in the simplicity of rewarding your dog for their good behavior, this technique motivates them to continue acting in the desired way. Rewards vary widely, from treats and toys to verbal praise and affection, creating a positive feedback loop that dogs love. This approach not only aids in basic obedience but is crucial in training service dogs, wher ..read more

The great American road trip is a summer staple. And if you’ve always wanted your furry friend along for the ride, this is a must-read. With a little planning and patience, you and your pooch’ll both be wagging your tails in no time. Here’s your roadmap to dog-friendly road tripping: Double check dog-friendly locations. More and more places are welcoming pups, but be sure to call ahead to any hotel, restaurant, campground or other place you intend to visit to make sure that any dog-friendly information online reflects current guidelines. Know thy dog. You hear this from us a lot, but it c ..read more

Imagine having a peaceful day in the park on a warm summer’s day, your faithful dog running around freely. All of a sudden, you hear a yelp – your dog has stepped on something sharp and is bleeding profusely. As a dog owner, you’re not just your pet’s best friend; you’re their first line of defense. In moments like these, knowing how to do first aid for your pet can make all of the difference for your dog. This article will help guide you on what to do in case of a pet emergency and tell you exactly what you need to have in your pet’s first aid kit. When Every Second Counts Accidents can happe ..read more

Whether it’s coconut water, milk, oil, or the raw fruit, coconuts have gained massive popularity in human diets due to their health benefits. But is the story the same for our canine companions? Do the same rules apply? Are there any potential risks we should be aware of? As a responsible dog owner, it’s essential to understand these details before introducing a new food like coconut into your pet’s diet. Packed with Goodness: Nutritional Profile of Coconuts Coconuts are filled with beneficial nutrients that can be good for your dog. They are rich in dietary fiber, which aids digestion, and pa ..read more

You’ve lived with your dog for years, but suddenly he starts to scratch incessantly, his eyes water, and his skin becomes inflamed. This is not the happy, playful pet you’re used to seeing. You get worried, take him to the vet, and get the unexpected news: your dog has developed allergies. Why do so many dogs have allergies? It’s a question that has been nagging at the minds of countless pet lovers. It’s as if these allergies just came out of nowhere. One day our dogs are frolicking in the park, the next, they are sneezing, wheezing, and scratching. So, what’s going on? Is it something in the ..read more

Biking with your dog can be one of life’s great joys — but for many of us, the idea of taking your dog on a bike ride is daunting. Where do you even begin? What equipment do you need? Will your dog even enjoy it? Great questions. We’ve got answers. How to Get Started Get the Green Light First off, get your pooch checked over by your vet to make sure that he’s up for this new jogging regime. Exercise might not be safe for your pup, depending on his weight, size, medical history, or even age. We know your puppy has a lot of energy, but dogs shouldn’t be doing any serious distance running until t ..read more

When I first brought home my new dog from the shelter, I was filled with joy and anticipation. But as I watched her stumble around the house, my heart ached. She was clearly uncomfortable – her nails, once neglected and now overgrown, were causing her considerable discomfort. I knew I had to help her, but I also knew I had to do it right. After all, trimming a dog’s nails isn’t just a matter of aesthetics, it’s a matter of health and comfort. If you’re dealing with a dog’s overgrown nails, you’re in the right place. I’ve learned a lot by helping my own dog, and am here to provide guidance on h ..read more

You’ve gone to the shelter and you’re smitten. Two adorable puppies with soft, innocent eyes are stealing your heart. They’re siblings and inseparable, tumbling over each other, giving you those pleading, “take me home” eyes. You can’t bear to separate them, and so the decision is made: you’ll adopt them both. However, as time passes and the initial charm and cuteness fade away, you start noticing some peculiar behavior. They are inseparable, yes, but to the extent that they cannot do anything without the other. They become anxious when separated, even for a short period. Training them seems i ..read more

Toys are more than just playthings for our dogs. They provide mental stimulation, help control destructive behavior, and are an integral part of bonding with our pets. But, not all toys are created equal, and some can even pose a danger to your pooch. As pet parents, it’s our responsibility to ensure the toys we offer our dogs are not only engaging but also safe. Here are 10 toys that should never make their way into your dog’s paws. 1. Small Balls While it might seem like a no-brainer, small balls are a common culprit in canine choking incidents. A ball that fits perfectly into your dog’s mou ..read more