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Dog Grooming: Best Practices You Should Follow

Dog grooming is a great way to keep your dog healthy, happy, and clean. It helps to maintain their coat and skin using dog grooming blades, as well as keep them looking good for visitors. Below are some best practices you can follow when it comes to grooming your dog. 

Why Is Grooming So Important?

Regular grooming is one of the best ways to keep your dog healthy and happy for the following reasons:

#1. It can also help you spot any issues with their health, so you can address them before they become serious.

#2. It will help keep them clean and healthy. It will also make them feel good, which will make them more likely to want to be around you and less likely to run away when you try to play with them or take them for walks.

#3. Grooming also helps you bond with your dog by providing an opportunity for both of you to spend time together in a positive way. You’ll get to spend quality time with your pet, and they’ll get some attention from the person who loves them most in the world—you!

#4. Regular grooming sessions are also a great way to check in on whether your dog’s fur is matting or if there are any signs of illness that might need additional attention from a veterinarian. If something looks bad enough for us humans, it probably looks terrible for dogs!

Some best practices to follow when it comes to grooming your dog:

  1. Get your dog comfortable with the grooming process

The more comfortable your dog is with being groomed, the less stressful and traumatic it will be for them. The less traumatic it is, the less likely they are to try and run away from something that makes them uncomfortable.

  • Inspect fur for ticks, fleas, and lice:

The first thing you need to do when grooming your dog is to inspect its fur for ticks, fleas, and lice. It is important that you do this because these pests can cause infections on your pet’s skin and make them very uncomfortable.

  • Regularly check their eyes, ears & teeth:

Another thing that you should do when grooming your pet is to check their eyes, ears, and teeth regularly. You should clean out their ears with cotton balls every week so that they won’t get infections due to dirt in them while brushing their teeth twice daily helps prevent bad breath as well as plaque build-up which can lead to gum disease later on down the road if left untreated!

  • Trim nails at least once per month:

You should trim your dog’s nails at least once per month because long nails can cause painful scratches when walking around outside with them on which will hurt both parties involved plus it

  • Select The Right Dog Shampoo:

The type of shampoo you choose should be based on the breed and type of dog you have. For example, if your pet is a long-haired breed, then you should use a shampoo that has been designed for that kind of coat.

  • Bathe Regularly With Dog Shampoo

A lot of people think that they can just clean their dogs with human shampoo, but this is a bad idea because human shampoos tend to be too harsh on dogs’ skin and fur. If you use human shampoo on your dog, it will strip away their natural oils and make them dry and itchy.

Dog shampoo is designed specifically for dogs, so it won’t cause this kind of damage to their coat or skin. When you use dog shampoo, you’ll also be able to get rid of any fleas or ticks that might have been attached to your pet before bathing them.

  • Use The Right Brush For Your Breed:

It’s important to use the right brush for your breed! A long-haired dog will require a slicker brush, which is designed to remove dead hair and keep its coat smooth. A medium-haired dog would benefit from a bristle brush, which helps to distribute natural oils throughout their hair. Short-haired dogs should use a pin brush or rubber curry comb, which can help remove dirt and debris from their coat without causing damage.

The Important Thing To Remember:

When it comes to dog grooming, if you approach your pet with love and respect, they will respond by loving you back. Take the time to learn all that you can, and always remember to communicate calmly and effectively with your pet. Dogs are very communicative animals, so make sure that you aren’t leading them in the wrong direction by trying to do a task that’s unfamiliar to them. When you work calmly together, training your pet for dog grooming won’t be arduous at all—and the results will be well worth it!

Animal Behavior Essentials: What You Need to Know

Have you ever looked at your pet and wished you understood what they were thinking? Well, you can! Okay, you can’t read their mind, but you can read their bodies. Pets communicate their feelings to you more than you may think.

Read on to discover the essentials of animal behavior. 

Cat Behavior: What You Need to Know 

Cats have a bad reputation for sticking to themselves and not letting their humans know what they are feeling. However, cats are very expressive. They just may not be as obvious about it as dogs typically are. Here are a few ways you can tell how your feline friend is feeling. 

The Tail Tells All 

You can almost always get a good read on your cat’s feelings based on the positioning of its tail. When their tail is pointed up or slightly curved, they likely feel comfortable and at ease. If their tail is wagging vehemently, your furry companion is probably feeling threatened or playful. 

Cats Like to Talk to Their Humans 

Cats are not always the most vocal household pet, but you better listen when they are. They vocalize to try and communicate hunger, danger, or just to say hi. 

Read Their Facial Expressions 

Cats use their faces to communicate. If they welcome you home by bumping their head against you, they are glad to have you back. If their ears are cocked back, they may be scared or angry. It takes observation of their facial cues and surroundings to truly determine their emotions. 

Purring Does Not Always Mean What You Think it Means

Yes, purring often means that your cat is happy and enjoying life. However, sometimes it can mean that they are feeling sick or in some kind of pain. So, if something seems off, contact a veterinarian to be safe. 

Dog Behavior: What You Need to Know 

Dogs and humans have been best friends for many years, giving us plenty of knowledge of how they work and like to communicate with us. However, they are not always easier to read than their feline counterparts. Here is what you should know.

The Tail Tells All 

Like cats, a dog’s tail can tell you pretty much everything you need to know. When they are happy, their tail wags back and forth like they are about to take off. When they are sad or scared, their tail tucks between their legs. Lastly, their tail sticks straight out when threatened and on high alert. 

They Show Signs of Stress

Dogs can become overstimulated just like humans. When this happens, they typically yawn, look in strange directions, or excessively lick their lips. If you notice this, get your dog to a calm environment and give them some space. 

Bowing = Playful 

If you have owned a dog or been around one for any period, you probably had no issues figuring out that bowing means they want to play with you. If your dog looks at you, pushes its chest to the floor, and leaves its wagging tail high in the air, that means it’s go-time, and you should find a tennis ball ASAP. 

Mounting Might Not Be What You Think 

You have probably seen a dog grab onto a leg and hump. This is natural and does not always have a sexual meaning. Dogs often use this to express dominance, relieve pent-up stress, or grab people’s attention. 

How to Handle Different Signs 

Now that you have a better idea of how to read your furry friend’s emotions, it’s time to learn what you should do with this new knowledge. 

Aggression

If you notice that your dog or cat is showing aggression, this may not mean they are mad. They could be expressing pain and need immediate medical attention. 

Sickness/Injury 

If you determine that your pet is showing signs of sickness or injury, it is time to put your pet insurance to good use and call your local vet for an appointment. Be sure to get them to the ER right away if the injury is bad enough. 

Playfulness 

If your dog or cat comes to you and looks like they want to play, take the time to play with them. This shows your love, strengthens your bond and provides both of you with joy and fulfillment. A win-win for everyone. 

Tiredness 

If you are at a park, outdoor restaurant, or on a walk with your dog, pay attention when they get tired. If your canine companion is panting, it may be time to get some water and head back home. 

Hunger 

Lastly, keep tabs on when they eat and when they let you know they are hungry. Overfeeding is an easy mistake to make. It is important to feed all pets an appropriate amount of food, even when they give you those sweet puppy eyes in between meals. 

The Bottom Line 

Dogs and cats are very good at communicating their needs to their owners through body language and behavior. It is up to the owners to be attentive and know what all of their signs could mean. Now that you have a good idea of how they communicate their needs, pay attention to your furry family member and make sure they feel heard and understood. 

How To Treat Urinary Tract Infection In Pregnant Cats

Managing urinary tract infections in cats during pregnancy is a challenging task. First of all, motherhood should always come first. Your pet should be managed again and any underlying causes should be determined. A referral is highly recommended. Learn more about natural treatments for urinary tract infections in cats. Listed below are a few natural remedies for urinary tract infections in cats. In addition to a natural cure, you can also try a homemade remedy for a urinary tract infection in cats.

Motherhood First

A cat may display signs of pregnancy much as a woman does. Your cat may show cravings for particular foods and a growing belly. Her back may begin to sunken and she may become increasingly affectionate. Pregnant cats may also exhibit the typical signs of pregnancy including mood swings, frequent sickness, and an increased appetite. Read on to learn more about these signs of pregnancy in cats. But, remember: a pregnant cat doesn’t necessarily mean that she is expecting.

A pregnant cat’s belly will increase in size and the nipples will swell. This is normal. When a cat is pregnant, her nipples will leak milk. She may vomit and drink more water, which is typical for a cat in labor. A sick or restless cat may also neglect food and drink more often. While these symptoms may indicate that she’s about to give birth, they are not a sure sign of imminent labor.

A Fragile Moment

As a pregnant animal, you should pay special attention to your cat. It may not be acting like a normal pregnant cat. It might have had a rough birth, or be confused or disinterested in her new kittens. In addition, she may be nervous and hyperactive. She may find it difficult to relax or lie down for her kittens. If you’re worried that your cat is not ready for parenthood, don’t be shy. Motherhood comes first!

If your cat has a UTI while pregnant, it’s important to visit a vet for advice. During this time, your vet will be able to provide you with colostrums and milk to support the new kitten. If you have the funds available to pay for emergency vet care, you can substitute colostrums for milk if needed. And, don’t forget to let your cat nurse the kitten after giving birth.

UTI In Cats

If your cat is suffering from a urinary tract infection (UTI), you may want to consult with a veterinarian. A UTI is a bacterial infection of the bladder and urethra, and it’s an emergency. Urine naturally contains minerals, which can form into small crystals or large stones. Urine with urinary stones can be bloody, and your cat may have pain or difficulty urinating.

A vet can prescribe pain killer and antibiotics based on the type of bacteria present. Bacteria are typically detected by culture in the urine. A urine sample should be cultured when your vet suspects a urinary tract infection. If your cat has a positive culture, you should consider using an antibiotic. If you don’t see a visible bacterial infection, there’s a good chance that your cat has a urinary tract infection.

Natural Treatments For Urinary Tract Infections In Cats

A variety of natural treatments for urinary tract infections in cats are available, that you can try.

  • Cranberry, for example, can reduce inflammation in the urinary tract, and juniper berries can kill fungi and antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Glucosamine, an amino acid, can coat the bladder’s lining and reduce inflammation.
  • Amoxicillin is a common first-line antibiotic for urinary tract infections, although this is not recommended as a routine treatment for the condition. In addition to being ineffective against beta-lactamase-producing bacteria, it is also potentially nephrotoxic. However, regular usage is not recommended. Treatment is not necessary if there are no clinical signs or symptoms. If your cat continues to develop a urinary tract infection, a repeat dose is usually recommended.
  • Herbs and supplements can help alleviate symptoms and prevent recurrences. Certain herbs, including parsley leaf, and marshmallow root extract can also be used as a home remedy for UTIs in cats to stimulate the immune system and can minimize inflammation. They contain antiseptic and diuretic properties and can help stop bleeding and reduce the inflammation associated with UTIs. But make sure to consult a veterinarian.
  • Antibiotics are the most common treatment for UTIs in pregnant cats. These drugs are effective at curing uncomplicated UTIs, but there is still no definitive evidence. The Working Group advises 7 days of appropriate antimicrobial treatment.

Among natural treatments for urinary tract infections in pregnant cats are herbs and dietary supplements. While many supplements and herbs are effective, some are not. Taking your cat on a natural diet can also help alleviate the symptoms.

Conclusion

Monitoring your preggo cat is important. Regardless of which treatment method you choose, you must continue giving your cat the prescribed medication by your vet for the recommended length of time.

Fortunately, for most pregnant cats, this infection is not as difficult to treat as it may seem. Cats have an inherent resistance to bacterial UTIs, so the chances of developing a UTI are small. Prana Pets has a great natural alternative for treating feline UTI‘s, you can try out their most effective natural alternative products for your cat.

12 easy enrichment activities for dogs

By now, we all know the importance enrichment activities for dogs have on our pup’s life. They are not only an excellent way of keeping our dogs entertained on a rainy day or when we have things to do, but they also provide an extensive list of health benefits, such as stimulating cognition, improving stress management and helping them manage frustration. 

But we also know that constantly buying new enrichment toys and tools can be quite expensive. So, today we bring you 12 DIY easy enrichment activities you can do with stuff you most definitely will have at home, such as empty toilet paper rolls, old rags and plastic bottles.

Hey, you will also be recycling! So these easy ideas are a total win-win. 

In all of these enrichment activities for dogs, you can use one of Mokai’s delicious supplements. This way, apart from enriching your dog mentally and physically, you’ll be caring for his overall health. 

1. The Newspaper SuperBowl

What you’ll need:

How to make it:

  • Make crunched buns with the newspaper
  • Place all of them on the bowl
  • Throw the small pieces of food all over the newspaper bowl
  • Give it a good mix
  • Let your pup find the food

 2. Cups Challenge

What you’ll need:

How to make it:

  • Put a few pieces of your pup’s favorite treats on all of the cups
  • Place them one on top of the other
  • Now you have a tower of cups with treats hidden inside of them that will keep your dog entertained for a while

3. Box It Up

What you’ll need:

How to make it:

  • Open the boxes and throw the small pieces of food on all of them
  • Close the lids and let your pup do the work

4. Let’s Recycle!

What you’ll need:

How to make it:

  • Place some pieces of food inside of the roll
  • Fold the tips of the rolls inwards 
  • Make some of them so your dog’s entertained for a while and has their brain and snout working for some food 

5. The Rolling Bottle 

What you’ll need:

How to make it:

  • Make some holes the size of the food alongside the bottle
  • Place some food inside the bottle 
  • Put the curtain rod through the bottle, entering through its spout
  • Stick the rod between two walls at the height of your dog
  • Your pup will have to roll the bottle so the pieces of food fall to the floor and they can start enjoying them

The mechanism should look something like this

6. Uncover The Price

What you’ll need:

How to make it:

  • Distribute the recipients all over the floor
  • Put some of the food inside each one of them
  • Now your pup can go on a treasure hunt that will enrich his mind

7. The House Of Rags

What you’ll need:

How to make it:

  • Place the pieces of food on the rags and roll them up
  • Put them all together inside the box
  • Let that snout start working and find the treats

8. Under The Sea

What you’ll need

How to make it:

  • Distribue the pieces of food inside the bowl of water
  • See your pup submerge their snout to find the food

9. Frozen Treat

What you’ll need:

How to make it:

  • Place the water into the tupper 
  • Pour some broth into it
  • Put the kibble and sliced fruits into the tupper
  • Let it freeze
  • When it’s frozen, take it out and give it to your pup so they can lick their way to the treats

10. The Treat Maze

What you’ll need:

How to make it: 

  • Place the objects together around the house, making something that looks like kind of a maze
  • Distribute the food through, above and into the objects
  • Let your dog find their way through this delicious maze

11. DIY Snuffle Mat

What you’ll need:

How to make it:

  • Roll the towel while putting the treats between each fold
  • Let your pup enjoy it

12. The Treat Maple

What you’ll need:

How to make it:

  • Distribute the pieces of food inside the maple
  • Close it and give it to your dog so they can go on their first easter treat hunt 

What are enrichment activities for dogs?

Most pet owners can’t dedicate more than two hours a day to giving their pups a walk or taking them to the park. That leaves our dogs with 22 hours to just sit, sleep and wait around the house. Sounds pretty boring, right? Well, it is. And, what is more, it’s not only extremely boring for dogs, but it can also develop behavioral problems. So, what’s the solution to this? Enrichment activities for dogs.

But, what are enrichment activities for dogs? And how can you put them into practice?

Let’s dive right into it.

What are enrichment activities for dogs? And why are they so important?

Enrichment activities for dogs are a series of different exercises that stimulate our dogs mentally, emotionally and physically. They allow them to have a more interesting environment, which leads to a happier life. 

But why are they so important in our dogs’ lives?

Well, in the first place, enrichment activities for dogs offer a wide range of health benefits:

  • Stimulates cognition
  • Improves stress management
  • Enhances ability to manage frustration
  • Helps manage expectations
  • Tires out your dog
  • Allows dogs to get more motivation from their food
  • Improves confidence on themselves 

Apart from improving their health, enrichment activities for dogs are also an essential tool for preventing them from getting bored. 

Imagine only having two hours a day to go outside, and then spending the remaining 22 hours of the day doing nothing but sleeping and laying on the bed, you would feel quite bored, right? Well, it works pretty much the same for dogs. By doing enrichment activities for them, we are providing them with what would be a Netflix show to watch for us, a book to read or a song to listen to.
But what’s the problem with our dogs getting bored? 

Boredom is one of the main causes of emotional and conduct problems in dogs. That’s because if a dog doesn’t receive stimulation, it will tend to find ways to enrich itself, resulting in unwanted behaviors such as continuous barking, excessive chewing, wrecking your couch and going potty inside the house. In addition, this accumulation of energy can lead to stress and emotional issues. 

That’s why enrichment activities for dogs that prevent them from getting bored are so important. 

Types of enrichment activities for dogs

Taking your dog to the park and allowing them to be enriched socially by interacting with other pups is an essential enrichment activity, but it’s definitely not the only one. Let’s take a look at the different types of enrichment activities for dogs there are. 

1. Social enrichment:

As said before, taking your dog to the park and allowing them to interact with others is an essential form of enrichment, and it falls under the social category. 

Letting them have fun with other pups in a safe environment at least once a day is key for them to live a happy and healthy life.

2. Cognitive enrichment:

This type of enrichment makes your pup work on their problem-solving and decision-making skills. By giving them a “job”, you’re encouraging physical and mental stimulation. Cognitive enrichment activities for dogs are great to combat boredom and encourage energy release.

This can be accomplished by playing sports such as fetch, practicing positive training regularly, providing food puzzles and playing hide and seek. 

3. Physical enrichment:

Physical enrichment provides outlets for positive expression of dogs’ natural behaviors. Contrary to popular belief, this type of enrichment activities for dogs aren’t exclusive for the hyperactive ones, all of them should be enriched this way. 

It goes from everything between creating an obstacle course in your backyard to providing safe toys, and rotating them to maintain the enriching effect of the toys.

4. Nutritional Enrichment

Nutritional or feeding enrichment activities for dogs allow them to not only use natural behaviors to earn food, but they also make mealtimes more fun and challenging.

What is more, if your pup is one of those that chokes down their food in no more than 20 seconds, this type of enrichment is key for them.

We mentioned puzzle feeders before and you may have wondered what they are. Well, they are an excellent tool to stimulate our dogs mentally and to make eating more challenging for them, which is one of the pillars of dog enrichment. 

You can also hide their kibbles or multifunctional treats around the house, which makes them work to find their food (instead of receiving it effortlessly), while keeping your dog healthy by implementing dog supplements in their diet that act as delicious treats . 

5. Sensory enrichment

This type of enrichment activities for dogs stimulate their five senses: sight, sound, smell, taste and touch. 

Put it in practice by placing visually stimulating objects outside a dog’s run; including auditory enrichment, such as soothing music; or blowing bubbles with a dog-friendly bubble solution as it serves as an exercise for your dog’s eyesight. 

But, wait! You don’t have to run off to buy all the dog enrichment toys you can find just yet. If you’re on a tight budget, or just want to get your creative juices flowing, here are some amazing and DIY easy enrichment activities for dogs you can do at your own house.

What Does ‘Hypoallergenic Dog’ Mean? A Closer Look For Those With Pet Allergies

Did you know that up to twenty percent of the population is allergic to dogs or cats? Yet, as these rates rise, so does the interest and popularity of hypoallergenic pets, especially shedless dogs. 

Are you or one of your family members allergic to dogs? If so, you don’t have to give up on your dream of having a pet since there are plenty of hypoallergenic dogs. 

But what does hypoallergenic dog mean? In this post, we’ll answer that question, so keep reading!

What Does Hypoallergenic Dog Mean?

Often, people with allergies only experience symptoms when exposed to a protein in the saliva and urine of a dog. Then, dogs spread this protein to their coat and skin as they groom themselves. Gradually, dogs’ skin cells turn over, shedding the old ones as new ones are produced. 

Of course, the shed hair gets on the furniture, clothes, and other home areas, causing a reaction in anyone with allergies to dogs. 

All dogs carry the same protein that causes allergies in their saliva and urine. So what does hypoallergenic mean? Basically, some dogs shed less and are more suitable for aspiring dog owners with allergies, making them hypoallergenic. 

Curly-coated dogs are the most popular as hypoallergenic pets. This is because their coats trap hair and dander before it is released into the environment. But, if you want to keep your allergies at bay, you will need to have them groomed regularly. 

Meanwhile, some breeds have no hair, so they don’t shed. However, they still release dead skin cells into the environment, and many people are put off by their hairless appearance.  

Best Hypoallergenic Dogs

There are many hypoallergenic dog breeds, ranging from large to small. So, no matter what type of four-legged companion you desire, you’ll find a suitable breed that’s unlikely to give you allergy symptoms. You can find the right one by reviewing their care needs, temperament, and size.

For example, Poodles are great for active owners looking for a constant companion. They’re content lounging on the sofa by your side or going for a jog in the park. They come in various sizes, including toy, miniature, medium, and standard (large), making them a great breed for small apartments or spacious homes. 

Meanwhile, Bichon Frises are small dogs that don’t need a lot of exercise. They are also a good watchdog, but they aren’t aggressive and get along well with other pets. 

Other examples of hypoallergenic dogs include:

  • Chinese Crested 
  • Portuguese and Spanish Water Dog
  • Basenji
  • Afghan Hound
  • Scottish Terrier
  • Poodle mixes (Goldendoodle, Bernedoodle, etc.) 

With so many breeds to choose from, you won’t feel limited at all!

Can People With Allergies Have Dogs?

What does hypoallergenic dog mean? After reading this post, you have a clear idea!

Although no dog is entirely hypoallergenic, breeds that shed less or have curly hair are often viable options for allergy sufferers. So, these dogs may make great pets for those with allergies, depending on the severity of their symptoms. 

Moreover, you can remove allergy-causing proteins from your dog’s fur with frequent grooming. That, coupled with regular house cleaning and vacuuming, can do wonders and prevent allergy symptoms. 

If you’d like to know more about hypoallergenic pets, check out more of our online content! 

How Often You Actually Need to Walk a Dog

Health experts say that sitting is the new smoking. Over time, this habit can contribute to heart disease, back pain, muscle aches, obesity, and other health issues. Not surprisingly, a sedentary lifestyle has similar effects on pets and animals in general.

As a pet owner, it’s your responsibility to know how often you should walk a dog to keep him healthy. Just like their human companions, dogs need exercise to maintain a normal weight and cope with stress. What’s more, physical activity allows them to socialize with other pets and use their energy in a constructive manner.

Dogs who don’t get enough exercise are more likely to engage in destructive behaviors. In the long run, they may become withdrawn and lose interest in their favorite activities. Their joints may suffer, too.

This brings us the question, how often do you need to walk your dog—and for how long? Let’s find out!

How Often You Should Walk Your Dog?

Your furry companion needs regular exercise, but there are no set rules on how long you should keep him outside. It all comes down to your dog’s age, breed, and overall health, says the American Kennel Association.

Generally, Poodles and other small breeds need less exercise than larger dog breeds. Plus, they shouldn’t spend longer than 10 to 15 minutes outdoors when the weather is cold.

Large dogs, on the other hand, are not as sensitive to harsh weather. Some breeds can spend hours in the cold because their fur protects them against the elements.

As far as walking goes, it’s best to walk a dog three to four times per day for 15 minutes or longer. Again, it depends on his age, size, breed, and health condition.

If you have a small dog, one daily walk will do the trick. However, large dogs and high-energy dog breeds—regardless of their size—need more frequent walks.

Some pets are mostly couch potatoes, while others could spend the whole day outdoors. A Pekingese or French bulldog, for instance, doesn’t need as much walking as a Border Collie or Siberian Husky.

Generally, cattle dogs and sheepdogs require more exercise than other breeds. Some may need at least two or three hours of physical activity per day to function at their peak.

The Right Way to Walk a Dog

Walking a dog requires more than just going outside the house so he can pee and poop. You need to actually walk with him and make sure he gets enough exercise. Think of it as an opportunity for the two of you to bond and spend time together.

For starters, you’ll need adequate equipment, such as a dog collar, harness, and leash. Don’t forget about poop bags! Ideally, buy from joyrideharness.com or other reputable vendors that offer everything you need in one place.

Second, avoid common mistakes, like pulling on the leash or not letting your fur baby sniff and explore. 

Walk in front of your pet, but let him explore his surroundings. Consider going on a short run with him or bring some toys and play together.

Last but not least, reward him for being a good boy.

Make Your Daily Walks More Fun and Stimulating

Walking your dog shouldn’t be a chore. On the contrary, it’s a great opportunity to spend quality time together and learn more about his needs. Plus, you’ll get the chance the squeeze more exercise into your schedule and de-stress.

Now that you know how often you should walk a dog, seek ways to make it fun! See the rest of our blog for inspiration, expert insights, and helpful tips. Also Read – How often should you bathe your dog.

6 Tail-Wagging Signs of a Happy Dog

Are you aware that 7 out of 10 households in America own at least one pet?

Dogs have always been many people’s first choice when it comes to pets because they’re so cuddly, playful, and adorable. While dogs can give you a lot of joy, you also owe it to them to make their lives are fulfilling as possible.

Have you ever wondered, “Is my dog happy?” Keep reading this article so you can learn the top 6 signs of a happy dog.

1. Relaxed Ears

If you’re asking yourself, “Is my dog anxious?” then the key is to look at their ears. Happy dogs will have relaxed and floppy ears. If they’re worried, then their ears will perk up to detect danger.

2. A Wagging Tail

Another cue that you have a happy dog is that they wag their tail often. Wagging is a way that dogs get their excitement out and encourage their owners to keep giving them attention. The only time that tail wagging may be a bad sign is when their wag is slow and low to the ground.

3. An Exposed Belly

Your dog’s belly is one of their most vulnerable parts, so you know that they trust you when they lie down and expose it to you. Rubbing your dog’s belly is a special way you can bond and make your pup feel good. Dogs who feel like they need to be on guard will stand tall.

4. A Healthy Appetite

Lots of dog owners wonder, “Is my dog in pain?” Food is crucial for dog quality of life, so you can tell that something is wrong when they avoid eating. If your dog that normally loves to beg for extra treats starts skipping meals, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with their vet right away.

5. A Gentle Gaze

Nobody can resist the allure of big puppy eyes. You can rest assured when your dog looks around with a gentle gaze since they’re relaxed. You may also notice that your dog squints a little when they pant softly, which is another sign that they’re loving life.

6. Restful Sleep

One of the lesser-known signs of a stressed dog is that they’re unable to get restful sleep. They may kick around while they sleep or get up to spin or find a whole new spot to rest. Dogs that are content will be able to curl up anywhere and have a peaceful snooze.

These Are the Top Signs of a Happy Dog

Learning about the most common signs of a happy dog can help you stay in tune with your pet. Now that you know how to tell when your dog is content, you can do everything you can to ensure that they get the most out of each day.

Taking care of pets may be rewarding, but it can also be hard work. If you’d like to stay on top of the latest pet news, our website is here to guide you. Read more of our articles.

When the Wag Isn’t a Friendly Welcome: How to Sell a House with Pets

Many homeowners make a house a home, not just for themselves but for their furry friends as well. Millions of households all across the nation have dogs, cats, fish, and other animals — and for good reason. Pets bring personality and endless joy to households across the country, and many consider their furry friends important additions to the family. 

About 60% of those currently selling in the housing market are pet owners, nearly 50% of them being dog owners. However, as much joy and companionship as pets bring us, selling your home with pets can be a difficult process. Traces of animals in your property — like damage caused by your dogs or pet hair lining the carpets — can turn away interested buyers.

Removing the animal from the property for an extended period of time certainly isn’t a solution for everyone, and most families don’t want to be separated by their pets anyway. The good news? It’s entirely possible however to sell your home even whilst taking care of an energetic pup. Keep reading for some expert advice from real estate agents and pet experts! 

Remove all signs of pets from your property

In addition to decluttering and cleaning before you hold an open house, be sure to hide or remove evidence of your pets, as well as personal pictures and items. This allows interested buyers to imagine your home as their future home. 

When posting photos of your home, be sure that there aren’t pet belongings or half-chewed bones in the background. Before showings, get rid of litter boxes, leashes, toys, crates, food and water bowls.

Changing environments and routine can be stressful for your animals. Every pet reacts differently to moving, but if your animal seems anxious or stressed, consider speaking to your vet about how to help your pet through the transition. 

Can’t arrange accommodations for your pet before your showing?

Sometimes we don’t have enough time to find accommodations or plans fall through. If you have no option other than to have your pet home during an open house, make sure they are in a crate or kennel with a note asking viewers to leave the pet alone. 

Any top-notch real estate agent will be accustomed to dealing with household animals, but be sure to leave treats or toys for your agents to use. Don’t ever hide your pet, as viewers will peer behind doors and closets when they visit. 

When it doubt, always remember to deep clean and freshen up your property

Depending on your pet, some animals can give off odors that homeowners become accustomed to. It’s important that when all pet things are removed to deodorize your space to eliminate unpleasant odors.

Avoid using perfumed or scented products, and consider an enzyme cleaner or a pet-specific deodorant spray to neutralize smells. Steam clean your furniture and wash everything, from pillow covers to comforters. Replace the filters in your HVAC system and consider using air purifiers. 

If you still aren’t sure about how your house smells after a deep clean, invite a friend over for an honest opinion before a showing.

Repair pet damage

Potential buyers look closely at homes when viewing, and scratches and stains can give the impression that the home isn’t well taken care of. Before a showing, look at your home from top to bottom to identify problem areas. You can attempt to hide the problem during the showing by getting clever with decorations, but the smartest method is to simply fix the problem from the get-go. Hiding damage to your property isn’t recommended, and sellers could face legal issues down the line by misleading buyers. 

Scratches on door frames can be fixed with putty and paint. Walnut oil can dull claw marks on wood floors and wooden furniture. Get rid of any pet waste in your yards and consider replacing torn window screens or damaged fencing before scheduling an open house. If your dog is a digger, try filling in the holes in your yard and regrowing the grass. 

When in doubt, remember your real estate agent is your ally during these times and should offer you the best advice in order to sell favo

rably in today’s market, so contact them with any pressing questions!

How to Tell Which Treats Your Dog Likes Best

Obviously, you want to give your dog treats that they enjoy, but sometimes it can be a little tricky to figure out which treats they like best. In this guide, we’ll explain how to figure out which treats your dog prefers over others and how to use treats for training. We’ll also cover the pros and cons of various treats, including soft treats, hard treats, large treats, dog chews, and more. Here’s what you need to know about treating your dog to the treats they prefer:

Give your dog a treat sampler.

The best way to tell which treats your dog likes best is to present them with a wide selection of treats and see which ones they gravitate towards. It’s best to do this in the middle of the day or right before a meal. If you try to sample treats right after your dog has eaten, their belly might be too full for them to be very interested in the treats. Present them with one treat at a time and make a note of their reaction. If they gobble it down immediately, then they like the treat! If they hesitantly sniff it, or turn up their nose at it, then they don’t like it as much. If your dog doesn’t seem to like the treats you already have on hand, definitely get them a dog treat sample box so they can try out a bunch at once.

Know if your dog is food-motivated or not.

Sometimes, your dog might wolf down every single treat you give them, with no regard for what type it is. This generally happens in dogs who are very food-motivated and thus not picky eaters. If you have a very food-motivated dog, it honestly might not matter what type of treat you give them. They enjoy them all equally. If your dog is more of a picky eater, then they will definitely have preferences, and what treats you choose to give them will have more of an impact on their training.

Keep treats small.

Treats are one of the easiest ways to provide positive reinforcement during a training session, and, ideally, you want to reward your dog every time they do something right, which can quickly add up. To refrain from overfeeding your dog, look for tiny treats that are about the size of a piece of kibble. You can also cut up larger treats into smaller pieces if those are the kind that your dog prefers. Using smaller treats will allow you to keep rewarding your dog without upsetting their stomach or packing on too many pounds.

Choose treats that are fast to eat.

Speaking of training, you will also want to choose treats that are fast for your dog to eat so that you can continually reward them throughout a training session. You don’t want to lose your dog’s attention to chomping on a treat or licking up every last crumb. This will allow you to keep the length of your training sessions on the short side while still getting in a lot of repetitions in a short amount of time.

Opt for soft treats.

If you’re not sure what type of treats to get for a training session, soft treats are usually better than hard treats. Soft treats are easier and faster for your dog to eat, allowing you to keep the training session moving forward. They also tend to come in smaller portions, and they won’t crumble if you do need to cut them down, making them easier to handle. Soft treats also usually smell more than hard treats, and that smell will help motivate your dog and make the training session more effective — and the treat reward that much more enjoyable.

Change up the selection every so often.

Some dogs are perfectly content to eat the same treats for the rest of their lives, but many of them will also get bored by eating the same treats over and over. If you notice your dog’s excitement waning with a treat they previously adored, then it might be time to shake up your treat selection and try to introduce something new. You can even use different treats in the same session to keep things interesting and hold your dog’s attention.

Mix in some slow eating treats.

Fast eating treats are ideal for training, but it’s also a good idea to give your dog some slow eating treats, too. Not only will this give them some variety, it also allows them to get the benefits of slower treats, such as dental dog chews and bully sticks. These slow eating treats can help keep their teeth clean and also keep them entertained for longer periods of time, so don’t forget to mix some of these into their diet.

Remember that treats are only a small part of their diet.

Obviously, you want to treat your dog for being the best ever, but it’s important not to go overboard. As a general rule of thumb, you should aim for treats to make up only about 10 percent of your dog’s overall caloric intake. Treats are denser in calories than your dog’s regular kibble, so you can’t just eyeball it. You need to read the nutritional facts and make sure that you’re not feeding them too much. Be especially careful with larger, high-value treats, which also tend to be higher in calories.

Don’t forget other types of ‘treats.’

When most people think of treats, they think of food-based rewards. However, it’s important to give your dog many different other kinds of rewards, such as a belly rub session, a romp in the backyard, and play time together. These non-food treats are equally important to your dog’s well-being and are a great way to reward them without giving them high calorie treats. Don’t leave them out of your dog’s daily life!

We hope this guide gave you some useful tips for treating your dog in the most delicious and effective way possible. With a little experimentation, you are sure to find a selection of treats that your dog loves.

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