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  • Steps to Introducing Your Pet to a Newborn

    Becoming a best friend and protector to your new bundle of joy is an exciting role that many canines are proud to take on. On the other hand, some dogs aren’t into the whole baby thing at first, and others just aren’t really sure how to respond to the little tyke.

    Help your pup and your family ease into the process of getting to know each other with some pre-baby preparation.

    Establishing New Boundaries

    Before your newborn comes home, your dog needs time to adjust to the new environment. While you may not have taken notice or been bothered by it before, you’re not going to want your pup following you into every room of the house when rocking or feeding. 

    Create off-limits spaces by using simple commands like “kennel up,” “out,” or “go lay down.” Once the requirement of the command has been met, reward your dog with a treat or affection. By offering a positive result for good behavior, your pup will understand that this isn’t a punishment. You’re just establishing a new routine.

    The time for introductions and family inclusion will come, but the last thing you want is to be carrying your newborn across a room…only to trip and fall over a curious canine. 

    Helpful Trick: Buy a babydoll from your local dollar store. If possible, pick one that cries or makes noise and carry it around the home the way you would your newborn and use it as practice. 

    Setting the Mood

    If possible, have a friend, family member, or pet sitter take your dog for a brisk run or walk to wear off excess energy. During this time, bring your newborn inside and allow other children in the home to express their excitement. Once everyone has calmed down a bit, have another adult help with initiating the first greeting between your pup and the new little person in their life.

    Leash your dog as a precaution; it’s not necessary to pull or restrain. They’re going to be curious…

    “This baby smells so different, so good! It’s so tiny! Can I lick it? Can we play together?”

    Allow your dog to sniff the baby’s feet and tell them what your baby’s name is. Doing so will help them recognize that the newborn is a who, not an it. As long as they’re calmly following “sit” and “gentle” commands, your pet should be given permission to observe, sniff, and listen to the soft cooing of their two-legged sibling.

    You know your dog best, if they growl, become tense, or appear to behave in a way that you recognize as aggression, stop the session immediately. Take a break, and revisit. 

    Work As A Team

    Once you feel that your newborn has reached a stage where they can safely go for stroller rides, bring your pup with! Walking together is by far one of the most primal ways for owners to bond with canines. Use this opportunity to help them get used to the presence of the baby and create the natural union of bringing them into The Pack!

  • Retractable Leashes for Dogs: This is What You Need to Know

    While most puppies can learn simple commands as early as 7 weeks, most experts agree that you start formally training your dog around 6 months of age.

    Training your dog includes everything from house training to socializing and walking on a leash. When you start leash training, you’ll have a choice between a retractable or fixed leash.

    Retractable leashes have a bad reputation but incidents with this type of leash are largely the result of improper use. There are pros and cons to this type of leash and specific times when you’d consider using them.

    If you’re trying to find the right leash for your dog, keep reading. We’re going to tell you when to choose a retractable dog leash and why. 

    Pros of Retractable Leashes

    The number one benefit of a retractable leash is that it gives your dog freedom to roam while still giving you a degree of control by having them tethered. But there are a few additional benefits to these dog products, depending on the type of dog you have.

    If your dog tends to tangle their leash, a retractable leash can’t twist into knots. Dogs who tangle their leash tend to be high-energy dogs, and these dogs also benefit from retractable leashes. That’s because they have more freedom to roam, which gives you a better chance of tuckering them out and exhausting their energy.

    If you’re a runner or jogger, you might benefit from a retractable leash if you like to take your dog with you. Using a retractable leash means you don’t have to stop every few feet. Your dog can run alongside you or in front of you and do their business without you having to stop.

    Cons Of Retractable Leashes

    The cons of retractable leashes include the degree of control that you have. Retractable leashes can give your dog 16ft or even 30ft of leeway. If you need to gain control over your dog while they’re that far away, you’re going to have a hard time doing so.

    The other downsides of retractable leashes have to do with how they’re made. For one, a retractable dog leash made from nylon can not only snap but also cause rope burns. And big, bulky handles are easy to lose grip of, which means the leash will go bouncing behind your dog and potentially cause them to panic and run.

    Best Time To Use A Retractable Dog Leash

    With those pros and cons in mind, the best time to use a retractable dog leash is when you’re walking a trained dog on familiar grounds and with lots of space. Without sufficient room, your dog can get tangled in trees and shrubs or into trouble with other dogs and people. And in unfamiliar territory, you don’t know what awaits your dog around the next corner or over a hill on a new trail.

    You might use a retractable leash to train a puppy in an unfenced yard, too. But be careful when using a retractable leash to train. Because there’s always tension on these types of leashes, your dog may learn to pull.

    Get to Know More Pet Products

    Retractable leashes can be great tools in specific circumstances. If you like to jog alongside your pup or if you have a lot of open space that you’re familiar with, for example. But, if you’re training your dog or walking them in unfamiliar territory, you might consider a different type of leash.

    To have a look at your options, as well as pet products for birds to reptiles, check out what we carry.

  • Should My Dog Be Eating Grass?

    Are you finding yourself wondering if you bought a cow instead of a dog? If so, you’re not alone in this dilemma. Many dog owners find themselves scratching their heads and wondering why their beloved pooch is dining on the backyard grass. You may be asking yourself if this is normal behavior and if it’s good for him. So, let’s dig a little deeper into this doggy behavior. 

    It’s more common than you might think, so you don’t really have to be concerned about them eating grass. Pica, the disorder that is characterized by eating non-food things, could indicate a nutritional imbalance or alert you to some boredom that is commonly found in puppies and younger dogs. 

    Most veterinarians consider this activity to be normal and has also been observed in wild dogs as well. In one small-scale study, 79% of 49 dog owners and their dogs with regular access to grass said that their pooches ate grass or some other backyard vegetation. 

    So, why is your dog eating grass? Some people think it’s because their dog isn’t feeling well and others while others dispute that thought by saying that dogs couldn’t possibly be smart enough to eat grass to treat an unsettled tummy. Also, even after grass-eating, most dogs don’t vomit and typically weren’t unwell prior to chowing down on this green delicacy. 

    Another thought is that dogs are trying to improve their digestion, potentially treating stomach worms, or fulfilling some unmet nutritional needs like getting nutritional fiber. If you think that your dog needs more fiber in her diet, try finding a food that is higher in fiber to see if that helps. If it doesn’t, then Bella just might like the taste and texture of grass. 

    Sometimes, dogs eat grass out of pure boredom. If that is the case, then increasing playtime or upping your walking routine would be beneficial. Find some new activities or take your dog to your local Petland and pick out some new sturdy toys that will keep him occupied. 

    Lastly, while grazing on your lawn may not be harmful, you need to make sure that when you’re out you should work on curbing your dog’s appetite for grass. The reason for this is because you don’t know what kind of herbicides or pesticides that may have been used. These can be very toxic to dogs, along with certain types of vegetation.

    So, while you are sure now that you don’t have a cow with paws on your hand, keep watch over your dog to make sure that his diet is the right one and he’s not munching your neighbor’s marigolds. 

  • Why It’s Important to Socialize Your Puppy

    The world is filled with sights, sounds, smells, and myriad other environmental factors that can be overwhelming for puppies. It’s important to socialize your dog early so that she feels comfortable outside of the safety of your home when she meets other people and animals. Without proper socialization, your best buddy could become anxious, depressed, or even aggressive. 

    When should socialization start?

    The ideal socialization age for puppies is between three and twelve weeks old, with seven weeks being the average age to start socialization. During this time, your pup is very impressionable and more accepting of new things. He is more likely to absorb new experiences rather than shy away from them.

    As puppies age, they become more cautious about the world around them. Dogs between 12 and 18 weeks may show signs of fear and aggression when introduced to new experiences. However, owners shouldn’t allow the fear to dictate their dog’s behavior and instead continue trying to safely and gently socialize their puppy.

    Benefits of Early Socialization

    Your puppy is a member of your family, and the goal is for him to feel safe, loved, and calm. By socializing early, you’re helping to ensure that your dog can confidently navigate new experiences, like meeting new people or enjoying family outings. This is especially important for families with young children. Without proper exposure to kids, your dog may become fearful or aggressive with eager and easily excitable children. 

    How do you socialize your puppy?

    Socializing your puppy isn’t easy, but the results are extremely rewarding. To start, expose your buddy to a variety of situations that she’ll encounter regularly like trips to the park, neighborhood walks, visits from friends, or grooming appointments. The more experiences that you can introduce your dog to, the better he will respond as he grows into an adult. Taking time to help your puppy understand the world around her means that you can enjoy more experiences with your best buddy as an adult.

    If you encounter issues or just need a little more help to get started, talk to your veterinarian and they’ll be able to help you create a socialization plan. 

  • Does Your Dog Snore?

    Are cuddles–or worse conference calls!–often interrupted by your best pal’s snores? If so, you’re probably wondering if this is normal and why it’s happening.  

    When nasal passages are blocked, airways become constricted and snoring occurs. Dogs snore for a variety of reasons. Below are some of the most common ones to help you understand what might be happening with your buddy’s breathing and ways to help them breathe clearer.

    Breed-Related Snoring

    Some breeds are more prone to snoring based on their anatomy. Breeds with short noses, like English bulldogs, French bulldogs, pugs, boxers, and Pekingese, often suffer from chronic snoring due to excess tissue in the pharynx. However, airway obstruction can also be caused by elongated soft palates, narrow nasal passages, and shortened tracheas. These common breed-related problems can be diagnosed relatively easily and some can even be treated early in life.

    Weight-Related Snoring

    In addition to myriad other health problems, obesity can also cause issues with breathing. If your dog’s snoring is related to weight, work with your veterinarian to develop a plan to help your pup shed those extra pounds and get back to a healthy weight. This may include decreasing their calorie intake with food and treats designed for weight management. Getting your best pal out for more walks, playdates, and trips to the park are also great ways to increase their activity levels to curb weight gain.

    Allergy-Related Snoring

    Just like us, pets battle allergies, too. Pollen, dust, and dander can aggravate dogs’ nasal passages, causing inflammation and mucus build-up that leads to snoring. Your dog may also be sensitive to chemicals in carpet cleaners, laundry detergents used on their bedding, and other household supplies. If you’ve noticed that your dog is snoring more, consider what new elements have been added to their environment. 

    If you suspect that allergies are causing your dog’s breathing issues, talk to your veterinarian. The issue may be easily treated with antihistamines, like Benadryl, or removing the source of the irritant, if possible. Other allergies may require more aggressive treatment. Your veterinarian will be able to suggest the best course of action to relieve your pooch’s nasal woes.

  • The Facts About Dogs and Their Paws

    Are you concerned that your dog is licking or chewing her paws a little too much? 

    Although licking is associated with normal grooming behavior for dogs, when it becomes excessive and includes constant chewing, this could indicate an underlying problem.

    One of these conditions could be the culprit behind your dog’s incessant grooming.  

    1. Allergy: Whether it’s the result of seasonal allergies or a flea infestation, dogs lick their paws to relieve the itch. Keep in mind, though, that the discomfort might not be in their paws. When dogs feel itchy, they lick somewhere accessible, like their paws, to soothe the irritation located elsewhere on their body. 
    2. Injury: Cuts, debris between the toes, or other skin abrasions can prompt dogs to chew or scratch their skin.
    3. Habit: Dogs who are frequently left alone for long periods of time or those who don’t receive adequate exercise will lick and chew their paws out of boredom.
    4. Anxiety: A change of routine, like a new baby, or separation can trigger anxiety in some dogs. Anxious pups will often groom their paws excessively. 
    5. Compulsive Disorder: Although uncommon, constant licking could be a sign of obsessive-compulsive behavior, which can be difficult to treat and control. 

    More than nuisance behavior, incessant licking and chewing can lead to real problems for your best pal. If left untreated, it could result in painful damaged skin, open sores, bacterial infections, and a vicious cycle of constant irritation. 

    Regularly check your dog’s skin for any irritations that may be causing discomfort. And, if you notice Fido grooming himself more than usual, contact your veterinarian immediately to pinpoint the issue and start a treatment plan.  

  • Are Daily Walks With My Dog Necessary?

    This may seem like an easy question to answer, but it’s not always cut and dry. 

    Daily walks are great for you and your dog – you both get some needed exercise and get out in the fresh air. It’s great for their happiness and mental and physical health and provides the stimulation they need to keep any potential bad habits at bay. Like human kids, dogs can tend to get bored, and a bored dog can be a destructive dog. 

    So, what are the factors that you need to consider when taking your dog out for walks?

    Age is a major factor when it comes to dogs. Younger dogs need more walks as smaller intervals while older dogs will only need a few walks a day. As a dog ages, their stamina starts to wane, so you’ll want to be careful how long you walk with your senior pooch. Dogs in their middle years can withstand longer walks, so make sure that you check out that park you’ve been wanting to visit. 

    The breed of dog that you have also played into how long those walks are. Smaller breeds like Chihuahuas and Yorkies don’t need to go on a long hike with you, but a quick jaunt around the neighborhood or down to the park and back should be just fine. 

    Now, if you have a Siberian Husky, Australian Shepherd, or any other hyperactive dog, then a run down to the park and some serious play with frisbees is in order. You’ll certainly want to make sure that you bring home Fritz pretty tired so he doesn’t chew up the couch or drive you nuts for more playtime. 

    The Bruno’s of the world like English Bulldogs, Basset Hounds, and Great Danes make for great strolling pals. A lazy walk around a lake or a stroll around a park is perfect for these low energy dogs. They generally tire faster than hyper mid-sized dogs and smaller energetic types and will cozy up to you on the couch to watch your favorite flick or show series. 

    Something else that a lot of people don’t consider is the time of year and the temperature outside. Frozen sidewalks and snow can wreak havoc on your dog’s paws, so make sure that they have the right protective gear on when you go out for a walk (Bella the Yorkie will probably need a parka and some booties). Making sure that their paws are healthy is always a must. The same goes for the summer. The summer heat can seriously heat up sidewalks and asphalt which can burn your puppies’ paws. During the summer months, it’s best to walk your puppy early in the morning or later in the evening. The other thing you can consider is to drive to a dog park where there is minimal contact with the hot ground. 

    Lastly, think about your dog’s health and potential allergies. Both of those could affect how long your walks are. So, create a daily routine with your pooch and you’ll both be quite happy with the exercise and bonding. Check out your local Petland for appropriate gear for walking your dog.

  • Tips to Keep Your Dog’s Ears Clean

    Keeping your dog’s ears clean is important for maintaining their overall health. 

    While some dogs’ ears are naturally clean and require little maintenance, others need extra care. Dogs with long or really furry ears, like cocker spaniels, that accumulate dirt and debris more easily are often more prone to ear infections and other problems. 

    The physical makeup of your dog’s ears isn’t the only factor that increases their risk for ear conditions. Yeast and bacteria are two of the most common irritants that can compromise the health of dogs’ ears. However, allergies, hormone disorders, ear mites, moisture or wax buildup, and extra hair can also lead to issues.

    Regardless of the type of ears that your dog has, checking them regularly to see if cleaning is needed should be part of your regular pet care routine.

    Here are some helpful tips to clean your pup’s ears safely. 

    • Check to make sure that your pup’s ears actually need cleaning. Only clean them if you notice a change like a mild odor or visible debris. Excessive cleaning can lead to irritation or infections. 
    • Clean the external part of your pet’s ear only. 
    • Gather your supplies. You’ll need cotton balls, gauze, and a towel. Never use cotton swabs or anything with pointed tips, since they could push debris further into the ear or damage the inner structures. 
    • Choose an area of your home that’s easy to wipe up—ear-cleaning can get messy. A mudroom or bathroom is a great choice. 
    • Use an ear-cleaning solution recommended by your veterinarian. DIY solutions may contain harmful irritants.
    • Add the cleaning solution to the ear canal and gently massage the base of the ear for about 30 seconds. 
    • Allow your pup to shake her ears back and forth once the solution has been added. This is where the towel comes in handy to wipe your dog’s face and any excess spray that may have hit you.
    • Gently wipe out the ear canal with the gauze or cotton balls. The AKC recommends going no further than your first knuckle inside the ear.   
    • Use clean gauze to thoroughly dry the ears. Leaving behind moisture creates an environment for microbial growth that could lead to ear infections. 

    Sometimes dirty ears signal more than a need for routine cleaning. It could indicate an ear infection. Here are some signs to look for: 

    • Strong yeasty or bad smells from inside the ear
    • Redness or swelling
    • Vigorous ear scratching
    • Constant head shaking
    • Balance issues
    • Crusts, peeling, or scabs around the ear
    • Hair loss
    • Rubbing the ear against objects such as furniture and walls.
    • Hearing issues
    • Bloody, brown, or yellow discharge

    If you notice any of these signs or if your dog appears to be in pain while you’re cleaning their ears, contact your veterinarian immediately. Your dog could be suffering from an ear infection or another condition that needs medical attention.

  • Popcorn Treats for Dogs

    When thinking about popcorn, the nostalgia brings us back to buttered up theater popcorn, a giant soda, some Milk Duds, and a good flick. Well, what about popcorn for dogs? Can dogs eat popcorn? The answer is yes, but there are some limitations on feeding Fido this scrumptious delight. 

    So, what kind of popcorn is safe for dogs? Unbuttered, unsalted, air-popped popcorn is the safest way to feed your pooch. You want to keep extra fats out of their diet since they get that with their balanced meals. This low-calorie snack is great for dogs and you both can enjoy your favorite Netflix and chill evenings on the weekends. 

    If you’re looking for microwave popcorn, try to go for low-salt or no salt added, organic popcorn. If that’s a bit out of the way, you can always break out the air popper from years past, or find one at your favorite store. If you’re going for the stove-top version of popcorn, try to keep the oil to a minimum and don’t add your favorite seasonings like truffle salt and garlic (we know, that’s yummy, but garlic is a definite no-no for your dog). 

    So, if popcorn is actually OK to feed to your dog, are there any health benefits to it? 

    Sure there are. Popcorn is a simple grain from corn that’s been, well, popped. Grains are actually good for dogs since they are omnivores. However, not all dogs can digest grains properly and some dogs may have allergies to corn. So, make sure that it’s something he or she can eat before you get popping. 

    The other thing that you need to consider when feeding your dog popcorn, and any simple carbohydrates, is how much they should eat in a serving. Larger dogs can eat about a cup of popcorn for a treat, but for smaller dogs, you’ll want to take that amount down considerably, by about a quarter of that. Just like humans, we have to watch our waists and weight and we have to help our furry friends much in the same way.

    Lastly, you know how you get down to the end of the bowl and there are those unpopped unpleasantries? Make sure that your dog doesn’t get any of those, either. They aren’t good on the digestive tract and, like toddlers and small objects, could be a choking hazard. 

    So, get popping and have some fun with this light and airy snack!

  • Pros and Cons of Sleeping With your Do

    We all dream of it – cuddling up with your pooch in bed on a cool night, reading by your nightlight and snuggling down for the evening. So, is it good or bad to co-sleeping with your dog? We weigh in on the pros and cons of sleeping with Fido in your bed. 

    First, let’s start with the pros of sleeping with your dog

    He’s soft and snuggly, and you just adore that light snoring that he has that helps you drift off into dreamland. He’s warm and there’s nothing like waking up to your sweet boy in the morning. Plus, just having your dog around can help relieve stress and anxiety and sleeping with him can certainly lower any symptoms of anxiety and stress. All great benefits with keeping your pooch with you when you sleep. 

    Sometimes, we have the blue and are down, and sleeping with your dog can help relieve depression. The chemical that is released when you’re in close contact with your dog is called oxytocin, also known as the love hormone, that helps elevate your mood. Also, while you’re sleeping, oxytocin promotes theta brain waves that occur during REM sleep – that time of sleep where you have dreams. So, not only is sleeping with your dog comfortable, it helps elevate your mood and promotes REM sleep. 

    In one study, researchers found that women sleep better when they are next to their dogs. Researchers from Canisius College in Buffalo, New York found that women who sleep with their dogs actually sleep better and feel more secure than if they slept next to their human counterparts. Sounds harsh, but hey, that doesn’t mean that you both can’t sleep next to your dog! Improved sense of security, better sleep, and they generally had better bedtime schedules. So, cuddle up!

    Here are even more ways that sleeping with a dog can help improve your sleep from decreases in loneliness, lowering blood pressure, and bond strengthening with your dog. 

    OK, so when it is not a good idea to sleep with a dog?

    With all of the great benefits of sleeping with a dog, how could there be anything bad? Well, a few things come into play here – allergies, non-house trained puppies, if you’re a light sleeper, or if your dog has some health issues. 

    We all know someone with allergies – whether it’s seasonal or animal-related – we understand the misery that they can go through. Even if you have light allergies, it’s better to make sure that your fur baby sleeps on the floor next to you. You’ll still have the benefits of having your dog around, but the other benefit is that their dander and fur stay in their bed and not yours. 

    House training is a must as we all know. Puppies take a lot of time to house train and, in general, to train. So, you want to make sure that Bella over there knows when it’s time to use the potty and in the right place because your bed certainly isn’t the right place. Nothing like waking up to a wet mess because Bella couldn’t hold it in. So, make sure that you have all of that training in place for a good while before you invite her into your bed. 

    Speaking of house training, it also helps to improve your relationship and bond with your dog. By doing this, it also helps Bella know who’s the boss around the house. By asserting yourself as the pack leader helps curb any potential aggression down the road as well as territorial concerns. Some dogs may have territorial issues, and if you introduce someone new around the house, especially at bedtimes, this could turn into a tad bit of an issue. Take care of it early and make sure that you’re the boss, not Bella. 

    So, make sure that you weigh your pros and cons of co-sleeping with your dog and you’ll have sweet dreams, cozy nights, and furry cuddles.