The Orvis Dog Blog features informative posts on wide-ranging topics, including canine health, behavior and training, and the products your dog needs. Learn more about the Orvis-Morris Animal Foundation Canine Cancer Campaign, and our work supporting Petfinder Foundation’s dog rescue efforts.
Living with a big dog often requires a few adjustments.
Photo by By Calicodaisy – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0
Dogs adapt well to unlikely situations—one reason they’ve put up with us for so long. But all dogs, big and small, can present different challenges at home. Living with a big dog in a small space, while it can be difficult, is not only possible but also potentially rewarding for a dog and his humans. Here are nine tips to make…
Read MoreFor the next post in our series, we will discuss one of my favorite ways to give Romi some mental and physical exercise. I find that working your dog’s mind and body every day (preferably in the morning) will help your dog . . .
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If you spend much time outdoors and have a dog or two, perhaps you will agree that ticks are the bane of our existence. They are a constant, ubiquitous threat to our health and sense of well-being. And, to make things worse, their numbers are increasing according to scientists.
Read MoreAs we found out in the previous post, “heel” is a great tool not only for establishing and maintaining control, but also to get some necessary exercise each day with your dog (ideally outside). Right now, we are all inside with our dogs more than usual, and . . .
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Dogs love mud, and they end up soiling their collars, as well as themselves.
Photo by Jody, Stevenson
No matter how clean your dog stays or how fresh his coat, the collar he wears will eventually absorb enough skin oils, dirt, and grime to develop an odor. Dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors rolling in the mud, swimming in lakes and streams, chasing balls, or playing at the dog park are more prone to collar funk than the small lap dog who rarely ventures out and takes a weekly trip to the doggie salon. But eventually, all collars will need to be washed to keep them smelling nice—and to prevent unhygienic bacteria buildup.
Read MoreIn the last post, we discussed reading your dog’s behavior to help make life more productive for both of you. I know that Romi and I also seem to be a lot happier, and more productive, when we have gotten some fresh air and exercise outside. The challenge . . .
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Dog breeds that can be left alone include Labrador Retrievers, Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs, and Corgis (Welsh and Pembroke varieties). These breeds tolerate being alone because their temperaments lean towards the laid-back side, provided they receive abundant exercise, play, and attention from their people during together time.
Read MoreThe best dog people are amazing at “reading” their dogs. They are tuned into their dogs’ behaviors and responses, the way their dogs react to direction, as well as to different situations. They are good at picking up on the cues that indicate their dog has . . .
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Yes. Weather—including rain and snow, temperature fluctuations, and changes in barometric pressure—can affect dog behavior. It’s similar to the effect weather can have on your own mood and energy. You’re likely peppier on sunny spring days, while on a cold, grey, rainy day you may feel more interested in a movie marathon on the couch. Read on to learn how changing weather conditions change your best friend.
Read MoreDoes your state require dogs be harnessed in the car? What type of dog restraint law does your state enforce?
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