In 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 . . .
Read MoreDogs
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.
Which Dog Breeds Can Be Left Alone?
If you’re going to be out of the house a lot, make sure you choose a breed that’s comfortable alone.
Photo by Julie, Waupun
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 MoreHow to Best Work Alongside Your Dog, Part 3: Behavior and Psychology
The 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 . . .
Read MoreDoes Weather Affect Dog Behavior?
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?
Does your state require dogs be harnessed in the car? What type of dog restraint law does your state enforce?
Read MoreHow to Create Productive Spaces for You and Your Dog, Part 2
Place training is simply teaching your dog to stay in a dedicated spot without being restrained in any way for an indefinite amount of time. The beauty of place training is that it builds right on top of the foundation laid with crate training. It also creates a . . .
Read MoreHow to Adopt a Rescue Dog: Expert Tips from The Petfinder Foundation
Emily Fromm, CDO of the Petfinder Foundation, shares a moment with a canine friend.
Photo courtesy Emily Fromm
We sat down with Emily Fromm, Chief Development Officer of The Petfinder Foundation, to ask her a question that’s simple enough at first glance but more complex once prospective . . .
Read MoreLong vs. Short Dog Leashes: How to Choose
Your dog’s leash—long or short—influences the daily rhythm of your life with him. Whether walking your dog is peaceful, controlled, or unruly depends, at least in part, on the length of his leash (when paired with a proper dog collar). In certain scenarios and with particular dogs a short or standard-length leash is your best bet, but in other situations, you and your dog will appreciate the freedom of a long leash. Either way, leashes help protect your dog and other dogs from unexpected encounters. Here’s the long and the short of it:
Read MorePet Adoption Statistics: The Numbers Behind the Need
Each year millions of companion animals enter shelters. Hundreds of thousands are currently in need of homes. Here’s the good news: pet overpopulation has slowed dramatically since the 1970s, when it’s estimated American animal shelters euthanized between 12 and 20 million cats and dogs every year. Compare that to today, when only three to four million animals must be euthanized annually. And here’s another telling fact: in the 1970s there were 67 million pets in American homes, and today there are more than 135 million. In other words, we invite far more animals into our families these days and euthanize far fewer, perhaps suggesting a paradigm shift in how we think about animal stewardship.
Read MoreGuest Post: Save a life. Adopt a dog.
Sadie’s comfort level in her new surroundings helped seal the deal for Dave.
Several weeks ago, my wife, Brandi, took our cat to the vet to get his annual checkup and shots. While at the office, she met a woman who was fostering a Silver Lab named Sadie. Brandi. . .
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