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Sheltie Hund im Körbchen, dog in basket

Finding the Right Bed for your Dog

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Help your pet snooze comfortably in the ideal spot.

Do you want to give your dog a space he can call his own? Provide him with a dog bed. Beyond giving your canine friend a soft, comfortable place to sleep and relax, a dog bed provides your pet with a small spot in your house that is completely his territory.

Dog beds come a range of styles, sizes, fabrics, patterns, and colors. Before you match your dog’s bed to your décor, however, consider your pet’s need and preferences. Your pet’s size and sleeping style should influence your ultimate dog bed choice as much as your budget and interior design. Consider these types of beds, along with some of the options in each category.

Orthopedic

Orvis ComfortFill Couch Dog Bed

One of the best ways to describe an orthopedic dog bed is that it is basically a mattress for your dog. This type of bed works well for older dogs or those who experience joint pain, because if provides cushioning and support in a manner similar to that of your own mattress. The large, rectangular shape of an orthopedic bed works well for dogs who like to sprawl when they sleep. Options in this category include (but are not limited to):

• Casper Dog Mattress: a Memory Foam Dog Bed

• Orvis ComfortFill Couch Dog Bed

• Big Barker Premium Bed for Big Dogs

Majestic Pet Products Suede Bagel Dog Bed

Donut and Bolster

A donut or bolster bed usually is round or oval with a cushioned bottom and a raised side or sides. This style of bed works well for dogs who like to lean against something for security, or prefer to rest their heads on something slightly higher when they sleep. It also works well for dogs who like to curl up when they sleep, as well as for smaller dogs who want to be surrounded by something cozy on all sides. Options in this category include (but are not limited to):

• Majestic Pet Products Suede Bagel Dog Bed

• Bowsers Donut Bed

• Hagen Pet Products DogIt Dreamwell Dog Donut Bed

Pillow or Cushion

Precision Pet Products SnooZZy Gusset Floor Pillow Bed

As its name implies, a pillow or cushion bed is simply a pillow large enough for a dog to sleep on. This type of bed comes in a range of sizes, colors and patterns to accommodate a range of dog breeds and pet owner budgets and décor preferences. Options in this category include (but are not limited to):

• K9 Ballistics Original Tuff Bed

• Precision Pet Products SnooZZy Gusset Floor Pillow

• Petmate Quilted Kennel Mat

Heated

K&H Pet Products MET-listed Thermo-Snuggly Sleeper

A heated bed is another option for older dogs or those with joint issues. These warm and cozy beds provide gentle heat that helps soothe achiness and provide extra warmth for smaller dogs that become cold easily. These types of beds may also work well for families that live in colder climates, and some are designed specifically to be used outdoors, such as in dog houses for pets that spend time outside each day. Options in this category include (but are not limited to):

• K&H Pet Products MET-listed Thermo-Snuggly Sleeper

• Easyology Pets Thermal Pet Warming Bed

• Oxgord Paws & Pals Self-Warming Pet Bed Cushion

Outdoor

Coolaroo Elevated Pet Bed

Another type of bed for dogs that spend time outdoors is a cot. These raised beds keep your dog off the hot ground in the summer and above the cold ground in the winter, and also keep your dog’s sleeping area from sitting in puddles that might accumulate after rain. Look for models with waterproof fabric and sturdy frames to help the bed last longer while exposed to outdoor elements. Options in this category include (but are not limited to):

• Best Pet Supplies Elevated Mesh Bed

• Coolaroo Elevated Pet Bed

• Brindle Pet Products Hammock Pet Bed

Finding a Good Dog Breeder

Finding a Dog Breeder: How to Find the Right One

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How to Find a Good Dog Breeder

Not all dog breeders are the same. It’s important to understand the differences between responsible breeders who invest in your puppy’s mental and physical health, breeders chasing the almighty dollar (looking for financial gain) and uneducated breeders.

Don’t Let Price Fool You

Many potential pet parents assume reputable breeders charge more for their puppies. This is not true. In 25 years of experience, I’ve noticed non-reputable breeders charging the same amount or more, and they have a lower overhead because they don’t health test or take puppies back.

Responsible breeders lose money because they’ve invested so much in the beginning. Health testing one adult dog costs between $350-$600, depending on the amount of inheritable diseases plaguing a breed. As you read the requirements for a reputable breeder, keep a mental note of cost. You’ll quickly realize they’re not breeding dogs for profit, but they breed dogs to improve the breed–that’s their motive (currency).

You May Have to Wait

Yes, I know you want a puppy now so read on impatient reader. 🙂

Reputable breeders only breed dogs when they want a puppy so they may breed a few times a year. Unethical and uneducated breeders churn out unlimited amounts of puppies, which attracts impatient pet owners.

Oi, I can’t tell you how many people have asked my advice when searching for a breeder. They listen, take notes and ask lots of questions, then they stubble upon a kind lady (who doesn’t health test or so forth) with puppies on the ground and impatience wins.

Understand that’s a smart business plan for unethical and uneducated people looking to make money. They have a ready supply of puppies, as most consumers crave instant gratification. Puppies are not a commodity. They live, breathe and love. Please wait for the right puppy from a reputable breeder. It will be well worth the wait. 🙂

Responsible breeders are educated and follow specific guidelines, as they’re looking to better the breed instead of making money.

If someone doesn’t meet the below requirements, keep looking.

 

Good Dog Breeder Qualifications

Health Test – No Exceptions Ever

All dog breeds (even mixed) have health issues, and health testing adult dogs (over two years old) is the only way to identify and prevent chances of passing these onto puppies. Check out this article on understanding the importance of health testing and acceptable documentation verifying dogs have been tested and passed.

Never accept verbal promises. Always ask for documentation. If someone says, “I don’t have diseases in my lines,” they are lying.

Keep Puppies Until 8-10 Weeks Old

Puppies must stay with their mother and littermates until 8-10 weeks to develop mentally and socially. If someone allows puppies to leave earlier, don’t get a puppy from him. As a dog trainer, I can’t stress this enough. Most unethical breeders send puppies home earlier because they don’t want to feed or clean up after them–that’s the real reason.

Provide a Lifetime Contract

Yes, lifetime contracts. Contracts protect you and your puppy. If someone doesn’t offer a contract or limits inheritable heath issues within a 2-4 year period, walk away.

Take Puppy or Dog Back

Reputable breeders state in your puppy’s contract they will take your puppy or adult dog (at any age) back for any reason. They want to make sure their puppies have the best home, and if you don’t want that precious puppy any longer, they will take her back and find a forever home.

With that said, take a long deep look inside and make sure you’re ready to provide a forever wonderful life for a dog. If not, it’s okay and be glad you made the decision now instead of disrupting the life of a puppy or adult dog.

Microchip Puppies

All puppies must be permanently identified. This ensures your puppy is returned home if she becomes lost. If a breeder refuses to permanently identify a puppy, walk away. Perennially, I don’t trust breeders that refuse to microchip or tattoo. There’s this ugly game that some unethical breeders play. They provide puppy buyers with heath testing for dogs, which are not even the parents. Yup, and the only way to disprove is by identifying parents by scanning their microchips.

Provide Support Throughout Lifetime of Puppy

They will answer all your questions and provide tips on feeding, socializing and training your puppy. They’re right there with you, celebrating milestones and supporting you through tough times like when your puppy needs surgery to remove a swallowed toy. 🙂 These folks are educated and continue learning. You can’t put a price on having an expert a phone call away.

Member of National Breed Club

National breed club members create breed standards (describes temperament and conformation of a specific breed of dog). These folks show in conformation (dog shows) and are extremely educated about your chosen breed.

This is the perfect place to locate a reputable breeder, but make sure to interview them just like they will surely interview you too. When adding a purebred dog to my home, I’ve found my breeders through national breed clubs. The only time I didn’t, I lived to regret it–one day I’ll write about it, but it’s so painful. I’d rather keep it boxed inside my heart for now.

Don’t forget to print out these guidelines and ask lots of questions.

Find national breed clubs through AKC or UKC. Select a breed and scroll down for breed club information. To learn more about AKC, UKC or Continental Kennel Club (CKC), check out this article explaining the differences. I don’t recommend Continental Kennel Club because it’s a tough place to locate a reputable breeder. This article will explain further.

Jack Russell Parson Terrier Dog

4 Dog Training Cues Every Dog Should Know

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Teach Your Dog These Basic Dog Training Cues

All dogs should learn a series of basic dog training cues to keep them safe while having fun. Most puppy group classes teach these important behaviors, but dogs are never too old to learn these training cues either.

Grab your clicker, super yummy treats and your dog. Practice daily for 1-2 minutes to ensure your dog’s behaviors are sharp. In addition, practicing these cues will provide your dog lots of mental enrichment, which is a good thing.

1. Touch

Touch is such a simple dog behavior that can be used anywhere and for anything; it’s my favorite cue for all dogs. Dogs love this behavior too because it’s easy and super fun.

Teach your dog to touch his nose to the palm of your hand when your hand is presented. There’s no verbal cue. Instead, your hand becomes the signal to play the “touch” game. Once your dog understands to purposefully touch his nose to the palm of your hand, move your hand farther away, so your dog walks over and touches.

This dog game can be played quickly or slowly, and can be played at your vet’s office, in the car, at the park or on the sofa. Touch is extremely useful when teaching loose leash walking and coming when called too.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=d-spTywRXEo

2. Come When Called

Training a dog to return back to you on cue is invaluable. This dog training cue prevents dogs from running off and getting lost, chasing things, fence fighting, and so much more.

Start by playing this game indoors and use high value rewards. Every time your dog returns back to you, throw a party! Once your dog reliably returns to you indoors, it’s time to take this game outdoors and make it fun.

Try running away from your dog while rapidly repeating high-pitched sounds to prompt your dog to chase you indoors. When your dog returns to you, make treats rain from the sky. If you’re more interesting than the squirrel, your dog will return back every time.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=rEd4dy3Z31A

3. Body Handling

All dogs should learn that body handling is super rewarding. Teach your dog that you touching his ears, paws, tail and belly make treats appear. Once your dog is comfortable with body handling, meaning he doesn’t pull away while you’re touching a body part, reward for longer sessions.

Start slow and click your dog when he comfortably allows you to touch and look into his ear for a second. Gradually increase the time by 1-2 second increments. Reward your dog for mouth handling too, which is a great introduction to tooth brushing. Don’t forget your dog’s rear end too! Click and treat when lifting your dog’s tail, touching his belly and touching his rear paws.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=KiC_C3xtMpw

4. Leave It

The “leave it” behavior can be used anywhere too. Train your dog to ignore discarded chicken bones during walks, dropped food in the kitchen or another dog in the distance. “Leave it” is an amazing impulse control game too. Your dog will soon learn that his behavior really matters. Reward this behavior heavily and keep it light and fun.

girl gives a dog a treat

Does Positive Reinforcement Really Work?

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Yes, Positive Reinforcement Dog Training Does Work

Every single day, I’m asked whether or not positive reinforcement dog training works. While many pet owners purposely pursue a positive dog trainer, there are still doubts written across their face. This is very evident when working with reactive dogs; many pet owners just don’t trust the dog training technique.

As with anything, there are pros and cons, but you’ll notice very few cons with positive reinforcement dog training. When doubt creeps in, tell yourself to trust the process because positive dog training really works.

What is Positive Reinforcement Dog Training?

Positive reinforcement dog training is when you reward your dog for a specific behavior, so the behavior will happen more often. When a dog sits, and he gets a treat, he learns to sit more often. Positive reinforcement works even when pet owners don’t suspect it.

Positive Reinforcement Examples

If you open a crate door, while your dog is barking inside it, your dog learns barking means you’ll open the crate door. Begging is a good positive reinforcement example too. If you feed your dog while he sits next to your plate, he learns that sitting close to your plate makes food happen. Yup, this is positive reinforcement too!

Positive reinforcement works in the human world too. We work for paychecks—that’s our reward for working hard. Pats on the back, bonuses and hugs are human rewards too. Super yummy treats are easily great dog rewards because everyone loves food. Praise, pats, fun games, tidbits from your dinner plate, escaping a boring crate or moving away from a scary dog are great positive reinforcement examples for dogs too.

Pros and Cons of Positive Reinforcement Training

Pros

  • Easy to do: You can’t make mistakes.; just reward behaviors you want to see more often.
  • Fun for dog and pet owner: Positive reinforcement is fun because earning rewards is fun! Celebrating wins are much more fun than digesting mistakes.
  • Extremely effective: Hands down, positive reinforcement works much faster than punishment-based dog training methods. Don’t believe me? Check out the latest research on teaching children. 🙂
  • Can be done anywhere: Dog training sessions can happen anywhere; just grab food treats and go!
  • You don’t need fancy equipment: Throw out choke chains, pinch collars and electronic collars. All you need are a handful of treats, a clicker and your dog! If you’re training your dog outside, attach a leash to your dog’s body harness.

RELATED: Clicker Training Game for Beginners

Cons (And Solutions)

  • Treat dependency: Dog will only work for treats.
  • Withholding treats is frustrating: In the beginning, this can happen.
    • Again, this is a quick fix. Set a dog up for success and reward every single step toward a goal.
    • If needed, take a few steps back and build until the desired behavior happens.
  • What if you don’t have treats? Simple. Use praise, games and the happy dance to reward your dog for good behaviors.
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Online Class vs. Traditional Class: Which One is Right for You?

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Benefits of Traditional Learning

Getting an education these days has become easier and more convenient thanks to online classes. In fact, more than 6 million students in the fall of 2015 were taking at least one distance learning course. This is up by 3.9% compared to the previous year.1 However, despite the flexibility that comes with an online education, there are benefits of a traditional learning experience you won’t find online.

One-on-one instructor time

The biggest difference between distance learning and traditional learning is one-on-one instructor time. Many online courses are formatted in a self-service format. There’s an instructor who leads the course, but oftentimes isn’t leading a real-time lecture. Instead, lectures are pre-recorded and uploaded for viewing anytime.

While the availability of these video lectures allow students to view them on their own time and at their own pace, they don’t allow students to ask questions and get answers on the spot. Sure, they can email the instructor with their questions, but this private correspondence leaves out others in the class who might have the same question.

Traditional classrooms allow students to have that unique one-on-one experience with instructors and receive instant feedback. Plus, classrooms allow for deep discussions not only between student and instructor, but also among all students.

Structured learning

Everyone’s learning style is different. While others can easily focus on their studies at home, there are others who would prefer a physical space dedicated to learning. Traditional classrooms offer that learning environment and structure. You attend class, learn, interact and return home. The separation between home and school can be quite appealing to those who find there are too many distractions at home.

Social experience

Aside from interacting with an instructor, students are able to interact with each other. This can be especially helpful for those transitioning from military life to civilian life. Veterans may find traditional classrooms helpful during this period and have the opportunity to meet others who may share the same experiences as them.

Professional networking

In addition, physical classrooms provide the opportunity to build personal and professional relationships. Individuals pursuing an education are motivated to commit to a course with the goal of advancing their career opportunities. With that, it’s possible for a person to find their next business partner or employee from the class.

Hands-on training

Finally, most traditional learning programs come with more opportunities to get hands-on training. Traditional classrooms offer students that flexibility to learn in class, and then apply what they’ve learned in a real-life setting. At Animal Behavior College, our classroom students spend more than 100 hours working with shelter dogs and gaining hands-on experience.

“I have been told by the current students, per their military experience, they have been trained to: read about a topic, watch a video or PowerPoint on it, and then do the practical. So this class is perfect for them,” says classroom instructor Beth Harrison, ABCDT-L2. “That is exactly what we do. We read the curriculum, watch a video, have a group class discussion about what we just read, and then we go to Best Friends or the local shelter and practice.”

As convenient as online learning can be, it’s not for everyone. When choosing an education format, consider your learning style and how a program will best fit your needs.

1. https://onlinelearningsurvey.com/reports/digtiallearningcompassenrollment2017.pdf

Training Your Dog to Give Kisses

Training Your Dog to Give Kisses

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Get Your Dog to Give Kisses on Cue

Who doesn’t love a big wet kiss from their dog? Okay, maybe there are a lot of you out there who would rather not receive a wet one, but maybe you know someone who loves receiving kisses from her dog. Well good news! You can train your dog to give kisses on cue, allowing you to clearly communicate to your dog when he is welcome to give kisses.

What You’ll Need

• Treats – I suggest using something that can easily slather onto your hand, such as peanut butter, cream cheese or a roll on treat.
• Training Location – Begin your dog training in a quiet, distraction-free area. This will help your dog learn quickly.
• Marker – Choosing a marker is very important, as this is what informs your dog he has made the right choice and performed the desired behavior. A marker or conditioned reinforcer is a word or sound that you’ve associated with a reward, such as “good” or” yes” or clicker.

How to Teach Your Dog to Give Kisses

Once you’re all set up in your training area, start with a hungry and calm dog. The reason I say to work with your dog while he’s hungry is because you want him to be motivated to work for the food reward. You also don’t want him to be full of energy, so he can focus better.

Step One

Put a small amount of your lure (peanut butter) in the palm of your hand or on the back of your hand, and then present your hand to your dog. Once your dog shows interest in the food, give your marker word “good” and provide your dog with a secondary treat from your pocket. Most dogs will give your hand a lick when they smell the yummy lure in your hand. If this is the case, you don’t need to provide a secondary reward; just give your marker word “good” and allow the lure to be his reward.

Practice this step in small sessions multiple times a day for the next couple of days. Once your dog becomes fluent with the lure, you can move onto the next step.

Step Two

Begin to fade the lure by only using a very small amount of peanut butter on your hand. Add the cue while your dog licks your hand (kisses) and mark the behavior with “good.” The key to fading the lure and adding the cue is to only use the food lure intermittently, meaning you don’t need to reapply the peanut butter right away if your dog licks the reward off the first time. You can reward with a less valuable reward like a Charlie Bear or soft dog treat. Once your dog does the behavior without or with little food, you can move to the next step.

Step Three

Now, you’re ready to begin training your dog to give kisses on cue. Continue to practice in the same place without distractions to facilitate success, present your un-baited hand and give your cue “kisses.” When your dog performs the behavior, give your marker word “good” followed by a high value reward! Once your dog is 90 percent compliant with performing the cue on command, begin fading the reward like we discussed above.

Enjoying Your Dog’s Kisses

Once your dog becomes fluent with this new behavior, you can really use it in any capacity you’d like: as a fun trick to show your guests, a normal greeting routine for you and your pup, a way to tell your dog you’ve had enough kisses or even a way to wake your family members up when they won’t get out of bed!

READ NEXT: How to Help Hand Shy Dogs

close up of golden retriever dog at vet clinic

How To Break Up With Your Veterinarian

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What’s Involved When Changing Vets

Breaking up with anyone is difficult. Choosing to leave your current veterinarian, regardless of the reason, is extremely uncomfortable. Many pet owners put off this decision, hoping something changes soon, but it rarely does. If your gut is screaming that you and your dog need a new vet, then it’s time to pull up your socks and get it done. Yes, switching veterinarians can be done painlessly and graciously.

Trust Your Gut

It’s easy to second-guess your gut feeling, but that feeling is there for a reason. If your previous vet left your vet clinic, you can’t get a timely appointments for your pets, your appointments always run behind because the clinic you visit needs more vet assistants or other support staff, or if you’ve simply moved then breaking up with your vet is easy.

When you’re dissatisfied with your dog’s health care or staff members are rude, then that’s when it gets tricky. Many times staff members are rude because there was a misunderstanding. In that case, speak with your veterinarian or practice manager about it. However, sometimes those discussions just don’t work and it’s time to move on.

Trust and listen to your gut, and start looking for a new vet before something happens to your dog. Ask dog friends or your dog trainer for referrals and look into force-free vet clinics.

Transferring Vet Records

This is the point where most pet owners chicken out. While it’s easy to start from scratch with a new vet, it’s not fair to your dog. Your dog’s previous health records are extremely valuable to your new vet.

There are two ways you can transfer vet records. One way is to ask your previous vet to transfer your dog’s health records to your new vet. The second way, which may be a little less uncomfortable for you, is to contact your new vet’s office and have them request your dog’s medical records from your previous vet. What’s most important is your new vet receives those health records.

Remember, you don’t owe anyone an explanation unless you want to. Do tread carefully though and explain why you’re searching for a new vet. Maybe mention that you’re seeking a more integrative approach, you need a vet closer to your home or you received a referral from a fabulous dog-savvy friend. Never burn bridges, so handle this situation politely.

Meeting the New Vet

Assuming you’ve completed extensive research, it’s time to meet your new vet. Keep an open mind and refrain from bashing your previous vet. When pet owners speak negatively about others, it’s uncomfortable for everyone in the room. Switching vets is explanation enough; your new vet knows there was a reason. Instead of explaining why you left, provide details of your dog’s medical history that your vet may need to know.

Also, observe how your new vet and her staff handle your dog, how she explains your dog’s health, and how she answers your questions.

Never Give Up

Hopefully, your new vet fulfills your and your dog’s needs. Sometimes, it just doesn’t work out and that’s OK. Remember, you’re your dog’s voice, so never give up until you find the best veterinarian and support staff. Yes, it’s difficult and uncomfortable, but it’s completely worth it. You’re your dog’s advocate, so speak up. 🙂

Dog Strollers: Why and Where to Use Them

Dog Strollers: Why and Where to Use Them

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Tips for Using Dog Strollers

If you share your home with small dogs, then using a dog stroller has probably crossed your mind. Basically, a dog stroller is a dog crate on wheels, which makes sense to use if pet owners need to transport their dogs. Dog strollers are available in different sizes, heights and styles, and can be useful in the right situation. Check out these tips for using a dog stroller!

Using a Dog Stroller

Small dogs need a bit more TLC when walking in public, as strangers can easily trip over or step on them. This is when using a dog stroller would be convenient.

When using a dog stroller, ensure your dog is safely secured by using the tie out available inside the carrier compartment. It’s best to attach the tie out to a dog’s harness and zip the top of the stroller closed to prevent your dog from jumping out.

Dogs that are uncomfortable around other dogs, people or new situations might bark at the sight of them. If this is the case for your dog, you can try using a visual barrier, such as a towel, to reduce barking behavior. However, if your dog is still anxious when riding in a stroller, it’s best to hold him instead.

Choosing a Dog Stroller

Most dog strollers are made of soft-sided material with see-through mesh. There are pet strollers that have solid sides as well, which would work as a visual barrier for barking dogs. Tossing a towel over the mesh part will also prevent your dog from peeking out and barking too.

Taller dog strollers, that resemble human baby strollers, seem to work best for most people since pet owners don’t have to bend over excessively. Plus, taller strollers will prevent strangers from bumping into your dog and keep other dogs from walking up to your dog. Whichever stroller you choose, they remain level at all times unlike when you’re transporting your dog in a crate or carrier.

Best Place to Use Dog Strollers

Use a dog stroller anytime a small dog needs to be transported. Visiting the vet’s office is the best place to use this tool because it keeps small dogs safely contained until they’re at the vet exam. When bringing two or more small dogs to a vet’s office, it’s probably best to separate them into two different strollers. If that’s not possible, hold one dog and leave your other dog in the stroller. Dogs should feel relaxed and safe while contained in a stroller. It’s best to keep plenty of distance between your dog and other dogs at all times even when using a pet stroller.

Cute dog with woman. Leash over her legs.

Walk (Your Dog) This Way

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Dog Walking Tips
Tip #2: Ask your dog to sit and wait until he’s calm before attaching his leash.
©Javier brosch/Adobe Stock

Regular walks are an important part of your dog’s overall health. Besides helping to keep him in shape, regular walks help curb a dog’s inappropriate behaviors by channeling his energy into a positive activity guided by you, his owner. The regular activity also helps strengthen the bond and trust between you and your pet. To make your walks as stress-free as possible, consider following these tips.

#1 Use a front-clip harness or head halter to discourage pulling. Your dog will have a natural inclination to pull in response to a leash pulling or jerking on his collar or rear-clip harness. A front-clip harness or head halter can help discourage both of you from pulling on the leash. These devices provide pressure in places that naturally make the dog want to walk slower.

#2 Ask your dog to sit before you put on the leash. To encourage calm behavior during the walk, start with calm behavior before you walk out the door. Only put the leash on your dog’s harness or halter after he calmly sits.

Walking Your Dog
Tip #3: Make the walk as stress-free as possible by giving yourself enough time to relax during your excursion.
©Mat Hayward/Adobe Stock

#3 Give yourself enough time for the dog walk. Most dogs need at least 30 minutes for an effective walk, and might need as long as an hour. If you are hurried and stressed while walking, your dog will pick up on your stress and could exhibit stressful behaviors himself. Head out for the walk when you are relaxed and able to enjoy the process—and your dog will enjoy it more, too.

#4 Let your dog sniff. The daily walk is likely the one time your dog is away from his familiar territory. Help him fulfill his needs for mental stimulation by allowing him to explore his surroundings by one of the best ways he knows how—sniffing.

#5 Bring plenty of water. For longer walks—or walks to a destination where you will be staying for a while—be sure to bring plenty of water or a vessel to hold the water once you arrive.

#6 Outfit your dog with proper I.D. Your city or town may require a dog license, and it’s always a good idea to make sure your dog has an identification tag or microchip (or both) that easily allows you to be reunited with your pet if he somehow becomes lost.

Dog Walking Tips
Tip #3: Let your dog explore with his nose during your walks.
©duncanandison/Adobe Stock

#7 Bring treats to encourage proper behavior and keep your dog’s focus. Only use the treats to reward very good behavior. When you are first leash training your dog, you could choose to reward him when he walks next to you—instead of pulling—for several steps. As his good behavior increases, you can set the bar higher for earning a treat.

#8 Don’t approach other dogs without permission. You will likely encounter other dogs and their owners out for walks—but remember, just because your dog is friendly doesn’t mean other dogs are. Ask before you and your pet approach an unfamiliar dog.

#9 Wear reflective gear during the evening. Sometimes, the only time available for a good walk is the evening, after the sun has gone down and visibility has diminished. Make sure you and your dog are visible to approaching cars by outfitting him with a reflective or flashing collar and wearing a reflective vest or jacket yourself.

#10 Always pick up after your dog. Be courteous to everyone who uses the same paths and sidewalks as you and your pet. You’d want other dog owners to do the same.

About the Author: Stacy N. Hackett is an award-winning writer with more than 25 years’ experience in the pet industry. She is the former editor of Pet Product News and a former staff editor with Cat Fancy, Cats USA, Critters USA and Ferrets USA. To learn more about her work, visit stacynhackett.vpweb.com.

InternetCats-FI

Up-and-Coming Internet Cats You Should Follow

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Some say the internet belongs to cats. Watching cute cat videos is one of the most popular online activities among users, and felines have a strong presence in all social media platforms, especially Facebook and Instagram. Here’s a look at five up-and-coming internet cats that are getting the attention of cat lovers online.

 

Nathan the Beach Cat

Nathan the Beach CatNathan the Beach Cat, a black domestic shorthair living in Queensland, Australia, was adopted by her parents Rian and Mel from a shelter last year. Because Rian and Mel love the ocean, they decided to take Nathan with them to the beach when she was 11 weeks old. The trips started with Nathan on a harness and graduated to untethered and following Rian into the water for a swim. Nathan’s unusual love for water led to Rian and Mel creating an Instagram account to share photos with friends and family.

Nathan now has 164k followers on Instagram (nathan_thebeachcat), and 7,022 followers on Facebook.

 

Sophie the ModelSophie the Model

Another black domestic shorthair who has swept the Internet is Sophie the Model. Self-described as an aspiring “meowdel” and ambassador for black cats, Sophie loves to get dressed up and pose for photos. Her goal is to promote black cat adoption by dispelling the stereotype that black cats are bad luck.

Sophie has 212,000 followers on Instagram (sophie_the_model); and 3,114 followers on Facebook.

 

Nala Cat

Nala CatBeautiful Nala is a 7-year-old Siamese/domestic shorthair mix. Adopted from a shelter at 5 months old, Nala came from a hording situation and was the only cat from this situation left at the shelter when her mom adopted her. Suffering from a respiratory infection, it took Nala some time to recover and show off her personality. Once she did, her mom decided to start an Instagram account to keep her friends posted on her antics.

Before long, Nala had 3.5 million followers on Instagram (nala_cat). Nala is well on her way to ruling the internet. Visit her at nalacat.com

 

Monty

MontyMonty is a special kitty born with chromosome abnormalities. His family adopted him from an animal shelter in Denmark, and has been helping him cope with a sunken nasal bridge that causes some respiratory challenges. The issue gives Monty a distinctive look, and helps him promote the idea that looking different doesn’t mean you can’t be fantastic. Monty has become an ambassador for animals and humans worldwide who might not look perfect in everyone’s eyes. Monty also promotes shelter adoptions, and spaying and neutering.

Monty has 386,000 followers on Instagram (monty_happiness) and more than 403,000 on Facebook.

 

Sabrina PoundSabrina Pound

Budding Internet star Sabrina Pound is a former shelter cat who is on her way to becoming a “Hollywood superstar.” Her persona’s backstory reads like that of a famous actress who clawed her way to the top of the silver screen. Originally from Rego Park, in Queens, N.Y., Sabrina Pound has film and theater credits in her resumé, including a stint at directing. This beautiful longhaired diva has fluffy white and gray fur, and stunning emerald green eyes.

Sabrina Pound has 93,000 likes on Facebook, and is just getting started building a fan base on Instagram (sabrinapound).

About the Author: Audrey Pavia is an award-winning freelance writer and author of “The Labrador Retriever Handbook.” She is a former staff editor of Dog Fancy, Dog World and The AKC Gazette magazines. To learn more about her work, visit www.audreypavia.com and hollywoodhoofbeats.net/

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