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If you have allergies but want to have a dog as a pet, there are hypoallergenic dogs that may reduce the chances of your allergies flare.

A hypoallergenic dog breed is one that doesn’t shed or sheds minimally. A dog’s fur can house the dander that is the true source of allergic reactions. 

If a dog is a prolific shedder, that dander is spread all over the pet owner’s clothes, house, couch, and is in the air.

Even if you get one of the hypoallergenic dog breeds, make sure that you brush them regularly. 

Regular brushing with one of the Best Dog Brushes For Shedding 2021 helps keep your dog’s skin and coat healthy.

Here Are The Top 10 Dog Breeds That Are Hypoallergenic.

 #1 Affenpinscher

 

 These wiry-haired pups are great for allergy sufferers as their coats are low-maintenance. This breed can look pretty shaggy, but they are a little dog with a big personality. 

Said to resemble a monkey, this tiny pup is also likened to a Wookie by Star Wars fans. Affens can be quite willful and domineering but are a very loyal and affectionate breed. They shed very little fur, and their fur is exceptionally slow-growing. 

Although you will need to brush their coat every week, the dander will not be floating in the air or covering the couch cushions.

• Height: 9 – 11.5 inches
• Weight: 7 – 10 pounds
• Life expectancy: 12 – 15 years
• Breed Group: Toy

# 2 American Hairless Terrier

 

The American Hairless Terrier is the only hairless dog breed that is native to the United States. 

This breed is an excellent choice for allergy sufferers who would love to have a pet. They are intelligent, curious, and playful. 

The hairless terrier might have eyebrows and whiskers, but the skin is smooth, and this dog is as hypoallergenic as a dog can get.

• Height: 12-16 inches
• Weight: 12-16 pounds
• Life expectancy: 14 -16 years
• Breed Group: Terrier

# 3 Basenji

 

Basenji are small, graceful hounds that have a glistening short coat, tightly curled tail, and wrinkled forehead. These non-barking dogs are fastidious and almost cat-like in their grooming. 

They have limited dander and are classed as hypoallergenic, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers. 

They shed very little and only about once a month. The Basenji is an independent and adaptable dog that tends to be aloof and a little stubborn.

• Height: 16 – 17 inches
• Weight 22 – 24 pounds
• Life Expectancy: 13 – 14 years
• Breed Group: Hound

 # 4 Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier is the oldest unbroken pedigree dating back to 1782. Reminiscent of a sheep, especially when their coat is trimmed that way, these dogs are lively and like to be at the center of things. 

Despite a coat that grows quickly, these dogs don’t shed, making them a good companion for someone with allergies.

• Height: 15 – 16 inches
• Weight: 13 – 30 pounds
• Life Expectancy: 11 – 16 years
• Breed Group: Terrier

# 5 Bichon Frise

Their name means “curly lapdog,” and this cute little pup lives up to its name. The plush coat on the Bichon Frise continually grows and doesn’t shed. 

While this dog breed is considered hypoallergenic, it does need daily brushing so that its coat won’t mat. 

The Bichon Frise is small and lively with a great personality. With its small sizer, this cute pup is very adaptable for apartment living. 

It loves and needs companionship from its humans and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. The Bichon Frise is very intelligent, and this non-drooler responds very well to training.

 

• Height: 9 – 11 inches
• Weight: 6 – 16 pounds
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
• Breed Group: Companion

# 6 Irish Water Spaniel

The Irish Water Spaniel is an intelligent and playful breed that is eager to please. This breed has a double-layered coat, with a water-repellant outer layer, and a soft, downy inner layer. 

This double-layer of coats ensures that the hair and dander that gets shed remains trapped in the coat. This factor keeps allergens at bay and makes them hypoallergenic. 

The Irish Water Spaniel is child-friendly and good-natured. Exceptionally social, they are loyal and a bit on the goofy side. They like a lot of exercises and need socialization and training from puppyhood.

• Height: 20 – 23 Inches
• Weight: 44 – 70 pounds
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 13 years
• Breed Group: Sporting

# 7 Maltese

This breed is hypoallergenic and rarely sheds or drools. Cute and button-eyed, the Maltese may have originated on the island of Malta, where it became the favorite pet of royalty. 

This hypoallergenic dog is very popular with small dog lovers. It is loyal, playful, and full of charm. 

Its silky white coat and little black nose give it lots of appeal. The anti-allergy hair is composed of a single layer with no undercoat and goes straight without curls. 

The Maltese is lively and has a sweet nature with lots of energy, affection, and intelligence.

• Height: 8 – 10 inches
• Weight: 5 – 13 pounds
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
• Breed Group: Companion

# 8 Miniature Schnauzer

Schnauzers are hypoallergenic, which is a great advantage to someone who wants to have a dog, but they are also incredibly friendly dogs eager to please and easy to train. 

These dogs make a good companion that is wonderful as a family pet. Miniature Schnauzers shed very little and have a short, double coat. 

The outside hair is wiry, and they have a softer undercoat. The undercoat sheds a little, and the hair gets tangled in its outer coat rather than shedding away. That is why it is important to groom these small pets regularly.

• Height: 13 – 14 Inches
• Weight: 9 – 19 pounds
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
• Breed Group: Terrier

# 9 Portuguese Water Dog 

 

Image Credit: https://www.wisdompanel.com/en-us/dog-breeds/portuguese-water-dog

This dog breed is hard-working, intelligent, and energetic. The Portuguese Water Dog has a robust coat of tight, low-shedding curls and is hypoallergenic but requires extensive grooming. 

They benefit greatly from weekly grooming and an occasional bath. This breed once served as a crew on fishing vessels. They would retrieve lost gear and would herd fish into nets. 

Today, they are great family pets as they are fun-loving and friendly. They have webbed feet and love the water.

• Height: 17 – 22 inches
• Weight: 33 – 66 pounds
• Life Expectancy: 11 – 15 years
• Breed Group: Sporting

# 10 Standard Poodle

While there are those pet owners that go for a fancy haircut, a standard poodle does just fine when its coat is in a natural state. They shed very minimally. 

These dogs are intelligent and loyal and make for a good family dog. This type of poodle will need mental stimulation as they love a challenge and are eager to play games. 

While there are other poodle breeds, it is the standard poodle that is good for people with allergies.

• Height: 15 – 24 inches
• Weight: 42 – 69 pounds
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 15 years
• Breed Group: Sporting

FAQ

Is there a dog or breed that is truly hypoallergenic?

According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, a genuinely non-allergic dog or cat does not exist. There are, however, things you can do if you are sensitive to pet dander. Keep your pet out of your bedroom, wear a dust mask to vacuum, and don’t touch your face after petting your dog or cat.

What makes a dog “hypoallergenic?”

Overall, hypoallergenic dog breeds don’t shed, don’t have hair, or have short, single-layered coats. This means that there is less dander. Most allergies are not caused by the dog’s fur but are caused by dander from the dog’s skin.

What else can a person do to reduce allergies to pets?

You can use a High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter on your furnace. Use a vacuum that has a HEPA filter. The shampoos that you use on your dog can also cut down on dander. Make sure that you keep your pet’s hair short and groom them regularly.

Your dog is a beloved member of the family, and affordable pet care is an essential factor when it comes to keeping your pet happy and healthy.

With the cost of most everything on the rise, it helps to get a few tips to keep the price of caring for your pet as reasonable as possible.

We have listed 6 ways in which you can help keep the cost of owning a pet affordable, while at the same time keeping your pet healthy.  

Number 1: Learn How To Groom Your Dog At Home.

Keeping your pet clean goes a long way in keeping them healthy, too. When you are grooming your pet, you can be checking for conditions that might be detrimental to their health. 

Ticks and fleas can cause your pet no end of misery. Ticks, especially, can cause diseases, such as Lyme disease, in your dog.

When you are grooming your pet, you will notice if they have any changes in their skin or coat. You will see if your pet has any lumps or bumps that might indicate an issue’s early stage. If you catch a problem early, it will make a big difference in the success of treatment for your dog.

Brush your dog every day, or at least every other day. Brushing your pet helps to distribute the oils in their coat, which increases the health of the dog’s skin and fur. 

Regular brushing also decreases the matting of their fur and lowers the risk of skin infections and irritations. 

Learning to bathe and groom your pet is easy by watching one of the many YouTube instructional videos. 

If you do not want to use your tub to bathe your pet at home, you could also use a DIY dog wash. There are 6 Reasons To Try A DIY Dog Wash This Summer.

Number 2: Trim Your Dog’s Nails At Home.

Keeping your dog’s nails trimmed is another essential part of keeping your pet healthy. If your dog’s nails get too long, they risk being torn off if the nail gets caught in the carpet. 

Too long nails can also cause your pet to trip when outside. This can result in an injury that requires veterinary care. 

There are several ways to trim your pet’s nails using a standard set of clippers or a dermal to grind the nails down. You can also Build A Scratchboard And Teach Your Dog To Use It.

Number 3: Brush Your Dog’s Teeth Daily

Caring for your dog is beginning to sound much like caring for yourself, and there are indeed parallels. You need to bathe and groom them, clip their nails and brush their teeth. 

Ideally, it would be best if you brushed your dog’s teeth twice a day, but at the minimum, brush their teeth three times a week. 

When you brush your pet’s teeth regularly, they will come to expect it and enjoy it. It takes just a few minutes but will go a long way to protecting your dog’s health. 

According to PETMD, many pets have dental disease by 2 to 3 years of age when owners do not brush their teeth. 

There are special kinds of toothpaste for pooches, such as poultry flavored ones, that will make them more amenable to having their choppers brushed.

Number 4: Keep Your Dog’s Ears Clean

Keeping your dog’s ears clean is another important part of your pet’s care. Some dogs will not need to have their ears cleaned very often, and in other breeds, it will be a necessity. 

Floppy-eared dogs like cocker spaniels and basset hounds will need cleaning more than a Doberman pinscher might. Even if you have a breed of dog that does not require its ears cleaned often, you should be checking their ears periodically. 

There are three types of ear infections, otitis externa, media, and internal, that can affect parts of your dog’s ears. Your pet can get an ear infection when bacteria, yeast, ear mites, excessive hair, moisture, wax, or foreign bodies can get trapped in their ear canals. 

To make it easier to clean your pet’s ears and keep them from trapping debris, you might want to consider Dog Ear Plucking And Cleaning.

Number 5: Always Get Necessary Vaccinations

Vaccinations can be expensive, but they also keep your dog healthy. Even if your pet is mainly house-bound, there will be times when they are out of doors. 

They can come into contact with fleas, ticks, or the debris that other animals have left behind. Treating a disease is much more expensive than preventing it. 

Some clinics will administer just the needed shots, which can be less costly than scheduling them at a vet appointment. 

Check with the county or township that you live in. Many offer reduced-cost vaccinations in conjunction with getting your pet their licenses. 

Number 6: Give Your Pet Plenty Of Exercise

This pet care tip is the most affordable, as all it will require is a leash and your time. Just like us, dogs are meant to move. Being active and mobile is one of the best ways to keep your pet healthy. 

You will improve your dog’s cardiovascular fitness, lower their blood pressure and help them to build strong muscles and bones by a regular regime of walking. 

Obesity in pets can contribute to osteoarthritis and liver disease. Dogs who are not walked regularly can become bored, and in turn, be destructive. Walking your dog once a day will benefit your pet and you at the same time. 

Dogs usually love a walk. For them, it is like reading the newspaper. They get all the latest news of what is happening in the neighborhood. 

All of the smells, sights, and sounds are exciting and informative for your pet. It is also a time of bonding for both of you, and you, too, will reap the health benefits of a regular walk.

In Conclusion

Owning a pet can be expensive, and unless you can afford to properly care for a pet, you might want to reconsider getting one. 

You could consider fostering a dog, as that is a win-win situation. A pet that needs a temporary home gets one, and you have a pet whose expenses of food and vet care are taken care of by the shelter that places the dog.

FAQ

Do you have to take your pet in for a yearly exam if they look and act healthy?

Yes, you should. Pets are often very good at acting normal, and of course, they can’t tell you if they are feeling a bit off. Your vet will be able to do a comprehensive exam that will confirm an ailment or give you peace of mind knowing that all is well with your pet.

Can I give my pet heartworm and flea prevention just in the summer months?

Heartworm and flea medication should be given year-round. Even though you might not see them as much in colder months, both mosquitos and fleas are present year-round across the United States.

 

It is important, as a dog owner, that you keep your pet healthy and strong. A fun way to do so is to engage your dog in some sports. Dogs naturally love to play and love to please their owners.

Besides helping keep your dog in great physical shape, dog sports can also be helpful with other training needs. When your pet sees that following commands gets them praise and The Best Dog Treats, they make the connection, and training becomes easier for all concerned.

Participating in a dog sport can be a fantastic bonding time for you and your dog. You can make it as competitive or as laid back as you want and become closer to your pet at the same time.

# 1 Flying Disc (Dog Disc or Dog Frisbee)

The great thing about this particular sport is that it can be played by any dog breed and with dogs of any size. Also known as dog frisbee, the owner or handler throws the disc, and the dog returns the disc.

It might sound very simple, and if you are playing in your backyard, it is. If you choose to play it as a competitive sport, it can be more of a challenge.

During the competition, the judges will evaluate the dog’s athletic ability during the chase, the dog’s speed, and resilience. The Judge will also critique the dog’s jumping ability, control in the air, and landing.

The “catch and retrieve” is the main part of the sport in a timed round. The Judge will be watching to see what type of creativity the thrower uses to toss the disc and how well the thrower and the dog work as a team.

This particular dog sport is relatively straightforward to practice and takes no special equipment, and doesn’t require travel; this can be done in your own backyard.

If you don’t plan on hitting the road for competitions, the Flying Disc game is an excellent sport for both dog and owner and is a great bonding experience while having fun.

# 2 Dog Agility Competitions

This dog sport is one of the most popular dogs sports and agility competitions and is often seen on television. This sport is fun for the dog and is also a bit of a workout for the owner/handler.

This is a fun and competitive activity that comprises a range of obstacles like jumps, tunnels, and other equipment pieces. The dog will either jump over, go through or walk along.

In this particular dog agility sport, your dog will move through an obstacle course with your guidance. Because dogs run through the course off-leash, your commands to your dog come from your voice and body language.

This means that your pet has had some strong and practical obedience training. Both you and your dog will need to have a degree of fitness. In competitive events, accuracy and speed are factors that dogs are judged on.

There are competitions for dogs of various sizes and strengths. There are also mini agility courses used for puppies.

When used for these little ones, it is for fun but has a beneficial aspect. Puppy agility is enormous fun for your pup and improves your control over your pup (for future training), and will build their confidence at the same time.

This is another sport that you can set up in your backyard just for fun, with whatever pieces of equipment that you have like tunnels and weaves.

# 3 Sport of Dog Obedience

This sport is one of the older sports for dogs. It tends to be a more relaxed sport. It does not involve high-speeds, chasing, or obstacles like in agility sports.

This sport tests your pets’ level of concentration and motivation. It is also a testament to the training you have done with your dog.

The competition in this dog sport involves basic commands such as “sit,” “down,” and “heel.” It also will have a retrieval portion of the competition. Your dog will move through a course, and at different points in the course, your dog will perform the commands for that point.

The basis of this competition is for the dog to ignore all distractions and instead focuses on your commands, even if those commands come from a distance. The key to doing well in this competition is training your pet to respond to all of your commands at the right time.

This type of competition relies on your dog is motivated to follow your commands. Your pet is going to respond best to rewards in the form of The Best Dog Treats. 

These motivational training sessions will help in competitive settings, and also when you need them to obey at home.

# 4 Both Of You Get A Workout With Carnicross

This particular competition got its name from a cross of “canine” and “cross-country.” It is a sport that combines both dog and owner getting into the race. This is off-road running with your dog.

 Your dog will run out in front of you, following directional commands. Your pet will wear a comfortable padded harness, which is attached to the owner’s waistband by a 2m bungee line.

This type of workout is great for dogs who are natural-born runners. It provides a great physical workout for both participants. Because your pet must also follow your directional commands, it helps your dog train themselves to obey you even in a situation that is a lot of play for them.

Woodland parks and forestry trails are some of the places participants favor to practice carnicross.

# 5 Flyball (catch ball) I Great For Energetic Dogs

Flyball is a very energetic competition. It is a team sport that runs on a knockout basis. Flyball has been around since the 1970s and is still popular today.

This obstacle race involves two teams of four dogs. In this game, the dogs from each team will leap over a series of jumps, then run to a box; at the box, they will activate a catapult machine with their front paws. Once the ball has been released, they will catch the ball and race back to the start.

In this competition, the team that finishes first wins, but, as the dogs don’t know that, they have a great time doing something they love. Spectators in this sport also enjoy the fast and furious excitement of this team sport.

Most dogs love to catch balls and run at full speed, so this competition combines the things that dogs love with the fun of a good game.

In Conclusion

It is in your pet’s best interest to see that they get plenty of healthy exercises to stay fit. By combining that exercise with a dog sport, then it becomes a fun activity for both of you.

Besides being a way to keep your pet healthy, dog sports are an opportunity for you to bond with your pet and reinforce all the good training they need.

FAQ

How many hours a day should a dog play?

For this answer, we are going to define “play” as attention from their owner. There should be about two hours out of every day you are playing with your pet, walking them, training them, and generally socializing with them.

Will my dog need their shots to compete in a dog sport?

Yes, if your dog will interact in a dog sports competition, you will need to provide an up-to-date shot record. Most competitions will require:

• The full sequence of DHLPP
• Rabies vaccine
• Bordetella
• Lepto
• H3N2 canine flu vaccine

What can I do if competitions are closed because of the pandemic?

You can look into virtual rallies. AKC Rally® Virtual Pilot Program – American Kennel Club

has a program held virtually so that you and your dog will not miss out on competing.

Like humans, dogs tend to react adversely to various situations, but having a reactive dog does not necessarily mean that the dog is aggressive.

Some dogs will react to another dog, to a person, or an object. The dog will respond by barking, growling, lunging, or other patterns of behavior. Although the dog might not be aggressive, it can sometimes look like the dog is.

This reactivity can occur in any dog at any time; if you have a dog that tends to be reactive, we have listed six ways in which you can help to calm your reactive dog.

Know What The Triggers Are For Your Reactive Dog

It is important that you help your dog by knowing what their possible triggers are. Knowing what might trigger your dog will allow you to limit the number of triggers that your pet encounters, which will lower your dog’s stress.

# 1 Manage Known Triggers For Your Reactive Dog

When you are out and about with your dog, always be on the lookout for what might be a trigger for them. For example, if you know that one of your dog’s triggers is other dogs, try to avoid them. 

If you are walking your pet through the neighborhood and learn which other houses have dogs that might be out in their yards, avoid those areas. 

Cross the street, take a different route or do whatever else you need to minimize your dog’s exposure to those triggers. When you are walking with your dog, be aware of what is in front of you and what is behind you. 

As you are walking, plan an exit strategy in case you come across an unexpected situation. It will be up to you to be aware of the triggers that your pet might come across other dogs if that is one of your pet’s triggers. 

# 2 Have The Type Of Harness For Your Reactive Dog That Gives You Control

Your dog will feel much less anxious on walks when they know that you are in control. With a reactive dog, you will not want a retractable leash that goes out 15 or 20 feet in front of you. 

You will want to keep your pet close at hand and be able to keep them under control when they see their triggers. 

Some of The Best Harness For Large Dogs 2021 and some of The Best Small Dog Harness 2021 will help you to maintain control while walking your pet. These leashes allow you to control the situation by controlling your dog so that they don’t get hurt.

 # 3 Block Your Reactive Dog’s Triggers Visually When You Are Able

If you have a dog who goes crazy when they see the mailman or when another dog or person walks by your house, there are ways to stop your dog from being reactive by blocking their view of that particular trigger. 

If your dog gets fixated at the windows over the triggers that he sees outside, consider putting window film over the window so that your pet does not see that trigger. There are window films that are frosted so that light still comes in but makes anything outside hard to see. You don’t have to cover the entire window, but just up to the area that your pet can see out. 

# 4 Don’t Allow Your Reactive Dog To Run The Fence Line

If your dog does fence running when outside, you need to take steps to stop that behavior. Running the fence line is a behavior that tends to escalate with time. This habit can become habitual and even addictive over time. The high arousal level that is occasioned by fence running can cause frustration in a dog. That frustration can turn into aggression over time.

You can try changing how your dog feels about the trigger on the other side of the fence using a training technique that is a behavior modification method based on conditioning. To do so, keep your dog on a leash and at a distance from the fence. 

Every time the trigger that causes the fence running to manifest itself happens, give your dog a favorite treat. A treat that is exclusively used for these sessions. After a while, your dog should make the connection that the treats appear when the trigger is present. Instead of dreading the trigger, your pet will look forward to it.

# 5 Address Your Relative Dog’s Triggers With Behavior Adjustment Training

A reactive dog is not a bad dog; they are just acting in a primitive way. Their whole body is on high alert. It is as if they are in a perpetual state of fight-or-flight. That brings high cortisol levels and adrenaline into their system that the dog does not know how to respond to. 

To help counteract this, your dog needs positive experiences from a safe distance under the threshold. Under threshold is the distance at which your dog no longer reacts to its triggers. This distance is going to be different for every dog. 

Practice watching your dog for cues about when they react to their triggers so that you know the distance under the threshold for your pet. The goal is to expose your dog to the things that are triggers for them from a safe distance so that the dog is under the threshold. 

Gradually bring your dog closer to their trigger so that they can see that there is no danger. Do this on a gradual basis, and eventually, this behavior adjustment training will help.

# 6 Teach Your Reactive Dog the “Look At That” Game

Look at That (LAT) is a behavior modification method that helps change a dog’s emotional response. The LAT was developed by Leslie McDevitt. Leslie is a certified dog behavior consultant and certified professional dog trainer. 

The method described in her book Control Unleashed has helped many owners of reactive dogs. An owner will often want to correct an outward manifestation of reactive behavior, such as barking or lunging. 

These issues for a dog are outward indicators of what is going on inside the dog. When this behavior is corrected through punishment, it might cause the dog to stop the behavior temporarily, but the emotion that caused the dog to manifest the behavior remains. 

When you use the LAT training with your dog, you create associations meant to change your dog’s emotional response. Your dog is allowed to look at what he considers a scary experience and is fed tasty treats at the same time when the dog is under the threshold. 

They will eventually begin to associate that scary experience with pleasurable experiences (tasty treats), and the reactive stance will lessen.

Here is an example of the ‘Look at That’ LAT Game -teaching dogs to focus and eye contact

In Conclusion

Reactive dogs can be a handful to contend with. It is no fun for the dog either to have a reaction to various triggers that they don’t understand are not threats.

With your calm assurance and behavior modification, your pet will learn that not everything is a threat and be able to have a calm, and happy life.  

FAQ

Why does a dog become reactive?

Various factors contribute to a dog being reactive. It can be genetics, a lack of socialization, insufficient training to learn self-control, a frightening experience, or a combination of any of these instances that can cause a dog to become reactive.

What is the difference between an aggressive dog and a reactive dog?

Reactive dogs and aggressive dogs can exhibit similar body language.

A reactive dog is just like the name sounds. The dog has an overreaction to everyday things or events. Dogs can be reactive to other animals, people, motion, noises, objects, or combinations of any of these.

An aggressive dog might be guarding their territory. They might show warning signs beforehand that they are getting ready to lunge or bite. If they show you the whites of their eyes, growling and snapping or showing their teeth, that is an aggressive dog.

Can a reactive dog be cured?

Training a reactive dog is not always a simple process. What works for one dog might not work for another. And what works one week might not work the next. It takes patience and consistency. Being reactive will be part of the dog that you will always need to be aware of and make provisions.

Knowing how to measure a dog’s height might seem like a task that is not only simple but hardly necessary. 

It turns out that there are some very valid reasons why you should measure a dog’s height, whether it be your dog or one that is in your care.

Why Should You Measure A Dog’s Height?

It can be essential to measure a dog’s height, especially when the dog is growing. 

This gives you an idea if the dog is developing properly and at what rate it should be growing. 

This is also important if you are going to be showing the dog in a dog show.

Knowing Your Dog’s Correct Height Is Important For Dog Shows

If you are using your dog for show, they will need to fit within the parameters set for their breed. 

If you don’t know your dog’s correct height, you could end up with a disqualification and not being able to show your dog.

Knowing Your Dog’s Correct Height Is Important When Buying A Dog Crate

It is of even greater importance to know your dog’s height so that any kennel or crate you purchase for use with your pet is the right size. 

The wrong size could be very uncomfortable for your pet.

Most pet owners have crates for the times when, for their safety, a pet needs to be confined for short periods. 

Having the Best Dog Crate 2020 | Wired, Plastic & Soft Crates ensures that your pet will be comfortable during the time they are in a crate. 

The right size crate allows room enough for your pet to turn around and lie down. 

They should also be able to stand up and stretch. Making sure that you get one that is large enough and yet cozy at the same time means that your pet won’t mind the time spent confined. 

When purchasing a crate when your pet is still a puppy, you should allow for growth. Check with your veterinarian to get an idea of what size your pet might be when fully grown, and purchase a crate accordingly. Knowing your dog’s height helps you buy the correct size crate; it is not something you should guess.

Knowing Your Dog’s Correct Height Is Important When Using A Doggy Door

The right-sized doggy door will have a flap height that is at least one inch taller than your largest pet (if you have more than one pet). 

The bottom of the pet door that your dog has to step over should not be more than 1/3rd of your smallest pet’s height from the floor to their withers.

Knowing Your Dog’s Correct Height Is Important When Purchasing Harnesses and Accessories

Many pet owners use a harness when walking their dogs, and knowing your pet’s correct height is essential when purchasing a harness. 

It has been wise to limit trips to public places during the pandemic, so heading off to the pet supply place has been replaced with ordering online. 

Purchasing online is an easy way to obtain the accessories that you need and want for your dog, and knowing your pet’s height ensures that you will get the product that works for you.

You don’t want it to be too big, or they might be able to slip out and getaway. You also don’t want it to be so tight that it rubs or pinches. 

Knowing your dog’s measurements helps you to get the size that is right for them.

How To Measure A Dog’s Height

The way to measure a dog’s height is to start with the withers on a dog. The withers are the area above the shoulder and is used to measure the height of the dog from the ground up. 

Another way to think about a dog’s withers is that it is the indentation between your pet’s shoulder blades where the neck and shoulders meet. 

You are going to use the highest point of the dog’s shoulder blades. This is the benchmark for measuring a dog’s height and is standard for all dogs regardless of the breed.

The two items you will need when measuring your dog’s height are a tape measure and a carpenter’s level.

Here are the steps to take to get a correct measurement of your dog’s height.

Step One: Stand Your Dog Against A Wall.

Just as with a human, the best way to get an accurate measurement is when your pet is standing. Place your pet against a wall or a door frame. 

Do this to give yourself a fixed point to use when measuring. Make sure your pet has all four feet on the ground and their feet are evenly spaced. 

Its feet should be shoulder-width apart, just as when they are in a natural stance, and they should be as square as possible with no slouching.

Step Two: Locate Your Dog’s Withers.

As we mentioned before, the withers on a dog is the highest point of its shoulder blades. The withers are at the base of a dog’s neck. 

Feel around this area with your hand, and locate the top bony part of the shoulder.

Step Three: Place A Carpenter’s Level Across Your Dog’s Withers

Once you have placed the level across your pet’s withers, check the bubble on the level to make sure it is in the middle, which indicates that the tool is level. 

The other end of the level should be touching the wall. You can either make a mark on the wall with a pencil at the bottom of the level, use a bit of painter’s tape to indicate the spot, or hold your finger against the area on the wall. 

Another idea is to measure your pet against your refrigerator and use a magnet to mark the spot.

Step Four: Use The Measuring Tape To Take The Measurement

At this point, you can release your pet. Use the tape measure or a yardstick and measure from the ground to the mark you have made on the wall (or frig). This will give you the height of your dog.

When you are taking these measurements, it is important that your pet stands straight and stands still. 

You might need to have a friend, or another member of your household, to help with this part of the process. As always, have a treat handy at the conclusion to reward your pet.

In Conclusion

Knowing the height of your dog is another aspect of good dog ownership. You can record this measurement with other important information that concerns your pet. That way, it will be handy when you need it.

Measuring your pet’s height is an easy task that will require just a few minutes but will give you valuable information when making purchases for your pet.

German Shepherds are known to be very intelligent, easy to train, protective, and obedient. This breed of dog is also known for its robust features and pointy ears. Many owners are surprised to see their ears floppy and droopy when bringing a German Shepherd puppy home. A common question that these new owners ask is this: when do German Shepherd’s ears stand up?

German shepherd ears do have stages. They naturally stand up on their own, but this will depend upon the pup’s development. In general, a German Shepherd puppy’s ears go up between 4 to 7 months of age. Sometimes, they will go up after the teething process when the puppy is about 20 months. Just like babies, the stages may be unique for different dogs. There are puppies whose ears stand up at a young age, but other puppies need help to have pointy ones.

German Shepherd Ear Stages

As a new owner of a German Shepherd dog, you may wonder if your puppy is developing typically. If you read books or manuals and your puppy doesn’t quite fit the descriptions, don’t panic. If you also see that your dog’s ears remain wobbly after some stage, be patient. You should let the ears develop on their own and after some time, if you don’t see any difference, know that you can help in the process.

0-5 Months

German Shepherd puppy starts teething at about 3 months. During this process, the pup needs all the nutrition it needs to keep his body healthy. Its cartilages are soft as well at this point and still need many nutrients to erect. During the first 5 months, it is common for both ears to stand up and go down again. After the puppy finishes teething, the ears will usually stay erected.

5-6 Months

During this stage, your German Shepard puppy has usually made it through the teething stage. But remember that some late bloomers won’t finish teething until they are 8 months, so if you worry that your puppy’s ears are not standing up by this time, have the patient to wait a little more. You may check on the ears to see if they are starting to perk up.

6-8 Months

By this time, your German Shepherd puppy”s ears must be erected upright. If you see that they are not perky or still not standing up when it is about 8 months, then the possibility of them standing up likely diminished. There are many reasons for this, and you need not worry, but again, you can always help in the process.

Helping the German Shepherd ears stand up

There are many factors why your German Shepherd’s ears are not standing up. Usually, these factors are nothing major. Below are the following reasons.

Teething

As discussed above, during the teething process, your pup’s ear may stand up and go down again. This is very common among German Shepherd puppies as their cartilage on both ears is still developing. They are still getting all the nutrition they need to stand up permanently.

Genetics

Genes in dogs, like humans, are being passed as well. If their ears are floppy because their parents have floppy ears, then there’s nothing much you can do about it. Usually, German Shepherds have medium, pointy ears. But you may also notice others with larger ears and more robust features. This can also depend on the breeders. If you want your dog’s ears to stand up from the beginning, it will be helpful to ask your breeder about the pup’s parents and what they look like when they grow.

Trauma

 Though not common, trauma can cause damages to a puppy’s ears. Too much petting or playing with the ears can cause this. There is nothing harmful in doing so but know that this can cause the ears to be permanently floppy. During teething or the development stage, make sure not to fond or play with your puppy’s ears too much. If you have little children with you in the house, who like to play with the puppy, make sure to remind them not to touch the ears.

Other Ear Conditions.

If you think that your puppy’s genes have upright ears and it has finished teething, but the ears are not yet standing up, it’s time to look for other factors. First, you may check for any infections to the ears. Ear infections can be dangerous and affect the process on which your puppy’s ears stand up. You may also check if your pups are dealing with painful parasites that take their nutrients in the body away. Remember that these nutrients are vital to the ears’ development as well. When in doubt, make sure to bring your pup to a doctor and have it treated.

According to experts, if by 7 months, your puppy’s ears are still floppy, then they might not perk up at all. During this time, you may try simple ways to help make the ears stand up. Read below.

Avoid playing with the ears. Their ears are very sensitive, and constant playing and rubbing when they are still young can significantly affect the ears’ developmental process.

Give strong toys. During teething, you can help by giving strong toys to chew to your puppy. This will help strengthen the muscles of the jaw and ears.

Provide proper nutrition. Give food that is healthy and high in calcium and protein to help develop bones and muscles, including the ears.

Have regular check-ups. The first 8 months are very crucial in the puppy’s development. During this process, make sure to regularly bring your pup to the vet to see if they are developing typically or to check other conditions that may affect the body’s development, including the ears.

Generally, every German Shepherd puppy goes through various developmental processes.  Not all puppies are the same. Some German Shepherds have different behavior from others. Some are more alert or playful. Though there is a chart to help you determine if your puppy is on track, know that you should not really worry about their ears being floppy when your puppy is well.

When you are looking for a doggy hotel for your pooch as you are planning a winter vacation, there are several things to look for.

You want to make sure that your pet is safe and kindly cared for while they are not with you.

It is always a good thing to take both your pet’s favorite toy and some new ones to keep them occupied.

These 5 Best Dog Toys Made in The USA for 2020, new toys will give them something to keep their interest and pass the time.

We have compiled seven things to look for in a doggy hotel, and it will give you a starting point in your search.

Make sure to ask for recommendations from friends or family, and as always, trust your instinct when looking for a hotel for your dog.

7 Things to Look For In a Dog Hotel

#1 Make Sure The Facility is Bonded and Insured

This is the first step when you are searching for a hotel for your pooch while you are away on a winter vacation. 

If the facility is not bonded, insured, or does not have certifications, steer away from the place. 

Depending on the state you live in, there will be certifications and licenses that a facility will need. 

Make sure to check and see if the facility holds the appropriate certifications. Also, don’t be afraid to ask to see the documents.

#2 Ask About How Much and What Type of Training The Staff Has

It is essential to know whether or not there will be someone on the property at all times that is qualified in animal care. 

There could be attendants who are in training or part-time local personnel. If the facility is a quality dog hotel, they will have a person with officially recognized pet care qualifications. 

Find out who that person is and when they are at the facility. At the bare minimum, everyone on staff should have training in animal first aid.

#3 Check The Cleanliness of The Facility

The smartest thing to do before ever leaving your beloved pet at a dog hotel is to visit yourself and ask for a tour. 

Look around at all the facility areas to see if it looks, and importantly, smells clean. Ask to inspect the kennels where pets stay. 

Look carefully to see that there are no sharp edges a dog could get hurt on or broken locks that might allow a pet to escape. 

Do the kennels look well kept, or are they old and rough looking? The kennels should be large, clean, and well ventilated so that your dog will be comfortable.

#4 Ask About The Rules For Vaccinations for All Pets in The Hotel 

You are careful to get your pup all of the vaccines they need, and you want to be sure that other pets in the doggy hotel have done the same. 

Ask the boarding facility that you are interested in if all attending pets need to be vaccinated. 

Find out, too, how they go about determining that all the dogs are up to date with their shots.

You want to be sure that the dogs your pet will be in close contact with have all the necessary vaccinations.

#5 Does The Doggy Hotel Provide Water At All Times?

Dogs should have access to clean drinking water at all times while they are in the doggy hotel.

The facility should not withhold water during the day or evening to minimize the number of times a dog needs to pee.

If your dog is one of the breeds that are prone to bloat, they may need to have their water intake before and after eating restricted. 

Your veterinarian will be the person to advise you on this issue where your pet is concerned. 

If this is the case, the facility will need to follow the same protocols that you do at home for your pet.

#6 Does Each Dog Have Unrestricted Access to a Private Outdoor Run?

When taking a tour of the facility, look to see the design and layout. Some doggy hotels will have a doggy door that leads to an outdoor run that can be left open during the day. 

If there is no doggy-door, find out how often somebody will take your pet outdoors and what length of time they will be outdoors each time. 

Your pet should, at a minimum, be outside for 15 to 20 minutes twice a day.

#7 What is The Staffing Level at The Doggy Hotel?

Find out the facility’s staffing level and the number of pets that the doggy hotel could accommodate if they were full. 

If the facility can hold 50 pets and has two full-time staff, the chances are good that your pet will not get much attention. 

Staff is responsible for letting the pets out for bathroom breaks, feeding, cleaning, and all other tasks. If the hotel is full, that leaves very little time for your pet. 

While you might not expect someone with your pet 24/7, you also don’t want them shut-in with no interaction during the time they are at the facility.

In Conclusion

Both you and your beloved pooch prefer to be in each other’s company, comfortably at home.

There are times when this is not possible, and that is when you do your best for your pooch by leaving them. The owner can look for a dog hotel where they will be cozy and safe until your return.

By carefully researching the doggy hotel you are considering, you will be guaranteeing that you will return to a happy and healthy pet that has been watched over and cared for in your absence.

FAQ

How much is the cost of boarding at a dog hotel?

Prices will vary, but you can expect that the average cost to board a dog is about $40 a night. 

The rate can go up to $85, the more perks the facility offers. They will also have set hours to drop off and pick up your pet.

Is my dog secure at a dog hotel?

Yes, your pet should be secure at a dog hotel. It is safer than traveling with your pet and risking that they get loose somewhere along the way. It is also better than leaving them alone in a hotel room.

Do I bring my own dog food to a dog hotel?

Each facility will have its own rules about whether or not you will provide your own dog food. Some facilities will provide the food, and others will encourage you to bring your own, especially if your pet has unique nutritional requirements.

Labradoodles are very smart dogs, and if you don’t know how to train your Labradoodle, they will get the best of you in most situations.

Every dog, including Labradoodles, needs exercise, discipline, and affection. Every owner needs to train their pet and have patience during the training process.

Here are some tips to help when you are learning how to train your Labradoodle puppy.

Labradoodle House Training

Before you bring you little ball of energy home, make sure that your house is puppy and dog-proofed. 

Put anything potentially dangerous where these curious creatures will not be able to get at it. 

Much like you would do for a baby or toddler, you will want to secure cords that they could become tangled in and place breakables out of reach.

Labradoodles Love Fenced in Yards

There is not a dog in the world that wants to be forever on a leash. Labradoodles are curious and love to explore at their own pace. 

They also love running and jumping and rolling in the grass. Trying to have fun while being always restrained is frustrating for all concerned. 

Part of the investment you make when choosing to become a pet owner is to provide for the safety and enjoyment of life. 

All that can happen right in your own backyard, as long as you have a fenced yard.

Start Training Your Labradoodle Right Away

You will not enroll your month’s old Labradoodle in an obedience class, but you can set boundaries while your pup is settling into their new home. 

Doing so will make them feel more confident in their new surroundings. 

It is better for all concerned that the rules are set out, as it will make the times they get into trouble happen less frequently. 

Begin with just basic commands given with the right measure of patience and firmness. 

There is a lot to learn when you are just weeks old, and everything is new and exciting, so patience is a must!

Positive Reinforcement is The Best Way to Train Your Labradoodle

Knowing how to train a Labradoodle before you bring one home is the best course of action. 

Your Labradoodle will respond best to positive reinforcement. It is never a good idea to use fear or intimidation to train your doodle or any other breed of dog. 

The training process is also a time for bonding and gaining your puppy’s trust. Reward your doodle for good behavior and correct or ignore bad behavior. 

Treats, praise, using a clicker for training, all of that will reward them for doing a good job and make them want to do more. 

Positive reinforcement will take more patience, but it will help to form a bond that will be lifelong.

Tailor Your Training to Your Labradoodle’s Environment

Every home and environment is different. 

While a general rule is that you should always have your pup sit before going out the door, there will be certain rules that are specific to your home and their environment. 

If you live alone, the play rules will be different from if it was a household with children. 

Set the guidelines from the very beginning so that there is a clear understanding of the rules.

Decide beforehand if you will allow your pet to be on the furniture or if they will be allowed to sit under the table at dinnertime. 

There will be a certain amount of “learning on the job”, but for the most part determine your rules before bringing home your new pup.

Always, Always be Consistent

Once you decide on a rule, be consistent. There would be nothing more confusing than to have the rule enforced on Monday but not on Tuesday and so on. 

While you can modify your rules as needed, if nipping on Wednesday is not allowed, it should be wrong the rest of the days too.

If you are not consistent in your training, you will end up with a confused pooch that is far less likely to follow any of the rules. 

Labradoodle Crate Training

Make the crate a place that your doodle does not mind being in. Have some soft padding or cozy blanket and toys in the crate to keep them company. 

When purchasing a crate, get one that your pup will grow into. 

While it might be hard to know exactly how big your pooch will get, the breeder or person you purchase from should be able to give you an idea of how big the parents were. 

Choose a crate that will accommodate the length and height when sitting of your pet. 

The time they spend in the crate should not exceed their age in months plus one hour. So if your pup is two months old, they should not be kept in a crate over three hours.

Labradoodle Potty Training

This can be a dreaded task, and not always a pleasant one, but it comes with the territory. Potty training can be another opportunity to bond and reward your pet for a job well done. 

The key to this process is consistency. Let your pup out at the same time each day, and take them to the same spot each time. 

They will need to go out when they first get up after eating and drinking and before they go to sleep at night. 

In the beginning, they are going to need to go more often, so just be mentally prepared for the process.

Decide on a word that you will use from here on out for your pup to associate with going to the bathroom. 

Repeat that word when you are taking them outside to do their business. When they get it right, make sure to give them praise. 

Just as you had to learn and had slip-ups, so too will your pup need to learn, and they will definitely have slip-ups. 

It is all part of the learning process. Clean up what you need to and give lots of praise when they get it right. They will eventually get it right most all the time.

Train Your Labradoodle to Socialize And Have Manners 

You love your new Labradoodle pup, and you want others to love them, too. 

The majority of dogs are social by nature, and doodles are the happiest when they are with other dogs and people. 

The best thing you can do to make sure that your fur baby grows up to be a social and friendly creature is to expose them to other pets and people. 

This should happen at places other than your own home. Your pooch needs to be able to know how to act in a variety of situations, like on a walk, at the beach or when a guest at someone else’s house. 

Take them out as much as possible to get them accustomed to different sights, sounds, and places.

If you doodle starts to develop any bad habits like jumping on you, you will want to stop that behavior when they are young. 

It is harder to change habits when a dog gets older, helping them when they are still learning how to mind their manners.

In Conclusion

A Labradoodle will be a wonderful addition to your life. Knowing how to train a Labradoodle will be essential to achieving a happy, balanced relationship with your pet.

The best advice of all is to have patience. Labradoodles love to please, so give them time to learn and grow. 

You will be able to look forward to a lifetime of companionship with your new best bud!

Have you ever considered using a scratch board for dogs to trim your dog’s nails? Many dogs detest getting their nails trimmed and will run and hide. 

Using scratch board can be a pleasant experience for your pooch instead of a traumatic one.

What Is a Dog Scratch Board?

A scratch board is a piece of wood or a thick plastic that is either square or rectangle and covered with sandpaper to give it a gritty surface. 

There are also scratch boards made from two-by-four pieces of lumber or PVC pipe cut in half. 

The dog uses the board by scratching at it with their paws, and in the process, their nails get trimmed.

How To Build A Dog Scratch board

Building a dog scratch board is a simple operation. The most common material used is a piece of wood. 

You can visit your local home improvement store, where you will be able to find various sizes of wood. 

Consider the size of your pet when choosing the size of the wood you will want. Most people use a board that is about a foot wide and about 30 inches long. 

Joyce shows you have she made hers in this video DIY SCRATCH BOARD-MAKE ONE FOR YOUR DOG.  

The size is really up to you. Other people have used boards that are only slightly bigger than a sheet of notebook paper.  

Here is one of those smaller boards: DIY scratch board. One pet owner simply used a two-by-four, and it worked nicely for her dog.

You can also use plexiglass or plastic, as long as they are thick enough to withstand the dog’s pressure on the material.

PVC pipe is another option for using a scratch board. It is rigid and sturdy. Pet owners who use the PVC option feel that it gets the dog’s side nails better than a flat surface will. 

This pet owner shows how to teach your dog to use one of these and how she made it herself: Teach Your Dog to Use a PVC Scratch Board.

Use The Correct Grit Sandpaper

When making DIY scratch boards, the most important item will be the sandpaper itself. You would not want to get too coarse a grit and take the chance of damaging your pet’s paws. 

The majority of DIYers use a grit of 80 or above. The lower the number of grit, the coarser it is. 

The higher number, the finer the grit on the sandpaper becomes. Others have used the material put on stairs to make them non-slip.

There are also various ways of adhering to the sandpaper to the board you are using. Some material has an adhesive backing. 

There is spray adhesive that comes in a can and can be used to adhere to the sandpaper. Stapling is an option, and good old fashioned duck tape will also do the trick.

If you have questions about the number grit of the sandpaper, consult with your vet as to their opinion. 

Dog Scratch Board Techniques

One of the first techniques you will use is to present the tool so that the dog becomes familiar with the scratch board. 

You can set the board on the floor and allow your pet to smell around the board and make up their mind that it is a safe object. 

Once they have accepted the scratch board as part of their “safe” world, it is easy to introduce them to using the board.

Remember that dogs will repeat behaviors that get them what they want. The positive reinforcement technique focuses on rewarding your pooch for the action that you want to see.  

For example, if you reward your dog every time you ask them to sit, your dog will be more likely to sit in the future, too.

Clicker Training

A clicker can be used as a technique to train your dog. It is also called mark and reward, with the clicker being considered the mark. The clicker itself is just a small mechanical noisemaker. 

As mentioned before, the mark and reward technique builds on the idea that rewarded behaviors are more likely to be repeated in the future.

The value of using a clicker is that your dog will know what behavior you are rewarding. When you click at the right time, you “mark” the moment, your dog did what you wanted.

You can learn more about clicker training from the American Kennel Club, who tells you how to use clicker training to communicate with your dog.

Do-It-Themselves Dog Nail Care

Many pooches get anxious and scared when the clippers come out. They don’t like the sound of a Dremel or the loud sound when a nail gets clipped with a set of manual clippers. 

Some pet owners resort to having the vet or groomer do their pet’s nails as it is just too nerve-racking for them to do it themselves. 

While that is handy for the pet owner, the poor pooch does not appreciate the vet or groomer’s visit.

That is why the scratch board is an excellent way of having your dog “do-it-themselves.” 

The board is at home, their place of comfort, it doesn’t make loud noises, you aren’t holding their paws, and they get a reward for using it!  

It is a win-win for all concerned.

Teaching Your Dog To Use The Scratch Board

You can train your dog to use scratch boards by rewarding them every time they put their paw on the board. 

Place the board wherever you are going to want to be using it regularly. When you see your dog touch the board, give them praise and a small training treat.

Use the smaller treats, like these: The Best Dog Treats For Training 2020 [Healthy & Grain Free Bites].

Do this same procedure twice a day for a few minutes at a time. Your pooch will gradually understand that touching the board gets them a reward. 

Be patient as this learning process continues.

Once your pet has the right idea, lean the scratch board against your leg or a piece of furniture. 

It will need to be something that will support the board and not allow it to fall but hold it firmly in one place.

Repeat the procedure with your pet of touch and reward with the scratch board in the new position. They should pick up on this part of the exercise quickly.

Be Patient And Consistent

This next part of the process may take a bit of time, and you may need to move their paw for them at first so that they get the idea. 

When they move their paw down the board, and you hear a scratching sound, this is when your pet has learned to file their nails! Give lots of praise and a treat.

Remember that the point is to scratch the nails, not to rub the pads along the scratch board. 

Once you feel that your dog is getting the idea, you can add the word “scratch” so that they start pairing the action with the word. They also know that a treat is coming too. 

Here is a tutorial from a dog trainer on how exactly to train your smart pet to use a scratch board: How Do I Teach My Dog to File Its Nails?

Dog Scratch Boards For Back Paws

It is a bit harder to get a dog to learn how to use scratch boards for their back feet, but you can do it. It just takes some persistence and positive reinforcement. 

There is one gal who was successful getting her pooch to master the move, and she shows us on YouTube how she does it: Back Feet on the Scratch board.

Scratch Board For A Large Dog

You will not necessarily need more surface area with a larger dog as they will need a sturdy base material. 

You would not want a material that flexes, but you would wish for a sturdy material and did not give when the dog scratches.

Dog Scratch Board Tools

The tools needed for dog scratch board are negligible. You can purchase the base material at a home improvement store in the size you need to not need a saw for cutting. 

Stapling the sandpaper to a board will require a staple gun, but if you choose to use spray adhesive, you won’t need a staple gun.

As we said before, you could use universal tape, duct tape to adhere the paper to the board. 

Depending on the size of your board, you will need something to cut the sandpaper to size. 

Using scissors would dull them immediately, but using a box knife on the sandpaper’s back would do the trick.

Other Dog Scratch Board Ideas

Some pet owners have gotten creative with their scratch boards. They have made mini-ramps that are slanted and an angle for their pet to use. 

There are also pre-made scratch boards available online if you prefer to skip the DIY.  

Using a Dog Scratch Board With Treats

The type of dog treat you want to use with your scratch board is a training treat. 

These are the small bite-size treats that your dog loves the flavor of but doesn’t add lots of calories to their diet. The Best Dog Treats For Training 2020 [Healthy & Grain Free Bites. 

Where To Place Dog Scratch board At Home

Some owners choose to hold the board against their leg as the dog uses the board. That way they can monitor the process and have treats ready.

You can lay the board flat on the floor or propped against a couch or chair. The position is up to you and where you find it handiest for your pet.

Using the scratch board is an activity that you will monitor to ensure that your pet is doing the exercise correctly and achieves its nails. 

You don’t want this to become a toy that your dog thinks gives out treats for playing with it. 

When you do not use the board as part of your pet’s grooming process, keep the board out of sight in a closet or cupboard and bring it out when it is time to file their nails down. 

Your pet will get to know precisely what the board is for and look forward to filing their nails!

In Conclusion

Most dogs do not like to have their nails clipped, and the process can be upsetting and make them anxious. 

You can relieve that anxiety and make nail trimming a fun and pleasant experience for both you and your pet by using scratch boards for your dog.

FAQ

What happens if you never cut your dog’s nails?

A dog’s nails will grow longer and longer. They will cause the dog to experience discomfort and pain. 

Left alone long enough, a dog’s nails will inhibit the dog to the point that it will not walk properly.

Does it hurt a dog to use a scratch board?

No, it does not hurt a dog to use a scratch board, as long as they are scratching with their nails only, and not the pad of their feet. 

When training a dog to use scratch boards, make sure that you reward them when they only use their nails on the board.

Can you use sandpaper on your dog’s nails?

Yes, you can use sandpaper on a dog’s nails, but it will take a while to sand nails down. 

Remember that the higher the grit number for sandpaper, the less abrasive the grit. A 30 – 40 grit paper will do the job once your dog gets used to the process.

Should you hear your dog’s nails on the floor?

The rule of thumb is that if you can hear your dog’s nails “click” on the floor when walking, it is time to trim their nails. 

Watch when your dog walks, too, to see if they are having any difficulty that might indicate they are experiencing pain from too long nails. 

Why don’t dogs like to have their nails cut?

If your dog’s nail has ever been cut too close, it is a painful experience for them. If it happened once, your dog will remember that and get fearful that it will happen again. 

Dogs can also be afraid of a loud Dremel being used, or even just from the sound that clippers make. It is best to try to keep them calm and reward them with a treat afterward.

Autumn is a beautiful time of the year, and it is a time when it is especially nice for both you and your dog. 

The days are milder, not so hot and humid, and a lovely time to be out of doors.

While you are enjoying fall, keep in mind some simple safety tips that will keep your pooch happy and healthy during this season.

Autumn Simple Safety Tips

 #1 It Is Mushroom, Flower, and Nut Season

Autumn is the time of year when mushrooms are in season. They will be popping up around your yard and along trails in the woods. 

While most mushrooms are non-toxic, a few can cause life-threatening issues if your pet ingests them. 

Mushrooms can be hard to distinguish between toxic and non-toxic. It is best to be safe rather than sorry and assume that all mushrooms growing out of doors are bad for your pet.

Be on the lookout for other plants that might be toxic to your pet. Berries and some flowers can cause intestinal problems. 

Autumn Crocus is a fall flower that is highly toxic. It can cause vomiting, gastrointestinal bleeding, along with liver and kidney damage if ingested by your pet.

Pictures of Autumn Crocus

If you see your dog eat any of these flowers, you should get them to your vet immediately

Black walnuts can be poisonous to your dog and lead to seizures and tremors. 

Acorns can cause intestinal distress, so it is best to keep your pet from chewing or ingesting any such items they find when out of doors.

There is a list of Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants List from ASPCA that you should familiarize yourself with to better protect your pet.

#2 Fall Yard Clean-Up

Autumn is also when you will find that things have been blown into your yard by fall winds. 

If you have fruit trees, rotted fruit will have fallen and drawn bees. 

A bee sting, not only painful, can cause an allergic reaction in your pet. There will also be seeds and stems that aren’t good for your pooch to eat. 

Check for broken branches and sharp sticks that could cause injury when your pet is running about in the yard. 

A good fall clean up of your yard is a simple safety tip that will help keep your pet safe in the fall.

#3 Rat And Mice Poison

Autumn is the time when mice and rats start looking for a warm place to spend the winter. They will be seeking shelter in garages, sheds, and homes. 

No one likes rodents moving in, so many homeowners will take steps to eliminate the problem by using rodenticides. 

These poisons are often in the form of bait blocks or granules placed outside on the ground. 

Unfortunately, manufacturers treat these poisonous baits to smell like something appetizing; peanut butter, for instance. 

Rodents will carry these bait blocks or graduates with them to snack on at a later date. 

This means that your pet might come across bait in your backyard that was set out by a neighbor four houses down from you.

 Manufacturers make these baits in a color (usually a bright green) that is not natural to be a warning to people, but your beloved pet is not going to know the difference. 

Periodically check your front and back yard, garage, sheds, and under bushes for any poisons carried into your yard.

#4 Watch For Antifreeze

Autumn is generally when people will check the coolant in their vehicles and add more antifreeze if needed. 

Spills from changing or adding coolant are dangerous for your pet. 

Antifreeze tastes sweet to your dog, and so they will be eager to lap it up. That could be fatal for them. 

When out on a walk, please don’t let your pooch drink from puddles on the road or excess water along the curbing. 

This water could have the remnants of antifreeze from the vehicles that use the roadways. 

Another good reason not to let your dog drink from puddles is that they can have germs like Giardia that can sicken your pet. 

Pet supply stores and online stores sell water containers specially made for supplying your dog with fresh water when you are out on a walk or a hike in the woods.

#5 Beware Of Fleas And Ticks

This simple safety tip for your dog is one to practice year-round, but it is no less important in the fall. 

Many species of ticks survive well into the winter. There are many fallen leaves and damp areas around shrubs and plants that these fleas and ticks love to hang out in. 

Just as you would do throughout the year, be sure to check your pooch regularly for fleas and ticks. 

Check each time you come in from a walk in the woods or you have been on trails to make sure that they have not picked any unwelcome hitchhikers. 

If you do notice that fleas have taken up residence, but sure to address this right away. Bathe your pet with The Best Flea Shampoo for dogs 2020. 

Fleas have a life cycle that needs breaking, or they will continue to perpetuate misery on your poor dog. 

They can also infest your home, so it is best to nip it in the bud as soon as you see the evidence that your dog has fleas

#6 Snakes And Wildlife

Depending on where you live, running across a snake can be no big deal or a life-altering event. 

During the hotter months, snakes will often be sunning themselves with a full belly. 

While summer finds the highest incident of snake bites, the fall also poses a risk. 

As the months get colder, snakes will be on the move and a bit bad-tempered. 

They are preparing to hibernate, and so are focused on that task and not too happy when someone crosses their path to interrupt that task. 

Be familiar with what type of snakes are in your area and which ones are venomous. 

Know their habits and habitats so that you can avoid those areas and your pooch will benefit from your knowledge.

This is also when other creatures like skunks, raccoons, squirrels, and deer are active. A tussle with a raccoon would not be pleasant. 

Even more unpleasant would be a disagreement with a skunk. The evidence of that encounter would be prevalent in your house for a week or more. 

Squirrels and deer are also very tempting for your pet to chase and probably never catch. 

But while they are on the chase, they could get lost or hurt on any number of things (like barbed wire) off the beaten path. 

So keep them on a leash and keep an eye out for anything that might create a temptation for them to take up the chase.

#7 School Is In Session

Autumn is the time that kids are heading back to school. That means that families are stocking up on back to school supplies. 

Crayons, magic markers, glue sticks, pens, and pencils seem to sprout as if by magic from every nook and cranny in the house. 

The majority of these items are made from non-toxic materials because children will mainly use them. 

We all know that children have a habit of putting everything in their mouths, and so these items need to be safe. 

While that may be the case, you also know that your pooch is not going to stop at one crayon if a full box presents itself for consumption. 

Gnawing on a #2 pencil will create sharp wood fragments that won’t do your dog’s intestinal system any good. 

It is best to think of your pet in the same way you would a toddler. Put things up where they are not able to be reached. 

Know that they would not be able to comprehend what might be dangerous. Understand that all things look like fun and nothing is a bad idea.

#8 Halloween And Holidays Are Around The Corner

For many of us, this is one of the favorite times of the year. The holidays are looming, and that means candy and sweets and lots of delicious treats. 

Your pooch thinks so too. They are just as enticed by the good smells and candy in the bowl on the coffee table. 

Chocolate can be lethal for a dog. Be sure to keep Halloween and holiday candy up and out of reach, again, as you would do with a toddler. 

Most dogs will not limit themselves to one treat or two but will ingest all that there is. 

It is easy during the preparation times when we are busy leaving something forbidden within reach, and it takes just a second for your pooch to pounce.

In Conclusion

Autumn is a glorious time to be out of doors with your dog. If you follow these simple safety tips, you can keep your pet healthy and happy.

If you think your pet ingested something that they should not have, take them to your veterinarian or contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888) 426-4435 for more advice.