Written Ami Patrick for One Kind Planet Dogs are amazing. They are man’s best friend, and we share almost every aspect of our human lives with them, from working to companionship. Welcoming a dog into your home is a big commitment, though and not a decision to take lightly. Just take a look at your local rescue centre to see the results of people buying on a whim or without research. The number of dogs left homeless is shocking. So, if you are considering welcoming a new dog

Written for AKC by Sassafras Lowrey, CTDI Dogs thrive on consistency and benefit from knowing what to expect. Routines can support every aspect of your relationship with your dog, from house training to grooming to preventing some behavioral challenges and boosting canine confidence. Puppy Routines Getting your puppy onto a regular routine for sleeping, eating, bonding, and potty training is key. Routines can help puppies adjust to their new homes and families. Give them oppo

Written for AKC by Harriet Meyers Ticks are a problem for dogs (and for humans) throughout the United States during all seasons of the year. When temperatures rise, and you and your dog are spending more time outside, these bloodsucking pests become a larger threat. Ticks sit themselves on tall grasses and shrubs, waiting for your dog to walk by, so they can attach themselves to him. Tick prevention should be taken seriously, and not just because these arachnids make many peo

Written by Claire Epting for Bustle.com Wouldn’t it be amazing if we could speak our dogs’ language? Luckily, we have the next best thing— these genius tricks dog owners can use to better communicate with their canine companions. You’ll find several helpful training aids and ideas, which come recommended by trusted professionals. Whether it’s enriching your pup’s day with a mentally stimulating puzzle toy, or discouraging pulling on walks with a padded harness, each of these

Written for akc.org by Stephanie Gibeault, MSc, CPDT Just when you think your puppy should be settling down for the night, boom, your...

Written by AKC Maybe your veterinarian has recommended a prescription diet, or perhaps you’ve simply decided to try a new brand. Whatever the reason for the switch, changing your dog’s diet is more complex than simply pouring the new food into a bowl. In order to avoid upsetting your dog’s stomach, you will need to transition to the new food the right way. Here’s the best way to switch dog foods. How to Change Your Dog’s Food Switching your dog’s food abruptly can cause gastr

From Therapy Dogs Dogs are not only an excellent pet to care for and build a connection with, but they’re also capable of providing amazing services to people in need. There are a wide variety of conditions and disabilities that dogs can help people with. The usages and functions of dogs can differ depending on whether they’re being used for therapy or service. The following are some of the main differences between therapy dogs and service dogs. Service Dogs Service dogs are

Written by Hilarie Erb for AKC Socializing puppies from an early age is critical, but with COVID-19 social distancing requirements, it might seem like it can’t be done. Even though you cannot have new people into your home to meet them, there are plenty of ways to safely expose your litters to new experiences before they go to their permanent homes. Household Experiences: Puppies must get comfortable with handling of their bodies, feet, ears, and mouths. When they are past th

Contributed by Jennifer Nelson in AKC My dog never met anyone (dog or person) he didn’t like. So it was perplexing when a new neighbor moved in next door and suddenly there was a growling, barking, snarling fence fight going on. If your dog has an ongoing fence-line war with a neighboring dog, you know what I’m talking about. Whenever the two are outside at the same time, they run to the fence line to pick up where the war left off. Fortunately for my neighbor and their dog,

Contributed by Kaitlyn Arford for AKC More people than ever before are opening their hearts and homes to puppies during the coronavirus pandemic. For those who are self-isolating, puppies provide welcome wagging tails and comforting cuddles. Plus, many puppy seekers are discovering they now have the crucial element needed to raise a good dog: time. So, is now the right time to get a puppy? The answer to that question depends on each person and family. Were you prepared to get

Written by Jean Bauhaus for AKC Commercial cleaning products are loaded with potentially hazardous ingredients like bleach and ammonia. Some also contain perfumes and other ingredients that can irritate a dog’s eyes and skin, and even cause breathing problems. But that doesn’t mean you have to let dirt and germs take over your home in order to keep your pooch safe. You likely have everything you need in your pantry and medicine cabinet to mix up dog-safe cleaning solutions th

Published on akc.org by Stephanie J. Smith 1. You’re not giving him enough exercise: If you’re gone 12 hours a day, and your dog’s walk consists of a quick dash into the backyard, you’re not providing your pet with adequate opportunities to use up all his energy. Instead, the excess will go into chewing your shoes, stealing your food, or scratching your walls. As the old saying goes, “A tired dog is a good dog.” 2. You haven’t trained him enough: It sounds like a no-brainer,

Published on akc.org by Jan Reisen There’s so much to think about and so many new experiences when you bring home your puppy that you may forget an important part of puppy homecoming: establishing a routine. Your new canine family member needs structure to feel secure and know what’s expected of him. The best way to do this is to create a schedule and stick to it. The first few weeks with your new puppy is the time to start establishing good behaviors. By the way, the puppy i

What is a dewclew? Dewclews are found on a dog’s fore and rear paws. The dewclew is usually higher up on the paw, as such does not contact the ground unless the dog is in a gallop or a hard run. During a hard run or gallop, the dewclew is used for lower leg support and preventing torque injury. Dewclew Removal Over the past 100 years or so, dewclew removal has become a custom. Initially performed to potentially avoid the claw catching inadvertently around the house - thin

Crate Training your dog can be done with practice and patience. Here's tricks to helping your dog be the best den dog they are.