Yes. Weather—including rain and snow, temperature fluctuations, and changes in barometric pressure—can affect dog behavior, similar to the effect weather can have on humans’ 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 MoreIn this installment of the podcast, Reid again collaborates with Purina Pro Plan to explore the topic of supplementation and nutritional support for both physical and psychological wellbeing in dogs. Reid is joined by two esteemed experts, . . .
Read MoreOne of the coziest sights is a dog curled up in his dog bed, or comfy on the couch, fast asleep. But what about when your dog can’t get comfortable lying down?
It’s normal for dogs to circle before they lie down—that’s an inborn behavior courtesy of canine ancestors who needed to tamp down a “nest” or check for danger before sleep. But if you notice your dog struggling to get
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To stop your dog from barking, you must first pinpoint what sets him off and tailor your behavior training to his triggers. His barking is instinctual. But constant barking is intolerable for you and the rest of his human family. Let the barking continue for too long unabated, and you may face discontented neighbors who are suffering along with you. Read on to learn the common causes of excessive barking; how much barking is acceptable; and most importantly, how to curtail incessant barking, day or night. We’ll also give you a rundown of which dog breeds bark the most—and the least.
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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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Owning a dog makes life a good measure happier—and messier. Constant fur to vacuum, muddy paws to manage, and full-body fur shakes after rainy walks. But the slimiest canine mess is the dreaded dog drool puddle. Your dog puts your devotion to the test when you sit on a drool-soaked couch cushion or slide across the hardwood floor on a patch of slobber. The good news is, even if your best friend is a copious drooler, it’s possible to keep the mess to a minimum. Here’s a primer on all things dog drool, how to protect your home from unwelcome goo, and which dog breeds drool the most—and least.
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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.
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Your dog should sleep wherever you—and your furry best friend—are ensured a good night’s rest. Whether he sleeps in your bed, his own dog bed in one of his many strange sleeping positions, on the couch, or in his dog crate will vary depending on what works best for you both.
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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.
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Dogs don’t need soft beds, but instead need to rest on a firm surface; too-soft pillow beds don’t offer the support needed for comfortable rest and healthy joints, and an older dog who sinks into a plush bed may have trouble getting into and out of it. This doesn’t mean he should sleep on the floor—that’s too firm. Instead, provide a bed with memory foam or a chambered polyfill sleep surface. A memory foam bed conforms to your dog’s body to relieve pressure, distribute his weight evenly, and provide tailored-for-him comfort. Many dogs need these orthopedic beds and they aren’t just for older dogs: Memory foam offers just-right joint and muscle support for a lifetime of comfort, so they’re ideal for younger, growing dogs, too.
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