Top Dog Tips

KEY TAKEAWAYS: The crate-and-rotate method is a management strategy dog owners can use when dogs cannot be safely together due to aggression, resource guarding, or severe conflict. It can be done for dogs who don't get along by having them take turns being loose while the other is confined safely in a crate, a separate room, or another secure area for a specific period of time. What if two dogs in the same household simply can't get along?

KEY TAKEAWAYS: Some BBQ safety tips for dogs include keeping them away from the hot grill, grease, charcoal, and lighter fluid; being mindful of leftover foods, especially cooked bones, corn cobs, and skewers; and setting up a shaded area with plenty of water where dogs can retreat. Lastly, plan fun dog-safe activities so dogs can enjoy the party, too.

KEY TAKEAWAYS: Some of the beach safety tips for dogs pet owners must follow include bringing plenty of fresh, clean water, providing dogs with enough shade, and keeping them away from potential beach dangers, like jellyfish and other coastal animals or washed-up things. Dogs must also wear proper beach gear to protect them from drowning, overheating, or sunburn.

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.