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6 Advantages Of Living In A Multi Dog Household

Amy Tokic
by Amy Tokic
Published:  November 11th, 2013
Two dogs are better than one – Let’s look at the pros of a multi dog household


The more, the merrier – that’s the motto of many families who live with more than one dog. If you’re not sure about adding another member to your pack, we put together a list of the advantages of living in a multi dog household.


Pets Need a Pal: Just like children have siblings to play with (and fight with), this also works with dogs. Dogs keep each other company; they play with each other and tire themselves out. You’re never board if you’ve got another furry friend to pal around with. And it’s also nice to have someone stick up for you at the dog park if a bully starts pushing you around.


Benefits of Socialization: The pet parents of multiple dogs often notice that their dogs are much more socialized, which means they get along better with other dogs they meet in their travels. They can practice their canine communication skills on each other, which translates to better doggy etiquette during walks, at the dog park and mingling with other pooches at social activities.


The Joys of Pet Parenthood: Benefits aren’t just for the dogs – they also affect you. You’ll love to watch your dogs play and cuddle with each other and have a front row seat to see their bond grow over time. As well, you’ll become more in-tune with your dog’s body language and be able to understand how they relate to each other.


A Cure for Depression: It’s true – dogs can suffer from depression. And another dog may be just the thing to pull him out of his funk. You’ll often see this in older dogs. You’d be surprised how bringing a younger dog into your house will give him a reason to perk up and put a spring in his step.


Separation Anxiety: Even dogs can get lonely. If your dog suffers from separation anxiety, another dog can help to relive this stress. When you have more than one dog, they keep each other company when the family is away.


Leader of the Pack: Dogs are pack animals – it’s in their DNA. Living with more than one dog makes sense to them. Of course, you are the leader of your pack, but there will also be a hierarchy within the doggie ranks. This can help keep unruly or younger dogs in line, especially if you already own an older dog that’s been properly trained.


There are many reasons why living in a multi dog household rocks. Do you live with more than one dog? Can you add any more reasons why someone should consider bringing home another dog? Please leave them in our comment section below.





WOW
Amy Tokic
Amy Tokic

Amy Tokic, Editor of PetGuide.com, is a passionate animal lover and proud pet parent of Oscar, a Shih Tzu/Chihuahua cross, and Zed, a Japanese Chin. Her love of animals began in kindergarten, when she brought her stuffed dog Snoopy into class with her every day. Now, she writes about her adventures in pet ownership and tirelessly researches products, news and health related issues she can share with other animal enthusiasts. In her free time, Amy loves perusing used book and record stores, obsessing over the latest pet products available and chasing squirrels with wild abandon (a habit attributed to spending too much time with her pooches).

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Introducing A New Dog Into Your Multi Dog Household

What you need to know before a new dog enters your pack According to American Pet Products Association’s (APPA) 2013/2014 National Pet Owners Survey, multiple pet ownership is at an all-time high with 44 percent of pet-owning households in the U.S. owning more than one pet (up from 42 percent of households in 2010). This comes as no surprise to us – more dogs equal more fun and happiness. But if you’re planning on adding a new dog into your pack, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure all of your pets are just as happy with decision as you are. Here are a few tips to ensure you start off on the right paw. First Introductions: The mistake that most people make is bringing a new dog home and introducing him to the other dogs in the house. Dogs are territorial by nature. They see a new dog coming into their territory and it may lead to aggression issues. Arrange for the meeting to take place in neutral territory, like a park or a neighbor’s yard. This way, you’ll also have other people to handle the rest of your pack. All dogs should be on a leash (held loosely), and each dog should be held by his own person. Don’t Force It: When the new dog is introduced, don’t force them to interact if they are ignoring each other. It may be a scary time for your new pooch and he may want to take it slow. Let them go at their own pace. When they are ready, they’ll give each other a proper doggy hello. Keep the sniffing introductions short at first. Some dogs may get upset with the constant intrusion. Keep The Tone Happy: As the dogs are sniffing each other, talk to them in a happy, light tone. Stay away from a threating tone of voice – this will indicate to the dogs that something is up and they should be on guard. Praise and treats should be given for a job well done. Pay Close Attention To Body Language: Because dogs don’t speak human, we have to rely on their body language to tell us how they are feeling. And you should be watching for signs of friendliness or aggression during this first meeting. Signs of friendliness include a relaxing posture, an open and loose mouth, and a playful bow (elbows on the ground, hind end in the air). Signs of aggression include stiff body posture, teeth-baring, growls and hard stares. On the first sign of aggression, move the dogs away from each other. Have the dogs sit or lie down and reward with treats and praise. After the dogs have calmed down, bring them together again for a few moments, and then distance them again. Let’s Go For A Walk: Once the dogs are comfortable with each other and before you go home, it’s time to go for a walk as a pack. This will not only get rid of access energy, but will also familiarize the new dog with his surroundings. Besides, everyone loves a walk! Home Alone: For the first few weeks, it’s important that the dogs be monitored. This means someone should be at home to supervise. If you need to go out, make sure that the dogs are crated or separated by a gate in different rooms or areas of the home. Time away from home should be kept short so no dog becomes anxious. If All Else Fails: If you notice that the dogs aren’t getting along and the problem is getting out of hand, do not hesitate to call in a professional. Aggression issues won’t sort themselves out and the longer you wait to deal with this issue, the harder it is to break. With some outside help, you’ll have a better chance of becoming a big, happy family. The Most Important Rule: Be patient – bonds don’t form instantly, it takes time. Don’t be discouraged if your dogs don’t hit it off right off the bat. You and your dogs are going to have to make adjustments to accommodate your new addition. Let the relationship build on its own time and let it grow naturally. Congratulations on your new addition! If you live in a multi dog household, we’d love to hear how you brought a new dog into the fold. Please leave your thoughts, tips and experiences in the comment section below.

6 Sanity-Saving Tips On How To Manage Your Multi Dog Household

More dogs means more love – here’s how to make your multi dog household run harmoniously You have a lot of love to give, so living with multiple dogs is a no-brainer for you. When we add to our family, there are more things to manage – and living with numerous dogs is no exception to that rule. But your home doesn’t have to descend into furry anarchy! We have a few handy tips on how to manage your multi dog household. Don’t pick favorites. Just like you wouldn’t single out a child as a favorite, you wouldn’t do it with dogs. Every dog gets equal attention and love. When you bring home new toys or treats, each dog should get something special. And when it comes to cuddling and belly rubs, leave no dog unloved. Some dogs are more cuddly then others, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t lavish every dog in your home with as much affection as they need. You know your dogs’ personalities best, so if one needs some alone time, be sure to give it to him… and give him some love when he’s ready for it.Siblings fight – even furry ones. They can be getting along one moment and the next they’re fighting. You need to stay on top of these tiffs from turning into all-out brawls, because prevention is the best way mange these situations. Know your dogs’ body language and if you sense tension, separate the dogs immediately until they calm down. Some body language signals that you should watch for include raised hackles, low growls, hard stares, and stiffening of the body. Fights can be caused by stolen food, toys, vying for your attention or a dominance struggle. You may choose to have your dogs neutered, as this puts a stop to raging hormones (a big factor when it comes to dog fights). No matter what it’s about, remember that you are the boss and the head of the household – if they live under your roof, they have to live by your rules (thanks for that one mom!).Good manners for good dogs. Get on top of basic obedience training as soon as a new dog enters the household. Every dog should obey your commands and know that you are in charge. If your dogs are properly trained and exhibit good doggy manners, you’ll find that your multi dog household will run smoother.Feeding time. Dogs need to be fed separately. This is because one dog may finish his dinner and start hassling the other dogs for a taste of their food. This can cause fights (I’d be pretty mad too if someone tried to steal my yummy vitals). Each dog gets his own bowl and his own time to eat. Start off with the calmest dog in the pack, and once he finishes, start with the next dog, and so on. If you can’t schedule feeding times like this, you can feed them all at once – you just have to keep them apart. You can feed one dog in his crate, another in a separate room, and the other outside (just an example, feel free to change it to your living situation). Keep an eye on all the dogs to make sure every dog eats his own food and doesn’t try to slyly steal what’s not his.Marking your territory. We don’t mean you should pee all over your house, but you need to take control over the rooms and furniture. Because dogs are spatially oriented, they’ll want to claim their territory. You are the boss, so this needs to be your job. There’s nothing wrong with letting your dog on the couch or in the bedroom, but keep an eye out for possessive behavior that can accompany a territory dispute. These include growling, lip lifting and baring teeth. Don’t let these signs go – take care to address them as soon as they happen. If you don’t, it could lead to a serious fight. The house and everything in it belongs to you… make sure your dogs know and respect that.Monitor play time: For dogs, wrestling, play biting, tugging and grabbing necks is all part of the game. You need to be watching to ensure that play time doesn’t escalate to fight time. Be aware of the dogs’ energy and bring it down to a manageable level if you feel that it could escalate. This will help the dogs develop self-control and lead to well behaved play time in the future. Living in a multi dog household can be a joy, but it’s your responsiblity to run a tight ship. Establish rules early on and hire professional help if you feel like you’re losing control. Remember that every dog has his own personality, which will affect the dynamics of your furry family. With consistent planning and training, your multi dog household can run smoothly and happily. Do you live with more than one dog? Please share your experience, tips and issues with the community in the comment section below.

2 Ugly Furry Friends Have Faces Only Their Adoptive Mothers Could Love

They say beauty is only skin deep. That may be the most true thing said when it comes to Ozzy and Wang, two hairless dogs many call ugly, but prove true friendship doesn’t care what one looks like. Ozzy and Wang are a Chinese Crested and Mexican Xolo, respectively, pair of pups who have become each other’s’ lifeline and best friends! They were both originally abused by their owners, but were rescued from different shelters by a mother and daughter duo who have brought new meaning to the dogs’ lives!

How To Deal With Dog Fights In Your Multiple-Dog Home

Break it up! Sibling rivalry between dogs is common and there’s bound to be disagreements. Here’s how to handle tense situations like a pro. Many dog owners would agree that the only thing better than owning a dog is owning multiple dogs. While having a house full of dogs can be wonderful, it can also be quite challenging at times – especially if one or more of your dogs has a bit of a temper. Even the most mild-mannered of dogs can get into a spat now and then, however, so you need to be prepared to deal with fights if you plan on keeping more than one dog at home. Let’s go over how to deal with these fights and talk about tips for preventing them from happening. Dealing with Dog Fights Even if your dogs seem to be the best-behaved dogs on the planet, they are going to get into a fight now and again. The sooner you understand and accept this, the better off you will be. Dog fights will be more common in your household until a hierarchy is established – one dog will establish himself at the top of the pyramid and the others will fall into ranks below him. Even after this hierarchy is established, fights will break out from time to time as the alpha dog reminds the others who is boss. Related: Pros And Cons Of Raising Littermates While dog fights are inevitable, there are a few things you can do to keep them from becoming too serious, including the following: Have your male dogs neutered – this will help to cut down on territorial behavior and aggression, especially if it is done before a puppy reaches sexual maturity.Make sure you train your dogs well and often, and establish yourself as the ultimate pack leader – even the alpha dog should be in line below you.Keep your dogs separated when you are away from home – if a fight breaks out while you are around, a loud shout or clap of your hands may be enough to break it up, but if you’re not home, it could escalate.Feed your dogs at the same time of day but from separate food bowls – you should also be sure to set down the alpha dog’s food bowl first. If one dog finishes early and tries to steal another dog’s food, you may need to step in and start feeding the dogs in different rooms.Make sure your dogs have some time apart from each other – this may happen during walks, training, or play time and it is important for developing your dogs’ individual personalities and their independence. Related: 6 Advantages Of Living In A Multi Dog Household Preventing Aggression in Multi-Dog Homes In order to prevent dog fights from occurring in your multiple dog home, you need to understand your dogs as individuals. The way your dogs act in a group could be different from the way they act individually, so you need to cultivate an understanding of the group mentality of your dogs as well as their individual temperament. In addition to understanding your dogs’ temperaments, you also need to identify their triggers. One of your dogs could be incredibly friendly around people and other pets, but as soon as another dog tugs on his tale or bites his ear, it could set him off and lead to dog fight. Understanding your dogs’ triggers and preventing them from happening is the key to preventing dog fights in multiple-dog homes. As you may already know, dog fights are inevitable in a multiple-dog home. There are things you can do to help prevent them from happening, but in many cases all you can do is step in to stop them before they escalate. By following the tips and information in this article you should be equipped to understand and prevent dog fights from getting out of hand in your multiple-dog home.

5 Simple Tips for Giving Your Dogs Equal Attention

Dogs get jealous of their canine siblings. How do you make sure everyone gets enough love? We’ve got a few tips for giving equal attention to all your dogs. Owning a dog is a big responsibility and a major commitment of your time. When you add a second or even a third dog to the equation, things get even more complicated. Aside from the practical challenges that come with owning multiple dogs, there is another problem that many multi-dog owners face – giving each of their dogs equal attention. Related: 6 Advantages Of Living In A Multi Dog Household Tips for Ensuring Harmony in a Multi-Dog Household Even if all of your dogs get along well with each other, they still want to know that you care about them as an individual. Some dogs require more attention than others, so you’ll need to take the time to get to know each of your dog’s individual temperaments and personalities so you can provide for their individual needs. You should also employ these simple tips for making sure that none of your dogs feels neglected or left out: Make sure that all of your dogs learn basic obedience training. When you have multiple dogs it is even more important that you train them properly so you can control them when needed.Pick a “dog of the day”. Assign each of your dogs one day a week where you give them a little extra attention. Put the other dogs outside and engage your dog of the day in an individual play session for 10 to 15 minutes. Related: 6 Sanity-Saving Tips On How To Manage Your Multi Dog Household At least once a week, take each of your dogs on an individual walk. If you can’t find time to give each dog an extra-long individual walk during one week, try trading off each week instead.Take turns bringing a dog with you when you run errands. We’re talking about walking-around type of errands. If you need to drive to get your errands done, make sure that your dog is allowed in the store with you – don’t leave him in the car.Make sure that you have enough to go around. This includes things like comfy dog beds, food dishes, and toys. Many of the problems that develop in multi-dog households are related to resource guarding so you can prevent the issue by having plenty of resources available. In addition to doing these things, you should also make sure to spend time with all of your dogs together as well. You and your dogs are a family so it is just as important that they get along with each other as they do with you. Be sure to include all of your dogs in daily play time and encourage your dogs to play with each other on their own as well. If one of your dogs starts to become more dominant and tries to push another dog away, remove your attention from both of them until they work things out. You don’t want to reinforce bad behavior. As a dog owner, your main goal is to love your dogs. If you give them a chance, your dogs will become your most faithful friends and companions, loving you with no conditions – all they want is to know that you love them back. By putting some of these tips to work you can make sure that each of your dogs feels loved.

New Study Shows Surprising Effect of Pet Ownership on Seniors

You’ve probably noticed how your four-legged bestie influences your mood for the better, but did you know that your pet might be beneficial to your brain? That’s right! The latest studies show that your pet and their company could be just the thing to lower the risk of dementia in your golden years. These findings are especially important for single senior pet owners who are at risk of this troubling illness as they reveal that having a pet can make a drastic change. A recent study that involved adults over the age of 50 who lived alone revealed that those living in the company of a loved pet will have considerably less decline in their verbal fluency and verbal memory - compared to those who lived without a pet. This research was published in the  journal JAMA Network Open and was based on data taken from 7,945 people in the mentioned age group.This study, however, only reflects on people who live alone and does not involve participants who lived with other persons in the household. Still, while the results reinforce the fact that loneliness is a major risk factor for cognitive decline and dementia in old age, they also reveal something new – that the company of a pet counts as much as the company of human family members, if not more so.The early signs of cognitive decline can be fluency, verbal issues, cognition, and memory problems, and so on. But if you have the company of a pet, whom you can address and care for, can greatly reduce the feelings of loneliness and keep these cognitive issues at bay. This study and its results are very important in today’s day and age and for many Americans in particular. Recent U.S. Census Bureau insights revealed that almost 28 percent of all households in the United States were “one-person households” in 2020. This is an alarmingly large number and shows us that many people aged 50 and older will face lonely senior years. Of course, even though the results of this study show that older people can maintain their mental health through the company of a pet, the research team emphasized that more advanced studies and clinical trials will be required to fully confirm the results. Yet even so, the lack of an effective therapy that can reverse or slow cognitive decline and treat dementia means that these results are a small but very important benefit for the understanding of these issues. And, needless to say, all those who are entering their senior years and want to spend them in a healthier and more beneficial way now know that their next station should probably be a local pet shelter. Find a pet you can love and cherish - and keep your brain healthy while showering them with affection.

Is Dog Snoring Normal?

Does it sound like your pet’s sawing wood whenever they take a nap? We hear you. It just so happens that dogs can snore like humans do, and some do it quite often and quite loudly. But what causes snoring in dogs, and is it normal? And is there a way to limit, reduce, or altogether eliminate it? Here are all the deets on dog snoring you need to know.Is Dog Snoring Normal?First off, yes, dog snoring can be completely normal. Just like humans, dogs can snore for various reasons. In most cases, it is not something you should worry about. Still, it can be somewhat distracting, and you might want to know what causes it. A number of factors can contribute to this issue – here are the most common ones.Brachycephalic Breeds:Dogs with short noses and flat faces, known as brachycephalic breeds, are more prone to snoring. This conformation can lead to narrower air passages, making it harder for air to flow smoothly during breathing. Examples of brachycephalic breeds include Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers, and Shih Tzus.Weight:Overweight, chubby dogs may snore more frequently because excess weight can put pressure on their airways. Combined with excess fat on their neck, and the sleeping position, their snoring can be quite loud, especially during sleep. Age:Believe it or not, age can cause snoring as well! Older dogs may snore more frequently and loudly as they age, just like some humans. Age can affect the muscles and tissues in a dog's throat. Older dogs may experience a relaxation of these tissues, contributing to snoring. Don't hold it against your senior furry friend, they can't help it!Sleeping Environment:Ultimately, the environment in which a dog sleeps can influence snoring. For example, if the room is too dry, it may irritate the nasal passages, or if it's too warm, dogs may breathe with their mouths open, contributing to snoring. Try to find an ideal environment for them, or consider using an air humidifier to moisturize dry air.

28-pound Cat Named 'One Frosty Too Many' Finds a Forever Home

A morbidly obese cat found wandering the streets in Virginia has found a forever home after Richmond Animal Care and Control shelter posted a funny adoption ad on their Facebook page.Tipping the scales at 28.5 pounds the shelter named the chubby feline ‘One Frosty Too Many’ or Frosty for short, after Wendy’s frozen treats. “You know we love a cat with a belly, and lord almighty this one has the best belly in town. Meet One Frosty Too Many,” wrote the shelter on its Facebook page. The shelter described the cat as 28.5 pounds of pudge with a side of crankiness. “As long as you let him do what he wants when he wants, everything is fine; still we recommend you proceed with caution.”The person who brought Frosty to the shelter said he found the chubby cat roaming the streets of Richmond, shared shelter director Christie Peters. The cat was morbidly obese but was otherwise in good general health. “We put him on a strict low-calorie diet and he wasn’t too happy about that,” said Peters, estimating that Frosty is about two years old. “Because he was cranky, we kept telling him he’ll feel a lot better when he loses weight.”Frosty’s adoption ad garnered a lot of attention, and many were interested in adopting the chubby tabby. However, one woman beat everyone to it and took Frosty home. Maggie Thompson, her husband, and two sons were on the way home to Stafford when she saw the Facebook post about Frosty. “I thought, ‘Oh, I want that cat,’” said Thomson, who owns a pet-sitting business, according to The Washington Post. She persuaded her husband, Mike, to stop in Richmond so they could visit the shelter and ask about adopting Frosty.As soon as she met Frosty, she knew that she couldn’t go home without him. “He got on my lap and started purring,” said Maggie. “With animals, they pick you. You just know when it’s right, and they do, too.”Thomson’s sons, Mickey and Andy, were ecstatic they’d be taking home a chubby cat. The family already has two cats, Rose and Wolfie, which are around one year old. “They are under seven pounds each - less than 14 pounds together,” said Thompson. “But I had a feeling they’d all get along just fine and become friends.”After Thompson filled out adoption papers, the shelter staff explained to her that Frosty would need to follow a strict diet and eat low-calorie cat food twice a day until he’d dropped half his body weight. The shelter didn’t have a large enough carrier for Frosty, so they placed him in a dog crate. “We put him in the back of the car, and he didn’t protest at all. He was a good rider and was pretty quiet the whole trip,” said Thomson. When they arrived home, Thomson placed the family’s newest addition into a spare room for a few days to gradually introduce him to their other two cats.Thomson decided that their new cat deserves a new name, one that won’t be associated with desserts. “We’ve decided to call him Gus. That’s what he looks like to me. I now call him Gussie, and he responds well to that.”Gus has adjusted nicely to his new home and loves lounging on the bottom level of a cat tree. Thomson plans to start a weight-loss journey page for Gus on Facebook to track his progress.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

42% of Pet Parents Feel Caring for Pets is More Stressful Than Kids!

Pets can be an incredible addition to any family, but they can also come with a bit of stress. In fact, a recent study revealed that nearly half of pet parents shared that caring for their pet was more stressful than caring for their partner or even their children! What is it about our pets that worries us the most? That was the goal of the recent survey conducted by OnePoll and ElleVet Sciences. They polled 2000 pet owners, asking them questions about their relationships, their pets, and the stress that they experience in their role. The answers revealed that the top three sources of stress in most people’s lives include their finances (54%), their job or career (49%), and their ability to care for their pets (42%). The survey went on to discuss reasons for being stressed about our pets, and there was one concern that the majority of respondents shared – as pet parents, we worry about our ability to provide the care our pets will need in their senior years. As our pets get older, their needs often change. We can see this in the way they act and the activities they engage in. A once hyperactive, high-energy dog may start to slow down and sleep more. A dog that easily jumped onto the couch most of their lives now requires stairs or a ramp to get up for cuddle time. Not all changes that come with aging are inherently bad, but 68% of parents say watching their pet age and suffer would be more hurtful to them than losing their job (61%) or breaking up with their partner (61%). “Supporting your pet through all stages of life can minimize their stress, allowing you to create more happy memories together,” shared Amanda Howland, co-founder and CCO of ElleVet Sciences. “As your pet gets older, it’s important to be proactive in identifying the signs of aging, such as difficulty moving, trouble sleeping, and social isolation. It’s all about more time, and more quality time with your pet, and for them, aging and stress are intertwined so taking care of discomfort-related aging and cognitive decline can reduce their stress significantly.” The concern shared by the survey respondents (and other pet parents nationwide) clearly illustrates how important our pets are in our lives. While 73% of those surveyed described their pet as their “protector,” they serve many other vital roles in our lives – our best friends, sounding boards, cheerleaders, motivators, and companions. Your senior pet may require some changes around the home. Throw rugs can be used to provide traction on slippery floors. Safety gates are key for blocking off unsafe areas like staircases that could lead to injury. Caring for our senior pets may be stressful, but it’s also an opportunity to repay our pets for everything they have given us throughout their lives. Even just setting aside time in your schedule each day for a walk around the block followed by a short cuddle on the couch can positively impact their lives, reducing stress and promoting better health. “Just like us, pets’ needs can change as they age, so their daily routines, diet, and exercise may need to be adjusted to improve their quality of life, as well as adding high-quality supplements,” Howland explained. “Small adjustments can ensure your pet’s golden years are less stressful for both themselves and their human companion.”

After 5 Long Years, a Lost Senior Dog is Reunited With His Owner

It seems that year is off to a good start in Sharonville, Ohio, where a true miracle happened for a hopeful pawrent. A Butler County woman named Hannah experienced immense relief and happiness after she was reunited with her long-lost doggo, at the annual My Furry Valentine adoption event in Sharonville. Will, Hannah’s wonderful Golden Retriever buddy had been missing for five years, after he wandered away from home in October 2019. Devastated, Hannah and her family searched for days and weeks for Will, but without success. In the end, fearing the worst, they had to let go of their wavering hopes.But incredibly, much to their amazement, their hopes were rekindled. They spotted a stray dog photo posted out of Clermont County – the resemblance to Will was uncanny. Hannah quickly sent a Facebook message to the nonprofit Clear the Clermont County Animal Shelter, inquiring about the dog - apparently named Rome. After a brief explanation, she said she believed it was none other than her beloved Will. 

Can I Muzzle My Dog to Stop Barking?

Final Thoughts - Can I Muzzle My Dog to Stop Barking?Excessive barking can be frustrating and, if left unaddressed, can put you, as the owner, in a difficult situation. In some places, this can lead to fines or even eviction due to noise complaints. Unfortunately, the process of training a dog to stop barking isn’t one that is usually solved overnight – but it can be done! While you might have seen it recommended to use an “anti-bark” muzzle to stop your dog’s barking, it is not recommended for anything more than a 10 to 15-minute quick fix. Not only does it not teach your dog not to bark in the future, but the muzzle's design could create a dangerous situation. Instead, start by identifying the cause. Is your dog overly excited? Is there a trigger that makes them feel fearful and stressed? Are they trying to protect you when someone walks onto your property? Knowing the trigger will help you not only stop it but also manage your dog’s barking in the short term. If you feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to contact a professional trainer or certified behaviorist to offer guidance and direction. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Watch As Adorable Shelter Dogs Pick Their Own Christmas Toys

The holiday season is associated with traditions and festivities as we gather with family, put up festive decorations, and exchange holiday gifts. For pet parents, these traditions often carry over to spoiling our furry companions. But what about the thousands of pets sitting in shelters and rescues around the world, waiting for their forever home?One rescue based in Ireland has embraced a heartwarming tradition since 2017. Each year, Dogs Trust Ireland collects donations from the public. Hundreds of donated toys are placed in a room, and the pets are brought in one at a time to select their perfect holiday gift. They record the selection process, sharing the adorable footage on their YouTube channel for animal lovers worldwide to enjoy. “The reason we love making the video so much is that it’s so special to witness each dog’s individual reaction. Some burst in the door and scatter toys everywhere in an excited frenzy, and when they choose ‘the’ toy, they do excited zoomies,” explained Corina Fitzsimons, Public Relations and Communications Manager. “For dog lovers, it doesn’t get much better than seeing dogs doing Zoomies! Others prefer people and, after a sniff, will come over for cuddles. Then there are those who test every toy three or four times before picking, and many of the Collies who find a plain ball, throw it at our feet, and look at us as if to say, ‘Please throw human,’ which we are happy to oblige with.” This year, a total of 54 dogs were recorded as they carefully made their selection. While some dogs quickly found that perfect holiday toy, others took as long as 20 minutes to settle on a favorite. The organization promises that every one of the 264 dogs in their care will receive at least one toy during the holiday season, thanks to the generous donations they received.

After 11 Long Years, a Cat That Was Presumed Dead Returns Home

Sometimes, miracles can truly happen when you least expect it! And if a pet story can be considered a real life miracle, it’s the one about Toby, a family cat that - it would seem - lived a life of great adventure. In 2012, Toby, the now 14-year-old cat of the Allan family from Warwickshire, suddenly disappeared after the family moved to a new house. It was a heartbreaking event for the entire family, but their pet was nowhere to be found. After many attempts to locate their cat, they simply had to come to terms with the fact that old Toby was lost, and presumably dead. But this week, after 11 long years, Toby was returned to the Allan family by a local woman. The lady checked the cat’s microchip and was quick to get in touch with Coventry Cats Protection."I never thought in a million years I’d see him again," said owner Justine Allan. "Toby was collected and will no longer have to scavenge for food and sleep in a cold bin store," added the Coventry charity co-ordinator Wendy Harris.Toby suddenly went missing in a chilly December in 2012, after the Allan family moved from Galley Common in Nuneaton, to their new residence at Long Shoot."[My son Charlie] was about 12 when Toby went missing, and he was heartbroken when we realized he probably wasn’t coming back," said Mrs Allan for  Yahoo "The Long Shoot is a notoriously busy road, we just assumed the worst had happened and thought he had been run over.”But almost a decade later, just 5 miles away a local Bedworth lady got in touch with Cats Protection, believing that a stray cat she was feeding was pregnant. A volunteer with the charity went out to investigate, a microchip scanner in tow. "It turned out, not only did it have a chip, but that he was a neutered male named Toby, rather than female as originally believed," said Ms. Harris.Blazingly fast, the charity managed to trace the details of the Allan family on their database, and got in touch to share the splendid news – their missing feline friend was re-discovered!Initially in complete shock, after 11 years, the Allan family rejoiced and celebrated and quickly went out to pick up their long-lost pet. During those 11 years, the family welcomed another pet into their home, a King Charles Cavalier named Bernie. But even so, Toby fits right back into the family dynamic. As if he wasn’t missing for more than a decade!

Survey Finds America’s Most Dog-Friendly Cities, You May Be Surprise

The number of Americans embracing a pet-friendly lifestyle is on the rise, and we’re here for it! We read announcements and news articles daily about businesses introducing pet policies and welcoming our furry friends into their establishments.However, if you’ve been traveling with your pup, you know that not all cities are created equally. Some locations truly shine—not only welcoming dogs but also creating an environment where they can live their lives to the fullest. From dog-friendly patios and shops to beautiful park spaces, these cities are rolling out the red carpet.Interested in finding the best locations for our best friends? MarketWatchGuides studied the country's 98 biggest cities, ranking them based on seven dog-friendly metrics, including:Number of pet activities per 100,000 peopleNumber of dog-friendly restaurants per 100,000 peopleNumber of dog-friendly apartments per 100,000 peopleNumber of dog-friendly weather days (days where the high did not exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit and the low did not drop below 0 degrees Fahrenheit)Number of dog parks per 100,000 peopleNumber of vet offices per 100,000 peopleAverage vet costsUsing these findings, they gave each city a ranking out of 100 in 3 categories—Dog Friendliness, Dog Walkability, and Pet Health—as well as an overall score out of 100, allowing them to rank the cities from most dog-friendly to least dog-friendly. The findings may have you reconsidering what part of the country you call home!According to the study, Raleigh, North Carolina, was the most dog-friendly city in the United States, with an impressive overall ranking of 80.3. While the city did rank low on a couple of factors (namely, the number of dog-friendly weather days and the number of dog parks), it scored high enough in the other metrics to earn the top spot.Most impressively, the city scored 91.2 on the Pet Health Score, which considered the number of vet offices and average vet costs.Other cities that managed to earn a spot in the top 10 most dog-friendly cities included:Nashville, Tennessee (78.2)Madison, Wisconsin (77.4)Lexington, Kentucky (76.7)Boise, Idaho (76.5)Austin, Texas (74.3)Portland, Oregon (73.9)Cincinnati, Ohio (73.4)Seattle, Washington (72.6)Greensboro, North Carolina (71.1)Of course, ranking these cities on an overall score may not appeal to every dog parent. While one may prioritize finding a city with the lowest vet costs, another may be willing to pay a little more to enjoy a location with more dog-friendly restaurants.Recognizing this, they then broke down a few fun stats to consider:The city with the most dog-friendly restaurants per capita was Orlando, Florida. Meanwhile, on the other end of the spectrum, North Las Vegas, Nevada, took the title of the fewest dog-friendly restaurants per capita.The most accessible pet health care in the United States can be found in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.Does your dog love heading out for a “Pup Cup” on a warm day? The Starbucks chain first popularized this tasty treat, referring to the small cup of whipped cream as “Puppuccinos.” If the very mention of a Pup Cup has your dog’s tail wagging, you may want to visit Atlanta, Georgia, where you can find the most locations offering pup cups per capita.Wherever your pet-friendly travels take you, check out our list of Dog Travel Essentials to set you (and your dog) up for success!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Can Counterconditioning Help My Reactive Dog?

Caring for and managing a reactive dog can be incredibly frustrating. Your dog may be a sweet angel at home, but they suddenly evolve into a barking, growling, lunging whirlwind when out in public.Luckily, there is hope!Overcoming reactivity is a process that will not happen overnight. However, dog trainers and behaviorists have seen great success with positive reinforcement techniques like counterconditioning.This article will explore how counterconditioning works, the steps involved in the process, realistic timelines and expectations, and tips for a successful journey toward a calmer, more confident dog. Get started today!What is Counterconditioning for Dogs?Let’s start at the beginning—what exactly is counterconditioning, and why is it recommended for managing and treating reactive dogs?Counterconditioning is a behavioral modification technique that focuses on changing your dog’s emotional response to a specific stimulus.For example, some dogs feel fear and anxiety at the sight of another dog. This could be due to a lack of socialization, meaning they weren’t taught that other dogs can be friendly. It could also be a reaction to a past trauma, like having been attacked by another dog. In these situations, counterconditioning can be used to teach your dog that the sight of another dog leads to a positive experience.Why is this an effective approach for addressing reactivity? Reactivity, by definition, is an overreaction to a trigger. While this is often associated with fear or anxiety, some reactive dogs become overly excited. An overexcited dog may jump all over strangers not because they are trying to cause harm but because they are so excited to see them that they can’t control their response.If you have identified your dog’s triggers, you can use this training approach to teach them to respond in a new (and better) way.What Can Counterconditioning Be Used to Treat?Reactivity isn’t the only behavioral condition that can be treated with counterconditioning. This technique can be used to address a wide spectrum of situations in which a pet may be responding to a situation or trigger in an unwanted way.Some situations where it is commonly recommended include helping dogs overcome specific fears or phobias as well as managing or overcoming behaviors related to obsessive-compulsive disorder.Common fears that may be addressed with counterconditioning include: Fear of car ridesAnxiety when visiting the vetNoises (fireworks, thunder)Babies (especially the sound of crying)Strangers or other dogs in publicAllowing guests to enter their homePhysical triggers like cars or bicyclesDogs who dislike grooming, like brushing or having their nails trimmedIf you believe this approach may be helpful in your dog’s unique situation, we recommend speaking with a behaviorist.You can find professionals in your area by browsing the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists website list or the Animal Behavior Consultants Directory by the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior.

Pandemic Puppies Are Behaving Badly, Study Shows

Puppies bought during the COVID-19 pandemic are more likely to exhibit one or more problem behaviors, a new study suggests. Research by the Royal Veterinary Colledge (RVC) has found that four in five (82%) owners of pandemic puppies have resorted to using punishment-based training methods to try to curb their dog’s problem behavior. The study found that moving the dog or shouting at them were the most commonly used aversive training methods. Other owners reported using water pistols, rattle bottles, and choke chains. Only 18% of owners who participated in the study said they didn’t use any aversive training methods or aids. Not only are aversive training techniques such as yelling at the dog or pulling its lead ineffective but they are also linked to further behavioral problems. The survey which was funded by the Battersea animal rescue charity asked more than 1,007 UK dog owners to list problem behaviors exhibited by their dogs. The list consisted of 24 problem behaviors reported by the owners. They ranged from control behaviors ( pulling on the leash) and attention-seeking behaviors, to aggressive behaviors and fear behaviors (anxiety around other dogs or people).Almost all (97%) owners said their dog exhibited at least one problem behavior from the list. At 21 months, owners on average reported five behavioral problems, while 20% of owners reported that their dogs had eight or more problem behaviors. According to owners, pulling on the leash is the most common problem behavior (67%), followed by jumping on people (57%), and not coming back when called (52%).Denise Mariner-Chappell got a Labrador retriever Ted during the pandemic. Strict lockdown measures made it hard to properly train and socialize her new pooch.“He’s a crazy dog when he’s out,” she said. “He’s just manic. He just wants to play and sniff, and everything, but not with humans.” Dr. Rowena Packer, the lead author of the study explained that problem behaviors are very common in pandemic puppies. In many cases, owners exacerbate these issues by using punishment-based training methods. “Although we understand these problem behaviors can be very frustrating for owners, they are often a sign a dog is struggling to cope or that they haven’t been taught an appropriate response in a situation, rather than dogs intentionally behaving badly,” she added.Packer warned that punishing the dog can make it anxious and fearful and cause it to develop further behavioral problems, including aggression. According to Robert Bays, Battersea’s senior animal behavior manager, the charity has seen an influx in dogs with behavioral problems coming into centers. These pups are suffering from separation anxiety and show other problem behaviors, which can be linked to training challenges brought on by the pandemic. “Without the right kind of positive training and support, a small behavioral problem in a puppy or a dog can quickly escalate into a serious issue, so we are deeply concerned with this study’s findings that so many owners are using aversive training methods,” said Bays.This training approach can cause additional behavioral problems in adulthood and also significantly damage the relationship between the dog and its owner. The study found that puppies who were still exhibiting problem behaviors by the age of 21 months were at a higher risk of being rehomed or euthanized. “A key piece of guidance arising from our study is that attending puppy classes is a vital way to support owners in using the best training techniques available.”Although many pandemic puppy owners missed these training classes due to lockdown restrictions there are thankfully many certified trainers who offer training classes for adult dogs. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What Are the Symptoms of Dementia in Dogs?

As the years go by, health issues tend to pile up, even in canines. Old age can bring a range of problems – some doggos have troubles with arthritis and limited mobility, while others suffer from cognitive decline and experience issues such as dementia. That’s right, even dogs can suffer from dementia, which is also known as canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD). This illness can bring about some troubling changes in your pet’s behavior, and it would be wise to be familiar with all the symptoms of dementia, especially if you are a senior dog owner. Let’s go over them and get familiar with the challenges of canine dementia.Doggy Dementia: Symptoms and What To ExpectAs your pet reaches their golden years, some issues are bound to pop up, including dementia. Known as canine cognitive dysfunction, it has similar symptoms to Alzheimer's disease in humans. The main cause is the aging of the dog’s brain, which results in many troubling issues. Of course, CCD doesn’t happen to all old dogs. Latest studies revealed that it only happens to roughly 50% of dogs that are over 11 years old. Of course, if you own a senior doggo, it is wise to get to know the symptoms of dog dementia. Here are some of the most common ones:Confusion and Disorientation:As dementia sets in, your pet might seem suddenly disoriented and awfully confused. They could get lost in spaces that should be all too familiar to them (the house for example), or could just stand and stare blankly into space. Major Sleep Pattern Changes:Dogs tend to have a solid sleep routine. But with dementia, this can suddenly change. They could experience alterations in their sleep-wake cycle, sleep a lot during the day, and become restless and sleepless throughout the entire night.Loss of Interest:Your dog, with dementia, could suddenly become a totally different pet. They could lose all interest in common interactions. They could have zero interest in playing with you or interacting with the family members. The same goes for interacting with other pets, or playing with toys - even if they were their favorites. Forgetting Housetraining:

It's a Match! Winnipeg Rescue Intro's Doggie Dates

Prospective owners can sweep their prospective partner away for the night, a weekend, or a week, before deciding to commit.

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