According to researchers, there is a lot of speculation about the origins of the ‘domestic dog.’ We know that today’s domestic dog is a member of the genus Canis. We also know that dogs are the most widely abundant terrestrial carnivore. There is also a lot of evidence to support the fact that dogs were not only the first species to be domesticated by humans, but that they were also domesticated long before the advent of agriculture.

It seems very likely that our hunter-gatherer ancestors traveled and lived with dog companions. There is certainly a lot of history there—but today, dog owners are cranking up the relationship a notch by taking the care of their animals to the next level.

This is actually awesome, because dogs have long dealt with a number of health issues resulting from poor nutrition. Nowadays, cheap bulk dog-food can be so devoid of proper nutrients that it is almost not even advisable to give your pet!

So dog owners are educating themselves. But what about pineapple?

Let’s get into it.

What Is Pineapple?

A pineapple plant, also known as Ananas comosus, is ‘a fruit-bearing plant of the family Bromeliaceae.’ If you are fond of Polynesian cuisine, oriental-style cooking, or pina coladas, then you have doubtlessly experienced the sweet, yet slightly bitter taste that pineapple brings to any dish or drink.

But what about its health benefits?

Humans consume Pineapple for a number of different reasons. Yes, it is delicious… both alone and as an ingredient. But it also contains a lot of nutritional value. Pineapple is rich in vitamins, enzymes, and antioxidants. It is a known immune-system booster, and helps those who eat it to build stronger bones.

There is even a lot of evidence to support the fact that it helps with indigestion as well!

As far as specific vitamins, minerals, and enzymes go, Pineapple is rich in and/or contains at least decent amounts of…

• Vitamin C
• Manganese
• Dietary Fiber
• Bromelain
• Thiamin
• Riboflavin
• Copper
• Zinc
• Calcium

It is also a low-calorie food. One cup of pineapple chunks only contains about 82 calories—making it perfect for any diet where calories are restricted. It is also quite sweet and tasty for how many calories are in it; which makes it double-awesome!

But what about dogs? We know that humans can eat pineapple, and that it is actually good for them. But can dogs eat pineapple?

Can Dogs Eat Pineapple?

Dogs don’t eat pineapple. pic.twitter.com/ELlElLDN3F

— Murr (@jamessmurray) November 24, 2017

Really?

According to the American Kennel Club’s website, pineapple actually makes a decent snack for dogs… though it should be served in moderation. As far as dogs are concerned, pineapple is actually a pretty nutrient-dense snack—though it does contain a few things to be cautious of.

It is not only tasty, but also helpful for your dog’s digestive health and immune system.

But still, with that being said, there are some considerations to take into account.

For one, keep in mind that pineapple is high in fiber, while also containing significant amounts of natural sugar. It is fine in small quantities, but in larger quantities it could feasibly cause some problems. Some dogs develop stomach problems or diarrhea if they eat too much of the fleshy, tangy food.

It is also not advisable to give your dog the core of the pineapple. This might seem like an obvious, nutritional alternative to a soup bone—but it is actually not safe. The central core of a pineapple is tough, and can cause obstructions in your dog’s digestive tract. Also, of course, you should avoid letting your dog get a hold of any parts of the spiny outer skin.

For best results, stick to feeding him/her the juicy flesh between the core and the outer skin.

What Kind of Pineapple Should You Give Your Dog?

While fresh pineapple can be a healthy choice for your dog in small amounts, you should absolutely stay away from the canned variety. Many people see canned pineapple as more convenient, which it is. Buying canned is not only cheaper, but it also takes less time. This is awesome for people—but the canned version of the food is not so great for your canine companions!

The problem with canned pineapple is that it often contains a lot of sugar—too much for your dog’s sensitive digestive tract.

Most specialists agree that if you wish to serve your dog pineapple, the best way to do so is to buy it fresh.

How to Serve Your Dog Pineapple

The best way to serve pineapple to your dog is to buy it fresh, cut it up, and separate the core from the juicy, tender meat of the fruit. Do not feed your dog fruit from the core! Instead, cut up the juiciest, most tender part of the fruit and give it to your dog in bite-sized portions, cut up small enough that there is no risk of choking.

As for ‘how much’ to serve, you should stick to one chunk at a time until you know that your dog will not suffer any adverse side-effects. After that, you can work your way up to a few chunks per day, as desired.

Many dogs actually really like the sweet taste of pineapple—but not all dogs are the same. If your dog isn’t into it, don’t stress over it! There are plenty of awesome substitutes out there. Strawberries and watermelon are just two examples of fresh fruits that many dogs love to eat. These are also full of nutrients, not so unlike their tropical counterpart the pineapple!

Is It True That Pineapple Will Help Your Dog to Stop Eating Poop?

There are some rumors going around online that suggest feeding pineapple to your dog can stop it from eating its own poop.

Dogs who eat their poop can be troublesome. We often see this as a pretty disgusting habit, so it is not surprising that people would be out to find a remedy for it.

As it turns out, feeding your dog pineapple might help to alleviate this problem—though it doesn’t always work. There can be a number of reasons for why a dog might eat his/her feces. Some of these reasons could include…

• Boredom
• Restlessness
• A poor diet
• Learned behavior from other dogs
• Attention seeking
• Fear of repercussions for having pooped indoors when they were not supposed to

If your dog tends to eat a regular diet of bagged dog-food, it is very possible that they are eating poop because they are not getting the nutrients they need. It could also be true that the food is so tasteless that it actually tastes about the same the second time around!

Note: If you love your animal companion, look into his/her diet and avoid feeding cheap department store dog-food. Do some research and you will see that it is simply not a good choice!

Feeding your dog a bit of pineapple every day can help to solve this problem in two different ways. First off, it can help to give your dog more adequate nutrition. If they are eating poop because of poor nutrition, this can certainly help the problem. And secondly, pineapple can give them a tasty treat to enjoy and distract them from the alternative, less appealing habit that they have been engaging in!

But keep in mind that while pineapple can help to solve this problem, it will not always do the trick either. Dogs who eat their own poop are often suffering from behavioral problems that are hard to curb, and though pineapple has been said to make their poop smell worse (thereby theoretically deterring them from eating it), this theory actually has little effect on them.

So feeding your dog pineapple to try to get him/her to stop eating their own feces is not a bad idea by itself—but a better idea may be to pick up their poop soon after it appears, in hopes that you can keep them separated from it and discourage the habit that way.

Pineapple is awesome for your dog, but it may not be the ‘cure all’ for this particular problem!

Other Ways to Feed Pineapple to Your Dog

If dogs can eat pineapple, then you may be wondering if there is any alternative way to feed it to them other than raw. We know that canned pineapple is not good for dogs, but what about cooked pineapple?

As it turns out, there are a variety of tasty treats that you can make for your dog using pineapple as an ingredient. Homemade treats are almost always better than the store-bought treats for two major reasons.

1. You know exactly what is in them
2. The food you use to make treats yourself is often higher-quality than the food used to mass-produce dog treats

You can, for example, make homemade pineapple & molasses dog treats using this recipe found on theblondcook.com. In this recipe, you combine crushed pineapple, olive oil, molasses, a large egg, vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder to create little cookie-like snacks for your pet.

This is a pretty fun way to feed your dog pineapple if he/she does not like the taste of it raw. It is also fun to make treats like this anyway, especially if you love your dog and love to do things for him/her.

When Is the Best Time to Feed Your Dog Pineapple?

As a general rule, snacks like pineapple or pineapple treats should be used as rewards for good behavior or for during training. Rewarding your dog for good behavior helps to build a positive bond between the two of you—but it also gives your dog an even better reason to do what you say!

It can also be fun to teach your dog to beg for food. Teaching your dog to beg politely for snacks will help you in two different ways.

1. It will help to discourage rude begging
2. It will satisfy your dog’s natural evolutionary need to beg for food as a survival strategy

Teaching your dog to beg politely is not as difficult as you may think, and pineapple can be an awesome tool to use for this exact purpose! Since it is sweet, but also nutritious, your dog will both love it and benefit from it!

Place Healthy Limits on Snacks

Most experts agree that dog treats should not exceed 10% of your dog’s calorie intake each day. Feeding too many sweets can give your dog too much sugar. Plus, pineapple has a lot of fiber in it—which can be a little hard on your dog’s digestive system in large amounts.

If you have a 30 pound dog, you should probably limit pineapple snacks to no more than 6-7 bite-sized chunks per day. It is also not a good idea to feed pineapple snacks to puppies who are 12 weeks old or younger. Puppies of this age are still in their formative stages, and should only consume foods that actually meet all of their nutritional needs.

In Conclusion

As your dog’s owner and caregiver, it is obviously important to know and understand what you are feeding your pet. And reading articles like this is an awesome step in the right direction! Just keep doing your best and caring for your dog, but also don’t forget to continue to educate yourself.

We never stop learning about our beloved canine companions. They are a long-term commitment and deserve the very best that we have to offer!

So can dogs eat pineapple? As it turns out, they can! Just follow good advice and feed responsibly, and you should have absolutely no problem with it!

The post Can Dogs Eat Pineapple? What You Should Know! appeared first on GoBarking.com.

There is almost nothing more frustrating to a dog owner than realizing that your dog has a jumping problem. Granted, this can seem innocent enough when they are little puppies. In fact, it can almost be tempting to think of it as ‘cute.’

But this quickly changes when the dog starts to grow up. In fact, where larger dogs are concerned, jumping can even be dangerous. It can knock people down, cause scratches from your dog’s claws, and/or be very irritating and embarrassing.

As a general rule, jumping is usually a behavior that you want to discourage.

But how?

Before you take action to stop your dog from jumping, it is important to understand why the behavior is happening to begin with. The fact of the matter is that your dog is doing this for a reason… and the better you understand that reason, the better equipped you will be to use healthy, productive techniques to help train your canine companion to know better.

Here are some of the common reasons why dogs jump, and what to do about it.

Dogs Jump to Say Hello

If you have ever watched dogs greet each other, you will notice that they usually go ‘face to face’ first. This is a dog thing. It is how they greet one-another and acknowledge the presence of another dog, especially if they are happy or excited to see the other animal.

With this being said, it is not so difficult to see why your dog would jump to greet you. They are jumping up to show you love, to say hello, and to express how excited they are that you have returned to them.

Dogs Jump to Show Their Dominance

Dogs use body language for a lot of their communication… and one reason for jumping could be that your dog is jumping to show their dominance.

Usually, your dog will see you as the dominant presence in the relationship. But in cases where this is not so, they may ‘jump’ up on you either because they do not respect you/see you as the boss, or because they are actually trying to assert their dominance and let you know that they are in charge.

This is obviously a more sensitive type of situation to handle—but with patience, practice, and consistency, you can once again reinstate your place as the dominant presence in the relationship.

This type of behavior can be difficult to identify. But in-general, you will want to keep an eye out for ‘unexcited’ jumping. It is pretty common for dogs to jump when they are excited—but if your dog is jumping to show dominance, they will be more likely to jump when you are either in their way, or when you have something that they want.

In other words, they will jump up on you to ‘force you’ to do what they want instead of jumping up on you for kisses and affection.

Sometimes, this kind of jumping will push you back, feel generally ‘unfriendly,’ or can even include a growl if you move into them or try to push them back.

If your dog acts aggressively or growls at you, it is always best to seek professional help—as this could be a sign of deep-set behavioral problems. It could also be an indicator of a dysfunctional relationship between you and your dog.

In any case, this type of jumping is important to identify and fix.

Dogs Jump When They Are Afraid or to Alert You

This is a less common type of jumping behavior, but it is one that is very important to try to pay attention to. Dogs sometimes jump when they are stressed out or afraid, as a way to either ask you for help or to express their discomfort.

This kind of jumping usually happens at weird times, when your dog usually wouldn’t jump. It can happen for a number of reasons. Your dog might be in pain, scared, afraid of a different dog, responding to a change in weather, asking for help, or letting you know that they need to go to the bathroom.

If you suspect that your dog may be jumping up on you out of fear, or because they are trying to alert you to something, it is important that you take a step back and try to figure out what they are saying.

There is likely something stressing them out, and the sooner you figure out what it is, the sooner you can help to sort it out so that things can go back to normal.

Dogs Jump When They Are Lacking Social Skills

Sometimes, dogs simply do not understand that jumping is a bad behavior. This can happen if your dog is under-socialized, stressed, doesn’t get out much, has not been trained properly, or receives mixed messages about what should or shouldn’t be done.

This is an example of how knowledge on the part of the trainer can make all the difference in the world. If the owner of the dog does not employ the proper teaching techniques, or if a dog is not allowed to socialize as much as they should, then this kind of problem is almost guaranteed to happen.

And in such cases, it is not fair to get mad at your dog. With the proper care and training, jumping due to a lack of social skills can be quickly remedied.

What Can You Do to Stop Dogs From Jumping on You?

Thankfully, this is not a new problem. And if you have been asking yourself “why does my dog jump on me?” you will be happy to learn that there are actually a number of different things that you can do to help sort it out.

Here are some tips to help.

• Figure out why your dog is jumping. Are they jumping to say hello? Are they jumping to alert you? There are a number of possible explanations, so pay attention to your dog’s behavior and try to diagnose it accurately.
• Do some reading and some research about the topic. You can never know too much about dogs. Reading a book on the subject, or even a few articles, can do a lot to help equip you for training your dog the right way.
• Make sure that you spend enough quality time with your dog. Learn about him/her, and figure out how he/she normally acts. Once you know what to expect on a daily basis, it gets easier to diagnose problems and troubleshoot different behaviors.

It is important to remember that every situation is a little bit different. If your dog is jumping up on you, try to figure out why—and then go from there. But here are some tips for how to handle more general types of jumping behavior.

Obviously you need to handle different situations a bit differently. But in a general sense, here are some basic guidelines to help you navigate this challenging issue with your favorite canine companion.

If Your Dog Is Jumping to Say Hello…

Solving this jumping habit is simply a matter of training. To put it simply, you just need to teach your dog better. You obviously need to start with a plan. One method that some trainers use helps the dog to distinguish between the commands ‘hug’ and ‘off.’

You use treats to train them to jump up and ‘hug’ you when you want them to, and then make sure that they understand that ‘off’ means that it is time to get down. When telling them that it is time to get ‘off,’ you should move INTO them, pushing into them with your body (but do not push them with your hands). You should conduct this training when your dog is calm, so that they can pay better attention to what you want.

If you don’t ever want your dog to jump up on you, then you should simply teach him/her the ‘off’ command.

Make sure to use a strong, firm voice. And remember, this takes time. Your dog may or may not pick up on it quickly, but be patient and consistent. You must ALWAYS tell your dog ‘off’ and stick with the same verbal command whenever your dog jumps for this to work. Inconsistency confuses dogs.

If Your Dog Is Jumping to Show Dominance…

This situation is a bit more serious, but it is still important to get it figured out. The first step is to build a foundation of respect with your dog. You need to be consistent and perseverant, but remember that your dog NEEDS this time with you if he/she is going to overcome this problem.

A few ways to start this process now is to…

• Start making your dog wait at every doorway. Whenever you cross a threshold, you can tell your dog to wait and let you cross first, indicating that you are claiming the territory and are in charge. If your dog tries to dart ahead of you, use your leash to stop them.
• Have your dog wait to eat his or her food until you give them permission.
• Start working on ‘backup’ exercises, where you move into your dog and have them back away from you.

These types of activities take a lot of time, patience, and practice. But your dog needs them… especially if they do not respect you.

If Your Dog Is Jumping to Alert You…

If your dog is jumping out of fear, or to alert you of something, there is probably no need to try to train them not to do it. If your dog jumps for other reasons, such as to say hello or to show dominance, then yes… training is probably necessary.

Your dog cannot talk to you. Therefore, he/she only has a few tools with which to communicate important things… and jumping is one of them.

If you know your dog well enough to know why they are jumping, then just try to fix the reason for their ‘alert jumping,’ and then be done with it. There is no need to train them for jumping when they are only jumping to let you know that something is wrong.

If Your Dog Is Jumping Because of Poor Social Skills…

If you feel that your dog may be under-socialized, then it is important that you address the problem.

But with that being said, this is admittedly a hard problem to remedy. In fact, this is one of the most difficult jumping problems to solve. Dogs who are under socialized might be so overstimulated at times that they can have a difficult time focusing on you or what you are saying.

Here are some tips for helping to turn this problem around.

• Use a leash for training, as this will help a lot
• Use treats to get your dog’s focus back on you
• If your dog is getting overstimulated, take them away from the situation
• Once they have calmed down, bring them back into the situation… but try to help them keep their focus on you
• From this point, teach your dog as you would an excited dog… using ‘hug’ and ‘off’ as command words to make them understand what you want

Where Can You Seek Help If You Can’t Get the Problem Fixed?

If you cannot get the problem solved on your own, you may need to find a professional dog trainer in your area. You could also sign up for local dog training classes. Your local veterinarian should have information about this if you cannot find it any other way, but a quick Google Search in your local area should yield plenty of relevant results.

Why does my dog jump on me? This question can be a confusing one to answer. But thankfully, with some patience, effort, and a little bit of information, you can actually do a lot to get it sorted out and get your dog back on the right track.

The post Why Does My Dog Jump on Me? appeared first on GoBarking.com.

Unforunately, it’s not.

Even though corn itself is a rather healthy snack with it generally being neither harmful or toxic – that is, unless your dog suffers from a corn allergy – corn cobs are best to be avoided. The main issue is that when consumed in large chunks, or whole, the cob can become an intestinal obstruction – a condition that can, unfortunately, be fatal.

Most vegetables are easily digestible, but dogs’ stomachs are unable to break down corn cobs, so the likelihood of them causing a blockage in the intestines is high. This then can put your dog at serious risk of intestinal damage, like perforation of the intestines.

What to Do

Call your veterinarian as soon as possible; this is vital as not only saves your dog from a lot of pain that could occur from the corn cob making its way into the intestines. It also saves money in the long run, as it’s easier for the vet to remove foreign objects from the stomach than from the intestines.

However, it’s not always easy to know for certain if your dog ate a whole corn cob or something else it shouldn’t have, so if you notice that your dog has started vomiting up food, or even just fluids. And even though a well-known sign of an obstruction in the intestines is difficulty defecating, it’s important to remember that dogs with intestinal blockages can be perfectly capable of going to the toilet for a couple of days. So, even if your dog is displaying ordinary bowel movements, if they are vomiting you need to seek veterinary assistance.

Either your veterinarian will guide you through the process of helping your dog vomit up the corn cob, or they will tell you to bring your dog into the clinic as soon as possible. It will most likely be the latter, considering the solid form of the cob and how easily it could become a choking hazard.

Your dog will most likely need to go under general anaesthetic so that your vet can remove the corn cob from the intestines and so that they can check how severe the damage to the intestines is. If the damage is serious, then your dog will have to have the damaged parts removed. However, if caught early enough, your dog’s intestines should be fine.

Overall, if you have any suspicion that your dog ate a corn cob recently, the first thing to do is call the vet. A lodged corn cob can lead to perforation of the intestines and internal bleeding. Calling the vet is vital to your dog’s health and, even, survival.

Can Dogs Eat Corn Still?

Sweet Corn is actually pretty healthy still. It’s a great source of energy and protein, and even contains fatty acids essential to a healthy canine diet. Scraping off the kernels from a corn cob is a great alternative to giving your dog access to a whole cob to chew on.

That being said, be aware that some dogs may have developed an intolerance towards corn. Whilst it’s not a common allergy for a dog to have, it is always best to be wary with more sensitive dogs.

What Are the Symptoms of a Corn Allergy?

The common symptoms of a corn allergy include:

• Hives
• Vomiting
• Itchy skin
• Diarrhoea
• Intestinal Issues

What is an Intestinal Obstruction?

An intestinal obstruction occurs when the small or large intestines are blocked, usually by a foreign object. They can be extremely painful and can, unfortunately, be fatal when not treated properly.

An obstruction that isn’t removed can cause perforation of the intestines, or even rupture them. This can lead to all sorts of issues such as internal bleeding and the leaking of harmful bacteria into the abdominal region.

It’s vital that an intestinal obstruction is treated as soon as possible as it can be extremely life-threatening. The sooner you contact the vet, the better.

What Are the Symptoms of an Intestinal Obstruction?

If you suspect that your dog may have eaten a whole corn cob, or any inedible object for that matter, call your vet immediately. However, if you aren’t really sure then monitor your dog in case it displays any of these symptoms:

• Dry Heaving
• Straining during defecation
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Irritability
• Lethargy

Though, as previously mentioned, it is important to remember that your dog can still pass ordinary stools for a couple of days when it first develops an intestinal obstruction. So, if your dog is displaying other symptoms whilst not suffering from diarrhoea or constipation, that doesn’t necessarily mean that your dog does not have a foreign object lodged in their intestines.

Should I Induce Vomiting?

Generally speaking, you shouldn’t induce vomiting in your dog at home.

It can be extremely dangerous, and at home, you don’t have the knowledge or facilities of a vet to fix the situation if things were to go wrong.

Corn cobs, in particular, are a pretty severe choking hazard. Whilst some larger dogs could potentially vomit up the cob – again, still avoid encouraging your dog to vomit – most dogs would struggle to shift such a large and solid object through their oesophagus. There is a rather large risk of it becoming lodged.

Unless under exceptional circumstances where you cannot get your dog to a vet and it has not long eaten the whole corn cob, your vet may guide you through the process of safely inducing vomiting in your dog.

However, inducing vomiting should be left to the professionals as it can be a huge risk to your dog if not done properly.

How Can I Share Leftover Corn With My Dog?

Just scraping off the leftover kernels from the cob and then feeding them directly to your dog should suffice.

Though it is advised not to feed your dog straight from the dinner table as it can contribute to bad habits, so if you are to share the leftover kernels with them, it’s probably best to scrape them into your dog’s food bowl and teaching them that that is where they eat; not from the dinner table.

Another way in which you can feed your dog the leftover corn and kernels from a corn cob is to firmly hold the cob and let your dog eat directly from it. It’s important that you keep a firm grip to prevent your dog from being able to grab the cob away from you.

If your dog somehow manages to steal away a whole corn cob, be careful retrieving it again as they may become protective of their ‘catch’ and try to it eat before you can take it off them. You may need to tempt them away with something more appetising, or their favourite toy.

How Do I Prevent Intestinal Obstructions?

When it comes to corn cobs specifically, it’s best to be vigilant with the disposal of used cobs. Dogs are very smart when it comes to sniffing out their favourite scraps of food, and even the most well-trained dog can dig through your household bin in search of a corn cob.

A dog that’s aware of how corn can be eaten from a corn cob may be even more determined to steal a corn cob from the bin so you may want to avoid letting them eat the corn cob from your hands and instead, scrape the leftovers into their dinner bowl.

Either way, it’s best to either dispose of corn cobs directly into an outdoor bin or to immediately take out the kitchen bin so your dog can’t dig through it and find the cobs later on.

If you notice your dog eating other objects both edible and inedible such as garden plants or shoes, you may need to ask your veterinarian or canine behaviour specialist for their advice.

The post My Dog Ate a Whole Corn Cob – What to Do? appeared first on GoBarking.com.

Whether it be chocolate or an avocado, dogs tend to find a way to eat what is bad for them. And it’s not only toxic foods they tend to have a taste for, but would you believe it, it’s also extremely common for dogs to enjoy chewing and eating inedible objects.

Sometimes it’s shoes, sometimes it’s newspapers, and sometimes it’s socks. Don’t worry; it’s perfectly normal if your dog ate a sock whilst you weren’t looking. Annoying sure, but definitely not your fault.

There are a few things that might happen if your dog decides to devour a sock. An easy thing to deal with is if they’re able to vomit it back up themselves, your dog might not realise it shouldn’t eat a sock, but his stomach will and should take action to get it out of the dog’s system.

Another way in which the dog may handle the situation itself is if it is able to let the sock pass through its system, and poop it out. That being said, socks aren’t exactly digestible so your dog might not be able to pass the sock through its intestines, assuming the sock even makes it that far.

Regardless of whether you think your dog is able to deal with the sock situation alone or not, there are steps you should take if you know, or think, that your dog has eaten a sock.

What to Do

Your dog ate a sock. Now what?

Call the vet. If you know or even suspect, that your dog has eaten a sock, the first thing you should do is call your vet.

When your dog eats an inedible object, it’s referred to as a ‘foreign body ingestion’, and the main problem when your dog eats an indigestible object is that these items can very easily become stuck in your dog’s stomach.

The digestive system, of any animal, does not have the ability to deal with items that can’t be dissolved into the intestines as food does.

So items like clothing can get stuck as they can’t be broken down.

This means, if the sock doesn’t get stuck in the stomach, there is a relatively large chance that it could become stuck in the intestines.

Luckily, vets are used to dealing with dogs eating bizarre objects so will know what to do if your dog has consumed one of your socks. They’ll most likely either guide you through dealing with the issue or will ask you to bring your dog to the veterinary clinic so that they can help your dog themselves.

If caught early enough, the vet may either induce vomiting in your dog or pump his stomach. This is to prevent the sock from making its way into the intestines, which could end up requiring surgery. And while in some cases, the dog is able to vomit up the sock themselves, the majority of the time they will need help from a veterinarian.

It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your pet’s health so always seek veterinary assistance if you’re unsure.

If your vet doesn’t induce vomiting or pump your dog’s stomach, they may turn to use an endoscope to retrieve the sock manually from within your dog. It’s more expensive than inducing vomiting, but not as expensive as surgery. An endoscopy is unfortunately useless if the sock does, in fact, make it into the intestines.

FAQ

Why Does My Dog Eat Socks?

It isn’t fully known why dogs eat socks, amongst other inedible objects, there are a few potential reasons as to why your dog has developed this sock fetish.

The most likely reason could be that they’re bored. A bored dog will seek out things to play with and chew on. The best way to solve this kind of issue is to look for different toys and forms of enrichment that can keep your dog busy when you are out or not able to keep them occupied.

Another potential cause as to why your dog ate a sock, is anxiety.

A different theory in what could be causing your dog to eat socks is the desire for attention.

It’s crucial to remember that dogs are social creatures and when they’re not experiencing enough interaction, they will turn to more ‘naughty’ behaviours that they know will get their human’s attention.

This, luckily, is rather easy to rectify. Simply spending more time with your dog, playing with them and fussing them, will encourage them to abandon their sock diet since they’re already receiving the attention they need.

Unfortunately, if your dog frequently seeks out socks, as well as any other object for that matter,  to eat, then it could be suffering from a disorder known as PICA.

PICA is a medical condition referring to a dog craving inedible items as food, like socks for example. The types of behaviours displayed from a dog suffering from PICA can be very dangerous to their gastrointestinal tract since the objects they’re eating could cause some serious damage if they were to get stuck.

Not forgetting to mention how expensive it can be to have to constantly seek out veterinary help because your dog is eating things that he shouldn’t be. Naughty Fido!

If you’re reading this description and thinking that your dog may be suffering from PICA, worry not – because it can be solved if caused by a medical issue, such as diabetes or inflammatory bowel disease. However, if there is no clear medical issue, a full history of the dog will need to be analysed by the vet so they can draw up a treatment plan.

Regardless of how easy PICA can be solved, try to keep your dog’s most craved items out of its reach to prevent further consumption.

What Are the Symptoms of an Obstruction?

If you’re worried that your dog is suffering from an abdominal or intestinal obstruction, the key symptoms to look out for are:

• Irritability
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Vomiting or dry heaving
• Diarrhoea or constipation – sometimes just noticing your dog straining whilst trying to defecate can be a sign that they have something stuck.
• Pain the abdomen

Even if you haven’t witnessed your dog eating a sock or any inedible object for that matter, if they are displaying any of these symptoms then there is a rather likely chance that they could be suffering from an obstruction.

Intestinal obstructions can be hard to spot, which is particularly scary with the knowledge of how serious they can be. If your dog is struggling to defecate – straining when you take them for walks – then they probably have something, like a sock, stuck.

If this is the case, call your vet immediately, as the sooner you act, the better for your dog’s intestines. It’s amazing the kind of damage that can be caused to the intestines by a singular sock.

What if it Happened Hours Ago?

Still, call the vet.

Whilst some larger dogs find it easier to pass objects like socks, whether it be through vomiting or excretion, most dogs can – and probably will – end up with sock becoming lodged within their stomach or intestines.

Waiting too long could cause serious damage to your dog’s organs, or even risk their life.

Can I Induce Vomiting Myself?

Sure, it can probably save you money on vet bills if you’re able to get the sock out yourself. But it’s best not to without explicit guidance from your vet, and it’s only ever suggested if you’re unable to get your dog down to the clinic for whatever reason.

Most vets will tell you not to try getting your dog to vomit as it can be extremely hazardous without the knowledge and facilities that your local vet will have.

For example, the sock could become lodged in your dog’s throat, which runs the risk of choking – something that a vet could easily handle.

How Can it be Prevented?

First of all, be careful where you leave your socks. Obvious as it may seem, you have to remember that dogs are pretty clever so you may have to be extra vigilant with where you keep your socks.

You can also look into toys and other forms of enrichment that will help keep your dog busy, stopping them from craving something like a sock to chew on. A Kongo filled with some pate or peanut butter would be a good place to start.

If these aren’t working as preventative measures, you can also seek out help from an animal behaviourist, or even your vet, to help guide you in the right direction in helping your dog.

Just remember, it’s not the end of the world if your dog ate a sock. If you call your vet as soon as possible, your best friend will be back to normal in no time.

The post My Dog Ate a Sock – What to Do? appeared first on GoBarking.com.

There are few things that bring a dog owner as much joy as taking care of their favorite canine companion. We all know that dogs need some ‘gear’ to make their lives better, and we LOVE shopping for it.

There is something about buying your cutest best friend cool stuff that really trips the ‘pleasure switch’ in the brain. And one piece of gear that every dog owner loves to think about buying for their dog is a dog house.

Well, we have taken it upon ourselves to assemble a list of the 17 most interesting dog house images that we could find online, in the hopes that we may be able to help you during your search.

Enjoy these dog houses! Hopefully they will inspire you to provide the perfect abode for your favorite little canine pal!

1. Boomer & George Stair Case Dog House

Find it here!

We love this dog house because it offers an attractive wood design, an upper play-area, and of course… a cozy place for your dog inside. It is priced pretty affordably, but you could also build one if you’re handy with a saw and a screw gun!

It comes in three different sizes, with the largest being 48W x 32D x 35H (inches).

Plus, it is made from fir, is weatherproof, and features a raised-floor design to keep your pup dry in wet weather.

2. Rufus Cream and Oak Pet House by ACME

Find it here!

This awesome little dog house is shaped like a real house… which is super cool.

We loved the railings and the little window vents on the roof, and were pretty crazy about the log-style look.

You can pick this dog house up here. It has a raised floor, and is also a pretty good size at 45”W x 50”D x 40”H.

It is in a collection literally called the ‘Rufus’ collection, which is super cute!

3. Weird Swamp Doghouse

Google it!

This is a CRAZY ONE! We actually found this image on Pinterest, but have no idea where it came from (Pinterest is great for finding interesting dog house images).

It looks like you could build one if you were handy enough with the tools, but it would be quite a project.

We loved it because it was so creepy/weird. It is almost like a swamp/horror house! Love it!!!

4. Boomer & George Duplex Dog House

Find it here!

This is another cute little dog house that you can find on hayneedle.com.

It is a duplex dog house, so if your pets get along pretty well, they could actually share this comfortable little space.

It is perfect for small to medium sized dogs, and comes with an optional center divider wall if you wanted the two halves to be separated.

We feel like it is a great idea!

5. Dog House Triple Kennel

Find it here!

You can find this little foot-of-the-bed-triple-kennel on Etsy. It is priced at a premium rate—but it would also be SO HANDY if you have three dogs who need a comfortable and convenient place to sleep at night.

DogCratesAndKennels hand-builds these on Etsy, from wood, rebar, pine, metal, and wire.

They are absolutely stunning, and VERY durable. If you have three smaller dogs that need places to sleep, this is a super awesome little setup!

6. Modern Style Dog House

See on Instagram!

We found this gorgeous dog house idea on @thaidoghouse’s Instragram. It is definitely big enough to fit larger-sized dogs in it, though we could not find any instructions or plans for putting one together.

But if you are handy with some tools, you may be able to back-engineer the images to create something very similar.

The hardest part might be the glass that is used. The transparent sides are really nice because they allow you to keep an eye on your dog from in the house, even when he/she is sleeping.

7. Hacienda Dog House

Google it!

We found this fancy little dog house in a list online, and instantly loved it.

We were unable to figure out exactly where this originated from, but we love how modern and ‘suburban’ it looks.

You could probably replicate this dog house with some effort, but be ready to put in some serious work-time if you want to build your own version of this!

8. Hobbit Hole Dog House

See on Pinterest!

We found this adorable hobbit hole dog house on Pinterest, and instantly fell in love with it.

It’s made of wood, and has real roof shingles on top… as well as some vegetation growing along the sides to make it weather-proof and more climate-controlled.

You can find the Pinterest image here. You could make it any size you wanted if you opted to build it yourself, though you may as well go ahead and build it large-sized… as this one might be tough to modify later on!

9. Luxury/Modern Dog House

See on Pinterest!

We found this awesome little dog house on Pinterest. Thanks to its simple construction, this particular model could house a dog of any size. Plus, the picture makes it easy to see how it was constructed—which means that someone with some skill could probably recreate it pretty easily.

It looks like cedar-wood to us. Plus, the modern-style look would go great with a house in the suburbs. This is a warm-weather house, though. So if you live in a cold climate, you may want to go with something more insulated for the winter months.

10. Pallet Dog House

See on Pinterest!

This awesome pallet dog house could be easily constructed using basic hand tools and pallets.

In fact, if you have access to a couple of pallets and some screws, you may not even need to spend any money on this cool idea!

We found it on Pinterest, and really fell in love with it.

The only challenge? You need to find yourself some free pallets to get the project started!

11. Dog Cabin

See on Pinterest!

This is another simple, yet awesome log-cabin-style dog house concept that we really loved.

This one is large enough for bigger dogs, but has also been constructed with a covered entryway and a little countertop for food and water bowls.

We found the image on Pinterest (which is filled with awesome dog house images). It would be a little challenging to re-create, but with a bit of determination, you could easily back-engineer the design and build something very similar.

12. Barrel Dog House

See on Pinterest!

This is an AWESOME idea that almost anyone could make with a little bit of effort!

The most difficult part of this process would be finding the right kind of barrel.

But once you did that, a little bit of work with the right tools could yield outstanding results.

This may not be an ideal option for very large dogs—but for small to medium sized pups, we love this barrel dog-house idea!

13. Custom Made Dog House

See on Pinterest!

This awesome outdoor doghouse was made from small bits of different building materials. It has a sliding roof for easy inside access, laminated tile on the inside, solar powered lights, and even asphalt shingles!

The wood is oak, and the dimensions are 31W x 39L x 22-27H. We found it on Pinterest. It’s a custom job, but it could be replicated or special-ordered if you were willing to pay for the premium-level fixtures! The solar lights are especially fancy!

14. Boomer & George Lodge Dog House

Find it here!

This large-sized dog house sells for only $129.99 on Hayneedle.com (it was on sale. It is usually $159.99).

This dog house was specifically designed to be large, with dimensions of 67W x 31D x 38H. It is made from solid fir wood, and has awesome dark-trim accents to give it a very neutral aesthetic look.

If you want something that will look nice without standing out too much, this awesome little dog-house is perfect. It even comes with a spacious sun deck that your dog can take naps on.

15. MTV-Crib-Worthy Dog House

Google it!

We found this awesome dog house in a top-11 list… and cannot stop staring. From the over-the-top design to the hot-tub in the yard, to the deck that is nicer than the decks in most human yards—this is a truly crazy dog house that you have to see to believe.

We aren’t sure who built this or where it came from… but one thing is for sure.

This dog house is nicer than a lot of HUMAN homes! So if you’re thinking of trying to emulate it with your own dog house, you may need some extra cash first!

16. Human Dog House

See on Pinterest!

We found this one on Pinterest. Yes, it is a human dog house. Or, a dog house for humans to live in, that is literally shaped like a dog.

We shared this one because it is definitely interesting.

We are not sure if a dog lives here or not—but judging by the design, it is safe to assume that the inhabitants love dogs. So they probably have a dog. So this is probably technically a dog house, right? (Ok, we’ll stop now!)

17… Aquarium Dog House

See on Pinterest!

This is an indoor aquarium dog house that we found on Pinterest. This is not an outside dog house, and it seems to be intended for small dogs or smaller medium-sized dogs. But as far as aesthetics go, this thing is awesome!

There are quite a few examples of fish tank dog houses on Pinterest.

They may be expensive to acquire or build… but if you love fish and dogs, this could be an awesome way to blend your love for both of them!

Questions and Answers About Dog Houses

Q: Why is a dog house important?

A: Dog houses may seem like an unnecessary expense if your dog spends a lot of time indoors… but having one is still important for several reasons. Even dogs who are bred to spend time outdoors can be sensitive to the sun, the cold temperatures on the ground, cold wind, etc. So a dog house can help to counter the elements and give your canine a place for shelter if they need it—even if they only spend a little bit of time outside every day.

Q: Does the size of a dog house really matter?

A: Size is actually one of the most important things to consider when buying or building a dog house. A quality dog house should be large enough to allow the animal to fully stand up and turn around. A dog house should also offer enough room for water and food bowls without impeding the animal’s space.

Q: Does the building material of the dog house make a difference?

A: Actually, this can make a big difference. Dark materials can pull unwanted heat inward, and plastic is not always the best choice in hot climates because it can also hold in unwanted heat. Sealed wood generally offers the best options. Keeping the house itself in the shade, and installing vents in it can also do a lot to help keep your canine companion comfortable.

In Conclusion

Hopefully these dog house images have helped to spark your imagination. Planning out a dog house for your favorite furry friend can be an awesome experience.

Our final tip of the day? Just don’t rush it. A doghouse is something that your dog can use for years to come. So take your time, check out as many dog house images as you can, and look for the perfect house to suit your dog’s needs.

The post 17 Interesting Dog House Images appeared first on GoBarking.com.

When deciding what dog breed to adopt, it is important to take into consideration the climate conditions where you live. Humans are excited to include their furry friends in activities during the summer season. But, it is vital to think about how much time your pet can handle in the heat. Sometimes we forget to take their anatomy into consideration when choosing the right dog for a hot climate. Facial structure, size, and coat all contribute to a dog’s ability to tolerate hot weather.

If the dog is brachycephalic, it prevents the dog from being able to pant normally. Panting is one way a dog is able to cool down in hot weather, as they do not sweat to release body heat. Bigger dogs with double-layered coats, such as a Siberian Husky, have a harder time keeping cool in the summer. So, when you are looking for a new dog, remember that these are the best dog breeds for hot weather.

1. Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is a great dog for warm weather due to its size. As a native from Mexico, this toy breed thrives in hot weather and does not usually enjoy cold weather without a few layers. They come in multiple different colors, coat types, and coat lengths.

I’m Miso, a baby female #Terrier/#Chihuahua mix in Los Angeles, CA. 43493870 https://t.co/YezNJ376mz pic.twitter.com/SEp9sphcSD

— GayWeHo Dogs 4 U (@GayWeHoDogs4U) December 9, 2018

This dog has a big personality and requires a strong trainer, but can live in almost any environment including an apartment. Chihuahuas do not require a lot of grooming or exercise. They do not require a large amount of food each day and are prone to obesity and health problems if they are overfed. Dental cleanings are usually suggested every other year for small dogs, due to the high amount of plaque that builds up on their teeth.

2. Beagle

The Beagle has always been one of the most popular dogs in the hound group. They are great for warm weather due to their small size and short coat. Curiosity may lead their noses on a long trail, so make sure they are trained to prevent them from running off. They are known for being great with children, due to their friendly and smart personality.

Beagles require little to no grooming and often are food motivated. But, they can be noisy and active, so a house environment is best for them.

3. Dobermann or Doberman Pinscher

The Dobermann, or commonly referred to as a Doberman Pinscher, is an extremely strong, muscular, and powerful breed. They can range from medium to large in size and have a very short coat. They are normally found with a docked tail and cropped ears due to breed standard, but neither is necessary.

Dobermans are known to be extremely energetic, obedient, and loyal, which may lead to guarding-like behaviors. A strong, knowledgeable trainer is required to prevent these behaviors. They do best in a warm climate with a big backyard to run around and play.

4. Weimaraner

The Weimaraner is graceful yet glossy, and one of the best dogs for hot weather. They have extremely short hair and don’t require any grooming. Their outgoing personality requires a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. No matter what the temperature is, these dogs are ready to go. They are very smart, but possess an extremely high prey drive and often have issues with separation anxiety.

Weimaraners are great swimmers. A swim with your dog is an easy way to expend some energy and cool down on warm days. Their tails are generally docked to reduce the likelihood of being damaged while hunting, but this is not necessary if they plan on being a family pet.

5. Vizsla

The Vizsla is a sporty, rusty red hunting dog that also has short fur and a sleek coat. Similarly to the Weimaraner, the Vizsla does not like to be left alone and requires a large amount of exercise and mental stimulation. But, they are also great guard dogs and make a great medium sized family pet. They excel in warm environments because they don’t mind getting their paws wet.

My girl #hungarianvizsla#vizsla pic.twitter.com/bvC3UIbfcg

— Jo Bark (@FrankieCat123) December 1, 2018

6. Whippet

The Whippet is a gentle, loving creature that loves to run and play outside, and does better in a warm environment. Built like a Greyhound, Whippets are extremely fast and never should be let off a leash due to their high prey drive for small mammals.

They are quiet and do very well in an apartment situation, but are very stubborn and need training early in their lives. Very little grooming is required, but be careful with their fine skin as it can be easily scratched.

7. Greyhound

The Greyhound is the fastest dog, but also one of the most calm and gentle breeds. Known for their racing, Greyhounds are clean and love to live with other dogs. They also have very short fur and do well in warm climates.Recently, Florida voted to abolish all Greyhound racing by 2020, leaving a lot of Greyhounds who need homes.

Most people who adopt ex-racers often end up adopting more than one because theses dogs are so low maintenance. Keep in mind their skin is very thin and delicate, so plan on taking a few trips to the vet in its youngest years.

8. German Shorthaired Pointer

The German Shorthaired Pointer, also known as the GSP, is a friendly, fun-loving family dog that loves to be the center of attention. The GSP has short hair and is medium in size, making it perfect for warm temperature.

They succeed in any sport and need constant exercise. Due to their excitable nature, training needs to start early around children and other pets. They need a big house and backyard to run around. GSP frequently do very well in agility and obedience classes.

9. Dachshund

The Dachshund comes in many different sizes, colors, and coat textures. Most of them do not thrive in snowy climates, because they are so low to the ground. Training early is important for these spirited, feisty hounds.

Dachshunds want to make sure that everyone can hear them, even if they can’t see them down below. They generally do not make good family pets with young children and need a backyard to bury and dig in the dirt. But, their grooming and exercise needs are minimal, so they are frequently chosen for an apartment situation.

10. Retrievers

Even though retrievers have thicker coats than most of the dog breeds on this list, they love to swim and be in water. Retrievers are the most versatile and adaptable breed that works in schools, airports, and even hospitals. Retrievers are not only the most trainable dogs around; they are also the most caring and friendly dogs.

Families everywhere seek out retrievers due to their ability to tolerate children, other pets, and many environments. They are still very easily excitable, which doesn’t make them well suited for an apartment. Their coats do require a lot of attention and some people choose to shave them during the summer months.

When you love the toy your human got you. pic.twitter.com/Sr8H0lvyc7

— Adorable Retrievers (@RetrieversPic) December 3, 2018

If none of these dog breeds speak to you, try to find a mixed breed of one of the breeds on the list in an animal shelter. It is always important to bring plenty of water for our furry friends on all our outings, as dogs can become dehydrated very quickly. If you dog can’t take the heat, move them inside or under a cool, shady area. Keep in mind that obesity, age, and humidity all play a role in your dog’s safety as well.

Paw protection is also important when it comes to hiking or walking on the hot sand. Paw pads are very sensitive and require veterinary care if burnt badly. Your dog will not appreciate the foot wraps during the weeks of healing that follow. Try to avoid blacktop pavement as much as possible if walking in a neighborhood.

Use this chart with temperature and dog size to see if it’s safe for your dog to go outside and play. Lastly, please do not leave your dogs in hot cars. In over 26 states, leaving a dog unattended is a criminal charge, and one could also be tried for animal cruelty and neglect, which is a criminal charge in all 50 states.

Depending on your climate, you should look for a breed that thrives in warm, cold, or either. All of these different breeds offer distinctive characteristics and qualities that are great for hot weather. The best dog breeds for hot weather don’t stop at this list, do your research and find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.

The post Top 10 Best Dog Breeds for Hot Weather appeared first on GoBarking.com.

Training your dog to use a crate has many advantages. Dogs are den animals by nature; they need to have the security of a space of their own where they can escape from the hubbub around them when the house is full, or retire to after a good long walk.

Used properly, a crate can provide just that; but your dog needs to be introduced gently and slowly to fully appreciate his crate.

Preparing For Crate Training an Adult Dog

It is very important to make sure you have the right size crate for your dog. If the crate is too small it would be inhumane, too large and it loses the den-like feeling of safety and security that a dog is looking for. So your crate needs to be large enough for him to stand up and turn around easily, and stretch out comfortably when lying down.

Position your crate in a quiet corner of a room where you and the family spend a lot of time, perhaps the kitchen/diner or living room. It’s important that your dog won’t feel isolated.

Put comfortable bedding in the crate, a blanket or crate bed on the base, maybe a blanket from his normal dog bed so there is something familiar and comforting in the crate.

Either remove or secure the crate door open so that there is no danger that the door closing behind him and scaring him.

Crate Training

Crate training an adult dog can take days or weeks depending on your dog’s temperament and past experiences; if your dog is a rescue dog, he could have had some bad experiences, so you need to be patient and never force him.

To successfully crate train an adult dog, the training needs to be taken slowly, one step at a time; he needs to associate his crate with positive emotions. Always praise and encourage him every step of the way.

Step 1: Introducing Your Dog to the Crate

Leave the crate in the room for 24 hours to let your dog get used to this new item of furniture, and allow his natural curiosity to take over. Some dogs will take to the crate immediately and curl up in it happily. If yours isn’t one of those, then you will need to slowly encourage him.

To encourage your dog to venture into the crate, place some of his favorite treats by the entrance, then just inside the crate, and gradually right to the back. If he doesn’t want to go right in, don’t force him.

You can try playing with his favorite toy, and then putting that in the crate. Always encourage and praise as he ventures further inside.

Once your dog is happily going in and out of the crate, move on to step 2.

Step 2: Feeding Your Dog in the Crate

Once your dog has accepted the crate, start feeding him his meals with the bowl at the back of the crate.

If he is still anxious about going right inside, start with the bowl just inside the entrance, then gradually move the bowl further in with each meal until he is happily eating with the bowl right at the back. Be sure to clip the door open, as if the door closes on him in the very beginning, it can spook him and set him back a few steps.

Once your dog is happily entering the crate at mealtimes, you can then close the door while he is eating. Initially open the door as soon as he has finished. With each meal leave the door closed a little longer until he is staying in his crate for 10 to 20 minutes after finishing his food.

If during this process your dog starts to whine or bark, it could be you have increased the length of time too quickly, so reduce the time you keep the door closed for a few meals before extending it again – very gradually.

If your dog does whine or bark, it is important not to let him out immediately, speak calmly and reassuringly to him, wait for even a brief gap in his whining before letting him out. Ignore him. If you look at him or talk to him, he’s getting attention. You don’t want him to associate whining and barking with being let out. This is a mistake that many dog owners make.

Step 3: Introducing Longer Crating Periods

Once your dog is happy to eat his meals in the crate and to stay in for a period of time after he has eaten, you can start training him to stay in the crate for short periods at other times.

Call him over to the crate with a treat in your hand, and indicate to enter, introduce a command, ‘in your bed,’ ‘crate,’ ‘kennel.’ Give him a treat and make a fuss of him when he goes in. Then close the door and give him another treat.

Sit close by the crate for five to ten minutes then go into another room for a minute or two, then return and sit down close by for a few more minutes. Then let him out of the crate, and praise him.

Repeat this process several times a day, gradually increasing the length of time you are out of sight, and extending the length of time he is in the crate.

Once he is content to spend half an hour or more in the crate with you out of sight, he is ready to be left in there while you go out for short periods of time.

Step 4: Crating Your Dog and Leaving the House

Now your dog is content to be left in his crate for longer periods of time, you are free to go off and do a few errands, but don’t be gone for too long to begin with. Remember you need to take things slowly otherwise your dog could develop separation anxiety issues. It is also advisable as a safety measure to remove his collar while he is alone in his crate, in case it was to get caught in the mesh.

Call him over to the crate using your usual command, and give him a treat and praise him. Close the crate door as usual, and give him another treat.

Make sure he has a bowl of fresh water in the crate.

It might be an idea, if you aren’t already doing so, to leave a couple of safe toys or a chew, to occupy him in your absence.

Get ready to leave, don’t make a fuss or prolong your departure. He is quite happy to be in the crate if you make a fuss you could cause excitement or anxiety.

When you return, it is important not to make a big fuss of him. Be calm and matter-of-fact. Let him out in the usual fashion. If you greet him in an excited, over-enthusiastic way, he will become overexcited every time he is left.

Once you have started to crate your dog when you go out, make sure you also use the crate occasionally when you are home; otherwise, he will only associate the crate with you leaving him. Remember, for him to continue to be content when crated, he needs to associate it with good things.

Step 5: Crating Overnight

Crating overnight is sometimes a necessity if your dog is sick, or injured – and requires crate rest. While we don’t encourage long crating times, it is worth training them to accept this just in case an emergency does occur whereby it becomes a necessity.

When crating your dog overnight, it is advisable to move his crate either into your bedroom or on the landing outside to begin with, so he doesn’t feel isolated, and also so you can hear if he gets distressed or needs to go outside.

Use your usual command word to call him into the crate, and give him his treat before closing the door.

In the morning when you let him out, don’t make a huge fuss.

Common Mistakes When Crating an Adult Dog

When crate training an adult dog, you need to allow him enough time to become comfortable and confident in and around his crate. Older dogs need more time to take on board new behaviors, and also can forget, so repetition is important.

Using the Crate as a Punishment

If you send your dog to the crate as a punishment, you will be undoing all the training. For your dog to be relaxed and feel secure and content in his crate he needs to associate it with his favorite things – treats, toys and rest. If it is used as a punishment, he could become afraid, and it would see being confined in the crate as a punishment every time.

Crating for too Long

A dog should never be crated for more than 4 hours without a break, shorter periods for puppies and elderly dogs. A dog needs to be exercised and allowed to relieve himself. Being crated for long periods of time can cause distress, especially if the dog soils his bedding. Dogs are sociable, energetic animals and prolonged periods spent on their own can cause psychological problems.

Letting him out When he is Barking or Whining

There is a difference between a dog letting you know he needs to go out to relieve himself, and a dog attention seeking. If you give in to your dog when he creates a fuss, he will continue to do so. You have to ignore him; don’t speak to or look at him. When he goes quiet, then he can come out.

Final Thoughts

Crate training an adult dog doesn’t have to take all the time in the world, and can even be a great experience that allows you to bond with the new fluffy member of your family, and why not multitask; grab a cup of tea, or glass of wine – and finally get around to reading that book you’ve been wanting to start while you wait for the allotted crate time to pass?!

The post Crate Training an Adult Dog appeared first on GoBarking.com.

1. Basset Hound

This adorable, slow-moving hound is a great family companion. Basset hounds are relatively easy to groom. They love to lounge around and take regular naps, but also enjoy a few short playtimes now and then. Daily walks are necessary to prevent obesity. Training them may prove a challenge, however, as they do have a stubborn streak. If you plan on leaving them alone for long periods, it might be a good idea to have another dog for companionship.

2. Beagle

Beagles are small, compact dogs with wonderfully expressive faces. They are pack dogs and thrive in the company of friends (human or canine). As puppies, they will need a considerable amount of training, since their curious nature may often get them into trouble. After this challenging phase, however, beagles will make great family pets and develop a sweet temperament. They are highly sociable and love making new friends. Grooming a beagle isn’t difficult, as their short coat requires brushing just a couple of times each week.

3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

This adorable and adaptable toy spaniel will fit right into your life. Cavaliers are not only affectionate and loving, but they also are intelligent and eager to learn new things. Keep training positive and fun since these sensitive dogs don’t respond well to negative reinforcement. While their coat needs regular grooming, Cavaliers don’t shed as much as other dogs. These gentle souls love walking and playing as much as they enjoy cuddling and spending time with their favorite people.

4. Chihuahua

This bright and alert dog comes in a tiny package. Chihuahuas are highly portable and can follow you just about anywhere. They make great companions for people on the go. On the other hand, leaving them alone for too long is not a good idea as they can get destructive; with adequate early training, they can learn and accept boundaries. They are quite active and playful, but their exercise needs are easy to meet. What’s more, grooming a Chihuahua shouldn’t be a problem, particularly for the short-haired variety.

5. Greyhound

This dog is the fastest in the world, so running around and getting enough exercise comes with the territory. Apart from that, however, greyhounds are calm and affectionate, and they enjoy spending time with their family, snuggling on the sofa. Although people-oriented, they can be quite timid and shy, so early socialization is a must. Greyhounds are intelligent, so you will have fun training them, and their short coat makes them easy to groom.

6. Italian Greyhound

If you love the elegant beauty of greyhounds but would prefer a smaller dog, this breed is for you. Italian greyhounds are delicate dogs that reach no more than 15 inches in height. They have long slender legs and love running. Nonetheless, all exercise must be supervised to avoid injuries. Training can also be challenging, so patience is essential. While Italian greyhounds are naturally affectionate, they should frequently socialize to gain confidence.

7. Labrador Retriever

Labrador retrievers, although medium-sized, are quite strong. They love working and need vigorous exercise on a daily basis. While grooming them isn’t a laborious affair, there will be a lot of shedding, so you have to be prepared for that. Nevertheless, this amazing breed will make a loyal, constant companion. If you are looking for a best friend, someone to have adventures with, then you need to look no further. These dogs are smart and highly adaptable, so they will quickly grow accustomed to your lifestyle and home environment.

8. Maltese

These short dogs have a long history that dates back many centuries to Malta, where breeders developed the ideal companion dog. The Maltese, which is playful but not overly active, loves spending time with its owners and often becomes attached to them. These dogs are highly intelligent and easy to train, but if left alone for too long, they may become destructive. Their beautiful coat requires considerable upkeep, maybe even an occasional visit to a professional groomer. Although a daily brushing is a must, shedding is minimal.

9. Pug

Pugs are funny, friendly and playful extroverts that get along with just about everybody: people, other dogs, even other pets. They are not especially energetic and don’t need a lot of exercise, but daily walks help them stay healthy. They are up for some fun and games, but they also enjoy hitting the couch with you. Grooming a pug involves nothing more than a weekly brushing and the occasional bath. These four-legged comedians make great companions for people of all ages.

10. Shih Tzu

This happy, playful dog will always want to be the center of attention. Shih Tzus are affectionate companion dogs. They are energetic, though not extremely demanding of exercise. Of course, they love playing and exploring their surroundings, but most of all, they want to follow their human parent around. Shih Tzus are friendly and will do just fine with other pets. If you are looking for an easygoing friend to spend your whole day, this is the dog for you.

11. Yorkshire Terrier

These active little dogs come with huge personalities. Yorkies are full of self-importance, and they want everybody to know it. When they’re not the center of attention, they stay close to their favorite person. While they are full of affection for their family, they are reserved towards strangers. They are bright, intelligent, but also stubborn, and house training them will take effort. If you persist, however, you will have a well-behaved pooch in no time.

12. Whippet

This slender and elegant breed originated in England. Whippets are smaller than greyhounds but equally impressive. Not only are they fast runners, but they also are outstanding on agility and obedience courses. These dogs have no problem being indoors, however, and adult whippets are calm and quiet when they’re in the house. They are satisfied with just a weekly brushing and are good with children and other dogs.

The decision to take on a canine companion is an important one that requires a good deal of thought and commitment. It may take some time to find the right dog for you, especially if you are a beginner, but once you do, you will have gained an amazingly loyal friend.

If it’s the low maintenance dog breeds that you are after then this should be a solid list of 12 different options that you should consider.

The post 12 Low Maintenance Dog Breeds For Busy People appeared first on GoBarking.com.

First, you should know that you’re not alone: This is a common challenge encountered by owners who adopt or inherit an older dog that is not accustomed to walking on a leash.

You should also know that the old saying, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks,” doesn’t hold any water.

Dogs of any age can be taught how to walk calmly on a leash, without pulling, regardless of any bad habits they may have picked up through previous owners. All that is required is the right training.

Training or retraining your dog to walk properly on a leash may seem daunting, but trust me, the extra time you put in will pay off in the end.

Being able to take your dog on a walk without any leash pulling on his part will be less stressful for you, more comfortable for your pup, and also less dangerous for both of you, especially if your dog is powerful enough to lead you both into the road or other undesired locations.

Plus, making your walks a more pleasant experience will help you to better bond with your pet.

What You Will Need to Follow This Tutorial

A Good Leash

Keep in mind that your dog may benefit from the use of a short training lead, which allows you to keep him close to your side during walks. This type of leash is especially helpful because it allows you to quickly correct bad behavior and direct your dog away from potential distractions.

Pro Tip: You may consider the Slip Lead Dog Leash by Rover on Main, which doubles as a collar and leash and can be used with all dog types.

The use of a choke chain, prong collar, or shock collar is not recommended since they could harm the dog and work by using fear to train him rather than helping him to learn in a positive way.

Dog Treats

Just as you should avoid punishing behaviors while lead-training your dog, you should work to reinforce good behaviors with positive affirmations. In addition to verbally praising your dog when he exhibits a good behavior, it’s a good idea to have canine treats on hand, since dogs generally respond well to edible offerings.

Pro Tip: I often reward my dogs with Greenies Dental Chews Dog Treats. These treats are a win-win in my mind since my dogs love them and they also help to clean their teeth and freshen their breath.

Patience

Keep in mind that this training process will take time. You and your dog will need to work together to achieve a positive end result, and that starts with a positive and patient mindset on your end.

You will need to learn, through trial and error, what motivates your dog to learn and follow commands.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Calm Your Dog’s Excitement About the Leash.

For many dog owners, leash challenges begin even before the walk has started. Your dog may associate putting on the leash with going outside, which may, in turn, cause him to become very excited and less responsive to your commands.

As a first step, then, you’ll want to train your pup to remain calm when you bring out his lead. One way to do this is by clipping your dog into and out of the leash while you remain in the house.

The goal here is to break his assumption that putting on the leash means he’ll be going for a walk. Clipping him into and out of the leash while you go about your daily routine inside the house will eventually desensitize him to the process.

This video from Expert Village offers helpful tips on how to correctly fasten a leash onto your dog.

2. Tame His Eagerness to Walk Out the Door

Once your dog is able to remain calm when you clip on his leash, you can practice calmly walking out the door. This process is similar to desensitizing your dog to the leash.

First, set aside some extra time for your walk. Practice walking out the door with your dog, pausing, then re-entering the house.

You should continue this until your dog’s excitement has died down and he’s lost interest. Then, once he’s calm, you can begin your walk.

WikiHow offers an ideal image here of what your pup should look like when you open the door to bring him outside.

This is how your dog should look like when you open the door to bring him outside.

Pro Tip: If your dog has a lot of energy, you may want to let him run and play off that energy before you go for a walk. If you’re able to, play fetch with him in a safe area outdoors first, then clip him to the leash and take him for a walk. He may be more responsive to your commands if he isn’t distracted by his pent-up need to run.

3. Stand Your Ground

The most common problem owners typically have to overcome during walks with their pup is leash pulling. Dogs pull on the leash because they’re excited to be outside and instinct tells them to explore their surroundings. If you reward your dog’s pulling by moving in the direction he pulls you, he’ll continue this potentially dangerous behavior.

To break him of this habit, stand firmly in place when he begins to pull on the leash, and don’t move again until he stops pulling and gives you his attention. You may need to repeat this many times until your pup realizes that pulling on the leash will do him no good.

Watch Cesar Millan explain why pulling happens and how to remedy it.

Pro Tip: When your dog stops pulling and turns to give you his attention, reinforce this positive behavior verbally and with treats. This will further drive home the point for him that pulling is bad and that he should follow your lead.

4. Try the Reverse Direction Technique

If you’re standing your ground consistently and your dog is taking no heed, you may want to try the reserve direction technique. Instead of planting your feet when your dog pulls and waiting for his attention, try issuing a “let’s go” cue, turn away from him, and walk in the opposite direction he is pulling. Instead of jerking or yanking the leash, speak in an excited voice to get his attention.

Once he is following you and the leash is relaxed, then you can turn around and continue in your original direction. This achieves the same purpose as the stand-your-ground technique, in that it drives home to your dog that pulling on the leash will not reward him with what he wants.

You can see this technique in action in this video by Victoria Stilwell.

Pro Tip: Reinforce your dog’s decision to walk close to you by offering him treats when he exhibits this behavior. Encouraging him to stay by your side during walks will ultimately be more comfortable and safer for both of you.

Remember: The better you make him feel for walking close to you, the more he will choose to do so.

5. Be Consistent

The most important thing you can do when leash training or retraining your dog is to be consistent in your efforts. Staying patient and sticking to these training guidelines day in and day out will teach your dog what kind of behavior is expected of him and allow him to ingrain good behaviors.

If you become frustrated one day and allow your pup to pull you to the park, for example, you will essentially erase the good work you’ve done previously to teach him that pulling will not reward him with what he wants, and you’ll have to start your training again from scratch.

Every dog will be different in terms of how long it will take him to be fully leash-trained, but all dogs are capable of this good behavior so long as you stay patient, consistent, and focused during the training process.

This video from Zak George’s rEvolution offers more insight on a patient and humane approach to leash training your dog.

With These Tips in Mind, Are You Ready to Leash Train Your Older Dog?

As a dog owner, I hope that every other owner has the opportunity to take enjoyable walks with their furry friends on a daily basis, and I hope that this tutorial will help you work toward that goal. Walking side by side with your pet is one of the many joys of owning a dog, and I hope that you feel it’s achievable for you.

If you enjoyed this article, please feel free to share it with your friends and on social media, especially if you think others would benefit from it.

We also welcome you to share what you think about this advice in the comments section and be sure to let us know how it works for you and your dog.

The post How to Leash Train an Older Dog (Quick Guide) appeared first on GoBarking.com.

There are plenty of methods for how to dispose of dog poop, but many of them are not very environmentally-friendly. Fortunately, greener methods for removing dog poop are becoming more widely available and used.

These are the currently-known ways for how to dispose of dog poop the green way:

• Using biodegradable poop bags.
• Compost The Waste.
• Flush It Down The Toilet.
• Using Waste Digesters And Outdoor Flushing.
• Scoop & Bury.

Now, let’s get in to the details of each method.

Biodegradable Poop Bags

Many dog owners like to reuse plastic shopping bags as pet waste bags. Unfortunately, plastic bags are atrocious for the environment. If you pick up dog poop three times a day in a plastic bag, that means your put around one thousand bags into a landfill every year.

Biodegradable poop bags are the answer for any dog owner who wants to be responsible and pick up after their dog but also hates the idea of adding so much plastic to landfills. These bags are commonly made from petroleum or corn.

The corn-based bags are more expensive but better for the environment. Unfortunately, landfills are not designed to let things decompose very well, so even a biodegradable bag will take considerable time to break down. They are still better than plastic, however, and are made from renewable resources.

Unfortunately, it can be difficult to determine if a “biodegradable” poop bag is really all that biodegradable. Some states, such as California, have stricter standards. Fortunately, government organizations are putting more regulations on the manufacturers of dog waste bags so consumers can make more educated decisions.

One of the best choices currently available on the market are BioBag pet waste bags.

Compost the Waste

Composting is gaining in popularity as a method for disposing of dog waste in a way that benefits both you and the environment.

You might have been told animal waste should not be composted because of the pathogens it can contain. This is true. Compost made from dog waste should never be put on food gardens. However, for ornamental gardens, composted dog waste can make excellent fertilizer.

Compost piles need the right combination of carbon, nitrogen, air and water to be effective. Dog poop is high in nitrogen, and other substances, such as leaves, food waste and newspapers can provide the rest.

It is relatively easy to make a dog poop composter yourself, check out the video below for instructions.

Scoop and Flush It Down the Toilet

Some dog owners may arrive at the conclusion that it’s best to just flush your dog’s poop down the toilet. After all, we do it for people, and it makes more sense than tossing plastic bags full of poop into a landfill.

Unfortunately, this is not a solution for every dog owner. Water treatment plants are set up to treat the water for containments common in human feces – not the containments dog poop may contain.

However, there are a growing number of municipalities that have altered their water treatment centers to accommodate dog waste as well. There are flushable dog poop bags on the market, but unless your city and water treatment plant are equipped to handle them, you should not flush the bag down the toilet with the poop.

Do not dispose of cat feces in the same manner unless your water treatment center specifically says that is okay. Cat poop contains completely different pathogens and breaks down very differently.

Waste Digesters and Outdoor Flushing

These are two newer solutions to the pet waste problem that may be the solution for you. Both of these options are currently available on the market if you are looking for how to dispose of dog poop the green way.

You bury a waste digester such as the Doggie Dooley in your yard, which is around the size of a bucket, and add the poop, water and an enzyme about once a week.

This turns the solution into a liquid which is then drained into the soil. This solution is completely bagless and returns the nutrients from the poop back into the soil. It also keeps your trash can from smelling bad.

The apparatus required for outdoor flushing is a little more involved. It will need to be installed by a professional, because outdoor flushing requires a connection to the sewer line that runs under your property.

As like with flushing the poop down the toilet mentioned above, outdoor flushing also requires that you contact your local water treatment plant to ensure they can handle dog waste. This method has the advantage of not needing any bags or requiring you to take the poop into your house.

Dog Poop Burial

Simply burying your dog’s waste in the yard is considered acceptable by some environmental experts. However, it must be done properly to prevent contamination.

Waste needs to be buried in a hole at least six to twelve inches deep. You should ensure that the water table is not high enough that any containments can get into it as well. It is best to bury dog poop without a bag, but if you must, use biodegradable corn bags.

Burying your dog’s poop is usually only an option if you do not live in a high population density area. Trying to do this in a city is likely to create environmental and health concerns.

Potential Technologies

Environmentally-conscious dog owners should remain aware of upcoming technologies and get involved in making them available for pet waste disposal.

New technologies on the horizon include biogas technology, which uses gases emitted during the breakdown of dog poop to create fuel. It is not currently used to a wide enough extent for disposing of pet waste.

In Conclusion

There are a number of options available to you if you want to dispose of your dog’s waste in an environmentally-friendly manner. You can compost the waste, bury it, flush it down the toilet or collect it in biodegradable bags.

Corn-based biodegradable poop bags such as BioBag pet waste bags and waste digesters such as the Doggie Dooley are products to try. Also be on the lookout for new products and technologies as they become more widely available.

What are your thoughts? What is your preferred method for getting rid of your dog’s poop that doesn’t strain the environment? Be sure to leave a comment if you have any questions.

The post How to Dispose of Dog Poop the Green Way appeared first on GoBarking.com.