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.
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Louisville, San Francisco and neighbor, Oakland, took the top three spots on our roundup of the Best 100 Cities for Outdoorsy Dog Owners rankings, which compares the number of dog parks and the distance to the nearest state park for the 100 largest cities in the United States.
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Whether they close with a clip or a buckle, dog collars have two main functions: to keep the two of you together, and to provide ID information that can help reunite you if you become separated…all in a way that is safe for your dog.
Read MoreWelcome to the new series of dog-training videos–featuring Ronnie Smith and Susanna Love of Ronnie Smith Kennels. The Smith family is legendary in the dog-training world. Ronnie’s uncle is the bird-dog legend Delmar Smith, recognized as the founder . . .
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Today’s #MomentofChill stars an exuberant pup who simply loves the camera. Being outside has numerous benefits for a dog. Studies show that dogs who play outside regularly have fewer weight problems, . . .
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Brandy’s owner described her as “a sweet girl.”
Photo by Daynna, Stoney Creek
The age-old question of a male versus a female dog defies a definitive answer—maybe because dogs are individuals, just like humans, and can’t be pigeonholed into gender-specific stereotypes. A better question might be, nature or nurture? Dogs are born with widely varying temperaments related to their breeding. But how dogs are socialized and trained throughout their lives—especially as puppies—has a greater impact than gender on their adult behavior.
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While dogs can make wonderful presents, there are potential problems, as well.
Photo by Jill, Oconomowoc
While conventional wisdom suggests giving a dog as a Christmas present is ill advised, a new way of thinking is gaining momentum, supported by research that suggests a puppy-as-present may not only be okay, but could ultimately help more shelter dogs find forever homes. Does a dog make a good present? If you’re thinking of giving a puppy or a dog to a child or other beloved family member or friend this holiday season, here are some compelling findings that might make you smile.
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A runaway dog can be a stressful situation for all involved.
Photo by: Janie, Midland
However much your dog adores you—and the special treats you give her, the games of fetch you play in the back yard, or the behind-the-ear scratches—there’s always a chance she’ll make a break for the door or an opening in the fence. Let’s explore some possible reasons she might abandon her loving family and home.
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A harness is often a better choice than a collar.
Photo via orvis.com
As with so many dog-related questions, the answer isn’t hard and fast. Whether a harness or collar is the best choice for your best friend depends on her age, breed, and walking style. Is she a rambunctious puppy ready to charge full steam ahead to explore the world? A harness can facilitate training and give you more control and can do so with ease and minimal exertion on your part. Is she an adult dog who takes your lead? A collar with a leash does the trick. Sometimes, you’ll want both on hand depending on where you’re headed on your adventures.
The dog collar can be a fashion statement, a piece of safety equipment, a method of control, and more. Dog collars are the point of attachment not only for a leash, but also for crucial . . .
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The candy is stocked, the pumpkin’s lit, that gauzy spiderweb stuff is strewn about—you’re all set for Halloween, but what about your dog? With more than $350 million spent by Americans on pet costumes every year, having fun with our pets certainly ranks near the top of the Halloween list. But pet safety should be right up there too, as this annual occasion presents a number of new or unusual challenges for our dogs, including dangerous foods and scary situations. And animal shelters see an increase in lost dog reports and an uptick in stray pet intakes the day after Halloween. Follow these simple safety tips to keep your dog safe and help him enjoy Halloween.
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Like people, dogs grow on their own schedules. Each dog’s schedule is determined by his genetics, health, and nutrition. A pup destined to be small might be done at 6 months, while a large dog might grow for two years. And some dog parts grow (or regrow) throughout a dog’s lifetime.
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