Photo by Berkay Gumustekin on Unsplash A puppy makes an ideal companion for homeowners living alone or with families. According to a 2023 survey, 90% of households in the US consider dogs as part of their families. Bringing a young canine home enables you to condition it according to your lifestyle and expectations. Raising them from an early age strengthens the bond, but it also entails a responsibility. You need to ensure proper nutrition, ample exercise, and regular vet visits to give your puppy a head start with health and growth. Proper care and good health at an early age ensure longevity in dogs. While you may pay attention to your dog’s weight and energy levels, it is easy to overlook problems like tick and flea infestations. You are more likely to miss out on the issue as a first-time pet parent. Beginners are often overwhelmed by the nuances of tick and flea prevention and treatment. The bigger concern is that they are common and prevalent all around the year, not just in the warmer months. However, a little care and a proactive plan can help you prevent and manage ticks and fleas in your puppy. Surprisingly, keeping these pesky pests under control is easier than you imagine. In this article, we will share a few actionable tips for novice pet parents to manage this issue and ensure a safe environment for their furry companion.  Understand the Risks Photo by fatty corgi on Unsplash Awareness is the first step when it comes to building your puppy’s defenses against any health issue, including ticks and fleas. New pet parents often go wrong with understanding the risks they pose to their canine companions. Remember that these pests are more than a nuisance; they can cause discomfort and transmit various diseases to pets and even their owners. Flea-related problems include flea allergic dermatitis, anemia, and flea-borne diseases. Ticks are even more harmful, leading to dire illnesses such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Even as a first-time dog parent, educate yourself about the potential risks to understand the significance of proactive prevention and treatment measures. Use Preventative Products Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash Once you understand the risks, you will know the importance of a preventive approach. While there are numerous preventative products in the market, you need to be extra careful when choosing one for a puppy. You will have to pick a safe and easy-to-use product and ensure accurate dosing according to the age and weight of your pet. Credelio for dogs are chewable tablets with beef flavoring and Lotilaner as an active ingredient. This fast-acting formulation starts working within two hours and kills 99 % of fleas within eight hours. It leaves dogs pest-free for over a month, and the effects stay even longer for puppies. The best part is that the medication is easy to feed even to a young canine because of its flavor and chewable nature. PetCareRx recommends checking the ideal dosage of these tablets with your veterinarian before starting treatment for your puppy. Be prepared for side effects such as low appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, and an increase in urine output. Besides oral medications, you can try topical treatments, collars, and sprays for flea and tick prevention and control.  Ensure Regular Check-ups Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash According to Forbes, dog parents should commit to a yearly vet visit for a scheduled check-up for their pets. You should do it more often for a puppy or senior dog. Be extra careful if you notice anything amiss, including potential flea and tick infestations. Run your hands through your puppy's fur and pay close attention to areas such as the ears, neck, armpits, and groin. These are the areas where ticks and fleas thrive.  Besides looking for ticks and fleas on your puppy’s body, you must know the red flags of potential infestations. Novice pet parents should watch out for signs like excessive scratching, biting, licking, hair loss, redness, or inflammation of the skin. Also, look for visible parasites in your puppy’s feces or in the fur. A prompt visit to a veterinarian is essential if you notice anything suspicious on your puppy’s skin. You can use tweezers or a tick removal tool to pull these pesky pests away. This first-aid step can minimize the risk of disease transmission. However, you should still get a vet check-up for treatment and prevention guidelines. Early intervention can save your furry companion from a full-blown infestation.  Maintain a Clean Environment Photo by Erda Estremera on Unsplash Medicines and vet checks are effective control measures to keep fleas and ticks at bay. However, a preventive approach is the best way to prevent discomfort for your pet in the first place. It begins with good hygiene and proper grooming. Keeping your puppy's environment clean is an equally important step for preventing and managing ticks and fleas. Start by checking the areas where your puppy spends time. It may be a cozy nook in the living room or your backyard. These are the spaces that deserve attention. Vacuum your carpets, rugs, and upholstery to keep flea eggs, larvae, and adult fleas away from your living space. Washing your puppy's bedding, grooming tools, and toys in hot water eliminates fleas and their eggs. A well-groomed yard is another essential measure for pet owners. Commit to regularly mowing the lawn, trimming bushes, and removing debris. Also, declutter your backyard to ensure that parasites have no place to thrive. These steps can reduce the presence of ticks and fleas in outdoor spaces where puppies love to spend time. In conclusion, managing ticks and fleas in puppies is doable even for first-time pet parents. However, it requires proactive prevention and prompt intervention. You may be a novice, but lack of awareness is hardly an excuse to get complacent about these pesky pests. They can make your furry companion uncomfortable and even affect its well-being in the long run. You must understand the risks and take these measures to provide a safe space for your puppy and ensure it stays healthy and happy during the early years of its life. Also, regular vet visits can help in early detection and timely treatment

 Image by Brooke from PixabayImage Alt: A Goldendoodle puppyWhat's not to love about Goldendoodles? One of the most friendly breeds with a charming appearance. It seems to have the best traits of the Golden Retriever and Poodle. The Goldendoodle also has a unique coat that requires regular maintenance to prevent matting and to keep it looking its best. Additionally, like all dog breeds, Goldendoodles have specific health needs. Therefore, they have specific care and health needs.This article explores these essential aspects. From understanding their coat type to the importance of a proper diet and regular exercise, we provide practical tips and advice. This guide is a must-read.Understanding the Coat and Care Needs of Your GoldendoodleOne of the most distinctive and admired features is its coat. Goldendoodles Coat TypesThis breed can have flat, straight, wavy, or curly coats, reflecting its Golden Retriever and Poodle heritage.The flat coat closely resembles that of a Golden Retriever. It's usually easier to groom than the other types, but like all Goldendoodle coats, it needs regular brushing. This routine helps manage shedding and prevents tangles.The straight coat may have a slight wave, and the wavy coat blends traits from straight and curly coats. Lastly, the curly coat has tight curls that can easily mat if not cared for properly.Essential Grooming Activities for Your GoldendoodleBrushingWhether flat, curly, wavy, or straight, the coat needs regular brushing to prevent mats and tangles. Use a slicker brush or a wide-toothed comb for curly and wavy coats. It helps in managing shedding and keeps their fur smooth and healthy. If your Goldendoodle has a straight coat, you might find less frequent brushing is required. However, regular brushing is still important to maintain the health and appearance of their coat. Additionally, brushing is a good time to bond with your dog and check for skin issues.BathingYou can bathe your Goldendoodle every 3 to 6 weeks and use a dog-specific shampoo to protect their skin and coat. Nevertheless, the frequency can vary depending on their activity level and the coat type. For example, dogs that spend more time outdoors may need more frequent baths. Be thorough but gentle during baths, and rinse all the shampoo out to avoid skin irritation. After the bath, dry them thoroughly, especially if they have a thick or curly coat, to prevent any dampness that could lead to skin issues.Hair TrimmingRegular hair trimming every 6 to 8 weeks helps maintain your Goldendoodle's coat. Focus on areas like the eyes, ears, and paws to keep your dog comfortable and prevent infections. Trimming these areas also helps in maintaining hygiene and preventing mats.If you're uncomfortable doing it yourself, consider taking your Goldendoodle to a professional groomer. They will have the right tools and expertise to trim your dog’s coat correctly and safely.Health Considerations for GoldendoodlesLike all breeds, Goldendoodles have specific health needs that, when attended to, can ensure they lead a happy, healthy life. Therefore, plan regular veterinary check-ups to monitor your dog's health and catch any issues early. Here are some health issues common in this breed.Hip DysplasiaA pet with this condition has a hip joint that doesn't fit together perfectly, leading to arthritis or mobility issues. To mitigate this, ensure your Goldendoodle maintains a healthy weight to reduce strain on their joints. AllergiesGoldendoodles can be allergic to certain foods, environmental factors, or flea bites. Symptoms may include itching, skin rashes, or gastrointestinal issues. If you notice any allergic reactions, consult your vet. Ear InfectionDue to their floppy ears, Goldendoodles are more susceptible to ear infections. Keep their ears clean and dry, especially after baths or swimming. On top of that, check their ears regularly for any signs of infection, like redness, swelling, or an unusual smell.Diet and Exercise Tips for Your GoldendoodlesGoldendoodles thrive on a diet rich in quality proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Go for products suited to this specific breed, whether premium or budget-friendly dog food. In addition, recommended food for Goldendoodles suits their age, size, and activity level because puppies, adults, and seniors have different nutritional requirements. Always ensure fresh water is available, and be mindful of treats, as excessive treats can lead to weight gain.Since Goldendoodles are active and playful dogs, they require regular exercise to keep them physically and mentally fit. They typically enjoy activities like walking, running, swimming, and fetch. You can schedule half an hour to one hour of exercise daily.Along with physical exercise, mental stimulation is vital for Goldendoodles. They are intelligent dogs and can become bored if not properly stimulated. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and interactive play can keep their mind active. It also helps avoid behavioral issues.Final ThoughtsThe type of coat a Goldendoodle has affects how much they shed and their grooming needs. Straight and wavy coats may shed more than curly coats, but all types require regular grooming. Brushing several times a week, or even daily for curly coats, is essential. This regular grooming not only keeps their coat looking good but also helps to reduce shedding and prevents skin problems. In addition to grooming, your pet needs regular exercise to stay healthy. As such, know the exercises your dog enjoys and tailor activities to suit their preference and ability. Some may enjoy long hikes, while others prefer playing fetch in the yard.

Photo by Zach Lucero on Unsplash From ensuring your dog is controlled around others to helping them feel safe and protected, there are many reasons why proper training is crucial. That’s why, in this article, we’ll dive into eight reasons why dog training is so important, along with some top tips on how to train them properly.   So, stay tuned as we explain why training your dog is so important and ways to boost their happiness and safety…   1. Teaches good behaviour  One of the most important reasons to train your dog is to teach them good behaviour. A well-behaved dog can recognise and respond appropriately to your commands, whether sitting and waiting or returning when you call their name.  From a young age, most dogs will need to be taught recall and to sit, wait and heel. They need to be taught this to prevent poor behaviour such as jumping up, stealing food, and running off.   Positive reinforcement is the most common form of training and means your dog will anticipate a reward (whether affection or a treat) after performing a particular behaviour. This kind of reward-based learning means your dog will want to behave well, which can make them easier to train in the future.   Photo: anna-roberts-7IvcP5BZ5HE-unsplash   2. Crate training = A safe space You should use crate training to provide your pet with a completely safe environment, one where other people, pets, animals, or unsettling situations won't bother them. It will be their personal safe and comfortable space where they can feel completely at ease - much like a bedroom.  Remember to take it in small steps from a young age and let them spend time in the crate with the door open, feed their meals there and slowly show them that it’s a safe space to be.   Only use positive reinforcement with crate training, and reward them with things like dog treats, toys and relaxation. Punishment is not appropriate as it can make your dog anxious and lead them to associate you and the crate with being afraid.   Photo by Ayla Verschueren on Unsplash     3. Builds their confidence  Positive reinforcement and freely given affection are massive confidence builders, and you should start sharing them with your dog from a young age.   Negative language or treatment breeds negative reactions, and research shows it can be hugely detrimental to a dog's mental and physical health and well-being. So, responding to your dog with anger, fear or frustration can be disastrous and might result in your dog acting the same way leading to fighting, injury and a terrifying cycle of fear-driven behaviour. A dog that responds to the world with positivity over anger is far safer, so whether you’re training a puppy or have adopted a shy or fearful dog, aim to build trust, affection and confidence with every step.  It’s important to remember that this can take time and patience as it's about shifting their focus from negative, scary situations to positive things.     4. Keeps your dog safe A trained dog is a safe dog – for the public, you and the dog itself. For example, dogs that ignore recall may run after another animal that could attack them or run out into a road full of traffic.   Recall is one of the most important things you can teach your dog, as it ensures they return even if faced with a threat, prey or food. It’s all about minimizing risk in tricky situations, and if you have a calm and obedient dog, there is a far higher chance of a safe outcome.   Photo by Yogendra Singh on Unsplash     5. Prevents bad habits Often, nervous and unhappy dogs will display bad habits. For example, dogs can chew things because they're bored, teething, want attention, are distressed or have an unbalanced diet.  Signs of anxiety or boredom in dogs include: Showing their gums or snarling Constant barking, whining or panting Displaying dominance  Going to the toilet where they shouldn’t  Seeking attention  Destroying toys or other objects  Changes in posture or with the eyes and ears Shedding Pacing or shaking  These are a dog's physiological reactions to their environment and feelings about a situation, so the best thing you can do is make them comfortable, train them to feel safe with you and encourage positive behaviour such as backing away from unfamiliar things, retreating to safe spaces, and chewing the right things.   The earlier you can correct poor behaviour in dogs, the better, but it can take a lot of time and effort to undo and help them to feel safe again. To start, ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation during the day, from play, food puzzles, regular walks or learning new tricks. And begin their crate training and recall exercises.    6. Supports toilet training Just like babies, puppies have small bladders and cannot hold it in for long. Positive reinforcement training is crucial in providing enough opportunities to go to the bathroom, whilst teaching them to avoid accidents indoors.  You will need patience when teaching your puppy where to go to the toilet, and you might find it helpful to use puppy pads or dog litter to aid them as they learn. If they go in the wrong place, pick them up and take them outside or to their litter box.    Never tell them off or punish them if they have an accident, as this will only confuse them and lead them to associate going potty with fear. Celebrate and give them positive attention when they go in the right place. And set a routine to prevent accidents and reduce anxiety around toilet time, too.    7. Teaches safe socialization Dogs need to be safe to socialize with other animals and people without fear, so they can have a happy experience out in public. It also means you’ll be able to take them out and about with you, safe in the knowledge they will not react with bad behaviour or make a mess.   The more situations you can safely guide your dog through at an early age, the better, as they’ll know what to expect and can feel relaxed knowing there's no threat. This might include greeting visitors at home, meeting other dogs on a walk or travelling in the car.   Try to socialise your pup from an early age and show them that it’s safe to do so, whilst helping them to learn recall. You could attend puppy socialisation classes or meet up with friends who have well-behaved dogs.    Photo by Matt Nelson on Unsplash     8. Builds a bond Dogs are pack animals, and they need a leader to show them the way, help them feel safe and help maintain their daily routine. Trust is important as it helps to set the foundations of good behaviour and loyalty – and training them is a great way to work on that bond.   Building a healthy bond can also help prevent behaviours associated with separation anxiety, as they will be able to trust you enough to stay independent and protected. When training, your dog will look to you for guidance which, over time, will build both good behaviour and a healthy bond.   Now you know why proper training is essential, from helping your furry best friend to feel safe to preventing the development of bad habits. So, get started the right way and see how your pup grows in confidence, happiness and skills as they grow.    

Photo by Reed Shepherd on Unsplash Investing time and energy in dog training can benefit you and your furry friend in many ways. Aside from building your dog’s confidence and social skills, proper training can help you build a stronger and more positive relationship with your pet and discourage them from developing problematic behaviors. In essence, with appropriate training, you can make caring for a dog a more delightful, rewarding, and satisfying experience. Perhaps you have a new puppy or recently adopted a slightly older dog that you want to train, and you’re wondering if you need certain items for this purpose. If so, read on. This article will give you a rundown of six must-have dog training tools you may need to prepare to enhance the training process and make your job easier and more enjoyable. Rewards Rewards, such as treats, verbal praises, and toys, are crucial in dog training, especially when using a positive reinforcement training method. The idea is to give some form of reward for good behavior so that your dog will be motivated to repeat and develop the desired behavior. When choosing a reward, make sure to find something that your dog truly likes. While treats are the most common option, they may not be so effective if your pet isn’t treat-motivated. In such cases, your best bet is to use toys as a reward. Dogs are naturally playful, so they love interacting with different kinds of toys. To start, you can look at wholesale dog toy collections as they offer a good variety of products. You can also enjoy great deals when buying toys in sets or in bulk. Photo by Anna Dudkova on Unsplash   Clickers A clicker is a small device that makes a clicking sound when pressed. You use it at the precise moment your dog performs a desired action and then give your pup a reward right after. The dog will begin to associate the clicking sound with positive experiences, like getting a treat or a toy, and this will motivate them to repeat the desired behavior. Because there are many types of clickers on the market, you may need to find one that suits your dog’s age and temperament as well as the training environment. For instance, when training a puppy or a dog that easily gets frightened by loud sounds, softer-sounding clickers may be better than loud ones. But if you plan to train in an open field, you’ll want to get a clicker that your dog can hear even from far away. Leashes High-quality leashes are another dog training staple used for setting boundaries, keeping your dog safe, and preventing your pet from getting lost whenever you and your pup are outside. When selecting the right leash, consider going for a long standard type that’s about six feet in length. This will give your furry friend ample room to move around and explore their surroundings without straying too far from you. You’ll also want to look for leashes made of a durable material that will last for a long time. It’s also best to avoid retractable leashes. While they do allow for freedom of movement, using retractable leashes may cause your dog to develop the bad habit of pulling on the leash or wandering in whatever way they please. Collars or Harnesses In addition to a leash, you’ll also need a quality collar or harness. When choosing which product to use for your fur baby, consider your dog’s size and breed as well as the training techniques you intend to use. For example, if you have a dog with a flat face, a history of tracheal collapse, or orthopedic problems, opt for a harness to prevent them from experiencing further health issues. If you’re using the positive reinforcement method, you can go for a martingale or slip collar. It tightens just slightly with a tug of the leash without causing discomfort and is comfortable for most dog breeds to wear. Photo by Courtney Roberson on Unsplash   Target Sticks A target stick is a long stick with a knob or ball at the end. It’s effective in holding your dog’s attention so you can introduce and teach different positions and behaviors to your dog more easily. They’re especially useful if you’re training puppies or small dogs since you won’t have to bend over to touch them. When buying one of these items, choose a lightweight yet rigid target stick. This will help you better control and use it for longer periods without tiring out your hands and arms as quickly. You may also opt for foldable types for easy packing or those with built-in clickers for enhanced functionality.  Dog training can be challenging as it requires patience, consistency, and considerable time and effort. But with the right strategies and tools, you can make the process more manageable and meaningful for you and your furry friend. With this in mind, make sure to invest in the dog training must-haves discussed above and to use them well. More importantly, do your best to maintain a friendly and gentle disposition throughout your dog training journey to keep your dog comfortable and excited to learn new tricks.  

Our dogs rely on us for their health and safety, which is a big responsibility that must be taken seriously. Owning a dog doesn’t start nor end with bringing your dogs to companion animal registrations which to some people could already be daunting. While most people will be on top of the major areas of concern, such as diet, training and socialisation, there is one area that often gets overlooked. Your dog’s paws are one of the most important parts of their body, and it is crucial to take proper care of them.  Not only do your dog’s paws allow them to move around, they also provide protection from rough terrain and hot surfaces. Taking care of your dog’s paws is an essential part of keeping them healthy, so here are some tips on how to make sure you’re doing everything right. 1. Check Your Dog's Paws Regularly Just like humans have different skin types, dogs have different paw pads. Some may be tougher than others while some may be more sensitive. You should regularly check your dog’s paws for any signs of injury or infection. Look for any cuts, scrapes, redness or swelling. Also check between the toes and pads of the feet for any dirt or foreign objects that may have become lodged there. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, contact your vet immediately as it could be an indication of a more serious problem.  2. Trim Their Nails Another important part of caring for your dog’s paws is making sure their nails are trimmed regularly. Unkempt nails can lead to discomfort and pain when walking, so it is vital that you keep them trimmed regularly. Around once every two weeks is typical for most dogs kept as house pets. If you are unsure how to do this on your own at home, it is best to seek assistance from a professional groomer or veterinarian who can show you how to do it properly and safely.  3. Protect Their Paws from Hot Surfaces During the summer months especially, hot pavement and even asphalt can cause serious damage to your pup’s sensitive feet if not protected properly from the heat. While we owners will have shoes to protect ourselves from burning-hot sidewalks, our dogs are not so lucky. It’s best to check the temperature of the ground before you take your dog out for a walk. You can either just use your own fingers to check or go the extra mile and get an infrared thermometer. Be sure that you always carry water with you when out on walks with your pup in order to cool down their feet after stepping on hot surfaces. You may also opt to put on some special booties that provide extra protection against hot surfaces or stay inside and have them use a dog litter like Puppy Go Potty.  4. Moisturize Their Pads Keeping your pooch’s paw pads moisturized is key in preventing dryness and cracking which can lead to infection or other issues over time. There are many different products available specifically designed for this purpose; however, using a natural moisturizer such as coconut oil will work just as well! Simply massage a small amount into each paw pad at least once a week (or more depending on need) and then wipe off any excess with a soft cloth or towel afterwards.  A well moisturized and cared-for pad often makes a great shot in a professional pet photography session, along with close ups of their snout.  They always look stunning in black and white. 5. Clean After Walks and Visits to the Park One of the most common causes of infection in dogs is dirt or debris getting stuck between their paw pads or underneath their nails. This often occurs when they walk through mud or grassy areas outside. These areas can contain bacteria or parasites which can easily get transferred onto their feet if not cleaned regularly enough afterwards! To help prevent this problem from occurring, be sure that you clean your pup’s feet after every walk outside by wiping them down with warm water and mild soap. There are also commercially available dog wipes that are specially formulated to be gentle on their paws.  6. Pay Attention to Paw Odor If you notice an unusual odor coming from your dog’s paw pads, then there could be something wrong with their feet such as an infection or irritation due to allergies or parasites like fleas or ticks. If this is the case, then it is best to take them to see a vet as soon as possible so that they get the proper care and treatment. Even if it’s not a major problem, it’s better to be safe rather than sorry.  By following these simple steps outlined above, you will be able to keep your dog’s paws healthy and strong throughout their life. As always though, if you have any concerns regarding the health of your pet's feet then it is best practice to consult with a qualified veterinarian who can give further advice tailored specifically towards your dog.