Happy Dog, Happy Home!

You landed here probably because you're a dog parent. So, how's your pooch? Are you enjoying each other's company? Most likely! Well, it actually depends on you. Yes, you. And... your dog's attitude? No, dear! Your relationship with your furry baby is your sole responsibility. The moment you welcomed that cutie in your home, it became a member of your family. Being a dog parent is a sweet responsibility, and you should really do your best to become a good one. Now, have you done dog training? Does your furry buddy know the right areas to pee and poop? Does it know its limits? Go on, read this piece of writing that will surely help you train and maintain a good relationship with your pooch. You're reading this because you want to sustain the happiness that you already have with your dog, right? (Of course, the mere presence of a dog can make us happy!)

The Happy Dog and Parent

Below are some important thoughts to keep in mind while teaching various things to your dog.

• Know that it depends on the breed.

You have learned that your neighbor's corgi is very easy to train, so you expect the same for your beagle. But you should know that different breeds have different traits especially when it comes to trainability. A corgi is much easier to train compared to a

beagle, but that doesn't mean you have to give up on your pet. You just need to be in the know of the proper approach for your dog's breed, and you'll surely succeed in your teaching goals.

• Understand that it may take time.

Apart from knowing the traits of your pet, you should also remind yourself that you can't just see great improvements overnight. For instance, enhancing your talents requires a lot of training sessions before seeing significant results. The same thing may happen as you try to potty train your pet.

• Don't get mad at your dog.

Be firm, but don't yell at your pet. You wouldn't want fear to be the foundation of your relationship, would you? Be patient enough. Getting mad at your pet will not lead to proper motivation and good results.

• Acknowledge small achievements.

Of course, your pet deserves some treats! Cheer for it and give it a reward for every small achievement. Dogs are smart, and they can be easily motivated to do good especially if they know that they'll be rewarded for it.

• Remember that a dog is indeed a man's best friend.

As they say, dogs are capable of giving unconditional love. Hence, treat your pet well. Be gentle during your training sessions. Your pooch is not your enemy, but your best friend.

Happy Home!

Obviously, this is the result of the kind-heartedness that you and your dog naturally possess. You guys can indeed bring out the best in each other, but know that everything should start in you. If you do things right, everything else will really follow. Gentle training plus genuine love equals a happy dog and a happy parent. And of course, a happy dog plus a happy parent equals a happy home!

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Reasons You Should Get a Bed for Your Dog

A dog is a man's best friend, we have all heard that. But that best friend of ours deserves a small space of his own. It is not just for comfort but has so many more benefits. The following are some of the benefits.

- Cushioning for joints and bones:

When the dogs get older, a comfortable spot of his own would be very helpful. This is especially beneficial in the case of overweight or arthritic dogs. Dog beds would give them extra support and cushioning for joints.

- Private spot:

You can have one or more dog beds. That way the dog has his own spot in the house where they can get privacy. Your dog will love that. We all love privacy; our furry friends deserve a private spot too.

- Protection and security:

The dogs can fall asleep anywhere but is that good for them? They might get cold or fall ill if the spots they sit or sleep on aren't clean. Having dog beds would ensure that they are well protected and secure.

- Insulation:

Now how would you feel if you had to sleep in a cold weather without a blanket? You would freeze, right? The dogs are furry but it's still important that they are warm and comfy. Dog beds provide them with insulation for warmth and comfort. It ensures their good health.

- Injury Prevention:

It's impossible to keep dogs from jumping on furniture when they try and find a good spot for themselves. This can often lead to injuries. If you have a smaller breed you know how delicate they are. If you have a dog bed, you will be able to prevent any kind of injury.

Kinds of dog beds:

Yes, you read that right. There is a variety of dog beds. They can be divided into three kinds.

- Super Support Beds 

- Lounging Beds 

- Nestling Beds

If you notice your dogs while sleeping, it will give you an idea of what kind of bed is suitable for them. Ever noticed how dogs fall asleep on sofas, beds, and cushions? They yearn for comfort. Some dogs like to curl up, some like to sleep on their tummy, and some like to stretch out. These are the clues that help you decide on the type of bed they need. It's time to give your furry little friend a bed that makes them comfortable and happy. Have you noticed any such clues? Let us know.

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Dog Lovers Who Travel

There are endless adventures you can take with your family and your dog. If you are going don't leave your "Man's Best Friend" at home. Our pets are already major companions in our lives, so it's all the more fun to make memories away from home with them.

Camping is one of the oldest pastimes that people like to do during the summer months. They can load up and take out on an adventure with the family and with the dog. If taking the dog is not an option you can look into a dog sitter. I know that leaving the pooch behind can be a stressful situation. There is nothing better than finding a good reliable person to take care of the dog. But if not you can take he or she with you and consider a few options I have listed to make your adventure a fun and safe outing for you and your dog.

Dogs love to travel - outdoor vacations are their favorite! Dog travel accessories will make sure your pooch is comfortable and secure during your next road trip. From hikes to boat outings, the right travel gear will help your pet be prepared for it all. Anytime you travel with your dog you should have a car seat. There are many different kinds of all sizes so be sure and get one that will keep your pet safe.

Anti-Spill Dog Bowl

One accessory would be a travel dog bowl. Maybe an anti-spill bowl would be beneficial for all concerned. It is a bowl that doesn't allow water or food to spill out. There are a variety of bowls available, I'm sure you can find one that is right for your pet. Always having water for your dog is a must.

When camping you will want to keep your dog away from other campers. Not everyone is a dog lover. There are hands-free belts that convert into a leash. This will also keep your dog safe will being away from home. You may want to consider a portable dog pen so your dog can enjoy the outdoors just as much as you do.

Keeping your dog safe is a priority especially when outdoor adventuring. Another way to be sure your dog is safe is to consider a dog life jacket. Even if your dog loves the water there may be an incident that would require your dog to need a like jacket. There are several different styles and sizes to pick from. There are raincoats and warmer jackets available also, all designed to keep your dog safe and comfortable.

GPS Dog Tracking Device

You may want to consider picking up a GPS dog tracking device to have in the off chance your pooch goes missing. These devices are a great way to keep track of your dog when traveling away from home. They let you locate your pet on demand, monitor their activity and record adventures on a smartphone. This device will come in handy if your dog gets lost.

Be sure and check the weather before you leave, not only will this help you be prepared for conditions like rain or snow that could slow your travel, you'll have a better idea of what to pack for your dog. Keep them comfortable in conditions they aren't used to.

Having fun and making memories with your dogs is a great way to enjoy the outdoors. Take pictures, share them on social media, whatever helps you remember these trips. Don't forget to bring your furry friend along for your next road trip.

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The Value Of An Old Dog Is A Lesson To Us All

Puppies are too much fun, aren't they? They're so soft and warm, cuddly and cute. And that smell, who doesn't love puppy smell. Puppies are perpetual motion, excited balls of energy, so eager to play, learn and obey. Because they are puppies, we tend to forgive the occasional act of indiscretion or "accident". Puppies think they can fly; that's why they jump and hop around more than they walk. They seem to be smiling continuously if not chewing on anything they can fit into their mouth. Just about the time their puppy cuteness starts to wear thin, you realize you no longer have a puppy; you have a middle-aged dog.

Middle-aged dogs are truly man's best friend. They have settled into a rhythm of life so in sync with their families. Their energy is a little more contained, everything comes easy. Taking a middle-aged dog on a walk is an adventure all on its own. They're all over the map, seeking out discoveries in tall grass; a scent of another's passing on the path in the woods; pulling on the leach in every direction with incredible speed and strength. All of this energy is great with kids as they each have no trouble keeping up with the other. As Henry Ward Beecher wrote; "The dog was created especially for children. He is the god of frolic." Middle-aged dogs are ready for anything, just open the door and get moving or...not, because they are just as happy curled up quietly next to you on the couch. Then one day, an act of desperation, fear or momentary thoughtless neglect, you come to the realization your middle-aged dog is an old dog.

When a dog becomes old he is fully matured in the truest sense of the word. To quote Gene Weingarten of The Washington Post:

"They can be eccentric, slow afoot, even grouchy. But dogs live out their final days with a humility and grace we all could learn from."

Old dogs can have a grey muzzle and cloudy eyes, be grouchy and deaf, lumpy and pimply but they also have vulnerabilities, limitless trust and gratitude. They are funny in unique ways, unpretentious open and completely at peace with themselves.

It is said that only humans comprehend the passing of time and the concept of death but many who have spent a lifetime with a pet, who have witnessed the journey of puppy to old dog to death, may beg to differ. They believe dogs do understand the passage of time and, if not the certainty of death, surely the onset of frailty. They know that what once was is no more.

Dogs do not have a sole sense of fear. They don't feel entitled nor do they feel the injustices in life. Dogs are pure innocence, trust and unconditional love. There are some people who are unmoved by death but will grieve inconsolably over the death of their beloved dog. At some time, in the life-long relationship with a dog, they become a part of who we are.

Dogs show almost all of our emotions but without the ability to differentiate, therefore they exhibit these emotions openly and innocently, much as we would if we were stripped of our pretenses. This may evoke strong feelings of protection for the innocence. We watch our dogs become old; we hear them moan; we watch their stiff and painful movement knowing we are watching ourselves someday. Our dogs become old; they become crotchety and gassy and vulnerable and frail, just as we will be someday. When they pass, we will grieve for them; we will grieve for ourselves.

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Five Fun Facts About Dogs

Dogs are often referred to as a man's best friend. Dogs can be your constant companion, your protector, and your best buddy. Here are five interesting facts you may not have known about your dog:

1. In a wild setting, dogs typically travel in groups or packs. If you look at wolves for example, you will see how they tend to roam in groups. Since your dog probably just lives with you or maybe a few other dogs, he sees you as a his fellow pack member. This is why your dog is affectionate, might follow you around, and treats you like part of his family. It's because you are!

2. You might notice that your dog eats his food really quickly, almost inhaling it sometimes. In prehistoric times, dogs were often threatened by predators who might steal their food. They eat really quickly because their instincts tell them to hurry up and eat before a predator or competitor comes along.

3. Dogs are usually considered to be family pets, but they also do a lot of good work for humans. Police dogs can help to find a criminal, while bloodhounds can help with sniffing out a crime scene or dead body. Shepherds help farmers to keep their animals in check, and service dogs are a great help to those who are blind or disabled.

4. The hearing and smelling of dogs is far superior to humans. A dog can hear something up to four times as far away from the source of the sound. They can also smell really well. So well, in fact, that dogs can tell the difference of various scents as low as 100 million times the concentration of humans!

5. In the past, dogs mostly ate meat in order to survive. The modern dog will usually eat a variety of different foods including vegetables and grains in addition to meat. If you have a dog, be sure to find a good, wholesome food that contains a mixture of these ingredients. Never give your dog chicken bones since they can break up and choke or cut your dog.

As you can see, our furry friends are quite an interesting animal. If you have a dog, remember that you are his caretaker and that he relies on you to provide him with food, shelter, and most importantly with lots and lots of love.

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Top 5 Things Your Dog Definitely Hates You For

The cliched saying goes "Every man is a dog's best friend." But do we know exactly what our best friend thinks or feels? Especially when it cannot be conveyed to you verbally. It is a mystery after all. We humans are verbal in nature. Dogs? They bark and whine. And sometimes both. It's mind boggling. Now, what if dogs could speak? What could they possibly say? For sure it is not something as pleasant as expected. For all we know it will sound like a censored Eminem song. 

Why? Read on to find out. 

1. Dogs hate it when you stare 

It is inevitable. Dogs are by far the cutest living beings as a personal opinion. The way they are fascinated by the little things around them, gets us wondering why? They spot a squirrel and they go bananas. They see your shoes and it automatically becomes a chew toy. Such things are so adorable that you are bound to look at them for a while. But here is the thing. Often, dogs tend to translate stares into a challenge. If it's your own dog, then they can handle it for a while. After which they too get uncomfortable and behaves funny. If it is a street dog or a dog who is not comfortable with you, they will get extremely defensive. 

Tip: Never look into any dog's eyes when they are aggressive, edgy or tensed. 

2. Dogs Hate hugs 

But how could you not? They are so fluffy, cute and adorable. It is so tempting to hug them. But most dogs hate it when you hug them. Now, if it is your own dog then it is alright. Because they know you well. But never hug any other dog who is not familiar with you. The reason is, from ages together canines have different ways of portraying affection, unlike primates. They never put their arms around each other and grasp to show their love. Most of the time it is a symbol of control or domination. 

Tip: Let your friends and family know that unless your dog is keen on getting hugs, they must stick to a gentle pat on the head. 

3. Dog hate to be left alone 

Don't we all hate to be left lonely? For some of us it is the much needed break. For the most of us it is an unfortunate turn of events. But for dogs, being left alone means you dislike them. 

Did you know that if you leave dogs alone without another canine or human being accompanying them for more than 10 hours, they are bound to develop psychological disorders. They end up barking excessively, Unnecessary digging, separation anxiety and other myriad of unnatural behaviours. They will lose their house training and end up destroying your furniture and other important things in your home. Funny part, they actually know what matters to you the most and end up destroying that as well. Bet it your most valuable and favourite coat or the cheap stationery lying around in your house. 

Tip: If you have to work during the day, then ask a friend or your neighbour to accompany your dog. If your dog is aggressive then a there are many pet care stops in and around your locality, who can certainly help you with it. 

4. Dogs hate it when you interrupt their sleep 

So you spend the entire day vandalizing your house, making your master run around cleaning up your mess, running for your life when they want to give you a bath, chasing around bees and squirrels, barking at the hot babe down the street and grunting at those trying to look at her. After which, you finally go for you much needed and deserved nap. Then boom! Your master wakes you up and startled the living dog poop out of you. How irritating. 

Now humans, think about it. Would you like to be woken up from a beautiful sleep especially when the dream you're dreaming is the dream you want to live? No. Nobody does. 

Dogs get extremely stunned when somebody wakes them up from their sleep? Ever noticed how jumpy your dog is when they wake up unexpectedly? It is not because they are excited to see you, it is because they got scared. 

Tip: Let your dog wake up naturally, especially if your dog is old. He deserves it for being too cute and loving you no matter what. 

5. Dogs hate it when you are inconsistent 

Not inconsistency in your life, but with them. Here is a scenario. You com back home from work and the first thing you do is pet your dog and let him jump on you. Then you feed him. But when you have visitors at home, your forbid your dog from portraying affections to them. Then you are so busy in engaging with the guests that you skip mealtime for your dog. That is when your dog comes begging you for food from your plate. 

This discrepancy is what confuses and drives your dog to a dilemma. 

Tip: Train your dog the way you want them to behave with others. If jumping on strangers is not allowed, then do not encourage them to do it with you. If begging in intolerable then don't feed them food from your plate. Instead, place it in their bowl. 

Pets are humble and helpless beings. They will react to you the way you react to them. Don't put on a tight leash. It suffocates them. Don't change their routine. Because they live and breathe by routine. Love them till the end and protect them just as they would. Because they are only a part of your life, but to them you are literally their entire life. Make it worth it.

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Why Does My Dog Follow Me Everywhere?

Why does my dog follow me everywhere? is the exasperated cry of many a pet parent! Dogs are known for being man's best friend and rely on their owners for food and shelter. They are also socially dependent on their owners and family members and have a desire to be your buddy at all times. This can make them an ideal companion and easily trained, although sometimes your furry friend may appear too attached. A pet parent needs to watch out for separation anxiety and deal with traits that are less desirable by balancing training, socialization, and healthy outlets for expression of their dog's feelings.

Dogs do have feelings and they make strong relationships with their human families. Sometimes when their loved ones ignore them, or they get busy and have less time, it can make a dog start chewing things up, howling or showing signs of anxiety. They become fearful when their owners are not there.

Normal healthy behaviors of your pet dog may include the following:

• A desire to lie at your feet all the time.

• Jumping up to follow you everywhere from the room.

• Sitting outside a bathroom or bedroom door waiting for you.

• Being at the door to greet you happily when you return.

• Wanting to go with you when you leave, but can accept if you leave them behind.

• Leaning on you and having a desire to touch you.

Signs of separation anxiety and unhealthy behaviors in dogs:

1. Anxious behavior, such as panting, and pacing or whining constantly.

2. Chewing up your furniture, door frames, or other items of value, especially that belong specifically to you.

3. Trying desperately to follow you everywhere and trying to break through doors to get to you. They are unable to handle simple things like you going to the bathroom without trying to get in with you.

4. Shaking and acting depressed. Showing a lack of desire or interest in any other family member or someone offering them attention. Displaying hostility towards people who aren't you.

5. A general feeling of anxiousness from your dog that can include going to the bathroom in places they aren't supposed to. They are expressing they are upset with you or stressed from having you leave.

6. A general sense of anxiety when you're getting ready to leave and them having behavioral outbursts right before you go or while you are gone.

"Why does my dog follow me everywhere?"

ANSWER: Dogs need their owners!

Keeping your dog happy means encouraging and teaching them to be alone for a couple hours during the day. This can include crate training, rewards, proper socialization or even medication from your vet if needed. If your dog also drastically alters in personality, it could be a sign he's sick, so please don't ignore any changes in personality or behaviors. You must talk to your vet or a behavioral trainer if you start to see signs in your dog that go beyond just being a happy, friendly people dog.

Having an attached pet dog can make an owner feel pretty good, knowing your companion always wants to be around you, follow you everywhere and is happiest at your side. You just have to make sure you have a good balance of healthy, well socialized dog vs. a dog having a neurotic case of separation anxiety, and it can be hard to tell the difference sometimes. A good rule of thumb is that your pet misses you but can be content by themselves for short to medium lengths of time, without you coming home to a completely destroyed house, or your neighbors wanting to strangle you for a dog that howled the entire time you were gone.

Reinforce desired behaviors - this includes simple things like you being able to leave and come back. A confident happy dog will not be worried you are going to abandon them, even if they wish to go with you.

Reinforce training techniques - like sit, stay, come. This helps the bond between you and your dog. Make sure they get plenty of exercise and positive attention. This should help reduce the likelihood of their attention being anything other than the most devout love for you.

So why does your dog follow you everywhere? Remember, dogs often want a job, or a purpose, and they are often quite happy to make their Master their life's purpose. Just make sure you control how this is expressed and you two should get along great!

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