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.
Leash training does not have to look only one particular way or involve only one piece of training equipment. This post will answer some common questions and describe some techniques and equipment that have worked for many, many people and dogs—give them a try!
Off-leash dog training is a challenging undertaking and a serious responsibility. When your dog is off leash, you don’t have the same level of control as you do when she’s on leash. The risk of her running off is higher, and you can’t keep her close by your side when you encounter other people, dogs, or wild animals.
October is our annual Fall Orvis Days celebration, and throughout the month, there will be Facebook Live events featuring a different host and guest discussing topics that will help make your life with your best friend better and more enjoyable for . . .
Ready access to water is as essential for keeping dogs hydrated as it is for people. But crating your dog complicates things. A water bowl inside a crate can spill and leave your dog uncomfortable—in what should be her cozy, inviting den. During housetraining, the ramifications are even worse.
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.
Crate training is an important step in pet ownership and covering your dog’s crate at night is recommended for many dogs, but not for every dog. Some dogs may love the security provided by a darkened, enclosed space, while others can feel anxious in a confined area. How should you introduce a crate cover to your puppy or adult dog, and what options are the safest? We explore the advantages and drawbacks so you can decide what works for your furry best friend.
A canine wearing a vest with “Service Dog” patches means that animal is working, assisting their handler who has a disability—or does it? An increase in animal-related incidents and fake service dogs has created suspicion among the public in response to dogs labeled as service animals—which in turn causes distress for people who need a service dog to assist with legitimate disabilities. Is it illegal to fake a service dog? The majority of states have passed laws regarding fraudulent service dogs and emotional support animals—and many new bills were introduced during the 2018 legislative session in states without current laws.
With so many dogs terrified of fireworks, 4th of July can be a frightening time for pups everywhere. In fact, July 5th is often the busiest day of the year at animal shelters, as pets run off from. . .
On the second collaborative effort between Orvis and Purina Pro Plan, Reid chats with veterinarian Dr. RuthAnn Lobos about the myths and misconceptions that surround the pet food industry. . . .