#DogOwners

[chokrihizem]

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[eric-sadahire]

I love the difference between dog and cat rescue stories. Dog owners will be like oh I prepped for months and applied and had a home check then did a foster to adopt trial period and then the rescue chose me!

And cat owners are like... I found him in the trash.

[pawsomepetsnewyork]

☼ Who else is loving BLUE at the moment?💙💙💙 ☼ #dogbusiness #dogowners #dogbusinesses #petbusinessowner #petbusinesses #catloversclub #treatyourpet #spoileddoglife #localbusiness #dogsofig #shoponetsy #uniqueproducts #dogshop #petaccessories #doggear #dogcollarshop #dogcollar #ropecollar #polishedplatypus #featuredogs #dailydogfeatures #smilingdog (at Manhattan, New York) https://www.instagram.com/p/CqEw8bCrKEM/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[followtheleaderinc]

A gentle reminder that sometimes, we're the ones that need guidance.

[trainingwatchme]

How To Train Your Dog to ‘Watch Me’ 

“Watch Me” is one of the first commands I taught my dog Maple when I got her. Maple was a reactive dog that barked and lunged at people. By teaching her to focus on me, it meant that she was not focused on anyone else and limited her amount of reactivity.

Teaching Your Dog the “Watch Me” command

Creating focus and building a strong connection with your dog can make all the difference, especially when distractions like squirrels or other dogs are around. At Follow the Leader Dog Training School, we know how valuable it is to teach your dog the “Watch Me” command—a simple yet effective tool to strengthen your bond and help your dog look to you for guidance. Using positive reinforcement and the word “yes” as a marker, this training helps your dog learn that focusing on you is always rewarding. Here’s how to teach “Watch Me” and make it a reliable part of your dog’s training toolkit!

Reinforcing Eye Contact and Your Dog’s Attention

I started by getting Maple’s attention in a quiet, distraction-free setting. I held a treat in my hand where Maple could see or smell it, but I didn’t give it to her. I was patient; some dogs may need a moment, but as soon as Maple looked at my face, I marked the behaviour with a cheerful “Yes!” and gave her the treat. This “Yes!” acts as a marker to let her know she did the right thing by making eye contact. I repeated this process a few times to help reinforce that looking at me brings rewards.

Once I had reliable eye contact, I added the verbal cue “Watch Me.” Say it, then mark the behaviour with “Yes!” and reward them. Soon, she started associating the words “Watch Me” with looking at me. After Maple mastered the cue, I worked on increasing the time she had to hold my gaze. I started with just a second or two, gradually built up to longer intervals. I kept each session upbeat and fun to keep her interest.

When Maple had a solid grasp of “Watch Me,”  I practiced in different environments. We started with mildly distracting locations, like the backyard, and eventually worked up to busier areas, like the park. Each time she focused on me, I rewarded her, to reinforce that my cue is more rewarding than anything happening around her.

Helpful Tips from Follow the Leader for Teaching “Watch Me”

Reward frequently, especially in the beginning, to make sure your dog associates the cue with something positive.

Avoid repeating the cue if your dog gets distracted—reset instead to build consistency.

Remember to stay positive, as a cheerful tone keeps training enjoyable and motivates your dog to stay engaged.

With consistent practice, “Watch Me” will become your go-to for capturing your dog’s attention, whether to manage their reaction to a squirrel or guide them in a busy area. At Follow the Leader Dog Training School, we’re here to help you overcome training challenges and celebrate every success.

Let us know how the “Watch Me” command works for you and your pup!

[dogrecall]

How to Teach Your Dog to Come

At Follow the Leader Dog Training School, we know a reliable “come” command is crucial for a well-trained dog, enhancing safety and making life easier and more enjoyable for both you and your pup. Teaching your dog to come when called takes patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, but it’s well worth the effort. Our proven approach, using treats, praise, and gentle guidance, can help your dog learn to come every time—no matter what exciting distractions may be around.

How to Teach Your Dog to Come

The first step is to build positive associations with your dog’s name. Say their name in a happy tone and immediately reward them with a treat, even if they don’t move toward you. You’re not asking them to come just yet; instead, you’re helping them connect hearing their name with something positive. Repeating this throughout the day, both indoors and outdoors, will soon have your dog perking up happily whenever they hear their name.

Teaching Your Dog to Come from a Distance

Once they respond to their name consistently, introduce a short distance. Toss a treat a few feet away, call their name in an upbeat tone, and say “Come!” As they move toward you, have a treat ready and shower them with praise. This setup allows them to experience the excitement of the command while creating a predictable, rewarding routine. When they reach you, gently grab their collar before giving the treat. This teaches them to feel comfortable with you touching their collar, which is helpful in situations where you need to secure them quickly.

Teaching Your Dog to Come with Distractions

Once your dog reliably responds to “come” in quiet settings, begin increasing the distance and adding mild distractions. Practice in your yard or a fenced area to ensure they’re secure, and keep up the rewards to reinforce their response. Consistency is key, and each successful recall strengthens their habit. Use a happy tone and plenty of praise to keep them enthusiastic about coming to you. As they progress, continue to reward their recall, especially in new settings or around distractions. Avoid using the command for anything unpleasant, like ending playtime, so they don’t start associating “come” with something they’d rather avoid.

Dog Training Tips for Come on Command

A few troubleshooting tips: if your dog doesn’t respond right away, avoid repeating the command. Instead, reset by practicing in a more familiar environment, or using a toy to get their attention. For extra fun, make it a game by occasionally running backward as you call them to add excitement. With regular practice and patience, “come when called” will become second nature. If you need more personalized support, the Follow the Leader team is here to help with tailored dog training strategies for you and your dog’s unique needs.

[petnestful]

Common Fruits Dogs Can Eat: Spotlight on Papaya-2024

Hey, fellow dog lovers! 🐾

If you’re like me, you probably want to ensure your furry friend gets all the nutrients they need to stay healthy and happy. One question I get asked a lot is, “Can dogs eat papaya?” Let’s dive into this tropical fruit and discover if it’s safe for our pups!

What’s So Great About Papaya?

Papaya isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with vitamins A, C, and E! 🌟 These nutrients are essential for your dog’s immune system, keeping their skin and coat healthy. Plus, papaya contains fiber, which can help with digestion. If your dog has tummy troubles, a little papaya might do the trick!

Safety First! ⚠️

Now, before you start sharing your papaya with your dog, there are some important things to keep in mind:

Remove the Seeds: Papaya seeds can be a choking hazard. Always take them out before giving your dog any papaya.

Peel the Skin: While the skin isn’t toxic, it can be hard for dogs to digest. Stick to the soft, yummy flesh.

Start Slow: If it’s your dog’s first time trying papaya, give them a small piece to see how they react. Every dog is different!

How to Serve Papaya to Your Pup 🍽️

Want to know how to add papaya to your dog’s diet? Here are some fun ideas:

Fresh Treats: Cut papaya into bite-sized pieces and watch your dog enjoy a juicy snack. Frozen Goodies: Freeze small chunks for a cool treat on a hot day. Perfect for summer! Meal Mixer: Chop it up and mix it into their regular food for an added flavor boost. Learn More! 📚

Curious about the benefits of papaya for your pup? I’ve got a detailed article just for you! here is a more detailed about papaya for your pup.

Let’s make mealtime healthy and exciting for our furry friends! Have you ever given your dog papaya? Share your experiences in the comments! 🐕💖

[consistentreviews]

Can Dogs Take Human Vitamins? A Comprehensive Guide

Did you know your dog's health might be at risk with human vitamins? 😱 Find out if it’s safe and what you should REALLY be giving them! 🐕

[strangechopshopcheesecake]

Want a Healthy Pet? Find Out the Best Dog Food Options!

Introduction

Your dog’s health starts with what’s in their bowl. Just like humans, dogs thrive on a diet that meets their nutritional needs. But with so many choices available, finding the best dog food can feel like an overwhelming task. From dry kibble to raw diets, there are numerous options to consider. This article will guide you through the best dog food options so you can make the right choice for your furry friend.

Why Choosing the Right Dog Food Matters

Feeding your dog the right food isn’t just about keeping them full—it’s about keeping them healthy. Just like us, dogs need a balanced diet to stay energetic, maintain a healthy weight, and avoid illnesses. Good nutrition impacts their coat, skin, digestion, and even mood. The right diet can increase your dog's lifespan and overall happiness.

Importance of Balanced Nutrition for Dogs

Each dog has different needs depending on their size, age, and activity level. A well-balanced diet provides the essential nutrients that their body needs to function optimally. Too much or too little of certain nutrients can lead to obesity, lethargy, or even long-term health issues like diabetes and heart disease.

Long-Term Health Benefits of Proper Diet

A nutritious diet is key to long-term health. Dogs who eat high-quality food are more likely to avoid conditions like joint problems, skin irritations, and digestive issues. Proper nutrition also supports a strong immune system, giving your pet a better chance to fight off illnesses.

Understanding Dog Nutritional Needs

Before diving into the best dog food options, it’s important to understand what nutrients your dog requires. Here’s a breakdown:

Key Nutrients Every Dog Needs Protein – Vital for muscle development and overall growth. Look for foods that list meat, poultry, or fish as the first ingredient.Fats: Maintain the luster of your dog's coat and provide him vitality. It's important to consu

good fats like omega-3 and omega-6.

. Carbohydrates – Offer energy and aid digestion. Sources like sweet potatoes, brown rice, and oats are good choices. Vitamins and Minerals – Support everything from bone health to metabolism. Look for a food that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables for a well-rounded vitamin profile. Types of Dog Food Available Now that we know what nutrients are essential, let’s look at the different types of dog food available.

Dry Kibble

The most common and convenient dog food. It’s affordable, has a long shelf life, and is good for your dog’s teeth as it helps scrape off plaque.

Wet Food Canned dog food is more palatable and offers more hydration. It’s a great choice for dogs with dental issues or those who are picky eaters.

Raw Food Diet

Some pet owners swear by raw diets, which include raw meat, bones, fruits, and vegetables. However, this diet requires careful planning to ensure nutritional balance.

Homemade Dog Food

Cooking your dog’s meals can give you complete control over the ingredients. However, it’s crucial to consult with a vet or a pet nutritionist to ensure your dog is getting the necessary nutrients.

Best Dog Food for Puppies

Puppies have different nutritional needs compared to adult dogs. Their bodies are growing rapidly, so they need more protein and fat.

Nutritional Needs of Puppies

Look for puppy food with higher protein and fat content to support growth. Omega-3 fatty acids are also essential for brain and vision development.

Top Recommended Puppy Food Brand

Hill’s Science Diet Puppy – Great for overall health and growth. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Puppy – Contains real meat and whole grains for balanced nutrition. Royal Canin Puppy – Formulated for small, medium, and large breed puppies to meet specific needs. Best Dog Food for Adult DogsWhen your dog gets older, their dietary requirements alter. They don’t require as many calories, and their food should focus on maintenance.

How Adult Dog Nutrition Differs from Puppies

Adult dogs need a balance of protein, fats, and carbs, but not in the same high amounts as puppies. Keeping them at a healthy weight becomes the priority.

Best Brands for Adult Dogs

Orijen Original – High in protein with a mix of fresh meats. Wellness Core Grain-Free – Perfect for dogs with grain allergies, packed with protein and antioxidants. Purina Pro Plan – A trusted brand with options for different sizes and activity levels. Best Dog Food for Senior Dogs As dogs age, their metabolism slows, and they may need fewer calories but more joint-supporting nutrients like glucosamine.

Understanding Senior Dog Needs

Senior dogs often need food that supports their joints and digestion. They may also benefit from lower-calorie options to prevent weight gain.

Recommended Brands for Aging Dogs

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Senior – Contains glucosamine for joint support. Nutro Ultra Senior – Offers lean proteins and whole grains for senior dogs. Hill’s Science Diet Senior – A vet-recommended brand that supports healthy aging. Grain-Free vs. Grain-Inclusive Dog Food There’s a lot of debate around grain-free dog food. Is it healthier, or is it just a trend?

Understanding the Debate

Grain-free diets became popular for dogs with allergies, but recent studies suggest a possible link between grain-free diets and heart disease.

Benefits and Risks of Both Options

Grain-inclusive diets often provide more balanced nutrition unless your dog has a specific allergy. Consult your vet if you’re unsure which is best for your pet.

Specialty Dog Foods for Health Issues Some dogs' medical issues require them to follow particular diets.

Dog Foods for Allergies

If your dog has food allergies, you’ll need to look for limited-ingredient or hypoallergenic formulas, such as Natural Balance LID.

Dog Foods for Weight Management

For overweight dogs, choose low-calorie, high-fiber options like Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight.

Dog Foods for Digestive Issues Dogs with sensitive stomachs may benefit from foods with easily digestible ingredients, like Royal Canin Digestive Care.

Raw Food Myth Many believe grain-free diets are healthier, but unless your dog has a specific grain allergy, there’s no evidence that grains are harmful. In fact, whole grains like brown rice and oats can provide important nutrients.

Some think raw food is always better, but this diet comes with risks. If not prepared and balanced correctly, it can lead to nutritional deficiencies and foodborne illnesses.

Organic Dog Food Myth

While organic dog food might sound like the best option, the term “organic” doesn't always mean it's more nutritious. It's important to focus on the overall ingredient quality and nutritional content, not just whether something is labeled organic.

Homemade Dog Food: Is It Worth the Effort?

Cooking for your dog might seem like a great way to ensure they're getting top-quality food, but it can be challenging to provide a balanced diet on your own.

Nutritional Balance Concerns

Dogs need a carefully balanced mix of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. It can be difficult to replicate this balance in a homemade diet without the help of a vet or pet nutritionist.

Safety Tips for Homemade Food

If you do decide to make your dog’s food, be sure to avoid ingredients like onions, garlic, chocolate, and grapes, which are toxic to dogs. Always consult your vet to make sure your homemade meals meet your dog’s nutritional needs.

Conclusion

Whether you opt for dry kibble, wet food, a raw diet, or homemade meals, the key is ensuring that your dog’s nutritional needs are met. Always read labels, consult with your vet, and monitor your dog’s response to their food. A healthy diet will keep your pet happy, energetic, and living their best life.

FAQs

1. How do I know if my dog is allergic to certain foods?

If your dog is scratching excessively, experiencing digestive upset, or developing skin irritations, it could be a sign of a food allergy. Common allergens include chicken, beef, and grains. Consult your vet for allergy testing.

2. Should I switch my dog to grain-free food?

Unless your dog has a confirmed grain allergy, there’s usually no need to switch to grain-free food. Grains can provide important nutrients and fiber that support healthy digestion.

3. How much should I feed my dog?

Most dog food packages include feeding guidelines, but it's best to consult with your vet to determine the proper amount.

4. Can I mix wet and dry dog food?

Yes, mixing wet and dry food can provide the best of both worlds. Wet food offers more moisture and palatability, while dry kibble helps maintain dental health. Just ensure the combined portions meet your dog’s daily caloric needs.

5. How often should I change my dog’s food?

It’s not necessary to change your dog’s food frequently unless they have specific dietary needs or health issues. If you do decide to switch, do so gradually to avoid digestive upset.

[ritika-25]

Welcome to our channel! In this video, we dive deep into the world of parasite diseases affecting dogs. 🌟 Discover the common parasites that can impact your furry friend, their causes, and the best methods for prevention and treatment.

[martelsre]

Charming Home in Hunt Club Park - $619,900 ID#2793  INCREDIBLE OPPORTUNITY! This charming, lovingly cared for home on prestigious Picasso exudes warmth and love. Prime location, cozy living spaces, fenced yard, hardwood floors, modern kitchen, and updated throughout. Move-in ready! New owners will feel the love and dedication poured into this beautiful home http://www.martels.ca/listings/default/1/1170844406

[dogsinallpublicplaces]

Are dog owners getting a little out of hand?

Now don't get me wrong, I am a dog person through and through but do they really need to be going in every single public place humans are going to? There has been a surge of dog-owners who are bringing their dogs to places they usually aren't supposed to go and it has started to get out of hand with the behaviors of both the pooch and its owner. Leslie Turnbull’s article on The Week really captures some of the inconveniences this has been causing, and even though the article was published in 2018, it still holds up today. Turnbull goes over some of the main points that some dogs don't like all humans and not all humans like dogs, whether it be a fear or an allergy, and now it has become a courtesy issue to the general public. I just saw a video on social media of the owner talking about how she brought her dog into a grocery store and it peed all over the frozen food section and how she spent $400 on frozen food and didn't even think to apologize. Now this video got a lot of people extremely upset because of how she handled the situation and then victimized herself. Due to this the grocery chain how now only allowed service animals to come in, no regular dogs, and no emotional support animals. Some people seem to confuse emotional sport and service and bring dogs in spaces where only service animals are allowed, and this indicates that regulations on service animals will continue to get harsher, as Turnbull also mentions towards the end of her piece. Why do you guys think? Should there be more backlash to allowing dogs to go everywhere with humans, or do entitled dog owners need to take a step back?

[realtorjamier]

20 Steps to Puppy-Proof Your Home!

Are you a victim of puppy love? You’re not alone! Puppies are adorable and bring out our playfulness. They keep us active and can grow to be loyal friends. But along with the joys of adopting a puppy comes with the inevitable wear and tear on your home, and – even more importantly – a great responsibility to keep these babies safe. Here are 20 ways to puppy-proof your home for their safety and your sanity.

Choose your veterinarian before you even bring your puppy home. Keep your regular vet and emergency vet’s contact information in an obvious place. Make sure your entire family and any pet sitters know where this list is.

Look at your house from your puppy’s perspective, literally, and figuratively. Your curious, inquisitive new friend sees things differently than you do. Get down on your hands and knees in every room to see what might attract them. Think like a puppy during this exercise!

Create a safe space for your pup. Crate training can give them a confined place to relax and retreat from overstimulation. Just like human babies, your canine baby needs to sleep!

Young puppies should be supervised when not in a crate. If you have to leave your puppy alone, make sure they have a secured space that contains appropriate toys, a little water, a comfortable area for resting, and a potty area.

Consider installing childproof locks and pet monitor cameras. Remember, your puppy is truly a baby/toddler.

Install baby gates for rooms that you just don’t want your puppy to have access to.

Keep trash secure and out of the way. The enticing smells wafting from your garbage are a puppy magnet. Your puppy could cause a disgusting mess by tearing your trash apart, and worse – they could ingest hazardous materials.

Keep them away from filled bathtubs which can be a drowning hazard until your puppy has learned to swim. Even toilets can be dangerous. Keep toilet lids down.

Hide things that you don’t want sharp puppy teeth to chew: cords, medicines, houseplants, chemicals, pest poisons, batteries, trash, detergent pods – even sugarless gum and chocolate can cause injury, illness, or death for your dog.

Here’s a partial list of the most common foods that can make dogs sick (vomiting, diarrhea, seizures) and in some cases can be fatally toxic:

Alcohol

Apricots, Balsam pears and Japanese plums

Avocados

Bacon

Chocolate

Coffee and tea

Cooked bones

Foods high in fat, sugar, or salt

Grapes and Raisins

Human vitamin supplements containing iron

Milk and dairy

Moldy food and yeast dough

Nuts – almonds and macadamia

Onions

Raw eggs and fish

Rhubarb and spinach

Tobacco products are also toxic, including gum and nicotine patches. 

Tomato and potato leaves and stems

Certain houseplants are also toxic. Here’s a partial list of common houseplants that can sicken or kill your puppy:

Azalea

Calla Lily (also Peace and Palm lilies)

Asparagus (a.k.a. Emerald Feather, Lace Fern, Sprengeri Fern, Plumosa Fern)

Elephant Ear

Aloe Vera

Ivy

Sowbread (Cyclamen)

Dieffenbachia (sometimes known as Dumb Cane)

Jade (also called Rubber Plant and Friendship Tree)

Poinsettia

Philodendron

Never allow your puppy to be outside unsupervised. 

Inspect your flora and fauna and research what might be poisonous for puppies. Some common culprits include:

Aconite

Belladonna

Buttercups

Chrysanthemum

Creeping Charlie

Daffodils

Delphinium

Elderberry

Foxglove

Gardenias

Hibiscus

Hyacinth

Hydrangea

Lily of the Valley

Marigolds

Oak

Oleander

Peonies

Philodendron

Poison ivy

Poison oak

Primroses

Rhododendron/Azaleas

Rhubarb

Sago Palm

Stinging nettle

Tomato

Tulips

White clover

Wisteria

Yew

Make sure pools are fenced in. Even baby pools and uncovered jacuzzis are hazardous.

Mow and maintain your yard. Tics are more likely to live in tall grass. Remember, if maintaining your yard means using fertilizers and pesticides, this could be unhealthy – especially after a recent treatment.

Watch out for temperature extremes – cold or hot – and weather events. 

Be on the lookout for animal predators.

Protecting your little canine guy or gal is paramount, but protecting your house from your puppy will create a more harmonious living environment. You don’t want to be constantly yelling at your dog – and they sure don’t want that either! Here are some ways to create a more durable home environment:

Install pet-friendly finishes and fabrics

Floors:

Ceramic or porcelain tile are scratch-resistant and nonporous (think puppy potty-training accidents), but make sure to apply a sealer twice a year to the grout – which can be more absorbent.

If you like wood, factory-finished floors weather better than true hardwood. Luxury vinyl planks are even hardier.

If you have wall-to-wall carpeting, buy some synthetic fabric rugs to use over these, at least during the potty training phase. Indoor-outdoor rugs are great because they are designed to be stain and odor proof. Low-pile wool rugs are also fairly wear-proof since they are naturally water-resistant and should be relatively easy to spot-clean.

Upholstery:

Fabric upholstery can be protected with a layer of Scotchgard, but adding a washable slipcover is your best bet. Removable cushions that can be routinely thrown in the wash are a good option, or simply drape a pet blanket over your couches and chairs.

Ultrasuede (a synthetic form of suede) is designed to be stain resistant and moderately resistant to scratch marks. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning.

Leather doesn’t tend to absorb pet smells and is easy to clean, but can scratch easily. You might want to consider a distressed leather so that the wear from puppy claws won’t be as noticeable.

Create a specific area for pet bowls. A built-in area will not only keep the room tidier, but it will prevent you from tripping over bowls and spilling food and water everywhere.

Revisit this list and re-evaluate your home periodically – even when your puppy becomes an adult dog!

[consistentreviews]

Artificial Grass for Dog Potty: The Benefits of Buying from Amazon

🚀 Ready to upgrade your dog's potty area? Discover the convenience and cleanliness of Amazon's artificial grass solution!

[thingsfromthehead]