For Families

Should you get a dog, puppy, or other kind of pet as a gift? Read the article to learn about the many reasons why it may be best to allow the person to get their own pet instead.… Read More

Often, when people think of obedience training, they think of “perfect” dogs. Show dogs, police canines, or at the very least, extremely obedient pets who follow every given command. While having a very obedient dog does have its benefits, even … Read More

I was recently watching television when a commercial came on, asking viewers to support the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Throughout the piece, numerous animals were pictured; dogs and cats of every age, size and … Read More

It’s interesting to observe how many pet owners are initially very hesitant to train their dog. However, most people change their minds once they realize that in order for your dog to enjoy certain freedoms, he must first have some … Read More

When gas prices are high, (or there are other economic strains), most people feel the pinch in other areas of their lives. Newscasts report that fewer people take long road trips during vacation times, and air travel also becomes less … Read More

Most people know that some foods are dangerous for dogs, such as chocolate or bones that may splinter. However, there are several other foods and items you may be unaware of that can be very harmful to dogs, including: raisins … Read More

Should you encourage your dog to bark at repairmen, visitors, or passers-by? People often think that’s good, but it can become a real problem. Read the article to learn why!… Read More

Socializing your dog is a very important aspect toward having a well-adjusted, well-behaved pet. Of course, it’s also usually fun to take your dog for walks, to the park, or even for a ride in the car. But even if … Read More

One of the fun parts of getting a pet is picking out a name. I have seen some trends come and go during 15 years as a dog trainer, while others seem to be consistently popular. For example, in the … Read More

Once upon a time, there was a Grandma. She has always loved golden retrievers and has enjoyed their exuberant, loving personalities throughout her lifetime. Unfortunately, Grandma’s latest golden retriever passed away at the age of 14. She loved that dog … Read More

Halloween can be a fun time of year. With all sorts of fall festivals, costumes, trick-or-treating, and candy, most households, both with and without children, will join in the festivities to some extent. While this can be a fun time … Read More

Having a baby is one of the most exciting times of life and will involve a big adjustment for everyone in the household, even your pets. Just as you make lots of preparations for your baby to arrive, it is … Read More

Whether a pet lover or not, just about everyone will experience an occasional pang of heartbreak when they know of an animal who is clearly neglected. Some cases of neglect are blatantly obvious. For example, the dog who is tied … Read More

Well-behaved dogs can be enjoyable parts of the community. For example, friendly pets on leashes who accompany their families on after dinner walks are a pleasure to stop and pet. Sweet ones that frolic with children as they play in … Read More

In most parts of the country, when summer sets in, there is no question as to what the weather will be each day. Undoubtedly it will be hot! For dogs, whose normal body temperatures are warmer than that of humans, … Read More

Just as fleas, ticks and mosquitoes are a concern for humans, they are also an issue for our pets. Not only are they annoying, but they can pose a serious health hazard through the diseases they may transmit. Of course, … Read More

When you get a new pet, one of the top priorities is to make sure that he adjusts well to his new home environment. While humans are usually excited about their new furry family member, a new dog or puppy … Read More

The majority of pet owners are responsible about keeping their pets on a leash or confined to their property. However, there are occasions when someone’s dog may get out of their house or yard and unfortunately, there are also some … Read More

For some families, having two puppies can be double the fun. Sometimes it’s a matter of not being able to choose just one, and other times they simply want two pups so they’ll have each other to be with. There … Read More

Contrary to the adage, “fighting like cats and dogs,” most dogs and cats can get along nicely together. Perhaps you’d like to add another pet to your family or maybe you will be caring for a friend’s pet while they’re … Read More

Most people love their pets and feel that they’re an important part of the family. No sooner would they get “rid of” their dog than they would their own children if there were a problem. Unfortunately, there are also millions … Read More

Many people consider getting another dog because they want a friend and companion for the dog they already have. In some cases, this can be a great idea… assuming that the family also wants an additional pet for themselves. Not … Read More

Upon reading the title of this article, you’re probably already thinking that my brain must be clogged with dog hair if I’m suggesting that you set up a 401K for your dog. However, while I’m not suggesting your dog retire … Read More

Kids and adults alike usually enjoy the antics of the dogs who have graced our movie and television screens for years. Most of us remember Lassie, Benji, and Rin Tin Tin from our childhoods. In more recent years, dogs have … Read More

While there are many differences between the way pets think and the way people think, when it comes to training baby pets there are lots of similarities too. One similarity is consistency. Many people assume that their puppy or kitten … Read More

It is often said that “hindsight is 20/20,” and I’m sure that every one of us have wished at one time or another that we’d had foresight instead. Giving a pet as a gift is one of those situations  that … Read More

If you’re considering a new pet, it’s very important to make sure that both the children and the adults in the household know what to expect before making a final decision. For example, when children visualize a puppy, they often … Read More

It’s the time of year when many people begin decorating their homes for the Christmas season. But some of the festive decorations we enjoy can be dangerous for pets, especially in households that have mischievous puppies or rambunctious adult dogs. … Read More

Without a doubt, dogs love bones. Chewing is very important to dogs, because it helps keep their teeth clean, their gums healthy and gives them something to do. Most pet owners like to give their dogs bones for these reasons, … Read More

Halloween can be a fun time of year for kids, adults, and even our pets. But just as we take safety measures with our children, it’s also important to do the same with our dogs and cats. Keep in mind … Read More

With all of the suffering that has gone on during this year’s hurricane season, it should be a wakeup call to anyone who doesn’t have an emergency plan for themselves, their children, and their pets. One thing that has been … Read More

Jumping up. Pulling like a maniac. Zooming through the house while intermittently ricocheting off of furniture. Wanting to play 25 hours a day. Too much coffee? Of course not. It’s goofy dog syndrome! When most people imagine getting a dog, … Read More

Some children may suffer with a fear of dogs which might be difficult for adults to understand. Perhaps the child has never had a bad experience with a dog, or they may even be fine with their own dog at … Read More

Many parents find themselves being asked over and over, “When can we get a dog?” Most adults realize how much of a responsibility a new dog or puppy can be, but for kids the following quiz can be a real … Read More

When temperatures start to really rise, even the most mild mannered people can get a little testy… and likewise for our dogs! This is a time when parents need to take extra measures of precaution to protect both children and … Read More

A common problem for many dog or puppy owners is training pets not to run out when doors or gates are opened. Particularly in households with children (who often go in and out of the house or yard) or lots … Read More

What do you think of when you think of dogs and cats together? Many people envision the traditional cartoon of the dog who is constantly plotting about how to catch the cat, while the cat is always planning how to … Read More

As you make your travel plans, they may very well include your dog or puppy. Planning in advance and bringing along some needed items can help make things go much more smoothly for you, your pet, and your host. For … Read More

Many gardeners are also avid pet lovers. A common dilemma is keeping lawns in tip-top shape in spite of the family dog! Land mines are definitely not a virtue when it comes to your landscape, but there are steps you … Read More

Whether in a lake, the ocean, or a plastic baby pool, lots of pet owners like to include their dog in their fun summer activities. Some breeds are more inclined to enjoy the water than others. However, no matter what … Read More