A few basic cues make life with a dog easier and safer. Positive reinforcement, rewarding the behavior you want, is the method recommended by veterinary behavior organizations and is effective at any age. Training basics Sit Hold a treat at your dog’s nose and move it slowly up and back over the head. As the … Read more
Dog parks give dogs a chance to run off-leash and play with other dogs. A good park and some basic etiquette make visits fun; a bad experience can make a dog fearful. Here is how to find one and decide whether it suits your dog. Finding dog parks near you What makes a good dog … Read more
Dogs jump up to greet people because faces are where the greeting action is, and because jumping has often been rewarded with attention, even if it was a push or a “No!”. The fix is to make calm greetings more rewarding than jumping, consistently, with everyone. Why pushing away and shouting do not work For … Read more
Traveling with a pet can be great fun, but only if the trip suits the animal. Many dogs enjoy road trips and outdoor holidays. Most cats are happier staying home with a sitter. Is your pet a good travel companion? A healthy, social, adaptable dog that rides well in the car is a good candidate. … Read more
Yes, many dogs can learn to use an indoor litter box or potty area. It works best for small dogs, dogs in high-rise apartments, puppies too young to go outside freely, seniors with mobility problems and owners with long workdays. Large dogs are usually better trained to go outside. Choose the setup Place it in … Read more
Small dogs have the same need to chew, chase and solve problems as big dogs, but with smaller mouths and teeth. The best toys are sized correctly, safe to chew and matched to what your dog enjoys most. Choose the right size A toy should be too big to swallow but small enough to carry … Read more
Chewing is a natural and necessary behavior for dogs: it relieves teething pain in puppies, keeps jaws strong and teeth cleaner, and is calming. The problem is not chewing itself, but chewing the wrong things. The fix is to make the right things more attractive and the wrong things unavailable. Why your dog chews furniture … Read more
For many dogs, a bath every four to eight weeks is plenty, or simply when they are dirty or smelly. Bathing too often can strip the natural oils from the skin and coat, causing dryness and itching. The right frequency depends on the coat, the skin and the dog’s lifestyle. Coat, skin and lifestyle make … Read more
No breed guarantees an easy dog: individual temperament, upbringing and training matter as much as genes. Still, some breeds are generally more forgiving for people learning the ropes: friendly, eager to please, adaptable and not extreme in energy or grooming needs. Breeds often recommended for beginners Labrador Retriever Friendly, trainable and good with families. Needs … Read more
Many dogs and cats live together happily, but the first meetings shape their relationship. A slow, controlled introduction over days or weeks prevents fear, chasing and injuries. The method is the same whether a new dog is joining a resident cat or a rescue cat is joining a resident dog. Before you bring the new … Read more
