Top Dog Tips

KEY TAKEAWAYS: Boredom in dogs can lead to anxiety and behavior problems; keep dogs entertained while home alone by using interactive toys with different textures and features, keeping background music or TV on, and offering long-lasting chews. You can also set up a pet camera that dispenses treats and allows you to talk to them, or a dog corner with their favorite items or will allow them to watch out the window. Hiring a dog walker or an occasional doggy daycare visit will help, too.

KEY TAKEAWAYS: To stop a dog fight at home, DO NOT place your hands in front of the fight. Instead, create a distraction using a loud, sudden noise. Disorient your fighting dogs by placing a physical barrier between them, such as a cushion or board, before taking one dog to another room to decompress. Allow both dogs to calm down, inspect for any wounds or injuries, and call the vet if necessary.

KEY TAKEAWAYS: Start by introducing the bell and letting the dog get familiar with it until they become more confident touching it with their nose or paw. Ring the bell before opening the door for potty breaks, then give them a high-value reward once they finish. Do these consistently and with patience until they get it! Imagine never having to guess whether your dog needs to go outside again—your dog simply rings a bell to let you know.

Calm dogs often have calm owners. Energetic dogs have energetic owners. I don't know if you have noticed, but this seems to be the case for most dogs and pet owners I know of—including me and my own (we're both couch surfers)! Turns out that's not a coincidence. Science has explanations! Studies have found that dogs mirror their owners' energy and personality, including their emotions, stress levels, and routines, partly because they have evolved alongside us humans for thousands of years.

For some pet parents, bath time can feel more like a wrestling match when a dog hates water. While some dog breeds love water, others fear it and will do anything to avoid it. Dogs can't go forever without a bath, but you can't force a scared dog either. Forcing may only increase their stress, which can make future baths much harder. So, what's a dog owner got to do?

Be honest: How many times have you and your dog visited the vet this year? If you haven't thought of going back to the vet since your dog's last sick visit, you're not alone. Many dog owners overlook the importance of wellness visits for their pets, especially if the pets seem healthy and thriving. But did you know that dogs are good at hiding their pain or illness?

Your dog may be eating enthusiastically every day, but that doesn't always mean they're healthy! As in humans, diet plays a major role in a dog's overall health. Proper nutrition supports their energy, immune system, skin, and coat health, and even their lifespan. When a dog's diet is imbalanced and lacks the key nutrients their bodies need, it can lead to digestive issues, a weakened immune system, and chronic health problems caused by nutritional deficiencies.

I'm sure many dog owners with backyards can relate to this problem. High-energy dog, running around the yard, digging, and wearing down your beautifully manicured lawn grass. Then rain comes (or any form of water), and voila, a giant mud pit in the backyard. Of course, your dog will track mud indoors, too. Muddy yards are a common issue for dog owners, leading to dirty paws, damaged grass, and constant cleanup.

For some, working from home is a gift that keeps on giving. No commute, zero prep time needed, and best of all, you get to spend the whole day with your dog. But without the right setup, it can quickly become distracting or chaotic. If they try to constantly get your attention or need something, it can get distracting really fast.

Imagine working anytime, from anywhere in the world, with your dog by your side! For many modern pet parents, that's the dream—combining remote work with pet companionship. Thankfully, being a digital nomad with a dog is now possible! However, it's not as easy or as carefree as when doing it alone. The reality is you'll have the freedom, flexibility, and bonding, but you'll also have to think of logistics, planning, and responsibility.