How Do I Set Up a Proper Terrarium?

Shelters Seeking Fosters - Could You Help Raise a Newborn Kitten?

T'is the season for shelters to be seeking out kitten fosters for the tiniest kittens. Do you have what it takes?

How to Support Local Dog Rescues If You Can't Adopt

Not everyone can adopt a dog and that’s okay. Life circumstances like housing restrictions, allergies, financial constraints, or a packed schedule may prevent you from bringing home a furry friend.But not being able to adopt doesn't mean you can't still make a meaningful difference. Local dog rescues rely heavily on community support, and there are many powerful ways to help them without adopting.

5 Common Home Decor Items That Are Risky to Keep Around Dogs

When decorating your home, it’s easy to focus on aesthetics and forget that some popular decor choices can actually be dangerous for your dog. While many items seem harmless to us, they can pose serious health or safety risks to our four-legged friends. Here are five common home decor items that dog owners should be cautious about.

How Season Changes Can Affect Your Pets (and What You Can Do About It)

Just like us, our furry (or feathery or scaly) companions can feel the shift when the seasons change. While they may not be reaching for pumpkin spice lattes or sunscreen, pets are surprisingly sensitive to changes in weather, daylight, and temperature.Understanding how these changes affect them can help you keep your pet comfortable, healthy, and happy year-round.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

How to Build a Bond with Your New Rescue Dog

Bringing home a rescue dog is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have - for both you and your new companion. But it’s also a big transition, especially for dogs who may have experienced abandonment, neglect, or trauma in their past.That’s why building a strong bond with your rescue dog isn’t something that happens overnight. It takes time, patience, and a whole lot of understanding. But with the right approach, you’ll create something truly special: a trusting, lifelong relationship rooted in love.Here’s how to begin that journey, one step at a time.Start with Space and PatienceThe first few days in a new home can be overwhelming for a rescue dog. Everything is unfamiliar - sights, sounds, smells, and people - and it can cause real anxiety.One of the best things you can do? Give your dog space to adjust.Let them explore the home at their own paceSet up a quiet, cozy area where they can retreatAvoid forcing interaction or physical affectionSome dogs will come to you right away. Others need time to feel safe. Let them set the pace.Establish a Calm, Predictable RoutineDogs thrive on routine - especially those recovering from unstable pasts. A regular schedule helps create a sense of safety and predictability.Try to:Feed at the same times each dayKeep walks, bathroom breaks, and playtime consistentOffer a regular bedtime or wind-down ritualThe more predictable life becomes, the more confident and secure your dog will feel.Use Positive ReinforcementWhen it comes to training and bonding, positive reinforcement is your best friend.Reward good behavior with treats, praise, or gentle affectionKeep training sessions short and low-pressureCelebrate the little wins - sitting, coming when called, or just making eye contactAvoid punishment or harsh corrections. Fear-based methods can damage trust, especially with dogs who may already be unsure of people.

Research Aims to Uncover the Effects of Small Pets on Human Well-Being

Many articles have been published about the benefits of pets on mental health and overall happiness, but they’re usually focused on the perks of sharing your home with a cat or dog. Well, the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) wants to change that. They announced a grant that will allow researchers at the University of Liverpool to look into the impacts of small animals as pets. Their goal is to find out if small pets have an effect on people’s well-being, too.

Grooming Tips for Longhaired Cats

Longhaired cats are super soft and gorgeous, but that long fur does require some extra attention and grooming compared to short coats. The hair can become tangled and matted, and when your kitty uses the litter box, let’s just say that things might get a little messy. The good news is that, with the right cat grooming tools and a consistent routine, you can keep your longhaired kitty looking and feeling fabulous.

Calming Techniques for Over-Excited Dogs of All Ages

We’ve all been there – the whirlwind of paws, barks, and boundless energy. Having a dog in your life is an excellent source of joy and companionship, but it can sometimes feel overwhelming. While some may tell you that you need to let your dog be a dog and get over it, the truth is that too much of anything can be bad – including excitement.Whether you’re concerned about your dog’s excitement escalating into barrier frustration and reactivity or worried that their desire to jump up and greet you each time you come home could lead to them slipping past and running out onto the road, over-excitement can definitely create less than ideal and even dangerous situations.Your dedication to your dog’s well-being has you searching for solutions. I see you. After all, calm dogs experience less stress, which can help improve their physical and mental health.So, what are you waiting for? I have put together this comprehensive guide to calming techniques with options for dogs of all ages, breeds, personalities, and situations. Find the solutions that suit your dog and start working towards helping your dog find their inner peace today.Understanding Dog ExcitementThe first step in helping your dog discover a calmer outlook on life is understanding the root causes of their behavior. This includes recognizing the common triggers that ignite a dog’s excitement, differentiating between healthy playfulness and problematic hyperactivity, and learning how breed and age can influence their energy levels. By understanding these factors, you can select calming techniques better suited to your dog’s specific needs.Common Triggers of Excitement in DogsWhat sets your dog’s tail wagging and paws tapping? Like humans, dogs have their own personal preferences, and that includes the things that make them excited. However, some common factors are regularly shared by the greater canine population, such as:The thrill of visitors arriving (or you returning home)Anticipation of walks and outingsExcitement surrounding mealtimesThese triggers can also be specific to a particular sense. For example, a dog who is excited by noises may start to freak out at the sound of a doorbell ringing or sirens wailing. Others may feel that excitement beginning to build at the very sight of a dog in the distance or the scent of their favorite human food cooking.Some dogs are even triggered by changes in their daily routine. Seeing you picking up your keys to leave the house on a Sunday when you usually stay home signals that something is different, and that can bring with it a lot of big emotions.Recognizing these triggers is the first step toward creating a calmer environment. Consider keeping a journal, recording any details you notice when your dog gets overly excited, including where you were, what sounds you heard, what your dog was doing, what you were doing, etc. After recording for a while, step back and read through your entries. Do you see any patterns?Healthy Playfulness Vs. Problematic Over-ExcitementNot all excitement is created equal. Playfulness is a sign of a healthy dog, from young pups right up to the slower but still joyful play of a sweet senior. A happy, energetic dog might bounce and wag its tail, even grabbing at their favorite toys to get you to play. However, a dog experiencing anxiety-driven hyperactivity will exhibit signs like excessive panting, an inability to focus, and even destructive behavior (like chewing or digging). This type of over-excitement is often rooted in stress. Left unchecked, this stress can continue to build up, leading to long-term behavioral issues. Learning to read your dog’s body language will help you identify if your dog’s excitement is a sign of trouble and respond accordingly. The Role of Breed and Age Your dog’s breed and age (life stage) can play a significant role in your dog’s energy levels and their ability to self-regulate. Certain breeds are naturally more energetic than others, bred to perform tasks that require high levels of stamina and drive. While your dog may be living as a pet dog, that natural drive and instinct don’t disappear. This is the reason why professionals stress the importance of researching breeds before bringing a dog into your life. Some high-energy dogs that are likely going to show higher levels of excitement include: Australian Cattle Dogs Border Collie Australian Shepherd Jack Russell Terrier Siberian Husky Belgian Malinois Age also has an impact on a dog’s behavior and activity. Puppies are known for having boundless energy, and their developing brains often struggle with self-control and self-regulation.  Adult dogs, while generally more mature, may still display high levels of excitement depending on their breed and training. Senior dogs are generally entering a calmer stage of their life, but they may experience age-related anxieties or cognitive decline manifesting in restlessness that could be mistaken for excitement. Understanding what’s “normal” for your dog in terms of their age and breed will not only help you tailor your calming techniques to their needs but also identify if something is “off.” Foundational Calming TechniquesFirst, let’s create a solid foundation for a calmer dog. This involves implementing consistent routines, providing adequate exercise and mental stimulation, using the power of positive reinforcement, and creating a calming environment. These techniques won’t address any triggers creating anxiety or over-excitement, but they will help to promote a sense of security and reduce overall stress and anxiety levels. Consistent Routine A secret to helping your dog live a calm, relaxed life is providing them the security of a consistent routine. Predictable meal, walk, and playtime schedules let your dog know what to expect, giving structure and reducing anxiety about the unknown. Picture for a moment how you feel when your schedule is thrown off. Your dog experiences similar stress when their routine is disrupted. Establishing and sticking to a consistent schedule can naturally encourage calmness by creating a calm overall environment. Exercise and Mental Enrichment Physical activity is an essential piece of the puzzle for burning excess energy, but it is only one piece. Mental stimulation is equally important. A tired dog is a good dog, but a mentally exhausted dog is a truly calm dog. While physical exercise tires their bodies, mental exercise tires their brains. A dog that has run for miles may still be mentally alert and restless, whereas a dog that has engaged in a challenging training session will often be calmer and more relaxed. Try incorporating mental enrichment activities like: Training sessions, such as basic obedience or some fun trick trainingIntroduce your dog to scent work (you can pick up a starter kit to help you get started) Try feeding your dog using a snuffle mat, puzzle feeder, or treat dispensing toyChallenge your dog to learn how to use talking buttons Create a DIY busy box using items you have around your home

How Do Calming Pillows, Beds, and Blankets Keep Dogs Stress Free?

My Dog Broke A Nail, Now What?

Seeing your pup showing signs of pain is never easy, and the sight of blood can be particularly alarming. While a broken nail may not seem like a major source of alarm, that one small injury can introduce a lot of discomfort (and blood). But take a deep breath; you’re not alone in facing this common struggle.This blog post is designed to be an informative guide, walking you through the essential steps to take when your dog breaks a nail to relieve pain and prevent further complications. With the proper knowledge and a little care, most broken nail situations can be managed effectively, allowing your pup to get back on their paws in no time.First Aid for Dog Nail Injuries When you discover your dog has broken a nail, remain calm. Your dog may be in pain and feeling anxious. By staying calm and composed, you will help prevent further distress and avoid a possible accidental injury to you. Speak in a soothing voice and move slowly. If your dog is particularly sensitive to pain or tends to react defensively when hurt, you may wish to enlist the help of another person to gently restrain them. In situations where you’re concerned about being bitten, having a properly fitted muzzle on hand can ensure everyone stays safe while you administer first aid. Stop the BleedingBroken nails often bleed because they contain a blood vessel known as the quick. You'll likely see some blood if the break occurs above this point. The first step in managing this injury is to stop the bleeding quickly. When dealing with any type of bleeding, your first line of defense is to apply direct pressure. Use a clean cloth or a piece of gauze and firmly press it against the bleeding nail for several minutes, often longer than you may initially think. Resist the temptation to check frequently, as removing the pressure can disrupt the clotting process. For persistent bleeding, styptic powder or a styptic pencil is an effective solution. We ensure we always have at least one of the two in our pet-friendly first aid kit. Styptic powder contains ingredients that help constrict blood vessels and promote clotting. To use it, apply a small amount directly to the bleeding area of the nail. A styptic pencil works similarly; wet the tip slightly to activate it and gently press it against the bleeding directly. If you don’t have styptic powder or a pencil on hand, some common alternatives that dog parents will reach for are cornstarch and flour. They can help absorb blood and encourage clotting. The easiest way to use these is to put some into a small container and then place the broken nail in it, maintaining pressure to give the blood time to clot. Remember, patience is key during this step; the bleeding may take several minutes to stop. Assessing the Damage Look closely at the broken nail once the bleeding has stopped or significantly slowed. Is it a clean break near the tip? Is it a partial tear that’s still attached? Is the quick exposed, leaving a raw and sensitive area? Take note of any visible debris, such as dirt, splinters, or fragments of the nail itself. Your findings will help you decide on the best course of action to prevent further damage and whether you need to contact your vet. Initial Cleaning (If Possible and Safe)If your dog tolerates examining their paw and the bleeding is under control, you may be able to gently clean the area. Use lukewarm water to carefully rinse the paw and the broken nail. This can help to remove any loose dirt or debris that may be there. Avoid using any harsh antiseptics like hydrogen peroxide or alcohol at this stage, as they can be irritating to the exposed injury and potentially delay healing. The goal of this initial cleaning is simply to remove any obvious dirt that could contribute to further pain and discomfort. Your vet can do a more thorough cleaning if necessary. Understanding the Risks of Dog Nail Injuries While the immediate sight of blood from a broken nail can be alarming, the potential risks extend beyond this initial shock. Here are a few additional risks to be aware of: Pain and DiscomfortEven if you manage to stop the bleeding quickly, your dog can still experience significant pain and discomfort. The nail bed contains sensitive nerve endings, and a break, especially if it leaves the quick exposed, can create a very painful situation for your pup. Every time your dog puts pressure on the affected paw, they may feel a sharp or throbbing pain, leading to limping or a reluctance to walk or put weight on that leg. InfectionA break in the nail creates an open wound, providing an entry point for bacteria and fungal organisms that they may encounter in the environment. Simple things like walking on the ground, contact with dirt and debris, or even your dog’s own licking can introduce pathogens into the wound. Recognizing the signs of infection is crucial to addressing it as quickly as possible. Keep an eye out for the following red flags: Redness Swelling around the nail bedPus or discharge Increased pain or sensitivityWarmth to the touch Fever Lethargy Partially Broken Nails A partially broken nail poses its own set of risks to your pup. The jagged edge can easily catch on carpets, furniture, or outdoor surfaces, leading to further tearing of the nail and increased pain for your dog. Ongoing Irritation of the AreaThe irritation and discomfort can also trigger excessive licking or chewing at the affected paw. While your dog may be trying to soothe their pain, this behavior can make the problem worse by introducing more bacteria and potentially leading to self-inflicted wounds around the paw. Mobility Concerns In more severe cases, a broken nail can significantly impact your dog’s mobility. The pain and discomfort can make it difficult for them to engage in their usual activities, such as walking, running, and playing. This not only impacts their physical well-being but can also negatively impact their overall happiness and quality of life. Imagine being a high-energy dog who no longer has a safe outlet for all that energy.

Study Shares Quick Trick to Getting Your Dog's Attention

Researchers found the sweet spot that captures your dogs attention and gains the results you're looking for.

7 Unusual Pets Owned By Celebrities Past and Present

In the glittering world of fame and fortune, where the extraordinary is commonplace, some celebrities have taken pet ownership to a whole new level. While dogs and cats are Hollywood staples, a few stars have opted for more unconventional companions over the years. Here are seven unusual pets that celebrities past and present have proudly called their own.

Here's How to Prepare Your Pets for Hurricane Season

The Atlantic hurricane season is almost upon us, and forecasts warn we’ll likely see more storms than average. The storm season officially starts on June 1 and lasts till November 30, but storms may also occur before or after these dates.Last year’s hurricane season has devastated communities with flooding, mudslides, and wind, causing billions of dollars in damage and leaving thousands of people without a home. According to the American Veterinary Association, 45.5% of U.S. households own at least one dog, and 32.1% have at least one cat. An estimated 89.7 million dogs and 73.8 million cats are kept as pets in the United States, and all of them face the same risks during the hurricane season as their owners. The United States Department of Homeland Security has created a website to help people prepare for natural disasters and emergencies. There you can find a list of items people should have prepared in case of an emergency. A basic disaster supply kit should contain food, water, flashlights, cash, personal hygiene items, cell phone chargers, and prescription medication, among other things. But what about our dogs and cats? Is there any way to include them in your family’s emergency plan, and if you have to evacuate, can they be taken to safety as well?“Sometimes it’s much more challenging to get certain things when you’re in a hurry,” said Sarah Cortright, a Southern California-based small animal veterinarian. Packing a pet’s vaccination records, medication, food, and other necessities is much harder when trying to escape a deadly storm. It’s essential to have all these things prepared. Make sure you have at least two weeks' worth of your pet’s prescription medication in case you are forced to stay away from home for an extended period. Remember that veterinary offices may also stay closed because of severe weather, making it impossible to refill prescriptions quickly or obtain your pet’s vaccination or medical records.“Coming out of L.A. fires, we saw a lot of pets that needed medications, and they had no documentation,” making it difficult for veterinarians to refill scripts, explained Cortright. She advises keeping a copy of your pet’s medical and vaccination records digitally and on paper.“Even if it’s just a picture of the records on your phone, that’s enough,” she said, adding that animals may be separated from their families and boarded in separate facilities, for which they’ll need proof of vaccination. If you haven’t microchipped your pet yet, make sure to do so before the hurricane season. Keep your contact information up to date. In case you lose your pet during the storm, a microchip can help reunite you with your four-legged companion.Cortright suggests packing a carrier for each cat and a small dog, and a leash or a harness for medium and large-sized pooches. Pack as much food and water for your pets as you can carry, as well as food and water bowls. If possible, take their bedding and a couple of toys as well. Bring some litter for cats so they have a place to relieve themselves, and waste bags for dogs.Take recent photos of your pets to help with identification in case they get lost, and make sure they have ID tags and collars. Make a plan that includes a pet-friendly place to stay and copies of documentation to ensure all your pets stay safe. “Have extras of things set aside and ready to go,” suggested Cortright. “Just like you would for humans.” No one ever thinks they’ll end up caught in a storm. But planning before the hurricane season starts will make things a lot easier for you and your pet. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

Introducing a New Cat to Your Pet Family? We Can Help!

(photo credit: Ilyas Kalimullin / shutterstock.com)Is there anything more stressful than introducing a new pet to an angry cat that’s feeling displaced and totally stressed? I’ve done it many times and can confirm that if not done carefully, it can take weeks to correct. Especially if she’s hit or struck with claws out and the new kid on the block is now afraid.What does carefully look like? It’s taking a slow, patient approach to the initial face-to-face and it does require pre-planning.

What Are The Symptoms of Malnourishment in Dogs?

Ensuring a dog receives proper nutrition is essential for their overall health and well-being, but unfortunately, not all dogs get the nutrients they need. Malnourishment in dogs is a serious issue that can lead to long-term health complications. Whether due to poor diet, neglect, or an underlying medical condition, recognizing the signs early can make all the difference. Let’s take a closer look at what malnourishment in dogs looks like and what you can do to help.Physical Signs of Malnourishment in DogsOne of the most obvious indicators of malnourishment is weight loss. If you can easily see a dog’s ribs, spine, or hip bones, they may not be getting enough nutrients. A healthy dog should have a slight waistline but should not appear overly thin.Another telltale sign is a dull, brittle coat. A lack of essential vitamins and fatty acids can cause a dog's fur to lose its shine, become dry, and even fall out in patches. Similarly, dry, flaky, or irritated skin is another red flag that your pup isn’t getting the proper nutrition.

New Treatment Offers Hope for Dogs with Herniated Disks

If your dog suddenly yelps for no reason, starts limping, or, worst of all, begins dragging their back legs, your mind goes straight to panic mode. You Google, you call the vet, and the word surgery comes up faster than you can say “walkies.” It’s terrifying, and not just for your dog. But there’s something new stirring hope at Texas A&M University: a promising clinical trial using a special enzyme injection to treat herniated disks in dogs. No surgery. No long hospital stays. Just a targeted injection and the potential for a new chance at life.“This could change how we treat spinal injuries in dogs,” says Dr. Nick Jeffery, the neurologist leading the study at Texas A&M’s College of Veterinary Medicine. “We’re using a naturally derived enzyme to dissolve the herniated material that’s pressing on the spinal cord. It’s quick, minimally invasive, and so far, the results have exceeded expectations.”Herniated disks, technically known as intervertebral disk disease, or IVDD, are heartbreakingly common, especially in small breeds with long backs: think dachshunds, beagles, French bulldogs, and corgis. One wrong jump off the couch, and suddenly your happy-go-lucky pup can’t walk, can’t stand, and might be in serious pain.Traditionally, surgery has been the only real option. But it’s costly, carries risks, and recovery can be rough. Not every dog is a good surgical candidate, and not every family can pay a multi-thousand-dollar vet bill, even if they desperately want to.That’s where this trial comes in, and it already has promising results.Oscar, a five-year-old dachshund, is living proof. One morning, he just couldn’t walk. “He tried to get up and collapsed,” recalls his owner, Ashley. “He looked confused and scared, and I was a wreck.” Her vet referred her to Texas A&M just in time. Oscar received the enzyme injection less than 48 hours after his symptoms began, and within days, he was wagging again.According to the study, which involved 54 small-breed dogs, the success rate has been remarkable. Nearly all the dogs who still had feeling in their back legs recovered mobility quickly. Even a few with more severe symptoms showed significant improvement. And so far, no dog has experienced any major side effects.Of course, there are caveats. Timing is everything; dogs need to receive the injection within about three days of symptoms showing up. The trial is currently limited to small dogs, and it’s only happening at Texas A&M’s teaching hospital for now. But if the results continue to be this strong, there’s real potential for wider availability in the near future.“It’s not a magic fix, but it’s the closest thing we’ve seen,” Dr. Jeffery says. “We want owners to know that if their dog shows signs of back pain or weakness, time matters. Getting to a vet right away can make the difference between a simple injection and a much more complicated road.”The treatment, called chondroitinase injection therapy, works by dissolving the gel-like center of the slipped disk that’s putting pressure on the spinal cord. Think of it like deflating a balloon that’s gotten stuck in the wrong place. Once the pressure is off, the spinal cord can start to recover, and so can the dog.And while it’s still early days, the results are exciting. Less invasive care, lower costs, shorter recovery time, and a whole lot less trauma for everyone involved. For dog lovers, that’s huge.For now, the team at Texas A&M continues its work, hoping to expand access and gather more data. But the message for pet parents is clear: if something’s off, don’t wait. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Real Strategies to Manage (and Survive) the Puppy Blues

When you first brought your new puppy home, you were likely picturing fluffy cuddles and playful romps in the park, but the reality of puppy parenthood has now hit you hard. From the sleepless nights and sharp little teeth to the endless trail of messes and chewed shoes, it can leave you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and maybe even a little regretful.Please know you’re not alone! This emotional rollercoaster, known as the “puppy blues,” is more normal than you can imagine.Characterized by feelings of intense stress and overwhelm after adding a new pup to the family, many new dog parents feel like they are in over their heads. But take a deep breath because these feelings are temporary.You can survive this challenging phase with the right strategies and a little patience. In this post, I’ll share practical strategies that have helped me cope, showing you how to create a positive environment for both you and your newest furry family member – at least until they grow out of the crazy puppy stage.Understanding the Puppy BluesThe “puppy blues” is an emotional struggle that stems from the stark contrast between the beautiful image of puppy parenthood and the demanding reality. Preparing to bring home a new puppy, we often picture that playful and loving companion, instant bonding, and constant smiles. That dream convinces most of us that we are prepared to add a new dog to the family.However, the truth is far more challenging. Living with a new puppy often involves a relentless cycle of missed sleep, the challenges of house training and protecting your home, and constant vigilance to try to avoid the next disaster. We are faced with the unexpected financial strain of providing for our new puppy – including adoption fees, veterinary bills, and all the puppy supplies needed to get started.Add to this the social isolation that often accompanies caring for a young puppy (or the challenges of separation anxiety if you do try to get out and have a social life), and it’s easy to see how stress can take hold.The lack of sleep and high stress levels can trigger overwhelming emotions in even the most stable and confident dog parents among us.While I don’t want to paint a sad picture and turn people away from the joys of being a dog parent, normalizing this experience is important. Many of us face these feelings to some degree, and it doesn’t reflect poorly on your ability to care for your dog. The truth is, it’s a lot of work! Your new puppy didn’t come with a handbook providing all the answers, and there isn’t a mute or off switch for when you feel like you need a moment.But it’s important to remember that your puppy isn’t intentionally being difficult. They are navigating an entirely new world, learning boundaries, and adapting to a new and changing environment, just as you are. The goal is to find a way you can face and survive this stage together.Practical Strategies for Managing the Puppy BluesWhile there is no guaranteed way to avoid these big feelings, there are steps you can take to effectively manage or combat the overwhelm. Here are some practical, actionable strategies I have used first-hand to navigate the challenges and find balance during the early days of bringing home a new puppy.Establish a RoutineOne of the most important things you can do for your newest family member is to create and stick to a structured routine. Why? This provides a predictable foundation for both you and your puppy, helping reduce anxiety and promote calmness. By following a consistent daily schedule, you help your puppy understand what to expect, taking the guesswork out of their day and minimizing any confusion or uncertainty.Designate specific areas within your home as your puppy’s “ safe place.” These should be places your puppy can retreat to when feeling overwhelmed. Plus, when paired with careful puppy proofing, they are places you can trust your puppy will be safe and sound. This could be a cozy crate, a designated room with a baby gate, or a comfortable playpen.A strict meal and bathroom schedule is the secret to success when training. By sticking to predictable feeding times and frequent potty breaks, especially after meals, naps, and play sessions, you can minimize accidents in your home and start to create good habits.A consistent schedule will help you establish a sense of order, communicate expectations, and prioritize your puppy’s emotional well-being and development.Potty Training StrategiesAs I just mentioned, frequent potty breaks are essential to successful house training. Establish a consistent schedule for taking your puppy outside right from the beginning and stick with it as closely as possible. This should include bathroom breaks immediately after meals, naps, and play sessions – times when a puppy is most likely to have an accident.When implemented correctly, crate training can be a valuable tool for house training. Plus, the crate is a den or safe space for your puppy. When shopping for a crate, ensure it is appropriately sized (your puppy should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably). Never use the crate as punishment – it should always be treated as a positive space for your pup.Before bringing your puppy home, you should stock up on essential cleaning supplies, such as enzyme cleaners to effectively eliminate messes and prevent future accidents, as well as puppy pads ( disposable or reusable) to protect important spaces in your home (like that newly finished hardwood floor).Always reward your puppy with enthusiastic praise and high-value treats when they go to the bathroom outside. This will help them recognize that going to the bathroom in that designated area is a good thing, encouraging them to continue with this behavior.Socialization and Positive Reinforcement Positive reinforcement is far more effective than punishment in helping teach your puppy good habits. The first step is identifying what best motivates your puppy. We often associate positive reinforcement with food treats, but this won’t be the best option for every dog. Instead, you may find they are better motivated by verbal praise, a favorite toy, or a belly rub.Avoid punishment-based methods when training, as this can create fear and anxiety. If you run into challenges, don’t hesitate to reach out to a certified dog trainer or behaviorist. A professional can provide you with helpful tips and tailored advice to help you reach your training goals. Controlled socialization is another essential step in setting your new pup up for success. Gradually expose your pup to new environments, people, and dogs in a safe and positive way. Start with short, low-intensity encounters. As your puppy becomes more comfortable, you can slowly increase the duration or intensity, building their confidence.Remember, puppies have short attention spans. Keep training sessions brief and engaging. Short, frequent training sessions will be far more effective than long, drawn-out ones that leave you both feeling frustrated.

5 Great Dog Breeds for New Dog Owners Over 50

Let’s be real—getting a dog later in life can be one of the best decisions ever. You’ve got more time, more patience, and possibly a little more money to spend on fancy dog jumpers (no judgment—I’ve done it). But if you’re brand new to the dog world, the idea of choosing a breed can feel a bit… overwhelming.You want a pup who’s friendly, manageable, and won’t redecorate your living room by chewing the sofa cushions into modern art.So here’s my list of five dog breeds that are generally a good fit for beginners over 50. (Bonus: most of them are sofa-friendly snuggle experts.)