Easy Ways to Take Care of Your Dog’s Teeth

7 Ways To Keep Your Dog’s Teeth Clean

We love it when our doggos have that pearly white smile, don’t we? It means that their teeth and gums are in good shape and that’s a good indicator for their overall health. But keeping those teeth nice and clean isn’t as easy as we wish it was. Not everyone has the patience to brush their dog’s teeth and some dogs simply won’t tolerate a dental cleaning. Just because you can’t brush your dog’s teeth, however, doesn’t mean that you can neglect his dental health. If the act of brushing your dog’s teeth is going to cause serious stress and anxiety, it’s time to consider another option. We’ve put together six alternative ways to keep your dog’s teeth clean. 1. Water Additives Perhaps one of the simplest ways to improve your dog’s dental health is to use a water additive. These additives may contain ingredients like enzymes that help to break down plaque while other ingredients help to freshen your dog’s breath. While veterinarians suggest that water additives are not a replacement for regular dental exams, they can help to prevent excessive plaque buildup. They change the pH of your dog’s saliva to help break the biofilm that leads to plaque and tartar buildup in the first place, and this can keep your dog’s teeth free from needing cleaning longer. The best part? Many of these products have little or no taste, meaning that your dog may not even realize that there is an additive in their water. This makes it arguably the easiest way to incorporate dental care into your dog’s regular routine. These products can, in some cases, run a little high in price but you can help to keep the cost down by purchasing in bulk – especially if you have more than one dog in the house! 2. Food Additives and Supplements In the same vein as water additives for your dog, consider food additives and supplements. More and more research suggests that gut health guides our overall health, and that of our dogs as well. That means it also guides our oral health and that’s why you see so many supplements out that go on foods to help keep your dog’s teeth clean and breath fresh. Food additives are products that are designed to be spread on top of your dog’s regular meals, adding additional nutritional benefits for better oral health, improved digestive function, and more. They can come in different consistencies and presentations, ranging from a simple powder that may go completely unnoticed by your dog to a more elaborate food topper that your dog considers to be a special treat with their meal. One we especially like is Bernie’s Perfect Poop. It’s not powder like many dental additives are; it’s more like crispies to top your dog’s food with. What we love, though, is that it’s a blend of a high-quality fiber, pre- and probiotics and digestive enzymes that all work together to give your dog his best gut health. How does that help keep his teeth clean, you ask? Simple. The digestive enzymes help break the food you give your dog down and leave less on the teeth. This means better nutrient absorption as well. The pre- and probiotics are key for keeping your dog’s gut healthy with good bacteria–not the stinky kind that overruns and then dies off in your dog’s gut and leaves rotten smells behind. Fiber helps reduce gas that sometimes misfires and ends up coming back up in the form of stank breath too. 3. Tartar Control Treats Another option to help prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar on your dog’s teeth is to switch to tartar control treats. Again, these treats do not replace the need for regular dental cleanings, but they can help to prevent excessive tartar buildup. One thing to be aware of with dental treats is that they often contain more calories that you realize. Of course, this is true of most dog treats, but it could still become a problem if you are not careful. As with any treats, only offer dental treats to your dog in moderation. If you are currently in the process of training your dog and using training treats on a daily basis, consider trading in your little training treats for smaller tartar control treats. After all, if your dog is enjoying treats already, why not make those treats that can also benefit their health and well-being! Many of these treats incorporate tasty flavors that your pup will love. To keep the calorie count down, you may need to cut the treats up, or the intake can add up quickly. For dogs that aren’t interested in the smaller tartar control treats, there are larger chew-style treats that work to help remove the plaque from your dog’s teeth as they chew. Some of these chews even include the enzymes discussed above in the water additives, improving their effectiveness in cleaning your dog’s teeth. While they still aren’t quite as powerful as brushing your dog’s teeth, they can have a significant impact on your dog’s oral health over time as part of a larger dental care plan. Related: Talking About Tartar Buildup On Dog’s Teeth 4. Raw Bones Dental treats are not the only way to help prevent plaque buildup on your dog’s teeth – you can also offer him raw bones. Before you go out and buy raw bones for your dog, however, you need to think about the right type and size of bone for your particular dog. If you buy your bones at the pet store they may be labeled to let you know what size dog they are recommended for. If you shop at the butcher or grocery store for your raw bones, consider lamb shanks and lamb necks because they are easy to digest and they provide excellent dental benefits. 5. Dental Foam Just as water additives help to freshen your dog’s breath and keep his teeth and gums clean, dental foam provides similar benefits. To use dental foam you simply pull back your dog’s lips and spray it onto his teeth and gums. For the best results, look for an all-natural product. These products are often found to be less effective than many of the others on this list, meaning that they aren’t likely going to make a significant change to your dog’s oral health on their own. However, they are a great addition to boost the care provided by another option on this list. Related: Burt’s Bees Multicare Dental Foam and Dental Spray 6. Dental Toys If your dog won’t let you brush his teeth, he will probably have no trouble accepting a new toy. There are many dog toys on the market that provide teeth-cleaning benefits for dogs. These toys offer a textured surface that works by gently scraping away soft tartar as your dog chews on the toy and they come in many forms including rawhide, nylon, and rubber. They are available in a wide variety of different sizes and designs, ranging from softer puppy-friendly toys for your new furry family member to highly durable toys that are built with the heaviest chewers in mind. Pay careful attention to what the toys that you have chosen are made from. Some toys are made using edible materials, designed for your dog to chew and eat them without any concerns, while others are made from non-edible materials like rubber and nylon. If the toy isn’t designed to be digested, make sure to check it regularly for signs of wear and tear. If you notice significant wear or believe that your dog may be able to get a piece off the toy in its current condition, it’s time for it to be replaced. 7. Dietary Changes In addition to switching to dental treats and bones, making changes to your dog’s diet can also help to improve his dental health. If you do your research you will find that many dog food manufacturers offer a dental health formula that includes larger kibble sizes to scrub plaque from the surface of teeth. If you are interested in switching to a dental health formula for your dog, look for a product that bears the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) approval seal on the package. Dental health is just as important for your dog as it is for you. Not only do you need to take your dog to the vet for regular dental check-ups, but you should consider employing some of the methods above to maintain your dog’s dental health in between visits.

6 Easy Ways to Train Your Dog Every Day

Dog training is a full time job with no breaks. Whether you’re teaching your dog a new trick or brushing up on the basics, the key to success is to tackle training a bit every day! Many people assume that once a dog graduates from the puppy phase, your job in training him is finished. In reality, training is a lifelong pursuit for dogs and their owners. Once your dog masters the basics of obedience training you won’t have to review those basic skills often, but you do need to keep working with your dog to reinforce his training and to keep his mind sharp. To assume that at a certain point the training is complete and you never have to think about it again is a mistake. Training a dog is a lifelong commitment. Sure, this process will evolve and change. Sure, it won’t be as intensive as it is in the beginning because your dog will reach a point at which they no longer constant reinforcement. But that doesn’t mean that the process is over. It’s simply evolved. So, how do you continuing training in a more subtle matter as your pup matures? Well, you’ve come to the right place to find out. Continue reading and all will be revealed… How Much Time Should You Spend on Training Each Day? When your dog is still a puppy, you should expect to spend a significant amount of time on basic obedience training until he gets the hang of them. This must happen early and often so that those early and impressionable puppy years don’t go to waste. The phrase, “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks” exists for a reason after all. However, it’s important, that you break up your training sessions throughout the day so your puppy doesn’t get bored. Overwhelming your pup will dilute the training process. You must make sure to keep your dog engaged and excited in order for training to stick. Related: Teaching Your Dog to Leave It The proper length for your training sessions will vary according to your puppy’s age, his intelligence level, and his ability to pay attention. Some dogs can only pay attention for 10 to 15 minutes at a time while others can go for a full hour of training. Your best bet is to start with a training session in the morning and go until your dog starts to lose focus. Give him a break for a few hours then come back to the training in the afternoon. You can also end each day with a quick 15-minute training session before bed to tire your dog out. There’s no precise breakdown on how to do this. Every dog is different, after all. So you’ll have to experiment until you get a sense of what works for your pup, then stick to a schedule. Six Simple Ways to Train Your Dog Every Day Obedience training is an ongoing process for dog owners. Even after your dog masters the basic commands you should still work with him on a daily basis to reinforce and build upon those commands. This process never ends, it just changes and becomes less intensive. If you’re wondering how to continue training after the basics have been covered, here are six simple things you can do every day to reinforce your dog’s training: Ask your dog to sit before you give him anything – We do mean everything: his meals, his treats, and even his favorite toys. This can pay off in surprising ways. For example, teaching your dog to sit ensures that you have his full attention and it will prevent him from jumping up on you. Related: 6 Cool Tricks to Teach Your Dog Reinforce your dog’s stay. Throughout the day, ask your dog to sit or lie down then tell him to stay while you go about your business (it’s a great idea to do this while you prepare his meal, for example). When you are ready to release your dog, place the bowl on the ground and say “Okay”. This will create a more calm and relaxed environment during feeding.Teach your dog to wait. Teaching your dog to stay is great for longer periods, but a “Wait” command can be used as a short-term hold. For example, when you’re getting ready to take your dog to the park, tell him to sit then wait while you attach his leash, then release him. This will create a calm and easygoing mood every time that you leave the house.Train your dog to “leave it”. Teaching your dog to “Stay” or “Wait” is good for a delayed release, but teaching your dog to Leave It means that he cannot have the thing he wants. This is important for your dog’s safety because he may not know when something is harmful to him. It’s also a great tool for preventing problem behaviors. This simple training technique will save you form so many potential dangers and headaches down the road and should absolutely become a part of your training process.Teach your dog proper leash etiquette. You take your dog for a walk every day, so use your walks as a mini training session to reinforce good leash behavior and other obedience commands. It will pay off in the long run.Make training sessions fun. Your dog is going to absorb more from your training sessions if he is actively engaged and he’ll only be engaged if he’s having fun. Be generous with praise and treats during quick daily training sessions and cut it short if either of you becomes frustrated. Just because training is an important and educational process doesn’t mean that it can’t be an activity that you both enjoy. It will take the pressure of both of you and lead to long lasting results. Training your dog isn’t just about making him obedient to your commands. It is also about fostering a relationship based on mutual trust and respect. If you treat your dog with respect, he’ll be more eager to please you… by happily doing everything you ask of him. Training is a vital part of the relationship that you build with your dog. While it will start as something intensive and scheduled, it should grow into a natural extension of your relationship together. After all, if it becomes second nature to you, then it should become second nature to your pooch as well!

3 Easy Ways to Teach Your Dog to Calm Down

It’s no secret that dogs aren’t always the best at calming themselves down. These three training techniques teach your dog to cool his jets. Maybe your dog gets himself all worked up after a play session, playfully nips and barks to get attention, or does flips while you’re trying to attach the leash. Overly excited behavior can take many forms. The solution is not to punish the excitement, but rather to teach the dog to perform a polite behavior instead of the excited one. Here are three ways to give your dog a path to relaxation. Related: Curb Your Dog’s Destructive Chewing Say “Please” for Everything You Want Your dog’s way of saying “please” is the almighty Sit. Teach your dog that, whenever he wants something, he has to sit for it. This requires him to control his impulses, even when he is excited or frustrated. To get started, make a list of all the things your dog wants from you on a daily basis. We call these “life rewards.” Some items may include getting: the leash put on,the door opened to go outside,a game of fetch or tug,meals, andpermission on the couch or bed with you. Whenever you’re ready to give your dog one of these life rewards, you’ll ask him to sit, just once, and wait for him to put his rear on the ground. What if he doesn’t sit on the first request? No sit, no reward. You’ll turn away, take a few deep breaths, and turn back to your dog to ask again. The moment he sits for the leash, meal, or other life reward, immediately give it to him. Good dog! For your dog to learn to be truly polite in all situations, you will implement this strategy for everything your dog wants, every time. Related: How to Teach Your Dog How To Wave Place The Place cue means “go to your mat and stay there until I release you.” If your dog tends to engage in jumping on people, door-dashing, getting underfoot, or countersurfing, Place can keep your dog out of harm’s way. See it in action here. In my home, I use this cue when: I’m cooking,we’re eating at the table, my not-so-dog-friendly guests are visiting, andI open the door for visitors or deliveries. To teach the basic level of Place, choose a mat, bed, or towel for your dog to lie on. Follow this training sequence: Say “place” and point or lure your dog onto the mat.Once all four paws are on the mat, ask him to lie down. While he’s lying on the mat, you’ll pause for three seconds, then drop a treat on the mat between his paws. Repeat this sequence of pausing and treating. After several treats, say “okay” and release him from the mat.As your dog gets better at this, you will increase the pauses between treats. This will build your dog’s ability to control his impulses and stay on the mat for longer periods of time. Protocol for Relaxation Dr. Karen Overall has created a practical plan for teaching your dog to remain calm even when you walk away, answer the door, or do a number of other exciting activities. And it’s free to read or download! The Protocol for Relaxation is a 15-day program, though you can go at your dog’s pace. It lays out very specific instructions for how to build your dog’s impulse control even for long durations, at long distances, and in the presence of distractions. Dr. Overall wrote it so that anyone, not just experienced trainers, can implement the protocol. Learning to chill is one of the most important life skills a dog can acquire. It’s important to put in the time to teach your dog the polite way to interact with everything and everyone in his daily life.

How To Take Bear Care When Hiking With Your Dog

Many dog owners look forward to hiking in the woods with their pooches. But this is prime bear season, and Kevin Roberts has tips on how to keep your distance. Bears and hiking go together like salad and hair. Yes. Salad and hair. In both cases, there is a chance you will encounter one, so you remain vigilant so as to not have it ruin your experience. So if you want to avoid encounters with bears on the hiking trail, here’s how to do it. Keep Watch Just watch your surroundings. The best way to deal with a bear encounter is to not have one in the first place. You don’t have to be Daniel Boone to know there’s a bear in the area. In many managed parks rangers will literally post signs warning you there is a bear in the area, or that the trail has been closed. These signs are there for a reason, respect them. Related: Bringing Bear Bells on Dog Hikes

Spring Cleaning Tips for Pet Parents

Spring is a season of renewal, so it’s the perfect time to do some cleaning around the house to freshen things up, get rid of things you no longer need, and make space for new things. But if you share your home with pets, it’s important to take a few steps to ensure their well-being while you do your spring cleaning. Check out the information below to see how spring cleaning could potentially have adverse effects on pets, and what you can do to keep everyone happy.

Do Rabbits Make Good Pets for Children?

Rabbits are undeniably adorable - fluffy, quiet, and full of charm. It’s no surprise that many children (and adults!) fall in love at first sight with them. But while rabbits can make wonderful companions, they aren’t always the right fit for every child or household. Like any pet, they have specific needs and behaviors that deserve careful consideration before bringing one home.Understanding Rabbit TemperamentUnlike cats or dogs, rabbits are prey animals by nature. This means they’re often more sensitive to loud noises, sudden movements, and rough handling. Young children, especially toddlers, may have a hard time being gentle or recognizing when a rabbit is scared or stressed.Many rabbits prefer to keep all four feet on the ground and don’t enjoy being picked up or cuddled tightly. For children expecting a snuggly, always-up-for-play kind of pet, this can be disappointing. Rabbits show affection in more subtle ways - nudging your hand, flopping down beside you, or following you around when they trust you.That doesn’t mean they can’t bond with children, but it does take patience, quiet interaction, and a calm environment.Rabbits Need Daily CareCaring for a rabbit is more involved than people often expect. They require:A balanced diet of fresh hay, rabbit pellets, leafy greens, and clean water.A clean and secure enclosure that offers enough room to move around, stretch, and hide.Daily exercise outside of their cage in a bunny-proofed area to stay physically and mentally healthy.Chew toys and enrichment to prevent boredom and dental issues.Even if a rabbit is technically “the child’s pet,” the reality is that most of the daily responsibilities - cleaning, feeding, vet visits - fall to the adults. Before bringing one home, ask yourself if your family is ready to take this on for the long haul.A Long-Term CommitmentRabbits live an average of 8–12 years, and some even longer. That’s a significant commitment, especially as children grow up, go through new interests, or eventually move out. It’s important to consider not just if your child is ready for a rabbit now, but if your household is ready for one for the next decade.That said, older children - especially those who are gentle, patient, and truly interested in animals - can form deep, meaningful bonds with rabbits. With the right guidance and supervision, they can learn responsibility, empathy, and the joy of caring for another living being.Choosing the Right RabbitIf you do decide a rabbit is the right choice for your family, it helps to research different breeds. Some are known for being more easygoing and social than others. For example, Mini Lops and Holland Lops are often recommended for families because of their calm temperaments.It's also a good idea to adopt from a rabbit rescue or shelter. Not only can staff help match you with a rabbit that fits your household, but many rabbits in rescues are already socialized and litter-trained.Setting Up a Rabbit-Friendly HomeTo make your new pet comfortable, you'll need:

How to Find the Best Veterinarian for Your Pet

We shower our pets with love, provide nutritious food, and offer endless cuddles. Still, there’s one crucial piece of the pet parent puzzle that often goes overlooked until we desperately need it: a genuinely great veterinarian.Your vet is not just your pet’s doctor, there to fix things if they go wrong. They are part of their care team, working with you to ensure that your pet enjoys a life of health and happiness. They will guide you through every stage of your pet’s life, from playful puppies and energetic kittens to the graceful senior years.Choosing the right vet is one of the most impactful decisions you’ll make for your pet’s long-term well-being. It’s about building a relationship based on trust, expertise, and a shared commitment to your pet. This isn’t a decision to take lightly, and it’s certainly not one size fits all! That’s why we’ve put together this guide, walking you through everything you should consider when searching for the best veterinarian for your pet. Understanding Your Pet’s NeedsFinding the right veterinarian starts with understanding your pet’s needs and requirements. Not all veterinary practices are created equal, and what’s perfect for one animal might not be suitable for another. Here are some factors to help you narrow down your options:Age and Health ConsiderationsYour pet’s life stage and current health status will play a significant role in determining the ideal vet partner.Puppies and kittens require a vet who can guide you through early socialization, a comprehensive vaccination schedule, proper deworming practices, and discussions about spaying and neutering. As pets age, their needs evolve. Routine annual check-ups, preventive care, and guidance on weight management and nutrition are key for healthy adults. As your dog reaches their golden years, a vet experienced in geriatric care can help manage common senior issues like arthritis, monitor organ function, and provide compassionate palliative care when necessary.If your pet lives with a chronic condition, such as diabetes, severe allergies, or kidney disease, you’ll need a veterinarian who is not only knowledgeable in managing these long-term illnesses but also committed to ongoing management, communication, and personalized care plans.General Practitioners vs SpecialistsMost often, your pet will see a general practitioner. This is like their family doctor, the everyday hero of veterinary medicine, providing routine check-ups, vaccinations, minor illness treatment, and general preventative care. They are the first line of defense in your pet’s health.However, just like in human medicine, there are also veterinary specialists. These highly trained professionals focus on specific areas of vet medicine, such as internal medicine, dermatology, oncology, cardiology, orthopedics, or surgery. If your pet develops a complex or chronic condition that requires advanced diagnostics or specialized treatment, you may be referred to one of these experts. However, your general practice vet will still be part of the team throughout this process.The Unique Needs of Exotic PetsIf your beloved pet is anything other than a dog or cat, such as a hamster, hedgehog, parrot, lizard, snake, ferret, rabbit, guinea pig, or chinchilla, your search for a veterinarian narrows considerably. It’s crucial that you understand that not all veterinarians are trained or equipped to care for exotic species properly. Their anatomy, physiology, dietary requirements, and environmental needs are vastly different, and treating them effectively requires specialized knowledge and often unique equipment.When searching for a vet for an exotic pet, you must prioritize finding someone with specific experience and expertise with your particular species. Look for veterinarians who are members of or certified by exotic animal veterinary organizations, as this often indicates a dedicated focus and ongoing education in this specialized field.Practical Considerations When Choosing a VetWhen searching for the ideal vet, practical considerations like location and accessibility are surprisingly important and often overlooked. It’s easy to focus solely on medical expertise, but if you can’t get your pet to the appointment, it can significantly impact their ongoing care.Distance and ConvenienceFirst and foremost, consider the distance between your home and the veterinary clinic. For routine check-ups and vaccinations, a short drive is simply more convenient and less stressful for both you and your pet, especially if you have a pet who is anxious about car rides. However, proximity becomes crucial in an emergency. When every minute counts, a lengthy drive through traffic can make a critical difference.Don’t just consider the distance on paper. Think about your typical commute times, especially during peak hours. A clinic that seems close on a map might be surprisingly far in rush-hour traffic.Clinic HoursTake a look at the clinic’s operating hours. Do they align with your schedule? If you work traditional hours, finding a vet that offers evening or weekend appointments can be incredibly helpful and prevent you from having to take time off work for every visit. Flexibility in scheduling can make consistent vet care much easier to manage.Emergency ServicesBeyond routine visits, it’s vital to understand a clinic’s approach to emergency services. Not every veterinary office offers after-hours emergency care themselves. They may refer clients to a dedicated emergency veterinary hospital nearby, which means considering the distance to that location as well. Many general practices partner with 24/7 emergency centers, which is perfectly acceptable as long as the emergency clinic’s location is accessible for you.The key is knowing their protocol and the contact information for their recommended emergency facility before you’re in a stressful situation. Having a clear emergency plan in place is essential, as you often aren’t thinking straight during an active emergency.

How to Make a DIY Cat Deterrent Spray

As a cat parent, we love our feline friends, but let’s be honest, sometimes their natural instincts can seriously clash with our home décor. The frustration of discovering claw marks on your favorite sofa, finding your beloved houseplants overturned and dug up, or worse, dealing with territorial marking in your house is an experience that many of us share.I understand the desire to find a humane and effective solution to protect our homes without harming our cats. After all, our cats are family, and we want to coexist peacefully. The goal is not to punish them but to guide their behavior in a positive direction.Cat deterrent sprays offer several advantages, discouraging our kitties from engaging in unwanted behaviors in specific areas. Creating a DIY cat deterrent spray may be the perfect option for those seeking a budget-friendly solution or who like to control the substances coming into their home.In this article, I’ll share how to make a safe and effective cat deterrent spray. Plus, I’ll discuss the other factors to consider when setting your cat up for success, including long-term behavior medication, positive reinforcement, and other cat-proofing options.Understanding Cat BehaviorBefore I go into the details about making and using a cat deterrent spray, let’s step back and start at the beginning. It’s essential to understand why cats engage in the behaviors we find problematic. Scratching, for example, is far more than just a destructive behavior. It’s a natural instinct that serves many important purposes, including: Claw Maintenance: Allowing them to shed old nail sheaths Territorial Marking: Leaving both a visual and scent cueEmotional Release: A way to express frustration or excitementSimilarly, marking (often through spraying urine or rubbing cheeks) is also a form of communication. Cats use scent to establish territory, signal their presence, and even share their emotions like stress or anxiety. Is your cat urinating outside their litter box? There are several possible reasons why your cat is doing their business in an unwanted location, including medical issues, stress, or problems with the litter box itself (location, type of litter, type of litter box, etc.). The first step to finding a solution is to make an appointment with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions before considering it a behavioral problem. Suppressing these behaviors with a deterrent spray isn’t a long-term solution. Instead, you will need to identify the root cause of the problem and address it directly. For example, if your cat is scratching your furniture, try offering several scratching posts in various materials and locations to redirect their instincts to a positive outlet. Enriching their environment with toys, climbing structures, and interactive play can alleviate boredom and reduce stress-related marking. If your cat is experiencing anxiety, I recommend consulting a cat behaviorist. These professionals are uniquely skilled at identifying triggers and can help you develop a tailored plan to create a more positive home environment for your best friend. Finally, it’s important to remember that cats experience scents far differently than we do. Their sense of smell is far more sensitive than ours, allowing them to detect and identify subtle differences and interpret information from a scent we can’t. This is why they use scent as a significant part of their communication. This sensitive sense of smell is also why scents like citrus or vinegar are so effective at discouraging your cat from going in or near areas that you’re trying to protect. Choosing the Right Ingredients Onto the reason you’re reading this – how to make your own DIY cat deterrent spray. Selecting the right ingredients is crucial for both effectiveness and your cat’s safety. Essential oils, concentrated plant extracts, are popular as they offer strong scents that work well to deter cats. However, not all essential oils are safe for use around cats. Most importantly, even those that are safe for use around your cat must be handled and used with safety in mind. Always dilute essential oils significantly and consult your veterinarian before using them on your cat. Some essential oils can be extremely harmful, even fatal, if ingested, inhaled, or even absorbed through their skin. Luckily, several essential oils are considered safe and effective in diluted forms for cat deterrents. Citrus oils like orange and lemon often serve as the active ingredient in deterrent sprays as cats generally dislike their strong scents. While calming for humans, lavender can also act as a strong deterrent, but it should be used with caution and in very dilute form. Finally, eucalyptus and peppermint can be used, but sparingly and always diluted, as their strong menthol scents can be overwhelming and potentially irritating. Some essential oils are absolutely toxic to cats and should be avoided entirely. Tea tree oil, pennyroyal, wintergreen, pine, and many others can cause severe health problems, including liver damage, respiratory distress, and even death. These oils should never be used on or near your cat. Beyond essential oils, other ingredients (depending on your recipe) include: White Distilled Vinegar: Diluted with water, this is a common choice due to its strong, acidic scent Citrus Peels: A natural by-product of consuming citrus fruits, can be steeped in water to create a safe and effective citrus-scented deterrent Water: Serves as the base for all these sprays, diluting the other ingredients and allowing for easy application A carrier oil, such as coconut or almond, is essential if you choose to use essential oils. Diluting essential oils in a carrier oil before adding them to water prevents skin irritation and ensures a more even scent distribution. Finally, when possible, opt for organic ingredients. This minimizes the pesticides and other potentially harmful chemicals your cat may be exposed to, helping to create a healthier environment for your best friend.

Help! My Dog is Aggressive Over Toys! What Now?

Is your once-playful pup turning into a snarling toy hoarder? Do they become possessive anytime your family or other pets come near their favorite squeaky toy?Dog aggression over toys can range from mild guarding to full-blown attacks. It’s a common problem – one that can be frustrating and sometimes scary to experience. The best thing you can do for your furry friend is to tackle the issue as soon as you notice the first signs of trouble.In this guide, I’ll share tips and tricks to turn your toy-obsessed pup into a more social and relaxed companion. It’s not easy and won’t be solved overnight, but it is possible!Understanding Resource GuardingResource guarding is a common behavior that many dog parents struggle with. It happens when a dog protects a resource they see as valuable from a perceived threat. This is a deeply rooted survival instinct, ensuring they have access to the resources needed to meet their basic needs. While this describes the reason for the behavior, it can become problematic if it escalates to aggression.Common triggers for resource guarding include food, toys, bones, bedding, and specific locations within the home. Dogs may also guard people, especially “their person.”The intensity of resource guarding can vary wildly. Some dogs will exhibit mild displays of possessiveness. Mild resource guarding may involve growling, snapping, or posturing when a person or other animal approaches the resource.However, others will display severe aggression to protect what they see as theirs. This can involve aggressive biting and can pose a serious risk to others. Recognizing the signs of resource guarding and taking appropriate steps to address the issue before it escalates is crucial.Preventing and Managing Toy AggressionOnce you have identified that your dog is exhibiting toy aggression, it’s time to take proactive steps to prevent and manage this behavior. After all, we all want to create a safe and happy living environment for our dogs and the rest of the family. The earlier you address the issue, the easier it will be to modify your dog’s behavior.In the following sections, I’ll offer strategies and techniques to help you prevent and manage toy aggression that I have learned over my many years fostering rescue dogs. By understanding the underlying reasons for this behavior, managing the behavior to prevent trouble short-term, and training for long-term success, you can effectively address this common problem.Early Socialization and TrainingOne of the most effective ways to prevent resource guarding is through early socialization and training, which is excellent news if you’re bringing a young puppy home!Expose your young pup to various people, animals, and environments from a young age. This will help them develop positive associations with different triggers and situations, ultimately reducing their fear and anxiety. It will help them be more comfortable in unknown situations instead of making them feel like they have to step up and protect themselves and their treasured belongings.Positive Reinforcement TechniquesChoosing the right approach to training is almost as important as the training process itself. Positive reinforcement is a powerful training method that rewards desired behaviors and creates positive associations.When your dog displays calm and relaxed behavior around their toys, reward them with treats, praise, or playtime. In time, your dog will begin associating sharing with positive things, reducing the likelihood of aggressive behavior.Why specifically positive reinforcement? Punishing or scolding your dog for guarding their toys can escalate their anxiety, making the problem worse.Basic Obedience CommandsIn addition to focusing on training specifically related to your dog’s resource guarding behaviors, you should continue working on obedience training. Many basic commands, such as “drop it” and “leave it,” will help you manage these situations.Throughout this training, the goal is to convince your dog to trade for something better. Practice these commands regularly, starting with having your dog leave low-value items in exchange for treats. As they show they are more willing to make the trade, gradually progress to higher-value items like toys.You can effectively prevent and manage their resource guarding by teaching your dog to hand over or drop items on cue.Desensitization and CounterconditioningAn extension of your dog’s training, desensitization and counterconditioning are powerful techniques used to help your dog overcome their fear and anxiety. As these feelings can trigger resource guarding or make a situation involving resource guarding even worse, they are important to acknowledge and address.If you have a dog who can share with others in some situations and not others, you will need to find the reason why. If your dog is in a situation where they are feeling fearful, they are more likely to try to feel the need to protect their belongings.  These techniques involve gradually exposing your dog to their triggers while maintaining a calm and relaxed environment. These exposures are paired with positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise, to create positive associations and teach them that the trigger does not need to be feared.For example, if you have a small dog afraid of large dogs, you may start by standing across a field from larger dogs while rewarding your dog for staying calm. Over time, you can slowly close the gap between them while praising and rewarding them for calm behavior. Eventually, your dog will be able to be close to larger dogs without feeling nervous or afraid because the emotions they feel when seeing them have been rewired – feeling excitement for the rewards they know they will receive instead of fear.When you have successfully worked through this process, your dog will no longer feel the need to guard their toys just because a larger dog comes near.Try Calming Products to Reduce Anxiety For dogs who experience heightened anxiety or stress, calming products can help them feel more relaxed temporarily while you work toward a longer-term solution. Calming treats infused with natural ingredients like chamomile or valerian root can help soothe your dog and promote relaxation. Another option is to use pheromone diffusers or sprays to mimic the calming pheromones that dogs naturally produce. These chemical signals tell the brain they are safe and secure, helping them feel calmer and relaxed in their surroundings. This can help prevent situations from escalating into something serious. For more severe cases of anxiety, I recommend consulting with your veterinarian about the potential benefits of CBD products specifically formulated for dogs.

Chatty Catty? What Drives those Chirpy Vocalizations?

Instinctive yet entertaining, why some feline's love to chatter away.

What Vaccines Does My Kitten Need?

Welcoming a kitten into your home is a joyful, heartwarming experience - and the start of a lifelong bond. But along with the cuddles and playtime, your new feline friend needs a solid foundation of care. One of the most important steps? Vaccinations.Vaccines are essential to protecting your kitten from serious - and sometimes life-threatening - illnesses. They play a vital role in keeping your pet healthy and also help prevent the spread of disease to other cats.If you're feeling a little overwhelmed, don’t worry - here’s a simple guide to the core and non-core vaccines your kitten may need, plus a general timeline to help you stay on track.Why Vaccines Matter for KittensKittens are especially vulnerable to infection because their immune systems are still developing. Vaccines work by gently training their bodies to recognize and fight off certain viruses and bacteria - before they ever encounter the real thing.In short, vaccines help your kitten build immunity, giving them a much stronger defense against common feline diseases. And by vaccinating your cat, you’re not just protecting them - you're also helping reduce the spread of disease in your local cat community.Core Vaccines: What Every Kitten NeedsCore vaccines are recommended for all kittens, regardless of whether they’ll be indoor-only or outdoor explorers. These vaccines protect against the most common and dangerous feline illnesses:1. Feline Panleukopenia (Distemper)A highly contagious (and often deadly) viral disease that causes vomiting, diarrhea, and severe dehydration. This is one of the most critical vaccines your kitten will receive.2. Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1) and Feline Calicivirus (FCV)These viruses cause upper respiratory infections, often referred to together as feline viral rhinotracheitis. Symptoms include sneezing, nasal discharge, eye irritation, and sometimes mouth ulcers. They’re very common, especially in multi-cat households or shelters.3. RabiesRabies affects the nervous system and is fatal - and it can be transmitted to humans. Vaccination is legally required in many areas, and even indoor cats need protection, as rabies can be spread by the bite of an infected animal.Non-Core Vaccines: Based on Lifestyle and RiskNon-core vaccines aren’t necessary for every cat, but they’re recommended in certain situations, especially if your kitten will be around other animals or spend time outdoors.1. Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)FeLV weakens the immune system and can lead to cancer. It spreads through close contact like grooming or sharing food and water bowls. This vaccine is often recommended for kittens, outdoor cats, or those in multi-cat homes.2. Bordetella bronchisepticaA bacterial infection that can cause respiratory issues, especially in crowded or high-stress environments like shelters or boarding facilities.3. Chlamydophila felisThis bacterium causes conjunctivitis (eye inflammation) and is most often a concern in catteries or rescue settings. Your vet may recommend it if your kitten is at higher risk.The Typical Kitten Vaccination ScheduleVaccination generally starts when kittens are around 6 to 8 weeks old, with boosters given every 3 to 4 weeks until about 16 weeks of age.A typical schedule looks like this:6–8 weeks: First round of core vaccines10–12 weeks: Booster shots + possible non-core vaccines14–16 weeks: Final boosters1 year later: Booster shots (some may shift to every 3 years after this)Your vet may adjust the schedule based on your kitten’s health, lifestyle, and specific risks.A Healthy Start Begins with VaccinesGetting your kitten vaccinated is one of the best things you can do to ensure a happy, healthy future together. While it might seem like a lot at first, your veterinarian will walk you through the process and help create a personalized plan.By staying up to date on vaccinations and regular checkups, you’re giving your kitten a strong start and the best possible protection for the adventures ahead.

Viral Pet-Friendly Cruise Now Accepting Larger Dogs

Cruise lovers have long faced the fact that dogs (except service dogs) aren’t allowed to join them on their favorite ships. Luckily, an exciting announcement from Expedia Cruise of West Orlando and Cruise Tails revealed a dog-friendly cruise will set sail in November 2025 on the Margaritaville at Sea Islander. What’s the catch? While the cruise is estimated to include up to 250 canine cruisers, there were strict limitations on which dogs would be allowed to board. Among the restrictions was the fact that only dogs up to 20 lbs (and 18 inches in height) would be allowed on the maiden voyage. On their website, Cruise Tails stressed that this first cruise is a “proof of concept” as the first pet cruise ever. The success of this cruise will have a considerable impact on the future of pet-friendly cruising. Recognizing this, they state that “everything has been planned with an abundance of caution and safety.” They hope that after a successful initial cruise, they will be able to loosen the leash for future trips.   Pet parents were invited to sign up for updates, and in December, the initial round of applications was opened for those whose dogs met their strict requirements. But a new announcement has opened the door for a larger pool of pet-friendly cruise lovers. While large and extra-large dogs are still not eligible to join in on the fun, the weight limit for travelers has been increased to 28 lbs (the 18-inch height still applies). This rule change may seem minor, but it is a game changer for those who share their lives with popular breeds like the Pembroke Welsh Corgi or the French Bulldog. In addition to the weight and height requirements, there are several other rules to consider when determining if your dog is eligible, including: Only dogs 6 months old and older are eligible. All dogs boarding must be up-to-date on their vaccinations, including rabies, distemper, and parvovirus. Dog parents must be able to provide a valid veterinary health certificate issued within 30 days of their sailing date. Dogs must be microchipped or have an approved ID tag, including the dog’s name, cabin number, and valid contact information. Dogs with a history of aggressive behavior toward people or animals are prohibited. The cruise only allows for one dog per cabin. However, larger families may still be able to cruise together if they book multiple cabins, accepting that the dogs will be separated when they turn in for the night. Regardless of the initial restrictions, the cruise is an exciting step forward for pet-friendly travel lovers. Assuming all goes well with this initial trip, it could not only mean future trips with Cruise Tails but also encourage other cruise lines to reconsider their strict no-pets policy. This could be a significant turning point for the travel industry. We can’t wait to hear more updates, not only from Cruise Tails but also from those who will be setting sail! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

Can Dogs Get Dry Eye? You Betcha!

7 Essential Tips for Welcoming a Rescue Dog Into Your Home

Bringing a rescue dog into your home is a huge commitment. These animals often come from challenging backgrounds, neglect, abandonment, or trauma, and giving them a second chance can be incredibly rewarding. However, it also requires patience, understanding, and lots of preparation. Here are seven key tips to help you and your new furry friend start your journey together on the right paw.

Are Dogs Ticklish?

Is that a laugh? And is he really enjoying this type of playtime?

9 Signs Your Pet Is Trying to Tell You Something Important

Pets communicate with us all the time, it just doesn’t involve words. From changes in behavior to subtle body language, they have their own ways of letting us know when something’s wrong or when they need something.Being able to recognize those signs can help you catch health or emotional issues early on.Here are 9 signs your pet might be trying to tell you something important. 

How Do I Safely Introduce My Dog to Other Dogs?

Most dogs are social butterflies, wagging their tails with excitement to meet new friends. But just like us, some pups are a little shy or need extra time to warm up. Introducing your dog to a new furry companion can be exciting, but it’s also a situation that requires care and patience. Done right, these introductions can boost your dog’s confidence and help them build healthy relationships. Here’s your guide to making those first meetings safe and stress-free for everyoneinvolved.Know Your Dog’s PersonalityBefore planning any doggy meet-and-greet, take a good look at your pup’s personality and past behavior around other dogs. Some dogs are naturally outgoing, while others might be timid or uncertain.If your dog hasn’t had much exposure to other animals or shows signs of aggression (growling, barking, or lunging), it’s wise to consult a professional dog trainer or behaviorist for guidance. Knowing your dog’s comfort zone will help you plan ahead and set them up for success.Pick the Perfect SpotWhere the introduction happens can make a big difference. Neutral territory is key—somewhere neither dog feels they need to "defend their turf." Avoid meeting at home or in your yard, as territorial instincts could kick in.Instead, opt for a park, quiet street, or any open, low-distraction space. Look for a spot where both dogs can move freely without feeling cramped. It should also be safe and secure, with minimal traffic or other potential stressors.Leash Up (But Keep It Chill)Both dogs should be leashed for their first meeting, but here’s a pro tip: don’t keep the leash too tight. A taut leash can make your dog feel anxious and restricted, sending the wrong vibes.

Cats Recognize Their Owner's Scent, Study Suggests

Here’s something every cat lover probably suspected but never had the science to prove—until now. Your cat knows exactly what you smell like.A new study out of Tokyo University of Agriculture has found that domestic cats can tell the difference between the scent of their beloved human and that of a total stranger. And how do they show it? By giving the unknown smell the extra sniff test.Researchers conducted a pretty straightforward experiment. They rounded up 30 feline participants and presented them with three tubes. One held a cotton swab rubbed with their owner's scent (gathered from under the armpit, behind the ear, and between the toes), another had the smell of a stranger of the same sex, and the third was a clean, scentless control.So what did the cats do? They barely showed any interest in the tube that smelled like their human. But the unfamiliar scent? That one got the full sniff-and-investigate treatment.The researchers say this shows cats can distinguish between familiar and unfamiliar people based on scent. But it doesn’t necessarily mean they can pick you out of a lineup based on smell alone. In other words, they’re not quite at police-sniffer-dog levels yet.Lead author Hidehiko Uchiyama explained it like this: “The odour stimuli used in this study were only those of known and unknown persons. We still need more behavioral experiments with multiple known-person scents to figure out if cats can really identify a specific individual.”Translation: It’s one thing for your cat to say, “Hey, this is familiar,” and another for them to say, “Ah, yes, this is definitely Steve from Apartment 4B who feeds me chicken treats.”This isn’t the first time science has looked at the mysterious ways cats recognize us. Earlier research has shown that cats can distinguish human voices, read our facial expressions, and even pick up on emotional cues through our body language and smell.The Tokyo team also noticed something else kind of interesting: after giving those unfamiliar swabs a thorough whiff, many cats rubbed their faces on the tubes. Cat owners will recognize this move—it’s scent-marking. So the sniffing might be part of a bigger process of cats getting familiar with new things in their environment.But not everyone’s ready to crown cats as scent detectives just yet. Serenella d’Ingeo, a researcher from the University of Bari who studies animal behavior (but wasn’t involved in this study), had a few notes of caution. She pointed out that we still don’t know how cats are feeling when they’re sniffing these tubes. Are they curious? Cautious? Grossed out? Hard to say.Plus, because the samples were presented by the cats’ own humans, who were standing right there smelling like themselves, there’s a chance the cats were even more interested in the new smells just because of the context. “Of course,” d’Ingeo said, “if owners present other odours that are different from their personal one, in a way they engage the cat more.”Still, the researchers concluded that yes, cats do use their noses to tell us apart from others. So next time, your feline roommate gives you a sniff and a head bump, take it as a compliment. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.